The Northern Light: January 18-24, 2024 by Point Roberts Press

January 18 - 24, 2024

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Gibson reflects on Blaine author’s book on Hollywood interviews, page 5 school board time, page 6

Blaine High School sports, page 7

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Downtown Winter storm blankets the Northwest Blaine sidewalks pose potential construction problems By Grace McCarthy

(See Sidewalks, page 3)

s The first major snowfall of the season blanketed Blaine Harbor and the rest of Whatcom County on January 17. Photo by Molly Ernst

February 13 special election ballots mailed soon Blaine school bond and levy, parks and recreation levy up for vote By Nolan Baker Blaine and Birch Bay voters will be faced with three funding decisions on their ballots for the February 13 special election. Ballots are expected to be mailed and drop boxes will be open Wednesday, January 24, according to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. The Blaine school district is asking voters to approve a replacement levy to help pay for district operations, which is especially needed in light of dwindling state funding and a $70 million bond to fund

a host of capital improvement projects. Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) is asking for a levy renewal to fund staffing, keep costs for classes low and support youth sports. Blaine school district replacement levy Roughly 17 percent of Blaine school district’s operating budget comes from property tax levies paid for by residents of Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts. While state funding takes care of swaths of expenses for the district, levies are needed to fill in gaps between what the state will pay

Birch Bay landlord arrested on suspicion of pulling gun on tenant’s mother By Grace McCarthy A Birch Bay landlord was arrested after allegedly putting a gun to the head of his tenant’s mother. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded about 6:45 p.m. January 14 to a woman reporting she was helping her son move out of his home on Halibut Drive in Birch Bay when the son’s landlord began a

confrontation that led to the landlord allegedly holding a gun to the woman’s head, WCSO public information officer Deb Slater wrote in an email to The Northern Light. WCSO deputies contacted the landlord, Westlee Adam Brock, 45, of Blaine, and he told law enforcement that he had asked the woman to leave his house. WCSO deputies arrested Brock and booked him into Whatcom County Jail

at 8:37 p.m. that evening, according to Whatcom County Jail booking data. Brock had his preliminary appearance on January 16. He was charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon, according to Whatcom County Superior Court records. Brock was released from jail January 16 on $1,500 cash bail. His arraignment is scheduled for January 26.

for, and what the students of Blaine need, superintendent Christopher Granger said. If passed, the levy rate will start in 2025 at $0.98 per $1,000 of assessed property value, and increase to $1 in 2026, $1.03 in 2027 and $1.04 in 2028. Over the course of the four-year levy, the tax would raise around $32 million. Granger said the levy is crucial for the school district to retain staff and lessen the blow of a looming budget reduction. “This is mission critical,” Granger said (See Election, page 3)

INSIDE

The city of Blaine’s downtown revitalization project has revealed voids under areas of the sidewalk on Peace Portal Drive that engineers are working to understand to ensure sidewalk construction doesn’t cause problems for the surrounding roadway, buildings or utilities. Cascade Engineering Group, a Bellingham-based company that the city hired to perform project engineering, discovered gaps underneath some areas of the sidewalk on Peace Portal Drive, located between buildings and the top of sections of a historic retaining wall. Greg Berg, project engineer for Cascade, presented the findings to Blaine City Council during its January 8 meeting. Berg told councilmembers the engineering group is trying to locate city documents to show where remnants of the retaining wall are located and how the wall was built so the engineers know how they can proceed with sidewalk construction. “Knowing exactly how they are built would determine what we can and can’t do,” Berg said. If the sidewalk is integral to the building and roadway, the city will need to replace the sidewalk through a more complicated and expensive process to avoid damages that could include depressions in Peace Portal Drive, disrupt utilities or cause structural damage to buildings. Berg said he hasn’t seen signs that the sidewalks are at risk of a complete structural failure, but to do a complete structural analysis, he needs the drawings of how the sidewalks and retaining walls were constructed. “We would have to [replace the sidewalk] completely differently to make sure we don’t do damage,” Berg said. “It would be much more complicated than normal replacing.” The retaining wall, installed to level roads in central downtown, has documents dating it to at least 1932 and the wall was added onto in 1979. The sidewalk, elevated above ground

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Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . 11, 12 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Blaine police launches new drone By Nolan Baker

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The Blaine Police Department purchased a drone equipped with video and thermal imaging capabilities, all thanks to donations made by local businesses and foundations. The drone, which was purchased in September 2023 for a total of $16,250, was funded by donations made to the department’s now defunct K9 unit, officer Keith Olson wrote The Northern Light in an email. Olson is BPD’s primary drone operator, and said the new piece of equipment has already been used on multiple occasions to assist officers. The drone has helped find fleeing suspects, locate trespassers on BNSF Railway tracks, and even search for a black bear and two cubs, Olson wrote. “Rather than try to confirm on foot if there was a bear and two cubs and risk getting mauled, we were able to respond to the area and determine it was in fact two deer,” Olson wrote. The drone will also help police search for vulnerable adults and missing children, as well as provide safety assistance during large events. The ability to have eyes in the sky without helicopters or assistance from other agencies is a huge step forward for officer safety and efficiency, Olson wrote. The drone can fly in most weather conditions, including moderately high winds, and comes with a loudspeaker as a form of oneway communication with suspects or people in distress. “For citizens involved with search and rescue events, the goal is to find them sooner to get them out of danger faster,” Olson wrote. “Trying to find someone

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January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

Election ... From page 1

of the levy. “This is funding the gaps between the state model and what we actually need. I can’t emphasize enough to people how important this is for our students and staff and the community.” The Blaine school board made it clear it doesn’t want “new taxes.” This current levy could, if property values rise two percent or less year over year, be a slight reduction in property tax payments, according to the district. The levy would raise roughly $7 million annually for the district, and raise to $8.5 million by 2028. For a home valued at $500,000, homeowners would pay roughly $490 annually. “You can’t just make that money up,” Granger said. “It’s not going to come from state funding.

Sidewalks ... From page 1

level, was added next to the retaining wall, and Berg said the group doesn’t know when that project was constructed. The voids act as tunnels in some areas that were used for utilities and as coal chutes. Cascade Engineering plans on asking city council for approval to conduct nondestructive testing, such as using ground-penetrating radar, to locate the voids under the city. The voids run deeper on the west side of Peace Portal Drive, Berg said. “The big unknown, especially on the west side, is there could be voids next to these buildings that could have implications if we took the sidewalks out,” he said. The city of Blaine originally intended to complete a large-scale downtown revitalization project

There’s not some miracle grant that’s going to save us. This is our community saying they value what we do for students and staff, and recognizing that we need to fully fund education.” Blaine school district capital bond The school district is also presenting a capital bond request to voters that would make various construction improvements including updates to Blaine Middle School, with additional funding going to playground and exterior lighting improvements at Point Roberts Primary School, more space for athletics at Pipeline Fields, and to develop designs for a new school in Birch Bay. The district is in the process of paying off another 25-year bond set to expire by 2035. With bond and levy payments rolling off the books, the additional $70 million

bond would not increase that tax rate from its current level, according to the district. The tax rate is projected at $0.76 per $1,000 in assessed property value, and would remain flat for the life of the bond. A house assessed at $500,000 in 2025 would pay $380. Keeping tax rates at their previous levels was a priority for the committee tasked with developing the bond measure and prioritizing the district’s needs, Granger said. “Primarily, the desire of the committee was no new taxes,” Granger said. “We wanted to determine the maximum dollar amount on a bond collection that would allow us to stay within that tax rate.” Granger will hold a “Supper with the Superintendent” meeting to answer questions about the levy and bond initiatives at 6 p.m. Tuesday, January 30 at the Blaine Elementary School library.

BBBPRD2 levy renewal Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) will ask voters to renew its $0.10 per $1,000 property tax levy. The levy helps BBBPRD2 keep class prices low, pays for expert instructors for various sports and recreation opportunities, and helps fund the many events put on by the district throughout the year such as Pirate Daze and the Holiday Lights Obstacle Course. The levy rate will remain the same as the last levy, at $0.10 per $1,000 in assessed property value. If passed, the property tax levy will cost roughly $50 annually, or $4.16 a month for a home assessed at $500,000. The levy will be on the February special election after the district failed to submit a levy request before the filing deadline for the November 7 general election.

District director Heather Lindsay told The Northern Light in October that the missed deadline wouldn’t have any major impacts to the budget or the district’s ability to provide affordable recreation opportunities in 2024. However, the levy renewing in the special election is crucial for the budget outlook for 2025 and beyond, Lindsay said. “We have enough funds to last definitely through the year [2024] without making any changes,” Lindsay said. “If we don’t have a levy pass in 2024, we will still be here in 2025, but changes will have to be made.” BBBPRD2 will hold town hall events for the public to learn more about the levy renewal on Wednesday, January 24 at 10 a.m. at 7523 Kickerville Road and on Wednesday, January 31 at 5 p.m. at the Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street.

to improve Peace Portal Drive, from Marine Drive to Clark Street. However, in light of the city’s budget shortfalls, council decided last January to slim the project and only focus on necessary improvements, such as improvements to ADA accessibility, which includes the sidewalk replacements, and potentially utility improvements. The city is also focused on fixing trees causing uneven sidewalks along Peace Portal Drive, which will be addressed by either moving or replacing the trees. The Boblett Street and Martin Street parklets will also be revamped and downtown signage is expected to be added. Cascade Engineering Group plans on designing a standardized downtown block that the city of Blaine will replicate as funds become available. The project is estimated to cost $2-5 million; it will cost close to $2

million if city council decides to only do sidewalk repairs but around $5 million if utility repairs are included. City manager Mike Harmon said public works is trying to understand the shape of the underground downtown utilities, but that is stalled because the city’s camera broke down. “Right now we’re angling toward what we can afford and a replicable standard city block that we can build over time as we can afford,” Harmon said. Harmon said the city secured $500,000 state funding that includes 700 linear feet of sidewalk work, and would lose the grant if the city doesn’t do a substantial amount of sidewalk replacement by the end of this year. Berg said Cascade Engineering Group is trying to incorporate previous studies the city has done on its downtown potential.

“We’re also trying to incorporate those with the best of our abilities to make sure we know the history and the city doesn’t pay for the same thing twice,” Berg said of the studies. The engineering group also found nine potential sites for hazardous materials, with the only high risk area being a known Washington State Department of Ecology cleanup site near G Street Plaza. Berg said potential soil contamination would add more project cost if the city needs to do underground utility work. The cultural resources report showed no evidence of archaeological significance found in the project area, but monitoring

will be required. Blaine Public Works Department is also watching a future Washington State Department of Transportation project that would uncover and restore part of Cain Creek to ensure the creek project doesn’t interfere with the downtown upgrades. The public will be invited to an open house on the downtown revitalization project concepts, which Berg hopes will be ready by late February, once the city has a better understanding of the state of its underground utilities. “Cascade Engineering can design as much as they want, but we need to build an affordable project and we have to be certain what we’re getting into,” Harmon said.

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By Grace McCarthy News from the January 8 Blaine City Council meeting … Mayor, deputy mayor appointment Blaine City Council unanimously appointed Mary Lou Steward to a second term as mayor. Steward was sworn into council in 2015. Council also appointed Rhyan Lopez, who has served as a councilmember since last January, as deputy mayor. Lopez’s appointment was a 4-2 vote, with councilmember Sonia Hurt abstaining and Kerena Higgins and Richard May in opposition. Public Works and Parks Advisory Board City council unanimously approved dissolving the Public Works Advisory Committee and Parks and Cemetery Board, and merging the two to become the Public Works and Parks Advisory Board. City staff determined merging the two groups would save time and money for the Blaine Public Works Department, which oversees them. The new board has seven members, consistent with Blaine City Council and Blaine

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Planning Commission. Members of the parks board and public works committee will be appointed to the new board and finish out their terms. The city is interviewing for two vacant positions on the new board. Restaurant zoning Council unanimously approved allowing restaurants in the residential office zoning district, running a few blocks east of Peace Portal Drive from the south of the central business district to Albert Street. Hurt, who represents the Sal-

s Deputy mayor Rhyan Lopez. File photo

ishan neighborhood adjacent to the zoning district, said a lot of Salishan residents are in favor of the zoning change. Lizzie’s Café and Ocean Bay Chinese Restaurant, which both closed in spring 2020, had grandfathered rights that allowed them to operate before zoning laws changed in the ’90s. Mandeep Sran and Shamsher Sran applied for the zoning text amendment in August so they could open a restaurant in the former Lizzie’s Café, at 1700 Peace Portal Drive.

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

The Northern L ght Road Rules: Off-duty traffic stops 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

By Doug Dahl Question: If a cop is driving their police car home, but they aren’t on duty, can they make a traffic stop? And can a cop from one city make a traffic stop in a different city? Answer: Why does this sound like it’s not just a theoretical question? The short answer: Yes, and yes. At least since 1983 and 1985, respectively. But don’t take my word for it. The Washington Court of Appeals and the Revised Code of Washington provide the source material. In 1982 a Lynnwood police officer asleep in his home at 2:30 a.m. woke up, looked out his window and saw someone prowling around his neighbor’s car. The officer went out, dressed only in a pair of pants, identified himself as a police officer, and attempted to arrest the prowler. Skipping ahead in the story, the Court of Appeals was faced with the question of whether an off-duty officer has the same authority to make an arrest as an on-duty officer. In 1983 the court concluded, “We are convinced that he does.” The judges referenced RCW 10.31.100, which repeated states, “Any police officer having probable cause [followed by sixteen examples of probable cause] shall have authority to arrest the person.” The ruling hinged, at least partly, on the word “any” which they reasoned meant both on- and off-duty officers. This court decision isn’t what made off-duty enforcement legal; the court was affirming that it already had been legal. That no one in Washington challenged this premise until 1983 suggests we already had a good understanding that an off-duty officer had enforcement authority. Maybe no one else bothered to challenge it because it had repeatedly been settled in other states. The earliest similar court conclusion I could find came from California in 1960. But, you might argue, the law quoted above is about making arrests. We’re

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 Donna Gordon Blankinship/Crosscut.com Ron Miller Semiahmoo Resort Culinary Team The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVIII, No 31 Circulation: 10,500 copies

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talking about traffic infractions. Fair enough. Let’s go to the beginning of the RCW chapter on rules of the road. It requires that people comply with any lawful order or direction of “any police officer.” While the meaning of “any” in this context hasn’t been tested in court (that I know of), I expect the outcome would be similar. If an off-duty officer can make an arrest wearing only his pants, it seems reasonable that an off-duty officer in a patrol car could give you a speeding ticket. As to your question about traffic stops outside an officer’s jurisdiction, the law states that a “general authority Washington peace officer” (or as you referred to them, cop) may enforce, with some limitations, the “traffic or criminal laws of this state throughout the territorial bounds of this state.” Included in that authority is the power to initiate a traffic stop if the officer believes the driver has committed a traffic violation.

The Editor: Thank you to The Northern Light for publishing in last week’s issue an article about the Port of Bellingham’s request for public comment regarding its updated Blaine Harbor marina park and public access plan. The comment period ends early next week, and allows the public to comment as to what people feel needs to be incorporated into the updated plan. Access to the water has always been a priority according to opinion polls. The reopening of the damaged Marine Drive (damage caused during repair work being done on the Jim Jorgenson Pier by the Port of Bellingham) should be a priority. Prior to its untimely closure the end of the dock was open to vehicles, being a very popular destination for decades and for at least the past nearly 50 years I have lived

here. In my opinion there are numerous reasons why vehicles should be allowed to again access the pier. It rains here 150 days of the year, not counting the cold or windy days, so being able to access this special place in one’s own car offers the comfort and protection from the elements in almost any weather. Further, the Blaine community has an aging population, many citizens are disabled or infirmed. Vehicle access is the only practical means to safely get there. Before its closure, entire families would drive their cars to the pier, taking with them all the supplies needed for a day’s activities. Pedestrian access only means less users as most won’t hand carry their grip in. If you desire to possibly see this unique amenity more fully utilized again with vehicle access, please let your comments be

known to the port by emailing your comments on the park plan to all three port commissioners, including the port’s executive director. Richard Sturgill Blaine Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Correction In the January 11 issue of The Northern Light, an article titled, “Girls basketball beats Meridian, Vezzetti leads with 31” contained a photo caption that misidentified Jordyn Vezzetti. We regret the error.

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.

Next issue: Jan. 25 Ads due: Jan. 19

I’m not sure what the law was prior to 1985, but it must have been problematic. That year the legislature passed the Washington mutual aid peace officers power act, stating that they wanted to modify the “current artificial barriers” to cooperative law enforcement. This act made it clear that an officer’s authority was statewide, and that officers could respond to emergencies and requests for law enforcement assistance outside the jurisdiction where they are employed. I expect you’ll agree that we wouldn’t want an officer who is otherwise qualified and capable of intervening in an in-progress crime to be prevented from doing so by a political boundary. Given that traffic crashes take more lives than violent crime, it makes sense that the same authority would apply to traffic enforcement. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

Letters

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

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Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 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-

day, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Note: The December 2023 meeting will be held Tuesday, December 19. 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.

January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

Former TV critic publishes book on conversations with old Hollywood filmmakers

s Ron Miller.

File photo

By Grace McCarthy A Blaine author and former national TV columnist recently co-authored a book on his conversations with old Hollywood filmmakers that include the likes of Alfred Hitchcock and Billy Wilder. “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers” captures the golden age of Hollywood through the interviews

of Blaine resident Ron Miller and James Bawden, a late TV columnist for the Toronto Star. The 392-page book, published by the University Press of Kentucky, features 31 exclusive interviews with directors and producers about stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Spencer Tracy, Mae West, Kirk Douglas, Katharine Hepburn and Elvis Presley. Miller was a nationally syndicated TV columnist for the San Jose Mercury News from 1977-99 and national president of the Television Critics Association. “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers,” which was released in October, is the latest in a series of books Miller and Bawden published of their Hollywood interviews. “All of the filmmakers and directors are now deceased. We thought that this was one way to preserve their actual conversations with us,” Miller said. “You hear the producers and directors talking in their own language about what they did and it’s very revealing in a lot of cases because they could talk about a lot

of people who couldn’t sue them because they were dead.” Miller said he and Bawden wanted to reveal what the stars were like working with people who weren’t famous and how they behaved in everyday life. “We figured that these mythmakers at the studios had spun out a lot of stories about what these people were really like but it was all baloney,” Miller said. “They were just regular people trying to cope with the work they had to do and a lot of them had the whole film resting on their fame and box office appeal.” “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers” is the seventh book that Miller has either authored or co-authored on movies and television. Miller previously held film lecture programs at Semiahmoo Resort and has taught at Western Washington University. Miller will discuss “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers” at 6 p.m. Saturday, January 20 at Village Books in Bellingham.

s Actor Lee Marvin, c., and director Michael Ritchie on set of the 1972 film “Prime Cut.” Photo courtesy Ron Miller

CITY OF BLAINE

Legendary movie stars up close on the job By Ron Miller The legendary movie stars of Hollywood’s golden era (193060) are now so shrouded in glamorized nostalgia that it might be hard to remember they once were just actors who went to work every day in a factory-like setting with a host of other workers helping them create the images they left behind. So compelling are some of those images that we might be excused for believing they reflect what those magical stars were really like in real life. Was Marilyn Monroe really an irresistible sex goddess? Was Tyrone Power the dashing hero of “The Mark of Zorro?” Was Boris Karloff the frightening creep you wouldn’t want to meet after dark? Was Spencer Tracy the master actor revered by his colleagues? Well, maybe much of that has ripened into Hollywood folklore. But it might be revealing to learn what the people they worked with every day really thought of them. In our careers covering the movie and television worlds, former Toronto Star TV columnist James Bawden and I often talked with producers who hired those glorious stars and directors who handled them on camera. Their candid reflections are contained in our latest book, “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers” published by University Press of Kentucky. Here are two highlights from some of the 31 interviews included in the book: Marilyn Monroe In 1949, David Miller directed a young, unknown Marilyn Monroe in “Love Happy,” starring the Marx Brothers. Miller recalled: “Marilyn walked in for an interview and Groucho

shouted, ‘You’re hired!’ He was mightily smitten with her. She was twenty-three, had dirty fingernails and never washed, so her neck was dirty. She looked bewildered and that stuck. She just oozed sex appeal.” A few years later, Henry Hathaway directed her in the tense thriller Niagara. Hathaway was surprised to find how popular she had become. “Crowds gathered everywhere, really large crowds,” Hathaway said. “Marilyn was gorgeous and she was aware she was gorgeous. But, alone with her, I found a scared little girl. She said, ‘Henry, I’m twenty-seven; ten years from now I’ll be forgotten.’ But ten years later, she was dead.” Billy Wilder directed Monroe in two of her biggest hits: “The Seven Year Itch” (1955) and “Some Like It Hot” (1959). He said, “She was a troublesome young woman who was always worth the trouble. Marilyn had tremendous troubles with herself. She was on-edge all day and that’s very nerve-wracking. But if I just wanted somebody to be on time and know their lines, I have an old aunt who could have been there at 5 in the morning.” At the end of her career, Monroe was a superstar, being directed in a musical comedy romp called “Let’s Make Love” (1960) by George Cukor. Her costar was French actor-singer Yves Montand. “She was difficult, but not impossible,” Cukor recalled. “The movie was a trifle and she was pudgy. Predictably, they [Montand and Monroe] really were making love in her dressing room all afternoon. But we did get it finished and it did make money.” Cukor also directed Monroe in what would have been her final

movie, the unfinished “Something’s Got to Give” (1962). Cukor said “It was quickly apparent life had become a blur to her. She had slimmed down and was quite lovely. But days would pass without her appearing. I’d shot all the scenes without her when Fox pulled the plug. But six weeks later, she was about to return when she died.” Tyrone Power Rouben Mamoulian went to work at Fox in 1940 and his first task was to turn Tyrone Power into an action hero in a pair of swashbuckling films: “The Mark of Zorro” (1940) and “Blood and Sand” (1941). Unfortunately, Power wasn’t suited for action. “Ty was a beautiful young man, but not that athletic,” Mamoulian recalled. “We had to bulk him up and get him up to speed in his sword fighting.” Power’s leading lady in “Blood and Sand,” a bullfighting saga,

was glamorous Rita Hayworth and Mamoulian had trouble stoking up enough passion between the two actors. “Ty was rather a listless person at that stage,” said Mamoulian. “And he was embarrassed by the scene where he’s bare-chested, about to be dressed for the ring. He simply didn’t want to be laughed at. And, yes, we had to do some doubling in the bullfight scenes and it does show.” Read more highlights from “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers” on thenorthernlight.com. Blaine resident Ron Miller was a nationally syndicated entertainment columnist from 1977 to 1999. The University of Kentucky Press recently published, “They Made the Movies: Conversations with Great Filmmakers.” Miller will discuss his latest book at 6 p.m. Saturday, January 20 at Village Books in Bellingham.

January 22, 2024 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

January 23, 2024 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting

February 12, 2024 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

February 19, 2024 City Offices Closed – Presidents Day

February 26, 2024 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

February 27, 2024 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Charles Gibson retires from Blaine school board after 17 years “Voice of informed reason” to start Peace Arch Education Foundation nonprofit

s Charles Gibson (r.) and wife Margaret at their home in Blaine. Gibson served on Blaine’s school board for 17 years and stepped down in 2023. Gibson also served as pastor for Northwood Alliance Church for 25 years before retiring in 2020. Photo by Nolan Baker

By Nolan Baker When longstanding Blaine school board member Charles Gibson and his wife Margaret moved across town in 2023, the couple ended up in District 5, Don Leu’s board district. Since 2020, when Leu was elected to the board, the two had bounced ideas off one another on how best to serve the children of Blaine public schools. Now, only one could be elected to serve the District 5 board seat. A “bitter” political battle ensued for the next several months. “You run,” Leu would say to

Gibson. “No, you run,” Gibson would respond to Leu. Finally, Gibson – a 17-year veteran of the school board – convinced Leu to run unopposed for the seat. Gibson saw the opportunity as a way to get new faces and fresh perspectives onto the board. For Leu, it was the end of an era of steady, even-handed leadership in a political arena that seems to grow evermore polarizing. “That is what I aspire to,” Leu said of Gibson. “Because I think that is what’s required in today’s time when there is a lot of misinformation, miscommunication,

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misunderstanding, and mis-appreciation of what the schools are doing and how we function.” After nearly two decades serving the school board through budget cutbacks, a pandemic and a rapidly changing world for children, Gibson said he won’t be sitting around playing golf in his retirement. Gibson is currently in the weeds of creating a foundation to continue his crusade of support for public education in Blaine. The Peace Arch Education Foundation is set to be Blaine’s first education nonprofit, something that Gibson said most other school districts in Washington have access to. With the school district experiencing staffing cutbacks due to budgetary restraints, Gibson said he saw the strain the district is in as an

opportunity to provide relief, and continuing opportunities for the children of Blaine and Birch Bay. “Education is the great equalizer in our country, I’m a strong believer in that,” Gibson said. “Education really gives every child, every family, an opportunity to get out of the rut that sometimes families are in.” While not a teacher himself, all four of Gibson’s children graduated from Blaine public schools and Gibson established himself in the community as pastor of Northwood Alliance Church in Blaine where he served a congregation of 100 people for 25 years. Before Gibson and his wife moved to Blaine, they lived in New Mexico where he worked as executive director for New Mexico Boys Ranch, a residential child care facility for adolescent boys. Like the three newly elected school board members sworn in this past month, Gibson was once just like them, learning the ropes of an immensely intricate – and delicate – funding system. Gibson said he thought he was prepared for the complexity of running a school district from his time at the New Mexico Boys Ranch. He was wrong. “I was used to running a large nonprofit with four different campuses around the state of New Mexico,” Gibson said. “So I thought I had a pretty good handle on what it’s like to oversee complexity. I learned quickly how complex a school district is.” A lifetime devoted to helping others brought Gibson to Blaine, then Northwood Alliance Church, then the school board and finally to Peace Arch Education Foundation. Gibson knows as well as anyone the bind that the school district is currently in with dwindling enrollment and its cascading effect on dwindling funding. That’s where he hopes the foundation can step in and fill some cracks. With upcoming school levy and bond measures set for the February special election, Gibson knows that the public wants well-funded,

effective schools, but that not everything is guaranteed to pass. “There’s always been good support for the schools, and levies in particular,” Gibson said. “Bonds; sometimes they pass, sometimes they don’t. But people see the schools as a real central point of good things for the community.” The school district keeps on moving, for the first time in 17 years, without Gibson. For Leu, a retired professor and scholar of pedagogy, Gibson was valuable to the board because of not only his care for the community and its children, but because of his level-headed leadership capabilities. “When Charles spoke, I always listened because I knew it was the voice of informed reason, and I wanted to hear it,” Leu said. “He’s just absolutely passionate about providing the very best upbringing for the children in Blaine schools.” That passion didn’t go anywhere. Gibson said he just knew it was time to pass the torch. For nearly two decades, he balanced leading a flock of parishioners at Northwood and the rabble of a school district. Gibson said he chalks it up to simple perseverance. “It baffles me,” Gibson said looking back on his time devoted to the school district and the church. “I guess one of my characteristics is perseverance. I do think that if you started something, you persevere and see it through as best you can.” Even after their time on the board together ended, Leu and Gibson still hold periodical chats about the state of the district and the community. It was from those phone calls that Leu said he started learning how to help run a school board. “So much of what I know, Charles taught me,” Leu said. “He’s an incredibly valuable resource for our community in so many ways.” The Peace Arch Education Foundation’s first founders banquet is tentatively scheduled for March, Gibson said, and those who want to know more or how to help can contact Gibson at charlesandmargaret@gmail.com.

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s Gibson, l., and other Blaine school board members during the February 27, 2023 meeting. Photo by Grace McCarthy

January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine girls and boys basketball teams sweep aside Mount Baker, five wrestlers make podium By

nolan

Baker

Girls Wrestling The Blaine girls wrestling team held its annual Blaine Blizzard tournament in the Borderite gymnasium on January 13. With temperatures across Whatcom County dipping into the single digits, it was apt that the weekend’s premier wrestling competition was dubbed “Blizzard.” For the hosting Borderite girls wrestling program, it was a chance to show the home crowd what this team has been working toward since the schedule started in early December. Five out of eight Blaine wrestlers finished on the podium in the final home match of the season. After a solid home showing against Sehome and Meridian on January 10 in the bag, the Borderites faced a 23-team field with standout days from wrestlers Makenna Lausier, London Fletcher, Claire Hume and captains Analicea Ordonez and Lucy Dahl. Lausier won first place in the 100-pound weight class with a win by fall over Oak Harbor’s Julia Gonzalez. Senior captain Dahl also placed first in her weight division. Hume placed second, and Ordonez and Fletcher each placed third. For junior London Fletcher, it was her first ever podium finish. “Sometimes home meets can be a challenge – a bit of a letdown,” head coach Damon Higgins said

of his team’s performances in Blaine. “But they stepped up. They absolutely rose to the challenge. We put five people on the podium and we wrestled eight.” The Borderites will now play out the final events of the season, first traveling to Lynden on Thursday, January 18. Girls wrestling will then travel to Othello – weather permitting – for the Lady Husky invitational, a two-day wrestling event on Friday, January 19 and Saturday, January 20. Selections for sub-regional and regional tournaments that seed the state tournament will be announced early February, Higgins said. Boys Basketball The past week for the Borderites (4-11, 2-8 NWC) showed the gulf in talent between the few powerhouse teams at the top of the Northwest Conference standings, and those fighting for a final spot in district playoffs. The Borderites are stuck somewhere in between. The week began with a 79-27 loss to a hosting Lynden Lions team that ranks at the tip-top of the conference standings (12-3, 10-0 NWC) and looks poised to make yet another deep state playoff run. Lynden held Blaine to single-digit points in three of four quarters, and Blaine’s 27 points by the end of regulation were the lowest offensive output by the Borderites this season. But the Borderites were going up against a lights out Lynden defense that has allowed

s Sophomore and first-year wrestler Abby Marquez attempts a leg grab on an opponent on January 13 at the Blaine Blizzard wrestling tournament. Photo by Janell Kortlever

s Freshman Claire Hume grapples with an opponent during the Blaine Blizzard wrestling tournament on January 13. Five of eight Blaine wrestlers placed top-three in their weight classes, including Hume.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

an average of just 35.1 points per game against NWC opponents this year, allowing conference opponents more than 40 points in just two games this season. Offensive producers like Josiah Weeda and Noah Tavis scored 11 and 10 points respectively, with Tavis contributing nine rebounds and four assists on the night. Not discouraged, the Borderites bounced right back the next game with a convincing 6244 win over 1A basement-dwellers Mt. Baker (3-12, 1-9 NWC). If the season ended today, the Borderites would earn the #4 seed and rematch against Mt. Baker in the first round of 1A District 1 playoffs. With just five games remaining in the regular season, the Borderites have a chance to leapfrog third-seed Nooksack Valley (8-6, 4-6 NWC) and earn a firstround bye, but expect district playoff rankings to stay relatively stable until playoffs begin in February. The Borderites are scheduled to travel to face Burlington-Edison (7-8, 3-6 NWC 2A) on Friday, January 19 at 7:15 p.m. Blaine’s next home game is set for Monday, January 22 at 7:15 p.m. against Mt. Vernon (12-2, 8-1 NWC 3A).

Stats courtesy WhatcomHoops.com Girls Basketball Blaine girls basketball (7-8, 3-7 NWC) continues to scrap its way toward a .500 record, and – similar to the boys team – bounced back from a blowout loss to Lynden with a win against Mount Baker. The Borderites were drubbed 61-17 at home by a scary-good Lynden Lions (14-1, 8-1 NWC) team that currently sits at third place in the NWC standings. The 44-point margin of victory wasn’t even close to Lynden’s largest blowout win so far this year – the Lions beat Sedro-Woolley 81-15 on December 22. But the Borderites brushed off the loss and immediately went to work against Mount Baker (3-12, 0-8 NWC), winning a close one, 54-47 in Deming on January 15. The Borderites didn’t own a lead until a Deja Dube 3-pointer put them up with just under two minutes in the first half,

but Blaine’s defense seemed to solidify in the third quarter, allowing just seven points to the hosting Mountaineers, and leading the Borderites to a much-needed win. Jordyn Vezzetti, yet again, led the Borderites on the offensive side with 21 points, while sisters Deja and Teia Dube combined for 21 points of their own (12 from senior Deja, 9 from freshman Teia). Both teams seem to match up well with each other this season, and the two could face off again in the 1A District Playoffs that begin February 5. With just five games left in the regular season, the Borderites are now the #3-seed for 1A playoffs. 1A juggernauts Nooksack Valley (15-1, 11-0 NWC) and Lynden Christian (10-5, 7-2 NWC) stand in the Borderites’ path to a state playoff bid, so hope for an upset win (or two) along the way. Stats courtesy WhatcomHoops.com

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Semiahmoo Resort recipe: Winter citrus salmon By Semiahmoo R e s o rt C u l i n a ry T e a m Our winter citrus salmon recipe features seared salmon, orange crème fraiche, caramelized January king cabbage and citrus pesto. Your senses will thank you when they taste the bright citrus flavors that highlight delicious wild-caught salmon. We’re lucky to have access to some of the world’s best wild salmon here in Whatcom County – paired with winter fruit and earthy cabbage, this seasonal take on a Semiahmoo staple is the perfect dish for your next dinner party. Start with putting together the seasoned salt, orange crème fraiche and citrus pesto, then move on to the salmon and cabbage and watch it all come together. Seasoned salt: • 2 tablespoons coriander • 2 tablespoons cumin • 1 tablespoon fennel seed • 2 teaspoon white pepper • 6 tablespoons salt 1. Toast spices and finely grind, mix with salt. Orange crème fraiche: • ½ each cara cara orange, zest and juice • ½ cup crème fraiche or full-fat sour cream • 1 tablespoon tangerine agrumato • Kosher salt to taste 1. In a small mixing bowl combine the crème fraiche, orange zest and juice and a pinch of salt. 2. Whisk to combine. 3. Drizzle in the tangerine agrumato and continue whisking to emulsify. 4. Season to taste with additional salt as necessary. Caramelized cabbage: • 1 January king or savoy cabbage • ½ cup neutral cooking oil (no olive oil here) • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter • 2 tablespoons seasoned salt • 4 cups chicken stock 1. Preheat the oven to 300°F.

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Remove the loose outer leaves from the cabbage and cut into quarters (or eighths if the cabbage is on the larger side). 2. Heat an adequately sized Dutch oven or other heavy bottomed pot over high heat until the pot is almost smoking. Add the neutral oil, followed by the cabbage. Sear the cabbage until it is almost black (a little bit burnt is okay). Using tongs, carefully turn the cabbage and sear the other side. 3. Remove the pot from heat, add all remaining ingredients, cover the pot with a lid and bake for 15 minutes (turn the cabbage over halfway through baking to ensure an even cook). 4. Once cooked through (use a toothpick or skewer to check the tenderness), remove the lid and allow the cabbage to cool completely in the pot before removing. Citrus pesto: • 1 lemon – zest, juice and supremes** • 1 lime – zest, juice and supremes** • 1 orange – zest, juice and supremes** • 1 grapefruit – zest, juice and supremes** • ½ cup basil, minced • ½ cup parsley, minced • ½ cup mint, minced • ¼ cup olive oil • 1 tablespoon honey • 4 tablespoons pickled mustard seeds (optional) • Kosher salt, to taste 1. Place everything except the olive oil, pickled mustard seeds and citrus supremes into a food processor. Blend until combined. 2. Slowly drizzle the oil while the machine is running to emulsify. 3. Transfer the sauce to a small mixing bowl, dice the citrus supremes and aggressively whisk them into the herb mixture. **Supremes – is a fancy word for citrus segments without membranes, steps as described below: 1. Start with a very sharp knife.

s The Semiahmoo Resort Culinary Team’s winter citrus salmon. Photo courtesy Semiahmoo Resort

Trim the fruit’s ends, creating a flat top and bottom. Set a flat side on the cutting board. 2. Slice off the peel and pith following the shape of the fruit. 3. Set the fruit on its side, cut toward the center along the membrane, make the same cut on the adjacent membrane to release the segment. Repeat. 4. After removing all of the segments from the membrane, squeeze what remains in your hand to extract the juice. Putting it all together Salmon: • 6-8 ounces wild caught, skinon king salmon filet • 1½ tablespoons seasoned salt• 4 ounces butter

• ½ each lemon, for squeezing Salmon cooking and plate assembly: 1. Preheat the oven to 500°F. 2. Allow salmon to come up to room temperature, season liberally with seasoned salt. 3. Sear salmon skin side down in a very hot cast iron pan. 4. Add the butter, once bubbling and beginning to brown, spoon the butter over the flesh side of the fish. Repeat this process until the fish is cooked to your desired doneness. Squeeze the lemon over the cooked fish. 5. Carefully remove the fish from the pan and allow it to rest skin side up while you assemble the rest of the dish.

6. Add the cabbage to the hot, buttery salmon pan and place in the 500°F oven. 7. Spread 3 tablespoons of the orange crème fraiche on the bottom of your plate. 8. Place the hot wedge of cabbage down and the salmon next to it. 9. Spoon some butter left over from cooking the fish/cabbage over the dish. 10. Finish the plate with a couple heaping spoonfuls of citrus pesto, freshly picked mint leaves, a drizzle of tangerine agrumato and flakey sea salt. Semiahmoo Resort offers dining options at Packers Kitchen + Bar, Great Blue Heron Grill and Seaview Café.

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January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

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less. And watching investment accounts go down can also be difficult. Many challenges have kept the stock market in a volatile state for most of 2022. But there are a few silver linings to help you get through this year. First, as the Federal Reserve is raising interest rates, your reserve cash can earn generous returns for a guaranteed investment in a certificate of deposit. Six-month and nine-month CD’s are earning around 4.5%. Some liquid money market accounts are earning 2.5% to 3%. Second, if you have a financial plan this can be modeled for higher inflation rates. If your plan is still successful you may be more at ease. While market corrections are unsettling in the moment, they are far less significant for a long-term financial plan. At Skyline Advisors we can help you navigate these tumultuous financial conditions.

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imaging doesn’t always correlate with pain. That means that “degeneration” and other age-related changes with imaging is not always a predictor of back pain. It is normal for people to experience back pain occasionally, and it is best addressed early if it does occur. At Capstone Physical Therapy your physical therapists work with you to design an individualized care plan to reduce or get rid of pain. Capstone has seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street.

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competition during the colder months can work to your advantage. NWMLS data from the Birch Bay/Blaine area reveals that December through February typically has the lowest Months Supply of Inventory (MSI), indicating reduced supply but consistent demand. It’s crucial to note, however, that the best time to list your home for sale is when you are ready to make a stellar impression. Feel free to reach out via phone or email for a complimentary price opinion, net proceeds estimate, and a consultation on how to best prepare your home for the market. Your successful home sale journey begins with strategic planning and preparation.

Skyline Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Skyline Advisors, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place. Skyline Advisors, Inc. is not in the business of providing specific tax advice. Clients are encouraged to engage a tax professional for specific tax questions and recommendations. CD and money market rates change daily and were as of December 1, 2022, available through Charles Schwab. Money Markets are not FDIC insured.

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Bird of the Month: Bald eagle s

Our national bird, the bald eagle, is often seen in Birch Bay and around the Semiahmoo Spit, Blaine and Drayton Harbor. Juveniles, l., take up to five years to acquire their yellow beak and white head and tail. The Nooksack River Welcome Bridge (Mosquito Lake Road, North Fork, Deming) is a very popular eagle-viewing spot in late December and early January, as large numbers congregate there to feed on salmon. Live eagle and other raptor shows are presented by the Sardis Raptor Center at the Wings Over Water Birding Festival (March 15-17, 2024). Both photos were taken from Birch Bay Drive.

Photo by Chuck Kinzer/ckimageart.com

Pets & Pet Care

Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!

Warning signs of cancer in pets

Few people may think of their pets when pondering a topic as serious as cancer. However, a significant percentage of cats and dogs will develop cancer at some point the bubble in their lives. Recognition of that or the holireality on the part of pet owners olidays! andpotentially save the lives of could oliday untold colorsnumbers of furry friends.

The National Cancer Institute reports that approximately 6 million dogs and roughly the same number of cats are diagnosed with cancer each year in the U.S. In fact, data from the Veterinary Cancer Society indicates cancer is the leading cause of death in pets who are beyond middle age. Much

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like with humans and cancer, pets have a greater chance of surviving a cancer diagnosis if the disease is detected in its early stages. Unlike with humans, pets cannot speak up when something is off with their bodies. That means it’s the responsibility of pet owners to learn to recognize potential pet cancer warning signs. The nonprofit, New York City-based Animal Medical Center (AMC), urges pet owners to be on the lookout for the following cancer warning signs and to report anything concerning to a veterinarian immediately. • Lumps and bumps: The AMC encourages pet owners to have any skin mass examined by a veterinarian and to maintain a

body map of lumps so new lumps are more easily recognized. The AMC reports that skin masses in cats are more likely to be malignant than those in dogs. • Abnormal odors: Notably bad breath could be caused by a tumor in the mouth. Foul odors also may be a result of bacteria related to an infection or wound related to cancer. • Abnormal discharge: An increased discharge from the pet’s nose, eyes or ears could indicate the presence of a tumor or another illness. • Wounds that will not heal: Wounds that won’t heal on their own or with prescribed medications could indicate the presence of cancer. • Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. The AMC urges owners of pets who are overweight to avoid welcoming unexplained weight loss Gently cooked meats with raw vegetables and fruit. Found in the freezer.

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without consulting with a veterinarian. Unless a pet is on a diet, it is unlikely to lose weight. • Changes in appetite: The AMC recommends pet owners monitor how much their pets eat, as an increase or decrease in appetite could indicate the presence of cancer. • Coughing or difficulty breathing: Changes in a pet’s breathing pattern or a reluctance to exercise should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. Cancer can affect a pet’s breathing in a number of ways, so these signs should not be taken lightly. • Lethargy and depression: Lack of interest in daily activities, including walks and play sessions, could indicate the presence of cancer. In addition, cancer can increase the amount of time pets spend sleeping. • Changes in bathroom habits: The AMC notes that excessive water consumption, blood in the urine, difficulty urinating or defecating, frequent diarrhea, or blood in the stool may indicate the presence of cancer. • Pain: Pain may be linked to various ailments, including cancer. If a pet is limping, have the animal examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause of the limp. Cancer affects millions of pets each year. Responsible pet owners can learn to spot potential warning signs of cancer to increase the chances their furry friends survive the disease.

ADOPT A PET! We’re looking for good homes! To adopt one of us please call our Adoptions department at (360) 733-2080

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January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: Jan. 25

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Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: KIMBERLY ANN BARNES, Deceased. No. 23-4-01201-37 NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030 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 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Notice Agent or the Notice Agent’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 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 11.40.020(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 of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. The Notice Agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on the 21st of December, 2023, at Parkville, MD that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent: Andrew Michael Barnes c/o Resident Agent, Genissa M. Richardson Attorney for Notice Agent: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 P: (360) 639-3393 E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com DATED: December 21, 2023 True North Legal Services, PLLC Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Published in The Northern Light January 4th, 11th, and 18th 2024.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: DONALD FRANKLIN KAY, Deceased. No. 24-4-00007-37 NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030 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 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Notice Agent or the Notice Agent’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 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 11.40.020(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 of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. The Notice Agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on the 3rd of January, 2024, at Bellingham, WA that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent: Teresa Jo Kay Attorney for Notice Agent: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 P: (360) 639-3393 E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com DATED: January 3rd, 2024 True North Legal Services, PLLC Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Published in the Northern Light January 11th, 18th, and 25th, 2024.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: RICHARD C. MYERS, Deceased. No. 23-4-0112037. 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: Jan. 11, 2024 Personal Representative: Joseph Forde 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 WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: CRAIG COOK, Deceased. No. 23-4-01132-37. AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Lee Grochmal The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 4, 2023 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 4, 2024 Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: December 4, 2023 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Beverly Alta Odell, Deceased. NO. 23-4-01162-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: January 4, 2024 Personal Representative: Brian Kincaid 21821 82nd Ave. West Edmonds, WA 98026 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-01162-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: KATHERYN ELIZABETH HAMILTON, Deceased. No. 23-4-01165-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman. The Person 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 of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 21, 2023, with the Clerk of Court Date of First Publication: January 4, 2024 Name of Personal Representative: Leslie Anne Hamilton-Copps Attorney for Personal Representative: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 P: (360) 639-3393 E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com DATED: December 21, 2023 True North Legal Services, PLLC Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Attorney for Personal Representative: Leslie Anne Hamilton-Copps

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Philip G. Kelly, Deceased. NO. 23-401172-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: January 4, 2024 Personal Representative: Anthony Scott Fairris 1513 Shannon Court Carrollton, TX 75006 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-01172-37.

MORE LEGALS ON PAGE 12

The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 8105 Birch Bay Square Street, #101 Blaine, WA • 360-371-5100 I-5 Exit 270

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MLS #2186144 $879,000 Birch Bay waterfront home, 1874 sq ft, low bank with beach rights. Walk out your back door to the best hard-packed sand flats in Washington State. The perfect westerly-facing, unobstructed water view! Enjoy beach fires, sunsets, crabbing, clamming, boating. This property is perfect for full-time living or Airbnb! High ceilings in an open great room with a featured front room fireplace, located within walking distance to area restaurants, hair salon, beach trail system, & state park.

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MLS #2140732 $285,000 Fresh off a stunning remodel, don’t miss this completely dialed in ground floor unit in sought after Jacob’s Landing! The open floor plan sets the tone, and you’ll love the brandnew windows, water heater, cabinets, LVP flooring, trim, fireplace, backsplash & bathroom/shower...all the things are done! Walk out the slider to direct garden/patio access and the sweet smell of saltwater. The ideal full or part time residence + Jacob’s Landing allows for short term vacation rentals.

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7714 Birch Bay Dr #108

MLS #2179608 $549,000 Discover coastal luxury in this 3-bed, 2-bath ground-floor condo. Newer stainless appliances, granite countertops, and hardwood floors adorn the open living and dining areas with vaulted ceilings. A stunning master suite and a bay-view patio await. Enjoy a large hot tub, storage room for bicycles, kayaks, paddle boards and access to a beautiful private beach. Whether it’s a permanent residence or a weekend escape, relish Birch Bay’s local amenities.

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4563 California Trail

MLS #2186685 $369,000 Freshly upgraded 3 bed/1.75 bath home with so many new updates: waterproof laminate flooring (no carpet anywhere!), tiled bathrooms & charming eat-in kitchen w/ on trend white cabinets, butcher block counters & stainless-steel appliances. Easy access to I-5, Blaine & Birch Bay + Sunday Harbor community BBQ/picnic area, boat launch, dock & playground. The low maintenance yard w/ shed + firepit is the ideal place to relax or entertain. Cash buyers only.

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7530 Birch Bay Drive #104

MLS #2162814 $225,000 2-bedroom charming Cabana Club ground floor condo fresh off a complete remodel and ready for you to live that year-round vacation lifestyle! Overlooking the heated outdoor pool, this cheery & bright end unit features brand new LVP flooring, on-trend light cabinets, counters, stainless steel appliances and light fixtures. Fantastic walkable location to all that Birch Bay offers...the beach, the walking path along the bay, the State Park, dining + entertainment.

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MLS #2178663 $178,500 Birch Bay Storage unit in the gated my garage development. Owner owns the unit right across the driveway B12 from this unit A12. Closing will be coordinated with the completion of new mezzanine in B12s so seller only have to move once. A12. +/- A12 offers Commercial garage door opener with electronic lock & external entry key-pad, natural gas heater. $2000 in extra electrical outlets around entire interior. 4k Samsung TV installed. Advantage Car lift negotiable.

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Comox Loop

MLS #2191362 $110,000 Can’t find that perfect home in today’s real estate market? Now is your chance to build your dream home on this beautiful waterfront lot overlooking a lovely, natural pond in Birch Bay Village. This large 14,679 square foot lot borders Beaver Pond on 2 sides with great sun exposure and utilities in street. Unrivaled Birch Bay Village amenities include marina with new docks being installed, beaches, golf course, pool, pickle ball, clubhouse & 24-hour security gate.

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7609 Birch Bay Drive #107

MLS #2163316 $995,000 Rare find in this beautiful low-bank Birch Bay waterfront condo where you can paddleboard or kayak off your own private beach! A 2-story, 3 bdrm, 3 bthrm at the desired Coast Haven Condominiums in the heart of the bay. Remodeled and updated kitchen & bathrooms with high-end finishes, cabinets, flooring, all new windows and coverings, & newly painted exterior. Open floor plan with living room & kitchen boasting a fabulous view plus a deck.

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MLS #2067337 $115,000 Great Birch Bay Village building lot on creek & beaver pond w/lots of wildlife including Great Blue Herons, ducks, & more. Very affordable lot to gain access to “Village” amenities such as saltwater marina w/brand new docks being installed, private golf course, tennis, pickleball, clubhouse etc. Better yet, build your dream home. 24/7 Guard Gated security & community patrols for added “Peace of Mind”. Numerous beachfront parks & miles of beaches to explore.

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8286 Cowichan Road

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5438 Snow Goose Lane #107

MLS #2190335 $329,500 A perfect “home away from home” awaits in this nicely updated end unit at Country Club Villas at Semiahmoo. Just a simple par-3 to the golf & country club this home features vaulted ceilings & oversized windows that make the most of the gracious, comfortable space. The deck off the great room is private & overlooks the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest habitat. Lovingly cared for--new dishwasher/cook-top-range, fresh paint & carpet--ideal safe secure & affordable place.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: BRUCE LEROY HOLTROP, Deceased. Probate No. 24-4-00021-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Assigned Judge: Evan P. Jones. The Personal Representatives 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 Clerk of this Court. 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 (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of filing copy of Notice to Creditors: January 8, 2024. Date of first publication of Notice to Creditors: January 18, 2024 Personal Representative: CAROL PRINCE Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688 Lynden, WA 98264-0688 Tel. (360) 354-5021

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: ELENA MARGARETA EFTIMIU, Deceased. Probate No. 23-4-01152-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Assigned Judge: David E. Freeman 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 Clerk of this Court. 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 (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of filing copy of Notice to Creditors: December 8, 2023. Date of first publication of Notice: January 11, 2024. Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688 Lynden, WA 98264-0688 Tel. (360) 354-5021 Personal Representative: ALINA MANESS NOTICE TO CREDITORS

MORE LEGALS ON PAGE 11

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: GERALD LYNN WELLS, Deceased. No. 23-4-01147-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 7, 2023 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 4, 2023 Name of Personal Representative: JAMES EUGENE HARMON Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: December 7, 2023 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative: JAMES EUGENE HARMON

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of John Michael Kelberer, Deceased. NO. 23-4-00407-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee P Grochmal. The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: January 18, 2024 Personal Representative: Dawn Moon 4915 Samish Way #93 Bellingham, WA 98229 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-00407-37

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January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

Here’s what to watch as the Washington legislature kicks off B y D o nn a G o r d o n B l a n k i ns h i p , C r o ss c u t . c o m This article has been edited for length by Grace McCarthy. The 60-day Washington legislative session begins January 8 with a relatively short to-do list before everyone decamps to focus on the election. Lawmakers will not write a new two-year budget, but they will nibble around the edges of the way the state plans to spend tax dollars over the next few years. Legislative leaders said last week during a press preview that they will focus their time in Olympia this year on mental health, substance-abuse treatment and prevention, housing and homelessness, the environment, policing and a few issues they can’t really avoid, like shoring up the ferry system. These are all priorities that cost money to address, as does most of the legislature’s work, and thanks to the state’s new capital gains tax and carbon pricing system, lawmakers expect to have a surplus of more than $1 billion to tap if they choose. Most of that money, however, is already assigned to build and support schools and address climate change. Although the legislative website listed hundreds of prefiled bills before the legislature convened – some of which will get some committee attention – most of their attention will be on these topics, many of which are intertwined. Looming over their work will be six initiatives that appear to have the signatures required to go before voters next fall, including proposals to eliminate both of the state’s new sources of income: The cap-andinvest carbon pricing system and the capital gains tax. Here are six things to watch during the 2024 legislative session, scheduled to run between January 8 and March 7. Behavioral health, including substance abuse Governor Jay Inslee’s proposed supplemental budget includes money to pay for the new 100-plus-bed Tukwila psychiatric hospital bought by the state earlier this year after a private company closed it. He’s also requesting $38.4 million to recruit and retain workers at Eastern State and Western State hospitals, Washington’s two big public psychiatric facilities. Lawmakers are working to move mental health and substance-abuse treatment closer to people’s home communities. Inslee’s budget calls for $64 million to spend on new programs, including opioid prevention, education and public awareness campaigns and nearly $12 million to increase treatment programs in jails and state prisons. House Speaker Laurie Jinkins (D-Tacoma) said interwoven issues will be the priorities of this legislative session: Housing, access to affordable child care, mental health treatment and the fentanyl crisis, plus efforts to move forward on addressing climate change.

Housing and homelessness Housing was the acknowledged issue of the year in 2023, but no one is declaring mission accomplished. Lawmakers and the governor have plans to keep putting money into building more housing and getting the unhoused into stable housing. Some lawmakers seem to be inspired by local initiatives in Bellingham and Tacoma to establish some statewide renter protections, including a rent-stabilization proposal. Senator Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma) introduced Senate Bill 5435 during the 2023 session to hold rent increases to at or below the rate of inflation, and says she will be pursuing something similar in 2024. Inslee included $100 million in his budget proposal for the state Department of Commerce to buy properties that could be converted into housing for people experiencing homelessness. That emergency housing could include hotels transformed into apartments, as well as tiny home villages and supportive housing with wraparound services. The environment Two proposals related to Washington’s new carbon pricing system will likely get attention this session. Washington is considering joining California and Quebec to create one big carbon auction, which government officials hope will decrease its impact on gas prices. Inslee and Democratic legislative leaders also want to create a new agency to regulate the oil industry in Washington and gain more transparency around oil and gas-industry profits and pricing. Inslee contends the five biggest oil companies made $200 billion in profits in 2022. Inslee said his two biggest concerns for his last year in office are making sure his grandchildren inherit a clean, healthy and beautiful Washington and addressing the state’s behavioral health concerns. Policing and public safety The governor and most lawmakers are concerned about helping local police departments and the Washington State Patrol hire more officers. Inslee put $30.9 million into his supplemental budget proposal to add 80 new officers to the state patrol and 100 non-field positions. The governor also wants to help local agencies hire more police, in part by continuing to expand officer training opportunities around the state. The legislature already put hundreds of millions into the regular biennial budget to expand police training, but at the legislative preview, both Republican and Democratic lawmakers spoke about increasing these efforts. Several noted that Washington has had the lowest per-capita presence of police officers. According to the 2022 crime report from the Washington Association of Police Chiefs and Sheriffs (the latest available), the state is last among the states and the District of Columbia with 10,666 officers – or 1.29 full-time commissioned officers per 1,000 people. This made 2022 the 13th year in a row Washington placed last for law enforcement staffing.

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Transportation Although Republicans aren’t big fans of Washington’s new carbon pricing system, they do have a lot of ideas about how to spend the money the Carbon Commitment Act has brought into the state. Senator Curtis King (R-Yakima), the ranking Republican on the Senate Transportation Committee, is concerned about Washington’s troubled ferry system, which is short on both operational ferries and people to run them. He said lawmakers should consider using some of the money set aside for climate-change mitigation for the ferry system. Senator Marko Liias (D-Edmonds), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, is also concerned about the ferry system and wants lawmakers to pay more attention to traffic safety this year. Liias and his Democratic and Republican transportation committee colleagues said creative solutions are needed to address this issue, possibly including more highway and road cameras and better enforcement by a larger state patrol. The governor’s supplemental budget includes a pilot study of automated enforcement on state highways. Initiatives and lawsuits A GOP-backed group called Let’s Go Washington has proposed six initiatives to the legislature aimed at turning back much of the work Democrats have made. An initiative to the legislature has three potential paths: Lawmakers can consider the proposal, pass or reject it and send it on to voters; ignore the proposal and let it go directly to the ballot; or propose an alternative initiative to face off against the citizen initiative on the November ballot. The proposed initiatives: • I-2117 to repeal the Climate Commitment Act, which established Washington’s cap-and-invest carbon pricing system. • I-2109 to roll back the tax on capital gains. • I-2111 to ban state and local governments from imposing taxes on income. • I-2113 to loosen some restrictions on when law enforcement officers can engage in vehicle pursuits. • I-2081 to let parents of public school children review student records, including disciplinary and health information, and curricula, and to allow parents to opt children out of sex education. • I-2124 to allow residents to opt out of the WA Cares Act. A few lawmakers have asked: Will the state lose the cash infusion it has enjoyed this year if voters approve the proposals to repeal the capital gains tax and the carbon pricing system? “I hope that we can stay within the budget and be very mindful also of the initiatives that are being brought forward,” said Lynda Wilson (R-Vancouver). “Some of these initiatives affect revenue and we need to consider what that might do to the budget going forward.” Visit crosscut.com/donate to support nonprofit, freely distributed, local journalism.

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The Northern Light • January 18 - 24, 2024

Coming up

Sheriff’s Reports January 10, 3:16 a.m.: Suspicious person on Harborview Road. January 11, 6:53 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Alderson Road. January 11, 10:22 a.m.: Hit and run on 4th Street. January 11, 2:52 p.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Quinault Road. January 11, 3:02 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Loft Lane. January 11, 4:44 p.m.: Fraud on Elaine Street.

investigation on Jess Road.

Sunrise Road.

January 13, 11:45 a.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Coastal Loop.

January 14, 6:46 p.m.: Assault with a weapon on Halibut Drive.

January 14, 9:19 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Drive and Terrill Drive. January 14, 2:44 p.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road. January 14, 4:22 p.m.: Shots on

January 12, 6:51 a.m.: Mental health cold call on Surf Place. January 12, 10:19 a.m.: Mental health cold call on Bay Road. January 12, 1:11 p.m.: DUI arrest on Grandview Road. January 12, 3:21 p.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Glendale Road. January 13, 10:44 a.m.: Suspicious person on Glendale Road and Anderson Road. January 13, 7:08 p.m.: Death

December 31, 9:36 p.m.: Theft on 9th Street. January 1, 6:01 a.m.: Suicidal subject on 2nd Street. January 2, 2:38 p.m.: Runaway on 9th Street. January 3, 10:43 a.m.: Rape on F Street. January 3, 7:15 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Peace Portal Drive. January 5, 10:35 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute on 15th Street. January 5, 3:43 p.m.: Animal problem on Pintail Loop. January 6, 2:08 p.m.: Theft on C Street. January 6, 4:35 p.m.: Theft on

Crossword ACROSS 1. Microgram 4. Where golfers begin 7. Each 8. Warm weather metropolis 10. Coat with sticky substance 12. Girl’s given name 13. Myth (Spanish) 14. Ultrahigh frequency 16. Former NBAer Jeremy 17. Where rockers work 19. Your consciousness of your own identity 20. Soft-finned fishes 21. Localities 25. Paddle 26. Union 27. Member of religious community 29. Small shrill flute 30. Small constellation in the Milky Way

January 15, 4:39 p.m.: Suicidal subject on East Street.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, January 18, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

January 16, 3:35 p.m.: Littering cold call on Blaine Road and Loomis Trail Road.

Movie Night: Friday, January 19, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family friendly movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, January 19, 7 p.m, The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Marie, The Band. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Police Reports

January 11, 5:21 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident on Markworth Road. January 11, 9:58 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident on Sunset Drive and Leeside Drive.

January 15, 11:13 a.m.: Hit and run on Valley View Road and Loomis Trail Road.

The Roots Family Enrichment Program: Mondays, January 22–February 29, 6–8 p.m. Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. For families facing challenging life circumstances and parents wanting to develop family-building skills. Parents are welcomed into a judgment-free community to learn how to help children manage their own behavior, stress responses and skills for self-regulation and developing communication skills. Children learn to develop life skills to understand, talk about and cope in positive ways. Elementary and middle school groups, nursery for kids four and under. Free. Register at reboundfamilies.org.

31. They __ 32. College kid on vacation 39. de Armas and Gasteyer are two 41. Part of the human body 42. A progressive grading 43. Sound unit 44. Noise some birds make 45. Abba __, Israeli politician 46. Portuguese city 48. Be extremely, uncritically fond of 49. Resembling old Norse poems 50. Ask for out of extreme need 51. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.) 52. Midway between south and southeast DOWN 1. An insane person 2. __ Boothe Luce, American author 3. Buttock muscles 4. Men’s fashion accessory

5. “Hotel California” rockers 6. Electronic communication 8. Magnetomotive force (abbr.) 9. Hostelries 11. A way to resound 14. Exclamation: yuck! 15. A resident of Indiana 18. Exclamation of surprise 19. Make a mistake 20. Boundary 22. Antilles island 23. It’s used to make furniture 24. Clod 27. They indicate where places are 28. Bobby __, NHL champ 29. Prints money 31. Honorable title (Turkish) 32. Appetizers 33. Midway between north and northwest 34. Spanish be

Peace Portal Drive. January 6, 5:56 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident with pedestrian on H Street. January 7, 10:36 a.m.: Domestic – physical on D Street. January 8, 4:28 p.m.: Theft on C Street. January 8, 6:11 p.m.: Theft on C Street. January 10, 10:45 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident with pedestrian on H Street. January 10, 1:09 p.m.: Missing child on Boblett Street. January 12, 1:31 p.m.: Simple assault on H Street.

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Making Your Own Ghee: Wednesday, January 24, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Join us for a live demonstration on how to make this delicious, pure butterfat. Ghee is gluten free and can be used as a spread and is an excellent choice for frying. Info: nwcore.org.

Home Buying Workshop: Saturday, January 27, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn how much you can afford, understanding credit and budgeting for a down payment and other expenses. Free. Space is limited. RSVP 360/752-8253 or email doug.cornelsen@bannerbank.com.

Illuminate Birch Bay: Saturday, January 27, 5 p.m., along the Birch Bay berm. Start at the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express with hot chocolate, cider, choir music and walk through a lighted path along the berm. Make or bring your own lanterns is encouraged. Free. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

January 18-24 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

TIME

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 Levy Renewal Education Event: Wednesday, January 24, 10 a.m., 7523 Kickerville Road. Learn how the levy supports the many programs and events within the community. Coffee and cinnamon rolls to be served. Everyone welcome. Info: bbbprd2_pac@yahoo.com.

Soccer Clinic: Saturday, January 27, 1–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Kids ages 10–14 learn drills and tips to improve your skills with former soccer pro Kyle Long. $25. Registration required at bbbparkandrec.org.

Tides HEIGHT

Let’s Pour: Learn the Art of Acrylic Pouring: Saturday, January 20, 3–5 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. $35 includes all materials. Registration required at bbbparkandrec.org.

Pruning 101: Saturday, January 27, 9–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. This is the perfect time to start pruning. We will discuss tools, why prune, decisions necessary (learning to understand growth habits of trees/bushes). We will also present on overgrown trees and how to get them back in shape. Info: nwcore.org.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

TIME

Intro to Garden Design 101: Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to look at your yard as if you were a landscape designer. This is especially important for placement of fruit bearing trees, bushes and vines and vegetable gardens. Will also discuss your overall yard including hardscape assessments, materials use, integration with your home and/or views, sunlight observations, airflow and other major landscaping decisions. Info: nwcore.org.

Live Music at the Senior Center: Friday, January 26, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Featuring Jaded Lovers plus line dancing and more. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

35. Breezed through 36. Grilled dishes 37. In a way, excites 38. Change mind 39. A French abbot 40. Popular candy 44. Partner to cheese 47. Wood or metal bolt

DATE

Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, January 20, 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 at 11:30 a.m. available for $8. Info: 360/332-8040.

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Blaine Community Theater Auditions: Sunday and Monday, January 28 and 29 at 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School Cafeteria. Auditions for Terry Pratchett’s “Lords and Ladies” for performances in March. Info: blainecommunitytheater.com. Supper with the Superintendent: Tuesday, January 30, 6 p.m., Blaine Elementay School library. Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger discusses the upcoming levy and bond initiatives and and answers your questions. Light meal provided. Info: blainesd.org. Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 Levy Q&A Event: Wednesday, January 31, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. The community is invited to leader about the upcoming levy and have your questions answered. Refreshments. Community Art Workshop: Wednesday, January 31, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Come learn with instructors as they explore abstract art, neuro art and the metaphysical elements that come with it. Create an abstract piece of art utilizing a variety drawing styles, tools, and paint mediums. From beginner to experienced. Young or old. Simply create. Supplies provided. Free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org. Blaine Chamber Breakfast Meeting: Thursday, February 1, 7:30–8:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Network and connect with the local businesses. Breakfast $15. RSVP: blainechamber.com. Life in an Electric Car: Saturday, February 3, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn about buying new or used, what it’s really like to have an electric car as a daily driver, real life info on range, performance, reliability and an analysis of the latest car offerings. Info: nwcore.org. Arts and Jazz Fundraiser: Saturday, February 3, 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School cafeteria. An evening of family fun, art, culinary, music and theater performances, live and silent auctions. Tickets at the door: $10 adults, $5 students, children under five free. All funds raised go towards scholarships and experiences beyond the curriculum for students in the Blaine school district arts departments.

Ongoing

Precipitation: During the period of January 8 to 14, 1.4 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 yearto-date precipitation is 2.42 inches.

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.

Temperature: High for the past week was 50.3°F on January 9 with a low of 6.1°F on January 12. Average high was 36.5°F and low was 21.9°F.

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 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.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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

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

January 18 - 24, 2024 • thenorthernlight.com

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By Meg OlsOn Whatcom County Council has approved changes to county code that will eliminate exemptions to mandatory garbage pickup in Point Roberts. At their June 5 meeting, council heard from an almost evenly split 15 community members on the proposal, which would establish a mandatory minimum service level of a 32-gallon can of garbage to be picked up twice-monthly and billed through the property tax roll. Opponents of the proposal cited a number of reasons for their opposition, primarily that the minimum service level was too high. “This exceeds the needs of 80 percent of those surveyed (in a 2016 online survey sponsored by the county solid waste division) who self-haul or use tags,” FREE Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay September 9 - 15, 2021 Kimberly Butts said. to plan a 4th of July celebration, the first since 1916. On June 20, they had Ken Calder, also opposed to the chang- s Back in 1976, a group of civic-minded people got together HHHECRWSSHHH a reunion at Ruby White’s house. See story, page 16. Standing, from l.: Postal Fred Customer DeHaan, Rosy Negron, PRSRT STDCarla Scherer, Pauli DeHaan, George es, submitted a petition signed by 364 sea- Scherer, Pat Jorgensen, Doreen Peltier. Seated: Norma Peltier, Ruby White, Kris Manning. U. S. Postage Photo by Shelley Damewood PAID sonal and full-time residents asking that IN THIS Permit NO. 87 council delay the decision until September Blaine, WA 98230 to allow a recently formed solid waste subcommittee of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee to continue to look at the issue. Cites client base and “increasing erts hospital district on June 26 that Unity according to Unity Care. Those in favor of the change as well as Care NW would end its contract to proThe number of people being served at community turmoil” county staff pointed out that PRCAC had vide services on the Point as of December the Point Roberts Clinic, as well as the been pondering the garbage collection B y M e g O l s O n 31, 2018, but would provide services on a number of visits, have been declining, acfor over two years, held numerous public a n d P a t g r u B B month-to-month basis if needed until June cording to the resolution. The number of meetings, sponsored an online survey and 30, 2019 and help with a possible transi- visits per year shrank from 1176 to 1033 sent out a mailer. Unity Care NW is done with the Point tion to an alternative service provider. between 2015 and 2017, which is de“There have been numerous opportuni- Roberts clinic. According to the June 25 resolution, the (See Hospital, page 8) ties for people to put in their two cents’ Citing declining use, a disproportionate Point Roberts Clinic does not fit with

ISSUE

Former BHS student wins big with tuba, page 5

Borderite sports are back, page 7

Blaine featured in new novel, page 10

Unity Care NW decides against renewing clinic contract Discover Birch Bay Days brings community fun Free financial literacy class offered in Blaine By Grace Mccarthy

worth,” Arthur Reber said. “This process If you struggle to balance has a healthy bud-thorough and collaborative,” been very get, local nonprofits are heresaid to help. taxpayers’ association president Mark Financial literacy nonprofit Whatcom Robbins. Chamber of commerce president Dream will offer six moneyDee management Gough said her association also supclasses from Tuesday, September ported28 theuntil proposal, agreeing that mandaTuesday, November 2 at thetory newtrash Commupickup was the obvious solution nity Assistance Program (CAP) to thebuilding, perennial problem of dumping gar508 G Street. Classes will bage be held 6:30on the roadsides. 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Jeff Hegedus with the Whatcom County Whatcom Dream is a nonprofit that Health Department said by establishing a started in Bellingham in 1999 to educate mandatory minimum service level for all residents struggling with developed finances. The properties, as determined by nonprofit’s founders realized the reason which properties have a water connection, why their working low-income neighbors it would lead to vendor stability because remained in poverty was because they more users would support the system. didn’t know how to manage money properly, said Kevin Stray, a Whatcom Dream (See Garbage, page 7) volunteer who will teach the Blaine classes

administrative burden and “community turmoil,” the board of directors of the non-profit health care provider voted at its June 25 meeting to discontinue the contract to operate the Point Roberts Clinic. Notice was delivered to the Point Rob-

the other clinics Unity Care NW operates in Ferndale and Bellingham, which it described as “patient centered medical homes.” Close to half of the visits to the Point Roberts clinic are for urgent care, and not for primary medical care,

Arts and music fest makes a comeback By Meg OlsOn “The Point Roberts Arts and Music Festival is back on the water,” says Arts Foundation founder and festival organizer Craig Jacks. After being put on the shelf for a year, the festival will be back for its 23rd year,

running three weekends in August. Kiniski’s Reef Tavern is partnering with the foundation, offering a location, planning assistance and funds for this year’s event. “We decided to make it longer so more people can enjoy it,” said tavern manager Allison Calder. The first weekend (See Arts & Music, page 14)

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Classifieds ........................................ 20 Coming Up ...................................... 19 Garden ............................................. 15 Library ............................................ 18 Obituaries ........................................ 22 Opinion .............................................. 4 Seniors ............................................ 18 Tides ................................................ 10

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this fall. “We think finances are an important slice of everyone’s life and if we can handle [money] well, we can make everyone’s lives better,” he said. AFTER PARADE FAMILY ACTIVITIES: The classes will teach budgeting, han- BEGIN THE DAY AT THE H Breakwaters Bar & Grill Community Center 1437 Gulf Rd. dling new and old debt, credit scores and STARTSofAT 12 fun NOON along 3-5. The Birch BayatChamber s Birch Bay’s seaside offered another weekend family September of Commerce history, achieving and maintainingPancake finan- Breakfast Point Roberts Marina.hosted the POINT ROBERTS MARINA 7:15-11:15 am festival PREP benefit GulfPark Rd. and fromRecreation Marine Dr. to Tyee Dr. Friends of Birch AT 10:30 PM help fromPRBlaine-Birch Bay District 2 and Library.Reef Attendees cial stability, retirement planningFlag andRaising the fun-filled Ceremonyevent, 11:30with am featuring Winds HBay Kiniski’s Tavernenjoyed activities such as a pancake breakfast, outdoor kid games and rubber duck derby. More photos on page 16. psychology behind money. Photo by Chuck Kinzer/CKimageart.com Stray, who has a business degree from St. Martin’s University, said he sees people struggle the most with debt, long-term planning and responsible spending. Financial classes are geared toward people earning low incomes, but Stray said all are welcome. Classes will be offered to about 20 people, but there’s not a set limit. Scheduling foot warehouse in September 2020 that al- cused on what he can control. in advance is recommended, but attendees B y G r a c e M c c a r t h y lowed it to store over 20,000 boxes awaitTodd Robinson, Security Mail Services can also show up to the classes. Over a year-and-a-half after the U.S./ ing cross-border customers. manager, echoed Baron’s sentiments. The “We hope a lot of people will be inter“We used up all of the creativity we had last year-and-a-half has been hard but with ested, come out, learn more about money Canada border closure and Blaine mailbox and how to deal with it,” Stray said. “We’re stores wait patiently for the return of loyal to maximize the space we had, which is boxes stacked high around him, he said always excited to put on another class in Canadian customers, all while they’ve set- what prompted renting the warehouse,” he’s in a much better place than he would tled into an adapted business routine. Baron said. have predicted. Blaine.” Mail Boxes International owner Brant Baron and other mailbox operators are “When [the border] first closed down, I The program will offer free financial mentoring to people who finish the course. Baron said his parcel store has changed its mostly catering to Canadian companies would have never anticipated being closed No childcare is available during the eve- business strategy to stay busy during the that need products from the U.S. forward- this long. I thought three months, maybe, ed. Although business has been better, he tops,” Robinson said. “I’m pleased with ning classes, so people will need to plan border closure. To deal with parcels yet to be picked up, emphasized his situation is not detrimen(See Financial classes, page 4) (See Box stores, page 2) the H Street business rented a 4,800-square- tal and he has leaned into his faith and fo-

Point Roberts July 4 Happy Birthday USA PARADE

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Blaine mailbox stores use creativity as they wait for the U.S. to open Canada border

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Single-use plastic bags ban starts October 1 By eMily Feek Sales of single-use plastic bags will be banned in Washington state beginning on October 1 after governor Jay Inslee rescinded the proclamation delaying the original January 1, 2021 start date. The ban prohibits the sale of single-use plastic bags for grocery stores, restaurants, small vendors and retail businesses, according to a department of ecology (DOE) press release. Instead of using these bags, businesses can either sell customers bags

that are compliant with the ban or customers can bring reusable bags. Stores can sell paper bags or more durable plastic bags for eight cents. The eight-cent charge, mandated by law, is not a tax, but is kept by the merchant both to encourage customers to bring their own bags and to account for the increased cost of compliant bags. While the ban goes into effect on October 1, businesses can implement changes sooner, said Dave Bennett, DOE solid waste management program spokesperson.

“Nothing is preventing a business from charging a fee and using compliant bags right now,” Bennett said. “We encourage those businesses to do that and start making those changes now.” The bag ban is intended to cut down on pollution caused by plastic bags, which are difficult to recycle and can clog recycling sorting machines, according to the DOE. In addition to the ban, Inslee signed a new state law regarding plastics use and (See Plastic bags, page 4)

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