The Northern Light: February 22-28, 2024

February 22 - 28, 2024

THIS ISSUE

Open house on downtown revitalization set, page 3

Presidential primary ballots to be mailed across Whatcom County

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Ballots for the upcoming presidential primary were scheduled to be mailed to all 160,021 registered Whatcom County voters starting February 21, with an election day deadline set Tuesday, March 12.

Voters will be asked to choose who they want in the race for the nation’s presidency, in what is appearing likely to be a rematch of the 2020 election with incumbent Joe Biden to face former President Donald Trump in the November general election.

Presidential primary elections in Washington state require voters to declare an affiliation with either the Democratic or Republican party in order for their primary vote to count. Voters do not have an option to identify as unaffiliated or independent, and their party choice will not affect how they can vote in future elections.

Minnesota congressman Dean Phillips will appear alongside Biden on the Democratic ballot, while former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley joins Trump as the only two actively campaigning Republican candidates on the ballot.

A number of candidates who announced the suspension of their campaigns after Washington state submission deadlines will also be on the primary ballots.

Democrat candidate Marianne Williamson, and Republicans Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy will appear on the primary ballot, despite all dropping out of the race in recent weeks.

Ballots can be returned as soon as they are received, and will be accepted by mail or in official ballot drop boxes by 8 p.m. March 12. Stamps are not needed to mail a ballot, but must be postmarked by March 12.

Blaine’s ballot box is located at the Blaine Public Library parking lot at 610

(See Primary, page 9)

Three Blaine wrestlers medal at state, page 6

February special election precinct results, page 8

Bella Boutique and Consignment opens

The recent opening of a new boutique and consignment store means clothing retail is back in downtown Blaine.

Bella Boutique and Consignment held a ribbon-cutting ceremony during the February 18 grand opening of its Peace Portal Drive location. The store sells clothing for juniors and adult men and women, accessories and small home decor.

Owner Martha Bermudez opened the first Bella Boutique and Consignment in Ferndale in 2021. Bermudez said she

thought Blaine was a cute town and liked that the building was on the city’s main street, making it a nice location to open a second store.

“I hope that it can thrive and we can be here for a really long time,” she said. “I hope that we can offer good-quality clothes at affordable prices to everybody locally, and for us to be established as part of the business community.”

The store is about 90 percent consignment and has a small boutique section. The second-hand clothing prices average about $10-15 per piece, with brand

Catholic Community Services Recovery Centers opens in Birch Bay Square

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A center providing outpatient treatment and other support for people experiencing substance use disorders is set to open in Birch Bay Square in early March.

Catholic Community Services Recovery Centers (CCSRC) will hold an open house of its facility from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 1 before opening for patients Monday, March 4. The center is located

at 8115 Birch Bay Square Street, building 1, suite 138, across from the Windermere Real Estate office.

“We have, for a long time, wanted to be more central to north county so that people needing treatment services had a closer place to get treatment,” said Donna Wells, director of CCSRC Northwest.

The Birch Bay Square center will be the fifth location for CCSRC, which already has centers in Bellingham, Burlington,

Marysville and Everett.

At its Birch Bay location, CCSRC will offer assessments available first-come, first-serve to walk-in patients from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Upon assessment, center staff will determine whether someone needs treatment and, if so, to what level. The center offers outpatient care one to two times per

name items costing more.

Downtown Blaine was left without a clothing store when Mulder’s Fundraiser Charity Boutique closed last February.

Bella Boutique and Consignment is currently accepting light winter and spring clothing, and will accept summer clothes in late March. The store takes any brand, as long as the clothing is in good condition and recently washed.

The store is not taking children’s clothing right now, but Bermudez said she may

(See Boutique, page 2)

s From l; Blaine Chamber of Commerce executive director Jacquee Sovereign, mayor Mary Lou Steward and store owner Martha Bermudez celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Bella Boutique and Consignment at 625 Peace Portal Drive, next to G Street Plaza, on February 18. The business sells clothing for juniors, men and women, as well as accessories and small home decor.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Treatment ...

From page 1 week, and intensive outpatient care three days per week.

Treatment groups provide education about substance use disorders and behavioral health, Wells said. After outpatient care, the center connects patients with community support, such as 12-step programs.

“Traditionally, the longer a person is engaged, the better their outcomes,” Wells said. “Substance use disorders are not an acute disorder. It’s more of a

Boutique ...

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add a children’s section later.

Clothing can be dropped off during store hours, though Bermudez said she prefers that donations are brought during weekdays, when the store is not

IRA

chronic disorder.”

If center staff determine inpatient care is needed, they would arrange for an inpatient bed and help in the interim. People who aren’t assessed as needing treatment may be referred to alcohol drug information school, an eight-hour class offered at CCSRC’s Bellingham location, among other locations.

CCSRC had plans for several years to open a Birch Bay location that were delayed because of the pandemic, Wells said.

The center takes Medicaid and most insurance, with 85 to 90 percent of its patients on Medic-

as busy. People donating items will be given the option to take back what the store doesn’t accept, or allow Bermudez to donate that clothing to local organizations. Clothing not sold after 90 days will be donated to local organizations or collected by consigners. “Thank you for the support,”

Our IRA CD 12-month term is now 5.05% APY (annual percentage yield), available in both Traditional and Roth IRAs with a $500 minimum deposit. A penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal. The penalty is waived at age 59 ½, you are disabled, or in the event of your death. Fees could reduce earnings.

aid. Across all of its clinics, Wells estimates CCSRC serves 4,000 to 5,000 people annually.

Despite CCSRC being a faithbased organization, Wells said anyone, regardless of faith, can receive services.

The Birch Bay center will focus only on treating adults as it opens, but provides a youth group through telehealth. The center has the ability to expand in order to serve more people, Wells said.

“We really try to tailor what we’re doing to community need,” Wells said. “If there’s a need, we try to respond to that need.”

Bermudez said. “I hope that we can be here for a very long time.”

Bella Boutique and Consignment is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The store is located at 625 Peace Portal Drive, next to G Street Plaza. The business can be reached at 360/526-9850.

s Donna Wells, director of Catholic Community Services Recovery Centers (CCSRC) Northwest, stands at the front desk of the new Birch Bay Square location. The center will offer assessments and outpatient treatment for people experiencing substance use disorders. CCSRC has scheduled an open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 1 before the center opens Monday, March 4. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Bella Boutique and Consignment opened February 18 at 625 Peace Portal Drive in downtown Blaine.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Blaine downtown revitalization project open house scheduled

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The city of Blaine and Cascade Engineering Group will hold an open house on the Blaine downtown revitalization concept designs 4-5:45 p.m. Monday, February 26 in council chambers, 435 Martin Street, suite 4000.

The open house will take place before the 6 p.m. Blaine City Council meeting. The open

house will allow the public to give comments and suggestions to current designs for the downtown revitalization project. City staff and council originally envisioned a more expansive downtown revitalization a few years ago, but slimmed the project as the city faced economic challenges. As designed now, the project would focus on necessary upgrades, such as sidewalk

replacements to help ADA accessibility and potential utility improvements. Martin Street parklet upgrades, new downtown signage and the removal of trees buckling the sidewalk are also planned in the scaled-down project.

Cascade Engineering Group is a Bellingham-based company hired by the city to conduct engineering and design work for the revitalization project.

Design moves forward for future Martin Street parklet in downtown Blaine

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Blaine City Council has given the greenlight to the planning department to move forward on design plans for the Martin Street parklet, which would close vehicle access between the Railway Café and Chada Thai.

Blaine council approved work to continue on the Martin Street parklet, part of the city’s downtown revitalization project that Cascade Engineering Group is designing, in a 6-0 vote with councilmember Eric Davidson absent during its February 12 meeting.

“Public property has been used for that private access,” city manager Mike Harmon told councilmembers during the meeting. “We’re at the point where we have a concept drawing and we’re asking council, ‘Do you want to put a park there and limit access to those two businesses?’”

The city owns property between Railway Café and Chada Thai that is used unofficially for vehicle traffic to the private businesses and has a small grassy area with two picnic tables. Under drawings for the Martin Street parklet, the

roadway between the businesses would be turned into a small park with a timber stacks play area, lawn, pavement area, seating and picnic tables. The park would close vehicle access south of Railway Café and north of Chada Thai.

Railway Café does not own the gravel lot next to its restaurant and would need to receive parking access from the property owner, Harmon said. Parking is available in front of the business on Peace Portal Drive.

The city is also considering changing parking near the Martin Street parklet from parallel to back-in angle, which would allow for more spaces. Harmon said the Washington state Department of Transportation prefers that the first movement from a vehicle is forward.

“Imagine heading south on Peace Portal Drive, moving past this space and backing into it, doing your shopping or your eating, and then your first movement is forward, out into the traffic,” Harmon said. “That’s what makes it safe.”

In order to create back-in angle parking, the city would need to work with the Washington state

Department of Transportation to move a bike trail that runs near the area from the western to eastern side of Peace Portal Drive. Public works director Harpiar Gandhi said after the council meeting that city staff is looking at design feasibility of moving the bike trail and, once that is finished, could say how much of the bike trail would be impacted.

The city has about $170,000 set aside for the Martin Street parklet. City staff hope to solicit bids within the next couple of months, with construction ending spring 2025.

The city’s parks board recommended the current design, and city staff supports that recommendation, Harmon told councilmembers.

“We wanted to come back and show you the reality of closing the public space to those two private businesses,” Harmon said.

The Martin Street parklet and other projects within the downtown revitalization project will be presented during an open house on the downtown revitalization project at 4-5:45 p.m. Monday, February 26 in council chambers, 435 Martin Street, suite 4000.

s A proposed design for the Martin Street parklet included in the Blaine downtown revitalization project. The park would close vehicle access between the Railway Cafe and Chada Thai.

Image courtesy city of Blaine

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

Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

The day was packed with state lawmakers discussing key issues in this year’s short legislative session, followed by presentations from state government officials. Presentations included: House speaker Laurie Jink-

ins, Senate Republican leader John Braun, secretary of state Steve Hobbs, lieutenant governor Denny Heck, Washington State Patrol chief John Batiste and Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction staff.

The day ended with a reception hosted by Washington’s Supreme Court chief justice Steven González and another re -

The event was organized with the help of Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Allied Daily Newspapers of Washington and Washington State Association of Broadcasters.

The Editor: Thank you for your participation in the electoral process during the February special election.The latest voting results show voters are approving Blaine school district’s replacement EP&O levy with a 58 percent “yes” vote. We are humbled and very grateful for our community’s local commitment to education and for helping us to ensure educational excellence for all learners.

The four-year educational programs and operations (EP&O) levy will continue to fund programs, services, and staff that are unfunded or underfunded by the state, including staff compensation, expanded curriculum, extracurricular activities, transportation, food service, utilities, technology updates and more.

Although our capital bond measure will not meet the “supermajority” needed to pass, we appreciate the support shown by a majority of local voters, with a 54.8 percent approval vote. We will begin work to reevaluate the bond proposal in hopes of increasing voter support and reaching supermajority in the near future. If you are interested in being

involved in this or any of our other projects, please email me at cgranger@blainesd.org.

Our school district will continue to be excellent stewards of our community’s funds now and in the future. On behalf of all of us at Blaine school district, we thank you for your trust in our school system.

It is a pleasure to serve as your superintendent, and there is a lot to be happy and proud about in the Blaine school district. We have a tremendous staff who care deeply for the students and families of our community. We will continue to work hard every day to provide the best for everyone. I hope you will join me in appreciation of our students, staff, families and community.

Thank you Blaine, Point Roberts and Birch Bay for your continued support in making our community a great place to live, go to school and work. It is a great night to be a Borderite, and, as always, a great night to be your superintendent.

Christopher Granger Superintendent, Blaine school district Blaine

CiviC Meetings

The Editor:

The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) is overwhelmed with gratitude as we extend a heartfelt thank you to all the incredible individuals who have supported us throughout this campaign. Your unwavering dedication and support have made a significant impact on our community, and we are truly grateful.

From writing Letters to the Editor, to running committees, doing presentations and even waving signs, your actions have not gone unnoticed. Each and every effort has contributed to making BBBPRD2 a stronger and more vibrant community.

It is because of your unwavering support that our levy has been approved, secur-

(See Letters, next page)

The Northern Light attended media day at the Washington state Capitol campus in Olympia February 15.

ception hosted by governor Jay Inslee and first spouse Trudi Inslee at the governor’s mansion.

s Lieutenant governor Denny Heck presents to journalists at the John A. Cherberg building in Olympia during the media day on February 15. Photos by Grace McCarthy

s Journalists from print and broadcast media publications across Washington state gather for a reception at the governor’s mansion.

s The Washington state Capitol building. This year’s short legislative session for lawmakers is scheduled to end March 7.

Granger stays in Blaine after interviewing for Ellensburg superintendent position

Blaine school district superintendent Christopher Granger was not selected as superintendent at Ellensburg school district after he was named one of three finalists for the position. Ellensburg hired its interim superintendent, Troy Tornow, for the vacant position.

Granger visited the school district on February 12 for in-person interviews.

The Blaine superintendent told The Northern Light that while he’s happy to be working in the

Blaine community, the position in central Washington would be a good opportunity for his family.

“Those opportunities are presented at times and I felt like it was one that was worth pursuing,” Granger said. “I’m happy to be here, but it was an opportunity that had some interest from my family and I, so we decided to pursue that.”

Granger was hired as superintendent of the Blaine school district in the summer of 2019, after a stint as assistant superintendent at Bisbee Unified School District in Bisbee, Arizona. Granger has

received three contract extensions from the school board since 2020, and his contract goes through the 2025-26 school year. According to Washington state fiscal records, Granger earned a $246,000 salary in 2022-23.

The Ellensburg school district boasts a higher enrollment count at 3,366 students compared to 2,070 enrolled in Blaine, according to the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Public records stated that Ellensburg’s former superintendent Jinger Haberer earned a

$170,965 base salary in 2022-23.

Granger said he has not applied for any other superintendent positions other than the job in Ellensburg.

Whatcom Farm Expo set for Saturday, March 2

Whatcom Farm Expo is returning to the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds in Lynden for its eighth year of exhibitions, workshops, seminars and more, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2.

Whatcom Conservation District and Whatcom County Public Works Department are holding the free event, tailored to people of all ages and skill sets. The event will have workshops

on goat hoof care, basic tractor maintenance and caring for fruit trees. Over 40 exhibitors, including beekeepers, horticulturalists and community organizations, will be set up. Seminars will in-

Birch Bay house fire sends person to hospital for smoke inhalation

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A Birch Bay house fire sent one person to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham to be treated for minor smoke inhalation after a fire started in a bedroom.

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) received a call at 5:12 p.m. Thursday, February 15 regarding a residential fire in

the 7300 block of Clamdigger Drive in Birch Bay. Two NWFR engines arrived on scene at 5:20 p.m., NWFR acting battalion chief Jon Ahrenholz said.

Firefighters discovered a fire that started in the back bedroom. While the fire was contained to the bedroom, the bedroom door was open, causing smoke damage throughout the house and in the attic, Ahren -

holz said.

“The house was unlivable when all said and done,” he said.

A man who was able to get out of the house during the fire was transported to the hospital for minor smoke inhalation. The fire was put out in about half an hour, Ahrenholz said.

The Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office was assigned to investigate the cause of the fire.

clude raising chickens, beekeeping, the basics of raising animals, tractor maintenance and organic certification. For the event schedule, visit whatcomcd.org/whatcom-farm-expo

ing our funding for the next six years. With this approval, we can continue to provide activities and programs that benefit everyone in our community. We are grateful for the trust and confidence placed in us, and we are committed to using this funding responsibly and effectively.

Together, we will continue to make a positive difference in our community and create a better future for all.

Heather Lindsay Director, Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District

2

Birch Bay

The Editor:

Thank you for your informative article on the “Silencing of Blaine.” It is quite sad that the relationship between city council and the community has so deteriorated. Our mayor has chosen to react by anesthetizing opposition. Perhaps anyone who would make such a choice should instead consider the Harry Truman quote, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” How can a mayor and council that choose to react versus seeking to respond truly help Blaine?

I have witnessed that wrong, in inappropriate, and disruptive behavior that to me was appalling. This decision to mute all, however, is another wrong, and two of those don’t make a right. With each outburst there was law enforcement on hand, and they could have been asked to act. That was not requested. Now all must suffer for the actions of a few. It was also a wrong that public comments on February 12 were agenda scheduled after voting occurred.

As much as the council has a right to orderly meetings, the public has a right to orally comment. Could Blaine have the only city council in the nation not permitting and recognizing such public forum? Allowing only written submissions isn’t full freedom of speech. Are we also to really believe that all written submissions are read? Won’t those now angry become angrier by such an abrogative maneuver? Will others once quiet now become new voices of dissent?

After the first mass shooting in Canada, the first response of the government wasn’t to seek to punish. It was to question, asking, ‘What have we done as a society for this to have happened?’ Could our mayor, instead of choosing to punish, also have first asked her

council to (overtly) consider why this disorder is happening? What if such found that some of all of the cause is with council and the outbursts more an effect? Could our council even ask those questions of itself? Then if so, would they listen if the answers weren’t what they wanted?

Ray Leone Blaine

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Three Blaine wrestlers finish

Boys Wrestling

The Blaine boys wrestling program didn’t come away with the state championship it wanted, but still saw fantastic efforts from the eight boys it sent to the Mat Classic XXXV on February 16 and 17 at the Tacoma Dome.

The Borderites finished with a team score of 42.0, placing 11th in a stacked 1A field, right behind 10th place Northwest Conference rival Mount Baker.

Senior Victor Gervol earned third place in his final day of high school wrestling, capping off a stellar career with his third consecutive podium finish at the state tournament.

Gervol, who was battling an injured AC joint in his left shoulder throughout the postseason according to head coach Tom Hinz, won his first match by a 4-1 decision, lost his quarterfinal match, then won his final two to earn a third place podium finish. Gervol began wrestling his sophomore year, and earned a topthree state finish in his 285-pound, 1A division all three years.

The end of his senior year postseason was bittersweet for Gervol, who entered the state tournament with a 36-1 record and district and regional championships under his belt. But Hinz knows this is just the beginning for Gervol’s career, as the young wrestler is now slated to play collegiately at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C.

“This isn’t the end of the story,” Hinz said. “This is just where he placed his senior year. He battled and he’s happy where he got … third place is something to be

super proud of.”

Fellow senior Cal Fitzgerald also made it to the second day of wrestling, finishing 4th in the 144-pound weight class. Fitzgerald won his first four matches of the Mat Classic before finally falling to third place finisher Jessie Garcia of Omak. Blaine heavyweight junior Otto Shelton also had a great postseason cut short, running into eventual state champion Anthony Nava of Toppenish in his second round, unable to make day two of the tournament.

The Borderites cut its teeth with a tough regular season schedule, going up against higher-classification 2A teams all season long, and tough 1A opponents like Mount Baker and state 12th-place finishers Cascade Christian multiple times throughout the year. Hinz said that constant, high level of competition, combined with sending so many wrestlers to the high-pressure environment of the Mat Classic this postseason puts

ATHLETES of the MONTH

Lucyanna Dahl Senior • Girls Wrestling

Lucy was the team captain this year and has been a leader for the Girls Wrestling Team all season. This weekend she placed at state for the second time in the last two years.

Victor Gervol Senior • Boys Wrestling

Victor placed 3rd this past weekend at the Mat Classic. He previously beat the 1A, 3A, and 4A state champions at various meets this season. Victor also was a threetime regional and sub-regional champion winning both of those events this year as well.

SPONSORED BY:

his team in a great position to get even better.

“For our younger guys, it’s really hard to go down there no matter if you’ve seen it before or not – to actually wrestle under the pressure of it all,” Hinz said of the Tacoma Dome environment. “The fact that we have five guys returning that are state participants I think is huge.”

The eleven seniors departing will certainly be hard to replace, but Hinz said the team culture is where it needs to be to continue at this high standard.

“I think we have a really good team that’s returning,” Hinz said. “I’m definitely going to miss the senior class, but what we’re refilling with is a bunch of really good kids and a really good atmosphere and family feel in the locker room.”

Girls Wrestling

The Blaine girls wrestling squad sent three wrestlers, Lucy Dahl, Makenna Lausier and Claire Hume, to the Mat Classic XXXV at the Tacoma Dome on February 16, with the senior captain Dahl leading the charge with a stellar fifth-place finish in the 145-pound, 1B/2B/1A/2A division.

Dahl was given an extremely tough road through her tournament bracket, facing eventual state champion Makayla Torres of Toppenish in just her second round. Torres, who was originally classified in the 155-pound division but dropped down, and Dahl should have been the first place match, according to Blaine head coach Damon Higgins, but massive tournaments like the Mat Classic often don’t work out that way.

“[Torres] is a formidable opponent, and the two of them clashed,” Higgins said of the semifinal bout. “It was like two rams when they rear up and slam their heads together. When they collided, that image is stuck in my mind, just two giant titans slamming together.”

Facing the toughest opponent in the 145-pound bracket, Dahl made a critical mistake and allowed Torres to counter a half chokehold, losing control and getting pinned by the eventual state champion in under a minute.

Dahl lost her next match, then recovered – “back to the old Lucy,” as Higgins put it – to win her final, fifthplace match via pin, earning Blaine’s

s Senior Cal Fitzgerald attempts to elude a pin during the state championships at the Tacoma Dome on February 16. Fitzgerald placed 4th in his division.

Photo by Kristina Root

Scenes from the Mat Classic XXXV state wrestling tournament spOrts

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only 15.0 team points. Hume did not compete due to her alternate status, and Lausier lost twice on the first day of the tournament.

Higgins said that while the pressure of a massive state tournament under the bright lights of the Tacoma Dome can always be a

psychological challenge for young athletes to overcome, it’s also a massive learning opportunity.

“The pressure of the Mat Classic for a brand new wrestler that has never been there before is daunting,” Higgins said. “Every sense that you have is on fire. From the noise to the visual sights to the feel of it, if you are not prepared for state and your coach hasn’t done something to prepare you for state, it’s a huge task.”

Higgins went on to say that while the bright lights can be a distraction for some, that wasn’t the problem for team captain Dahl. She simply ran into the toughest girl in the entire bracket.

“I don’t want to take a single thing away from [second place finisher Kaylie Baker of South Whidbey] because she got there,” Higgins said. “We saw the true finals early.”

s Senior Blake Goltz attempts to pin his opponent as the referee signals the scoring bench during the Mat Classic XXXV at the Tacoma Dome February 16.

Photo by Kristina Root

s Senior Lucy Dahl attempts to pin an opponent during the Mat Classic XXXV on February 16. Dahl placed fifth in her weight class, one of three Borderites to medal.

Photo by Genesis Vasquez

s Senior Victor Gervol wrangles sixth-place finisher Aaron Smiley of Castle Rock during the first day of the Mat Classic XXXV February 16.

Photo by Mylissa Bode

s Senior Lucy Dahl walks past the mat in between matches during the Mat Classic XXXV on February 16. Photo by Genesis Vasquez

Precinct boundaries for the Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer area. Map courtesy of Whatcom County

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2028. The bond would have collected a flat, $0.76 per $1,000 rate through 2046.

In total, 58.2 percent of Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts voters (3,322 votes) approved the levy, which will raise no more than $7.5 million for the district in 2025.

The school district bond had

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3rd Street, Birch Bay’s dropoff is at the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue parking lot at 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road, and Custer’s drop-off is located at Custer Elementary School, 7660 Custer School Road.

People may register to vote until 8 p.m. Election Day. Whatcom County residents who would like to register to vote or update their voter registration may do so online, at votewa.gov, by Monday, March

4. Starting Tuesday, March 5, people must visit the auditor’s office to register to vote or update their information.

Voters should receive a ballot by Tuesday, February 27 at the latest, according to the auditor’s office. Registered voters who don’t receive a ballot should contact the auditor’s office.

The auditor’s office will hold the following public meetings at its election center in the auditor’s office. The meetings are subject to change, and updated information will be available at whatcomcounty.us/auditor and by calling the office.

• Logic and accuracy test of ballot counting equipment at 11 a.m. Monday, February 26

• A hand count of six randomly selected ballot batches at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 14

• A risk-limiting audit at 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 20

• A canvassing board meeting/ review challenged ballots at 10

to clear a higher, 60 percent supermajority hurdle, and will miss that mark with 54.8 percent (3,175 votes) voting to approve the funding measure. In all but three of the 18 local precincts, a majority of voters approved the school district’s levy and bond, but it still wasn’t enough for the bond to reach the state-mandated supermajority. A majority of voters in precincts 108, 112 and 122 rejected both of the district’s funding requests.

BBBPRD2 garnered enough support for a new round of funding, with nearly 69 percent of voters (3,560 votes) approving the $0.10 per $1,000 property tax levy. A majority of voters in all 17 precincts approved the levy.

The auditor’s office’s next vote count is set for 5 p.m. Thursday, February 22 and the results will be certified Friday, February 23. Nearly 38 percent of Whatcom County voters turned out for the February 13 special election.

s The ballot drop box at Blaine Public Library, 610

a.m. Thursday, March 21

• A canvassing board meeting/ certification of election at 10 a.m. Friday, March 22

The Whatcom County Au-

ditor’s Office can be contacted at 360/778-5102, elections@ co.whatcom.wa.us or by visiting the auditor’s office at 311 Grand Avenue, suite 103, in Bellingham.

s

3rd Street.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Maintaining a lawn routinely roamed by pets

Vibrant, green lawns can draw attention to any landscape. Many homeowners toil for hours each week to ensure their lawns are pristine, or invest in lawn care services to help maintain a yard if they do not have the time to do so themselves.

While many treatments can be applied to lawns to help them thrive, animal waste is not among them. Pet owners who aspire to have beautiful lawns will have to take a few extra steps to ensure lawns can persevere despite the presence of furry companions.

Reseed with a damage-resistant grass

There are many different types of grass, and some are more resilient than others. Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and Bermuda grass are just some of the grass varieties that can capably handle pet traffic. If replacing the entire lawn is not possible, consid-

er reseeding or addressing the areas that pets frequent.

Strengthen the root system

It may be tempting to cut the lawn short, particularly if dogs or cats like to nibble on longer blades of grass. But that approach could be doing the lawn a disservice. According to The Home Depot, letting the lawn grow to at least three inches will help keep moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation. That moisture will strengthen the roots, creating a healthier lawn for pets and people.

Create pet paths

Various materials can be used in these high-traffic areas to minimize the sights and signs of pet traffic. Mulch or crushed stone can establish these pet highways and look like intended features.

Set boundaries

Pet urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which can burn

grass and turn it brown. It’s not possible to water down urine or pick up solid waste immediately every time a pet goes outdoors, so designate a pet-friendly spot for potty time. Use fencing or a dog run to separate this area and help mitigate “land mines” all over the lawn. Fencing also can keep pets out of vegetable gardens and away from potentially toxic plants.

Avoid chemical lawn treatments

When pets use the yard and rest on the lawn, you’ll need to eliminate products that can be harmful to them. Choose all-natural fertilizers and weed and pest preventatives.

Look for alternatives

If maintaining a lawn with pets seems like an uphill battle, consider swapping out your landscape with a variety of materials. Scale back on grass, and incorporate groundcover, hardscape ma-

terials like pea gravel, or extend the patio. Artificial turf also is an option, as it won’t brown and wither. Some turf products can even be quickly and thoroughly

cleaned with water.

It can take some trial and error for pet parents to protect their lawns from the effects of having furry friends playing in the yard.

Paws off! Tips to practice pet poison prevention

Companion animals typically do not understand that certain items in their environments can be harmful. Pets’ innate

curiosity coupled with unique aromas produced by common household items can put them in jeopardy of potentially dead -

ly poisoning.

According to veterinary experts at WebMD Pet Health Center, an estimated 232,000 cases of pet poisoning occur annually in the U.S. In March 2022, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center hotline fielded 22 percent more calls stemming from incidents of pet toxicity than in 2021.

The following are some steps pet owners can take to protect their companion animals

against poisoning.

• Don’t leave out human food. Dogs, cats and other animals may be lured by the sweet temptation of their owners’ food. Many food scraps can be toxic to pets, including alcoholic beverages, chocolate, coffee beans, moldy foods and raisins, among others. Keep the kitchen tidy and trash cans (indoor and outdoor) secured.

• Be careful with houseplants. While they may look beautiful and filter indoor air, certain houseplants can be toxic to

pets if ingested. Before bringing any new plants into your home, check the ASPCA toxic and nontoxic plant guide. Lilies may be pretty, but they also are quite toxic. The smallest nibble can be fatal to cats.

• Keep medications locked away. Be sure that over-thecounter and prescription medications are locked away and cannot be accessed by curious pets. Even seemingly mild medications, like human pain relievers, can be toxic to pets.

• Be safe when spring cleaning. Keep pets out of rooms when they are being cleaned by chemical products or when using insecticides. Wait a day or more before letting pets back into the area. Store products beyond a pet’s reach when they’re not in use. With diligence, a significant percentage of pet poisonings can be prevented. Pet owners should do their homework about toxic items in and around their homes and do their best to keep pets safe.

File

OPEN:

CURRENTLY ENROLLING

1 yr olds and 2 yr olds

Ask about our infant waitlist

Help Wanted

CITY OF BLAINE

Seasonal Maintenance Workers

Salary Range: $20 per hour, no benefits.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa .

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

C ITY OF BLAINE Maintenance Worker

Salary Range: $4,950 to $5,995 per month, plus benefits.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa .

The first review deadline is 4:30pm on March 1st.

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CITY OF BLAINE

Crew Chief - Utilities

Salary Range: $6,011 to $7,017 per month plus benefits.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa .

The first review deadline is 4:30pm on March 1st.

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Read

to

as

or (2)

or

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: February 5, 2024 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: February 15, 2024

Name of Administrator: JOHANNES PAUL SLUIS

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: February 5, 2024 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Administrator: JOHANNES PAUL SLUIS www.averyelderlaw.com

as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s 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 11.42.020(2)(c); or (2) Four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Judy Caroline Ploghoft

OBITUARIES

February 24, 1941 – January 31, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Judy Caroline Ploghoft, 82, who passed away on January 31, 2024, while at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA after suffering a stroke. She was a resident of Moses Lake, WA at the time of her passing, but had lived in Blaine, WA from 2002-2022.

The oldest of six children of Earnest and Ethel Bendixen Montague, Judy was born on February 24, 1941, in Ontario, OR. To find farm work, the family moved between Vale and Nyssa, OR, before settling in Payette, ID. Judy attended East and West Side Elementary Schools in Payette. She also attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was baptized on September 18, 1949 in Ontario, OR. The family moved to Moses Lake, WA in 1952. She was the first class to attend Chief Moses Middle School and was part of the 1959 graduating class of the newly-built Moses Lake High School. She was also a 1959 graduate of the Grand Coulee Stake Seminary Program.

After graduation, she worked at the Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake until 1963 when she met Larry Dale Ploghoft who had recently moved there. They were inseparable after their first date and were married on July 20, 1963, at the Rose Street chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in a wedding dress that she designed and made. The couple moved to Bellingham, WA, where their first child, Brian was born in 1964. After moving back to Moses Lake, their second son, Mark, was born in 1967.

Judy was a supportive wife of Larry’s career in the tire business that took them all across the U.S. and Canada. They moved over 28 times, sometimes twice in a year in their early years as a family. She became an expert in packing and finding fun adventures for her children in all of those moves. They finally settled in Blaine, in 2002, where they lived the longest stretch of time in their 59 years together. Larry preceded her in death on August 8, 2022 in Bellingham.

Judy was passionate about family. She adored her sons, their wives, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved to spend time with them. Judy also cherished her sisters, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews and watched over them like they were her own. During her many moves, she remained good friends with many who became like family to her.

She was dedicated to researching her family history and helped others do their research. She enjoyed photographing family events and creating scrapbooks for herself and others. She was also talented in painting, flower arranging, and sewing and shared those talents with others. She enjoyed watching movies, playing card games, gardening, listening to oldies music, and reading.

She remained a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints throughout her life. She served as a family history consultant, a Primary teacher, and in the Relief Society. In December 2023, her family was sealed together in the Moses Lake temple.

In addition to her husband, Larry, she is preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Ethel, her sister, Marion, and her brother, Ray.

She is survived by her two sons: Brian Ploghoft (Tiffiny) of West Richland, WA, and Mark Ploghoft (Alice) of Lake Crystal, MN. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Paige Blood (Benjamin), Lauren Barrus (Nicholas), Daina Fassler (Daemon), Dylan Ploghoft, Logan Ploghoft, Brady Ploghoft, Joshua Ploghoft, Nathan Ploghoft, and Eliza Ploghoft who will cherish the lessons and love that Grandma Judy gave. She was also adored by her five great-grandchildren Alaric, Olivia, Xander, Raelynn, and William and one more great-granddaughter due to arrive in May, that we are sure she has met in heaven. She is also survived by sisters Vicky Bowen (Joel), Joyce Kelly, and Kathy Payne (Ken).

A memorial service for Judy will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints meetinghouse at 925 N Grape Dr, Moses Lake, WA. A burial for her and Larry will follow at Pioneer Memorial Gardens in Moses Lake.

Thomas William Wright

May 1, 1937 – February 15, 2024

Thomas (Tom) William Wright, 86, passed away peacefully and into the presence of Jesus on February 15, 2024. Tom was born May 1, 1937, in Gary, IN to John and Treva Wright (Somers). He attended Hobart High School, and while in the school band, he met his life love, Janet Carlson. He played the trombone, she played the flute, and their first date was to see the Radio City Rockettes during a band trip to New York City. Voted senior class president and “Most Valuable” to Janet’s “Best Natured,” the young couple married shortly after graduation. They attended Wheaton College briefly, and then began parenthood with the birth of their first daughter.

Tom worked a variety of jobs while in Indiana, including shoe and sewing machine sales at Sears, and as a home delivery milkman. In 1962, Tom, Janet, and their two daughters journeyed to Tucson, Arizona, where they established a new life, and where two other daughters were born. Initially working in home construction with his father, Tom went on to have a successful career, first with Northwestern Mutual Life, then discovering his real love in real estate. Over his 40+ year career, he became well-known and respected for his impeccable integrity and vast knowledge of the Tucson area.

Tom was a born leader and believed in serving his community. He was a member of Tucson’s 20/30 Club, the Optimists, and Association of Realtors Board. Tom was elected to the Tucson Unified School District Board, where he also served as member and president. Tom and Janet were committed Christians and met many of their long-time friends in Tucson, first at Trinity Presbyterian Church, then at Christ Community Church.

With a desire to live closer to family, they relocated to Washington in 2005 and settled in Birch Bay Village. While in Washington, Tom enjoyed working part time with Windermere Real Estate, and playing trombone with the Bellingham Alumni Band. He and Janet continued in their Christian faith, attending Cornwall Church and Birch Bay Bible Community Church.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Janet, three daughters, Debby (Neal) Farmer, Virginia (Jeff) Hamrick, and Laurie (Mark) Waslohn; six grandchildren, Candace Bryant, Kevin Farmer, Justin (Elizabeth) Farmer, Michael (Maria) Waslohn, Colton (Krystal) Waslohn, and Tyler (Gabrielle) Waslohn. Tom was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren with a tenth coming in March. Tom is preceded in death by beloved daughter Peggy.

A future celebration of life will be planned for late spring or summer. A special thanks to PeaceHealth’s 4th floor cardiology medical staff, the Birch Bay Fire and Rescue team, and Lynden Christian Care Center staff. To honor Tom’s memory, donations may be made to Birch Bay Bible Community Church, Cornwall Church, or Godwillministries.org to support a small village school in Kapchorwa, Uganda. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Bernd Werny

June 26, 1939 – February 11, 2024

Bernd Werny of Birch Bay, WA died February 11, 2024 at the age of 84. He was born June 26, 1939 in Klein-Auheim, Germany. He was the middle child of Hermann Werny and Bertl (Weis) Werny.

Bernd grew up during the Second World War, where as a boy, he lived through the Allied bombing campaigns. After the war he delivered “Stars and Stripes” to American families and remembered receiving gifts of gum and candy from forces stationed in Germany. His father Hermann died in 1946. In 1953 he left Europe with his mother, older brother Frank, and younger sister Isa, on the S.S. Groote Beer and arrived in New York, after which the family traveled by Greyhound bus across the country to Washington State. He lived with his family in Tacoma and after a few years was joined by his grandmother Sophie Weiss. He later graduated from Clover Park High School.

Bernd was honored when he became a naturalized citizen of the United States and was proud of his service to the nation as a member of the United States Coast Guard. He married Elizabeth Musselwhite in 1964 and they had two children; Baine and Betrice (Buffy). Bernd was a successful entrepreneur and business leader with a long career. He served as general manager and oversaw restaurant operations at Tacoma’s Winthrop Hotel and for many years he worked in Bremerton managing properties owned by Mr. Bremmer. He and his family then moved to Silverado, California where he owned his own restaurant. After returning to Washington, he owned and operated O’Farrell’s Family Restaurant in Puyallup. He also operated Werny’s Restaurant on South Hill and then expanded Werny’s to three additional locations in Tacoma and Puyallup. He was active in the communities where he lived. While in California he served as a volunteer firefighter and was a member of Kiwanis International in Puyallup for over 20 years.

In 1993, he married Melinda DeWing and the two had thirty wonderful years together. After moving to Bellingham, he transitioned to a career in real estate with multiple companies, including the Muljat Group, which he really enjoyed. He liked traveling and the outdoors and had a special love for animals, particularly his dog, Mackenzie. A special place for him was on his sailboat traversing the San Juan Islands, Canadian Waters, or different parts of the Puget Sound. He was deeply committed to his family and was a devoted husband and father.

In addition to his father, Hermann, he was preceded in death by his mother, Bertl Werny. He is survived by his loving wife Melinda; his brother Frank (Dorothy) Werny of Plymouth, MA; sister Isa Werny of Seattle; children Baine Werny, of Bellingham; Betrice (Michael) Nagle of Ludington, MI; and stepsons Todd (Angela) Grubb of Mukilteo, WA; Nathan (Conny) Grubb of Lakewood, WA. He is also survived by his grandchildren, including Beck and Maren Werny; Maggie and Elizabeth Nagle; Maxwell, Samuel, and Kyle Grubb; great-grandchildren Liam, Ella, and Lily; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bernd was a wonderful man in every way and we were blessed to have had him in our lives. We will love him always and miss him forever.

The family will host a private ceremony at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to the Bellingham Humane Society or the charity of your choice in Bernd’s name.

Matthew Egan

March 3, 1948 – February 9, 2024

Matthew Egan, age 75, passed away on February 9, 2024 at his home in Birch Bay, WA. Matthew was born on March 3, 1948 in Seattle to parents, Virginia and Michael Egan. A carpenter by trade, but everyone who met him knew that music was his passion. Matthew traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe playing guitar in multiple bands.

Matthew’s home in Birch Bay served as the venue for the beloved Eganpalooza, an annual summer family reunion. Matthew was known for his sense of humor, always the life of the party.

Matthew is preceded in death by his parents, brothers John and Joseph, sister Kathleen, and wife Wendy. He is survived by his children Erik (Sarah) and Amber (Erik), seven grandchildren and brother Michael.

There will be a celebration of life held at the Squalicum Boathouse on March 17 at 1 p.m.

Read The Northern Light online at: www.TheNorthernLight.com

sheriff’s repOrts

February 13, 4:19 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Valley View Road.

February 13, 8:34 a.m.: Property found on Grandview Road.

February 13, 11:22 a.m.: Hazard on H Street Road and Stillwater Lane.

February 13, 12:21 p.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

February 13, 1:40 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay Drive.

February 13, 2:19 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Highland Drive.

February 13, 2:41 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Custer School Road.

February 13, 9:01 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Arnie Road.

February 14, 9:43 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

February 14, 11:23 a.m.: Sex offender registration on Harbor Drive.

February 14, 3:04 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Carstan Loop.

February 14, 4:04 p.m.: Mental health cold call on Surf Place.

February 14, 4:50 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Camber Lane.

February 14, 5:09 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Petticote Lane.

February 14, 5:30 p.m.: Fraud

cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

February 14, 9:30 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Seafair Drive.

February 16, 11:50 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Pacific Highway.

February 16, 3:14 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

February 16, 8:25 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Boblett Road.

February 17, 3:06 a.m.: Theft

cold call on W. 95th Terrace.

February 17, 5:35 p.m.: DUI arrest on W. Badger Road.

February 17, 9:20 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Pacific Highway.

February 17, 11:01 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Glendale Drive.

February 18, 12:07 p.m.: Theft cold call on Harborview Road.

February 19, 2:04 p.m.: Death investigation on Skeena Way.

pOLiCe repOrts

February 11, 5:47 p.m.: Trespass on Grant Avenue.

February 11, 8:23 p.m.: Prowler on Birch Court.

February 12, 8:40 a.m.: Vandalism on Natures Path Way.

February 12, 12:39 p.m.: Missing person on E Street.

February 12, 3:57 p.m.: Harassment on H Street.

February 12, 10:53 p.m.: Animal problem on Peace Portal Drive.

February 13, 4:54 a.m.: Trespass on Boblett Street.

February 13, 8:49 a.m.: Abandoned vehicle on Cedar Street.

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Golf scores

5. Shock therapy

8. Ballplayer’s tool

11. Quench one’s thirst

13. Female relatives of American war vets (abbr.)

14. Every one of two or more things

15. Member of Muslim people

16. Play

17. Type of cheese

18. Type of lounge chair

20. __ King Cole, musician

21. Fellows

22. North, Central and South 25. In an early way

30. Foes

31. Georgia rockers

32. Cryptocurrency

33. Narrow path along a slope

38. Disallow

41. Joyousness

43. Inaccessible

45. Evoke emotions

47. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea

49. Boston Celtic punk rockers (abbr.)

50. Sword

55. Actor Idris

56. Affirmative (slang)

57. Afflicted

59. One point north of northeast

60. Born of 61. Arabic name 62. Traumatic brain injury (abbr.)

63. Extremity

64. Post

DOWN

1. Pacific Standard Time

2. Protruding ridge on nematodes

3. Indian king

4. Type of milk

5. One who brings home the bacon

6. More comprehensible

7. Connected with sense of touch

8. Red mineral

9. Breezed through

10. Therefore

12. Supplement with difficulty

14. Early kingdom of Syria

19. Satisfy

23. They confuse doctors (abbr.)

24. Brass instrument

25. Domesticated animal

26. Ribonucleic acid

27. Snakelike fish

28. Woman (French)

29. Economically-minded aircraft

34. When you hope to get somewhere

35. Tease

36. Actress Gretchen

37. Midway between northeast and east

39. Inoffensive

40. Yellowish cotton cloth

41. Consume

42. Does not tell the truth

44. Improved something

45. Spiritual leader

Coming up

Tech Help: Thursday, February 22, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in for one-on-one assistance of your devices with library staff. Info: wcls.org.

Kindergarten Information Night: Thursday, February 22, 5–6 p.m., Blaine Primary School. If you have a child who will be five years old by August 31, join the kindergarten team for an informational evening. Childcare available. Kindergarten registration opens February 20. Info: blainesd.org.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, February 22, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Live Music at Blaine Senior Center: Friday, February 23, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Live music with On the Loose, a lively mix of rock, blues, Western, and Country Gems. $5 suggested donation. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, February 23, 7 p.m, The Vault Wine Bar

February 13, 1:51 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

February 13, 5:13 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Adelia Street.

February 14, 7:27 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Birch Court.

February 15, 9:06 a.m.: Hit and run on Bell Road.

February 15, 3:11 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Peace Portal Drive.

February 16, 3:55 a.m.: Vehicle prowl on Mitchell Avenue.

February 16, 10:15 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Jerome Street.

February 16, 1:48 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Adelia Street.

46. Abba __, Israeli politician

47. Fix

48. Evergreen tree genus

51. Swiss river

52. Prejudice

53. Major C. European river

54. Long, narrow strap

58. Male parent

tides

+ Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Trio Sueno. Info: thevaultwine.com. Seed Starting and Sprouting: Saturday, February 24, 9–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. How many seeds? What type? When to start? When to transplant? We can help get you started on the answers. Talk will focus on tips and tricks for plants that can be grown in our climate. Info: nwcore.org.

Pop-Up Vendor Market: Saturday, February 24, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Blaine Pavilion, 635 8th Street. Shop from over 20 local vendors. Info: blainechamber.org.

Me, Myself, and I - Self Care for Kids: Saturday, February 24, 2–3 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. A program grounded in self-awareness, self-expression, and self-care. Celebrate who you are with mindfulness practices, temporary tattoos, self-portraits, yoga poses and much more. You can be anything and everything by just being yourself. Who do you want to be? Info: wcls.org.

Gardening Green Class: Saturdays, February 24–March 30, 10 a.m.–noon, Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Learn about natural landscaping that improves soil health, saves water and reduces yard maintenance and relies less on fertilizer and pesticides, Taught by WSU Whatcom County Extension. $36 courts fee for a soil lab test. Info: bit.ly/3SMhCkB. Winter Gardening and Sprouting: Wednesday, February 28, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Starting with “how to get that craving for greens satisfied” by growing sprouts and moving on to simple hoop house construction and what can you grow with passive protection and get a jump on the growing season. What plants that can be “wintered over” in your garden/hoop house. Info: nwcore.org.

Storytime at the Library: Tuesday, February 27, 10:30–11 a.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. An open program for kids ages 2-6 that includes stories, rhymes, and songs with opportunities for movement and interactive participation. Info: wcls.org.

Tech Help: Tuesday, February 27, 5–6 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in for one-on-one assistance of your devices with library staff. Info: wcls.org.

Garden Design 101: Thursday, February 29, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. In this third of four classes, will discuss the process and decisions of hardscape/structures. Info: nwcore.org.

Community Informational Meeting: Thursday, February 29, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn about the Blaine Partnership Project for a new larger library and homeownership proposed in downtown Blaine. Presented by Paul Schissler of Madrona Community Development.

Home Buying Workshop: Thursday, February 29, 5–7 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.

Recovery Center Open House: Friday, March 1, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Catholic Community Services Recovery Center, 8115 Birch Bay Square Street #138 (across from Windermere). The center provides a full continuum of outpatient substance use disorder treatment services to youth, adults, and their families. Info: ccsww.org/get-help/addiction-recovery-services/.

Live Music at Blaine Senior Center: Friday, March 1, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Live music with Jaded Lovers, playing country and rock classics, line dancing and more. $5 suggested donation. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Whatcom Farm Expo: Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, Lynden. Learn about all the resources available to you, from local organizations to businesses and community groups. Free. Info: whatcomcd.org. Sponsored by Whatcom Conservation District.

Easy, Squeezy - Gluten and Dairy Free Cooking: Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Discover cooking tips and tricks using alternative products to make gluten-free/dairy-free cooking easy and fun. Presenter Heino Sunter will provide a live demo preparing a gluten free and dairy free clam/seafood chowder. Info: nwcore.org.

Illuminate Birch Bay: Saturday, March 2, 6–8 p.m. along the Birch Bay berm. Start at the Birch Bay Vogt Library with hot chocolate, cider, choir music and walk through a lighted path along the berm. Making or bringing your own lanterns is encouraged. Free. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Ongoing

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

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

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of February 12 to 18, 0.13 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-to-date precipitation is 7.7 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 55.4°F on February 17 with a low of 34.6°F on February 13. Average high was 51.8°F and low was 36.5°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 now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.

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

The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–

4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment.

The Bridge Community Hope Center’s location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive.

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

Holocaust education bill dies in Washington state legislature

More work needed with stakeholders to define issues, lawmakers say

B y M ary M urphy , W ashi NG to N s tate J our N al

An effort to make Holocaust and genocide education mandatory in Washington public schools has failed to win enough support to pass in this year’s legislature.

“We’ve been trying diligently to reach out to stakeholders to get agreed upon wording that would make this workable and fundable,” said state senator Lisa Wellman (D-Mercer Island), chair of the Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee.

“This bill just needs more time to be worked through.”

Sponsored by state representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn), House Bill 2037 and its companion bill in the Senate received a lot of testimony during public hearings.

Over 2,000 people registered to testify in its early days. Survivors of genocide, activists and students spoke in general support of the idea but voiced concern about a lack of inclusivity.

On February 10, the bill was debated on the House floor, and an amendment was introduced by Democrats that caught Couture and his Republican counterparts off guard.

The amendment called for collaboration from nonprofit groups beyond the Jewish community and inclusion of other genocides.

The bill said any curriculum should include “diasporic communities with lived experiences of surviving, being made refugees by, or otherwise being directly impacted by genocide.”

“Jewish people were already removed from their homeland when they were in Europe and then systematically destroyed during the Holocaust,” Couture said, referring to Israel. “So, they were not ‘made refugees by’ anything.”

State representative Drew Stokesbary (R-Auburn) said that

while he supports the goal of inclusivity by Democrats, he worried this could unintentionally have negative impacts.

“I’m concerned about the potential politicization of the concept of the bill,” Stokesbary said. “My concern is that the policy contained in the bill could inadvertently lead to folks being accused of genocide who have not actually committed genocide.”

After the amendment was adopted, Stokesbary urged a vote ‘yes’ on the bill but re-emphasized his opinions about the amendment.

“Jewish people deserve a homeland, but the Holocaust is not what drove them from that and my concern is that this amendment detracts from that important and historical fact,” Stokesbary said.

Wellman said many people did not feel comfortable voting in favor of the bill without “agreeable language.”

“I tried to shut down any discussion of current events relating to the bill,” Wellman said. “When you get into politics that may happen in the classroom, that was not the intention of running this bill.”

Wellman said she spoke with state senator John Braun (R-Centralia), who introduced the Senate version of the bill. She said lawmakers plan to continue this work.

“We intend to work through it, and hopefully bring back a solution that better addresses the issue,” Wellman said. “Part of the problem with a bill that is both an important topic to be discussed in education, but it’s also something that is very much happening in the moment. And getting those conflated can be challenging, dangerous and uncomfortable.”

The Washington State Journal is a nonprofit news website funded by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Learn more at wastatejournal.org.

s State representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn), prime sponsor of House Bill 2037, speaks on the House floor.

Photo courtesy Washington State House of Representatives