The Northern Light: May 2-8, 2024

started after fatal car accident, page 2

In a unanimous 7-0 vote, Whatcom County Council decided during an April 30 special meeting to hold an independent investigation into Whatcom County’s handling of sexual harassment reports involving former public works director Jon Hutchings. Details of what the investigation will look like are still unclear as council is expected to discuss the format during its next meeting on Tuesday, May 7. Hutchings complaints

The special council meeting follows over a week of public scrutiny about the manner in which Whatcom County officials paid $225,000 last November in response to claims that Hutchings had sexually harassed a female employee for more than two years. Whatcom County’s response to the allegations and the settlement were revealed to the public and councilmembers alike in an investigative article published by Cascade PBS on April 19.

Three female employees reported Hutchings had made sexual comments or touched them inappropriately at work. One woman, who was called “Wendy” in the article, reported her experience with Hutchings to then public works department assistant director Elizabeth Kosa in 2021. Kosa arranged a “counseling session” with Wendy, Hutchings and an unnamed “coach.” Wendy reported that Hutchings began excluding her from projects and treating her differently after the meeting. There was no follow up to her complaint until another employee came forward nearly a year later.

Wendy reported that Hutchings would text her at all hours of the day about his personal life and she had to put up a “no hugs” sign on her desk after Hutchings repeatedly hugged her without permission. Wendy said she needed therapy and the nonstop texts caused so much stress she went to the emergency room several times for severe stomach pain, according to the Cascade PBS article.

The county executive’s office was not made aware of the complaints until mid-October 2022 and placed Hutchings

sentenced for home invasion, page

School board approves $2.5

Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the classified staff union.

In a brief and tense April 29 special meeting of the Blaine school board at the district boardroom, the board unanimously approved its original plan of a $2.5 million budget reduction for the 2024-25 school year.

The reduction will cut roughly 30 staff positions in the district, with 11 percent of administration, 12 percent of classified staff, and 11 percent of the teaching staff laid off.

Some of the positions impacted by the budget cuts include a K-5 principal, multiple special education staff, 6-12th grade library tech support (the school district is without a full-time librarian) and multiple other administrative, certificated and classified staff positions.

The board was originally slated to vote on the reduced education program at the regular April 22 meeting, but decided to delay the vote by a week to gather more information and hear alternative proposals from

The local SEIU chapter proposed eliminating five administrative positions (the maintenance and operations director, and four building/assistant principals) from the 2024-25 budget, reducing salaries for various other administrative positions, and reducing the number of contracted days for classified staff from 260 to 220 days to save the district nearly $1.9 million.

In a letter addressed to the board, SEIU argued that this year’s proposed staffing cuts, combined with the over 50 positions cut in last year’s budget cuts, make for an unsustainable work environment for the remaining classified staff.

“The overwhelming challenge for the staff who remain after a staffing reduction is the workload to support students and staff remains largely unchanged,” the letter read.

“Unfortunately, the proposed staffing reductions directly impact the school support staff

s Blaine school board district 1 director Erika Creydt, c., speaks during the April 29 special meeting where the board unanimously approved a reduced educational program for the 2024-25 school year that would cut roughly 30 staff positions.

Photo by Nolan Baker

Funeral held for Vladimir Taranenko after fatal car crash

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A memorial and funeral service for Vladimir Taranenko was held on the morning of May 1 for the Maple Falls husband and father of five who died in a single-vehicle accident on April 23. He worked for Blaine school district as a custodian.

On the night of April 23, around 7:30 p.m. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to a missing person report after both Vladimir and his father, Alexander Taranenko, didn’t arrive at work, WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater wrote in a statement to The Northern Light

A five-person search and rescue team, including a WCSO detective, was dispatched to search for the Taranenkos, and ultimately discovered the location of the car crash through cellular data tracking.

According to WCSO, the car was discovered stuck down a ravine beside the three-way intersection of Haynie and Delta Line roads in Custer. When

deputies arrived to the car, Alexander was found alive in the driver’s seat, and Vladimir was declared deceased in the passenger’s seat.

Fire personnel arrived on scene and the driver was taken to a hospital in Seattle for treatment.

An investigation into the single-vehicle crash is ongoing, Slater said.

An online fundraiser has been set up to cover funeral costs and support the Taranenko family. As of publication on May 1, the fundraiser has garnered 328 individual donations totaling more than $42,000 dollars. To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/ vlad-taranenko.

Lilya Bromet, who is listed as the fundraiser organizer, wrote on the GoFundMe that the funds will go toward funeral costs and to help cover cost of living.

“Vlad was an incredible father, husband, friend, brother and son,” the post read. “He was always a hard worker for his family but also helped out anyone around him. We could always count on him.”

s Vladimir Taranenko.

Photo courtesy GoFundMe

From page 1 on administrative leave on October 18, 2022, Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu claimed in an April 23 letter to council. Hutchings resigned in late October, a day after an investigator interviewed the women. Hutchings himself was never interviewed and the county never formally disciplined him. On November 1, the county and Hutchings signed a separation agreement that described Hutchings departure as a resignation and contained provisions on how the separation would be described. In January 2023, Sidhu and deputy executive Tyler Schroeder wrote a highly complimentary “letter of introduction” that presumably helped Hutchings get a new position as director of Lynden’s public works department in May 2023.

In fall 2023, Wendy’s lawyer sent a letter seeking $400,000 compensation to George Roche, deputy civil prosecutor at the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Roche said he immediately delivered the letter to the Washington Counties Risk Pool, which held settlement authority.

Within three days of receiving the letter from Wendy’s lawyer, Roche reached an agreement in principle to settle the complaints for $225,000. Money for the settlement was below the county’s $250,000 deductible and came out of the county’s tort fund for major settlements, Roche said.

Subsequently, Kosa was named director of the Whatcom County Public Works Department and Schroeder is set to become the director of economic development at the Port of Bellingham this month.

In his April 23 letter to councilmembers, Sidhu took responsibility for any personnel policy violations and initially defended his “letter of introduction.”

“Ultimately, we do not believe that a person is solely defined by their mistakes, and Mr. Hutchings had faced the very real consequences of losing his job,” Sidhu wrote in the letter.

Sidhu admitted that he had not informed council of the incident.

The Whatcom Democrats executive board issued a public letter April 24 calling for Sidhu’s resignation.

Sidhu’s tune changed in an April 30 letter to council and all county employees, saying that he recognized the letter of recommendation was “inappropriate and misguided.”

“It clearly was an error of judgement not to contemplate its broader meaning and impact for employees, the organization and the community,” Sidhu wrote in the letter. “I’ve learned a valuable lesson that you must put aside past service when an employee fails to adhere to basic norms of conduct at the workplace … I take full responsibility for this and apologize to all who were affected directly and indirectly.”

Sidhu added the incident points to a systemic issue in sexual harassment reporting protocols, transparency and action,

and that he was open to improving those policies and compliance. The county last updated its sexual harassment policy in 2022.

County council discussion County councilmembers spent nearly four hours April 30 grilling Roche about the case and the county’s sexual harassment policies, first in a public meeting and then in executive session where they learned more details about the case. The county’s human resources department also provided input during the meeting.

Council members appeared unified in their unhappiness that the county administration had not informed them of the reason for Hutchings’ departure or about the settlement. Much of the discussion involved how council could improve county policies regarding sexual harassment reporting and how council could have more oversight in the process.

Councilmember Todd Donovan asked how many times the county had settled sexual harassment complaints in the past decade without informing council. In response, Roche said the answer was nuanced and complex, but that in his six years as county claims administrator, he could only recall two other harassment settlements, both of which he believed council were aware of at the time.

Whatcom County, which has about 1,000 employees, has sent 1,572 claims to the risk pool since 1988, Roche said. The county receives liability claims through different avenues, such as being submitted to the county clerk’s office or the risk pool, and some reports don’t go to the risk pool.

Roche told council they could appoint a councilmember as one of the representatives to handle the county’s risk pool to become more involved in settlement decision-making. Whatcom County HR and legal representatives are currently on the risk pool’s board.

“If you want more involvement, I believe this is the mechanism to get that involvement,” Roche said.

Council could also exercise oversight of branches of government through legislative action, such as determining who has authority on budgets or projects, Roche said.

Donovan expressed concern that Wendy was put in a counseling session with Hutchings, and that he wanted council to know how well HR was operating.

“Obviously a number of things

that occurred here went outside the scope of the county’s policies,” Roche said.

In response to a question from councilmember Kaylee Galloway, Roche said nothing prevented county leaders from notifying council about the settlement.

Councilmember Ben Elenbaas said he was “appalled” that council wasn’t given the background to Hutchings’ resignation and considered those responsible to be negligent.

“The public has an expectation of what we do, and whether it’s right or wrong, perception is reality,” Elenbaas said. “A lot of feedback I’ve gotten is, ‘If you didn’t know about this, what else goes on in county government that you don’t know about and how can we trust that you guys are doing your job?’”

Roche emphasized council legally bears no responsibility for the decisions made in this incident.

Elenbaas made clear that he wanted an independent investigation to determine if county employees needed to be held accountable, but did not want it to become a “political hit piece,” especially when victims were involved.

If the county prosecuting attorney’s office determined it had a conflict of interest, a special prosecutor would likely be appointed by the Whatcom County Superior Court presiding judge.

If a special prosecutor was needed, the county would need to decide how the investigation would be funded, such as the county’s tort fund.

It is likely that an investigation into how the complaints were handled and an overlook at the county’s policies would be separate.

Council chair Barry Buchanan suggested council form a committee on the investigation.

Sidhu declined to address council during the meeting, instead pointing to the email he sent county council and staff before the meeting.

Councilmember Jon Scanlon told council that he spent an hour talking to Wendy before the meeting and she told him she just wanted to be believed.

“When you sign up to work for the people of Whatcom County, you should expect a work place free of sexual harassment, abuse and bullying,” Scanlon said. “When you make those reports of an incident of harassment, you should expect a clear, timely and just process that listens to you and protects you from retaliation.”

The Northern L ght

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

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

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

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

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Contributors In This Issue

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The Northern Light

225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXIX, No 46

Circulation: 10,500 copies

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Crews resumed construction on the Birch Bay Drive pavement rehabilitation project April 29. Work will be done from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and should finish before Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting. The project began last summer on sidewalks, curbs, gutters and landscaping walls. Crews will grind and pave Birch Bay Drive from Jackson to Shintaffer roads. There will be intermittent single-lane closures and parking restrictions. Signage and flaggers will direct traffic during lane closures.

Photo by Molly Ernst

Birch Bay Drive construction starts OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

Like many school districts, our district faces budget cuts this spring. There are four main reasons for this in Blaine. First, approximately 85 percent of our school district’s budget is spent on salaries. Thus, any salary increases profoundly affect our budget.

Second, salaries for Blaine teachers will have increased by up to 53 percent over seven years from 2017-18 to 2024-25. Unions for other school employees in Blaine have argued that their raises should parallel teachers’ raises and so these have increased at roughly a similar rate.

Third, the state has decreased its relative support for K-12 education throughout Washington. The percentage of the state budget devoted to K-12 education has declined from 52.4 percent in 2018-19 to 43.1 percent in 2023-24. This is a decrease of nearly 10 percent. While not a perfect marker for state K-12 funding it is an indicator of our state’s relative commitment.

Fourth, the state legislature, responding to the McCleary court decision, has prevented us from receiving state dollars that we once received.

Our school district’s budget challenges should not be surprising. Teachers’ salaries are up 53 percent while the percentage of the state budget devoted to K-12 education is down 10 percent. This produces a deficit that calls for reductions. Add to this that there is even less funding for Blaine because of the McCleary decision and you can see that budget reductions will be even greater than for many other districts.

The school budget deficit is real. As long as salaries increase and state funding does not keep up, cuts will have to be made. Sadly, our children will pay this price.

Last year, false information was spread about our school district’s financial situation. It caused divisiveness and harm to our community. Hopefully, the facts above will increase understanding and help us

move to a thoughtful solution for our children’s education. Could school employees suspend their raises for a bit? Could our state legislators direct sufficient dollars to schools? Thoughtful conversation can often produce thoughtful outcomes. I hope this happens.

Don Leu, former school board member and president Blaine

The Editor:

What’s up with the city selling public parking to downtown developers? Are they going to privatize 120 spaces of on-street parking? That’s the whole downtown! Or is it a monetary contribution to go toward a municipal parking garage? If so, does that mean the new condo tenants use up all street parking leaving tourists with no parking until the municipal garage is built sometime in the distant future?

Blaine is already on the brink of bankruptcy having recently announced a 33 percent budget cut for 2024. Killing downtown recovery for a couple of condo developers will be the final nail in the coffin.

Jay Taber Blaine

The Editor:

We all thought the Blaine High School students who performed in last year’s “Into the Wood” musical were great, and anticipated that this year’s “Mamma Mia!” musical comedy would be similarly great but it must be said that they have out-done themselves this year.

Starting with the incredibly beautiful set, which extends out into the normal seating area for the audience, it’s so fun to see the kids use every inch of that set with their singing and dancing and acting. Then the upbeat music (although ancient, as in from the 1970s and ’80s) draws everyone into a spirit of fun; for me, watching oc-

CiviC Meetings

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Meetings are second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

togenarians beginning to smile, then nod their heads in time to the music, trying to remember those lyrics they loved way back then – this has been pure delight. Next, the actors themselves have brought their very best to this endeavor, with exciting choreography, with young and strong voices, and radiating that sense of happiness which characterized the Swedish pop group ABBA – their talents and enthusiasm shows strongly through the two-act show. It’s also exciting to see a live pit orchestra recreating “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper” and “The Winner Takes It All” and so many beloved songs. Both last year’s and this year’s shows are wonderful and successful, which is largely due to the vision and talent of the amazing BHS drama teacher, Ms. Olivia Theilemann. I am so proud of our Blaine high school kids! We live in a wonderful community. Jeanne Halsey Birch Bay

The Editor:

I would like to applaud the Blaine school district and our local community in supporting the Rebound Families Roots Family Enrichment Program this year.

Rebound Families is a local nonprofit that has served Whatcom County’s children and adults impacted by trauma for 27 years. Over 70 percent of Whatcom County’s school-aged children are currently suffering from adverse childhood experiences. Sadly, unhealthy cycles of neglect or abuse continue from one generation to another if support and resources are not offered.

The Roots Family Enrichment Program

(See Letters, next page)

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

Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org.

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: Third Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee meets quarterly in-person and on Zoom. Next meeting: 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Birch Bay Village Clubhouse, 8181 Cowichan Road. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.

Man sentenced for Kickerville Road home invasion

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A 46-year-old man was sentenced to just over 3.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to involvement in an April 2022 home invasion on Kickerville Road where the homeowner was held at gunpoint while two other people raided his house.

Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Robert Olson sentenced Crayton Todd Williams, of Bellingham, on April 11 to 43 months for second-degree burglary, which was the highest point in the standard sentence range for his criminal history. Williams will serve the term concurrently with another case in which he pled guilty to second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.

Williams faced a maximum term of 10 years in prison and/ or $20,000 fine for the burglary charge.

As part of the plea deal, Williams had four counts of firearm theft dropped from the case and his original charge of first-degree burglary was reduced. The plea deal also dropped nine charges

from the case where he pled guilty to second-degree assault with a deadly weapon in 2022, as well as dropping a possession of stolen vehicle charge from 2021 and a failure to register as a sex offender charge from 2020.

On April 11, 2022, a man called 911 at 11:20 p.m. to report he had just been robbed at gunpoint at his home in the 8000 block of Kickerville Road in Birch Bay.

The man told police that two women were knocking on his front door and, when he opened the door, said they were having vehicle troubles and asked to use his phone, according to the charging documents filed in Whatcom County Superior Court. The man led the women to his kitchen and went to retrieve his cellphone, but the women had disappeared by the time he returned. The homeowner began looking for the women but was stopped by a man who pointed a gun at the homeowner and ordered him to lay on the ground, according to court records.

The man held the homeowner at gunpoint and asked the home-

owner where his guns were while the two women raided the home, according to court records. The group stole $500 cash, older firearms, a laptop, cellphone, TV and jewelry that had belonged to the homeowner’s late wife, charging documents state.

The homeowner described the women as covering their faces with cloth masks and the man’s entire face was covered. The man told police at least one woman was armed.

A Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) detective found a water bottle left by one of the suspects in one of the ransacked rooms and sent it to Washington State Patrol to be processed for DNA evidence.

A WCSO deputy spoke with a store clerk at a nearby gas station and learned a woman bought a pair of gloves and a man wearing a ski mask purchased hose tape, a pair of gloves and a water bottle the night of the robbery. The WCSO detective reviewing the gas station surveillance video observed three people who fit descriptions that the homeowner

Candidate filing week starts May 6

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Filing week is fast approaching for Washington state citizens who want to run for public office in the upcoming 2024 elections.

Letters ...

From previous page

teaches children how to recognize and navigate intense emotions and outbursts in healthy ways. While the children learn, the adults meet to share the realities and challenges of parenting while striving to stop generational trauma in a supportive environment.

This eight-week, research-based program received a 100 percent participant recommendation. Your local school district, including the school’s counselors, invited families to attend.

The senior center kindly hosted the program, and the boys & girls clubs allowed the children to learn onsite. Local families donated dinners which were served at the beginning of each session. The Blaine community shines when it supports those that struggle and are seeking help.

Keri Smith, executive director of Rebound Families Bellingham

Election filing week opens 8 a.m. Monday, May 6 and runs until 5 p.m. Friday, May 10. The deadline to withdraw candidacy is 5 p.m. Monday, May 13. The following local positions are up in the election:

Website comments

“Commercial pot seizure at U.S./ Canada border crossing lands in B.C. court” by Pat Grubb, published in the April 25 issue of The Northern Light I had an interesting discussion some time ago with the port director here in Point Roberts. I noted that marijuana was legal in both B.C. and Washington so why was it not legal to bring it across the border. He responded by saying that, while my point was reasonable, at the border, which they have jurisdiction over, it’s not legal. I pointed out that the border doesn’t exist as an area, a physical space. It has no existential properties. It is merely a demarcation between countries so there’s no “there” where it is illegal.

He wasn’t impressed but I do wonder how this argument would be treated in federal court, on either side of the border. I recommend that Seven Elks try this route in their appeal.

Arthur Reber

• State representative for the 42nd Legislative District positions 1 and 2. The two-year positions are currently held by Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and Joe Timmons

(See Election, page 13)

“Whatcom County paid $225k to settle sexual harassment complaints” by Brandon Block, originally published in Cascade PBS on April 19 [County executive Satpal] Sidhu and [deputy executive Tyler] Schroeder and anyone else involved in keeping this information from the council members and from not disclosing possible predatory behavior to a prospective employer … this is reprehensible behavior by elected county officials … Get rid of people like this in our government.

Stephan Glisson

provided and another man who was driving the group in a black Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Court records show WCSO identified the names of the driver and one of the women, but WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater wrote in an email to The Northern Light that probable cause was not developed to arrest anyone besides Williams in the case.

The DNA on the water bottle was connected to Williams in February 2023, and WCSO obtained a search warrant to retrieve a second sample from Williams to confirm the DNA match. WCSO learned the reference sample was a DNA match on April 23, 2023 and Williams was charged May 22, 2023 for first-degree burglary and four counts of firearm theft.

Williams had remained in jail since April 24, 2022, when he was arrested for second-degree assault with a deadly weapon while allegedly attempting to elude police on I-5 in Bellingham. He was transported to Washington Corrections Center in Shelton on April 16, according to jail booking data.

May

May 27, 2024 City Offices Closed –Memorial Day

May 28, 2024 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

CITY OF BLAINE MAINTENANCE WORKER

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

Applications are being accepted for one Maintenance Worker for Utilities with the City’s Public Works Department. This position requires a high level of personal integrity while providing fast, friendly, and effective customer service. The Maintenance Worker performs regular and recurring public works routine maintenance, installation and repair work on City utilities and other related services as assigned. This position utilizes authorized equipment and facilities to accomplish the work. Individuals assigned to this classification are expected to be competent in their skill area and perform proficiently and independently those assignments of a regular and recurring nature. Applicants should live within 20 minutes from Blaine due to call out requirements.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s job page: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa? First review deadline: May 24, 2024, at 4:30pm; Open Until Filled.

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Track and field shows out at home meet, soccer finishes season strong

Boys soccer

The Borderites closed out its regular season schedule on April 29 with a decisive, 6-0 win on the road against Mt. Baker, The win came just days after Blaine celebrated Senior Night with a 5-0 win over Nooksack Valley on April 24. Heading into the 1A Northwest Conference playoffs, the Borderites look to be firing on all cylinders both defensively and offensively.

In the Borderites’ 6-0 win over Mt. Baker, senior midfielder Leonardo Blanco scored a pair of goals, and Blaine recorded its fifth clean sheet victory on the season. It was the second time this season Blaine defeated Mt. Baker by a score of 6-0.

Junior forward Blake Koreski scored twice in the 5-0 win over Nooksack Valley, with the Borderites – again – shutting out Nooksack Valley.

That win gave the Borderites 10 points in the 1A Northwest Conference (NWC) table, solidifying its third-place finish in the regular season, with Nooksack Valley and Mt. Baker at 4 points each, and Meridian and Lynden Christian atop the conference with 18 and 19 points, respectively. All told, the Borderites enter the postseason with a solid 8-5-2 overall record, with a 3-4-1 NWC record.

To finish the regular season,

Blaine had a perfect 4-0-0 record against the bottom two teams in the conference (Mt. Baker and Nooksack Valley), and a subpar 0-3-1 record against the top two teams in the conference (Lynden Christian and Meridian).

The Borderites now head into the 1A NWC district tournament, a five-team playoff to crown the conference champion, sending the winner off to the 1A state championships in Renton.

Blaine is set to face Meridian in a No. 3 versus No. 2 seed matchup, with the winner likely facing

Lynden Christian in the district championship game on May 11. It will be a tough path for a Borderite team that has struggled against those two teams all season.

But Blaine looks to be getting hot at the perfect time, coming off a pair of dominant wins after losing three in a row last week.

All four district tournament games will be held at Borderite Stadium, starting May 2 with bottom seeds Mt. Baker and Nooksack Valley playing for a chance to face Lynden Christian.

Blaine will face Meridian on

Saturday, May 4 at 4:30 p.m., with the winner headed to the conference finals on Saturday, May 11 at 7 p.m.

Girls Tennis

Blaine girls tennis earned another team win on the season, defeating Sedro-Woolley at home on Monday, April 29 by a score of 4-3.

Sara Olinger-Stirrat defeated her opponent in three sets, 6-3, 2-6, 6-3; Ana Tuski won in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6.

In doubles, Blaine won two out of three matchups, with Sabrina Boczek and Tori Taengdaen

winning in three sets, 6-7, 6-2, 6-3; and Carly Saunders and Bea Dickson also winning in three sets, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3.

It was the Borderites’ second team win on the season, and their second win in the past three events. On April 25, the Borderites fell to Ferndale at home, losing the team event 5-2, but with wins from Tori Taengdaen in her individual game – winning in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2 – and in doubles with Elle Reynolds and Ryleigh Clark winning in straight sets, 6-1, 7-5.

The Borderites now have just three more matchups before the end of the regular season, with two games on the road against Squalicum on Wednesday, May 1 at 4 p.m. (after press time), and Friday, May 3 at 4:30 p.m. against Sehome.

Blaine’s final home game will be against Anacortes on Monday, May 6 at 4 p.m.

Track & Field

Blaine track and field had a busy weekend, hosting a threeteam event at Borderite Stadium on April 25, then traveling to Lakewood for the Sunny and 70 Invitational just days later on April 27.

NOTICE OF FLUSHING

The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system.

The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.

During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820, or visit www.cityofblaine.com for weekly area updates. Blaine Public Works.

Hosting Squalicum and Lakewood in a rainy, cold Borderite Stadium, Blaine’s sprinters had a solid performance across the board. Dylan Johnson and Jaiden Paez both ran personal-best, sub12 second 100-meter races, finishing second and third, respectively. Johnson ran a 11.67 race, finishing just over .05 seconds behind the first-place Squalicum sprinter, and Paez ran 11.85.

In the girls’ 100-meter spring, three Blaine sprinters finished in the top-four, with freshman Cheyenne Parker earning first place with a PR of 13.06, and Kaitlyn Ritter Von-Trautmann (13.69) and Juliana Zuzarte (13.86) finishing third and fourth.

Parker also won the 400-meter race with a time of 1:04.58, with freshman Teia Dube finishing fourth with a PR of 1:09.27.

The boys 4x100-meter relay team finished third, with Justin Minjarez, Colby Shipp, Beckum Bleazard and Dylan Johnson combining for a 46.17-second finish, just under a second behind the first-place Squalicum team.

Blaine’s field team also had a great day, despite the downpour, with senior Tyler Bouma setting a PR in shot put with a 40’ 8 throw, placing him third on the day, and senior Deja Dube leading all girls in discus with a staggering 96’ 7 attempt, beating the second-place Squalicum finisher by over 12 feet.

Dube’s little sister, freshman Teia, also had a great day in the field, setting a PR in high jump at 4’ 10, earning her a first-place finish.

AJ Anthony-Bennett won the long jump category with a 19’ 6.75 jump, and Makenna Lausier won the girls pole vault category with a 7’ vault.

B y N ola N B aker

s From top, senior infielder Millie Berkeley throws a runner out at first during Blaine’s 7-4 loss to Mt. Baker on April 30. Junior sprinter Josiah Weeda finishes his 100-meter race at Borderite Stadium on April 25.

Photos by Nolan Baker

School ...

From page 1

our students and staff.”

Various board members said they appreciated the time and energy put in by SEIU on the proposal, and superintendent Christopher Granger said the district will take into consideration some of its proposals, such as consolidating certain administrative roles and responsibilities. But all five board members, including Ben Lazarus who voted via phone, voted to ratify the original reduced education program.

“This is not the ideal for anyone, but I don’t believe that the plan presented [by SEIU] would allow us to meet the needs of the district right now,” Granger said. “As hard as all of this is, I would stick by the resolution and the plan that was presented last Monday [April 22] as the best of the bad options at this time.”

District 4 board member Ryan Swinburnson said he was encouraged by the response from the community, and urged the public to turn its attention toward the

Sports ...

From page 6

All told, the Borderites had a great day on their home turf, and will hope to bottle some of that confidence when the twoday District 1 1A Championships begin at Lynden Christian on Wednesday, May 8 and continue on Friday, May 10. The Borderites will face off against conference foes Lynden Christian, Meridian, Mt. Baker and Nooksack Valley for a chance at state qualification.

Softball

The Borderites started the week with a dominant 6-0 win over Burlington-Edison on the road on April 26. Sophomore Mesa Puls broke the scoreless tie in the third inning with a solo home run, and junior Shaylie Daniels added on with two hits on the night, including a grand

state legislature to provide more funding to public schools.

“I got the belief that it’s not an, ‘us versus them’ mentality right now,” Swinburnson said. “I’m hopeful that everybody that reached out to the board can continue to reach out to the legislators at the state and push them to properly fund our school district so we’re not in this situation every again.”

Another $500,000 will be cut from non-staff expenditures for next year’s budget, and the superintendent will be able to adjust the final budget before board approval in the summer.

Planned salary increases for teachers, losing pandemic-era American Rescue Plan Act funding, lowering enrollment, and the 2018 McCleary decision that impacts how much local levy dollars the district can collect, have all impacted the district’s bottom line, leading to consecutive years of budget cuts and staff layoffs.

The board will meet again for its next regular meeting on Tuesday, May 28, and will release a notice in June or July regarding the completion of a draft budget for the 202425 school year.

slam to put the Borderites up for good. All told, Blaine tallied 10 hits, with junior Brie Smith leading the pack with three.

Blaine then came into its April 30 home game against Mt. Baker riding a six-game winning streak, but weren’t able to silence the Mountaineers’ offense, which got up to a 7-0 lead by the fourth inning.

An attempt at a comeback was made a few times, with the Borderites scoring three runs in the bottom of the fourth to cut the lead to just four, but senior Mt. Baker pitcher Ava Jeretzky was able to keep runners off the basepath and earn her league-leading 13th win.

The Borderites had moments of stringing hits together, with Teya Zaddack recording an RBI double and two runs scored and senior Millie Berkeley going 2-3 with a run scored.

But the offense never got that big inning, and Blaine lost just its fourth game on the season. It was a battle between two of the best pitchers in the NWC, and one of them had to take the loss. Blaine ace Emersyn Bakker struck out 10 batters, but hit a few along the way and couldn’t keep the bases clean throughout the game.

Bakker still leads the league in strikeouts, but will look to get back in the win column when the Borderites travel to Meridian on Thursday, May 2 at 4 p.m.

The Borderites still hold the best record in 1A NWC, at 11-4 overall and 9-2 in the conference, and will host three of its last four regular season games at Pipeline Field before district playoffs begin.

The Borderites’ next home game is Saturday, May 4 at 12 p.m. against Mt. Vernon.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s Blaine senior first baseman Teya Zaddack, l., rounds second base after hitting a double against Mt. Baker on April 30 at Pipeline Fields. Zaddack went 2-2 with a double, walk and RBI. Blaine junior Ian Tuski, r., runs through a tunnel of supporting teammates after his 1600-meter race at Borderite Stadium on April 25. Photos by Nolan Baker

Active S eniors

Inevitable change at Blaine Senior Center

There are many things that are inevitable in life. We are all going to get older. We will all eventually pass away. As time goes by, change will always happen. Why? The world changes. Every generation will change usually through new

experiences, stronger data, education, medical advances, new technology, new trends, and greater experiences. Ageism is a variable that is prevalent in the lives of many seniors. It is a factor within the senior population. Why? Every generation, even within the senior population is different.

As we get older, we hold onto the things that make us happy: the food we are used to, the activities we know and enjoy doing, and often the beliefs that were strong within our childhood and active lives. Our oldest generations are very different from our younger 50-plus generations.

In talking to many people who realize they are getting older, I understand there is a fear of becoming older. Whether they believe they will lose the things they cherish and enjoy doing, or whether they realize they will soon be the same age as they re-

member their grandparents or other seniors within the memories of their younger lives. This makes labeling themselves as a senior hard and sometimes makes them resentful of the process. Deniability is understandable. My response: We all get older but getting old is a mindset.

We have 50 years of seniors and three (soon to be four) generations at Blaine Senior Center. This means the center has a diverse population of members that grew up in generations with different wants and needs, expectations of how they want to grow older, interest and taste.

There is not a formula that says once you succumb to the fact you are older that you will want to play cards, pool, or that you will become your memories of what it is to be older. This is generational. The reality of what it is to be a senior is more likely going to take on the variables of

Tips to find a home health aide

A desire to live independently seems to be part of human nature. Though that desire may continue to burn as individuals approach retirement age, unforeseen circumstances like medical issues or the death of a partner may result in a need to work with a professional caregiver. Home health aides (HHAs) can help aging individuals or those with certain physical or cognitive limitations live full lives without requiring them to move into as-

sisted living facilities or seek alternative housing arrangements. HHAs provide a host of services, and individuals living in well-populated areas may have no shortage of options as they seek to hire a professional to help themselves or a loved one with the tasks of daily life. Individuals or families beginning their search for a home health aide can keep these tips in mind.

• Identify the services required. The Family Caregiver Alliance®

notes there are several main areas to assess when identifying which services individuals may need help with. Personal care consists of bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, and grooming. Household care involves cooking, cleaning, laundry, and shopping. HHAs who provide medical care may help clients manage medications, provide physical therapy and help clients get to their doctor’s appointments. Companionship is a component of emotional care,

your generation. This is where senior centers can help.

When I took my job as the senior center executive director, my first task was to look at the changing demographics of the senior population, understand the differences between our elder generations, and to look at issues senior centers were now facing. I formed a belief that it was imperative that centers change their perspective of seniors to understand the generational differences, to offer progressive resources that all generations could enjoy, and to offer specific resources that could help bring our younger elder generations into the center’s population.

The biggest reason for this is because it became apparent that if senior centers do not change, they will stay old and eventually die out.

A senior center is not a convalescent home. It should be a center for active living for those who want to

which also may entail engaging clients in meaningful activities and conversation. Identifying the services required can help individuals and their families zero in on the professionals who can help them.

• Seek recommendations from trusted doctors and confidantes.

An individual who needs daily assistance at home can ask his or her physician for recommendations (family members can ask as well). Physicians undoubtedly have had previous patients who have benefited from the services of HHAs, so they can likely recommend local professionals. Trusted confidantes, such as neighbors, relatives and friends, who have been in similar situations, or have family members who have required HHAs, also can be an invaluable resource.

• Contact a local agency. The FCA notes that contacting a local Home Care Agency is a formal way to find an HHA for yourself or a loved one. Various agencies are likely in operation within a reasonable distance of a person’s home, though the FCA

stay busy, enjoy resources that could make life better, and most importantly, have a community. Since my hire, the center has done this. We have doubled our membership. We have embraced every senior generation and the community at large. We have brought in a fresh environment that showcases the vitality of the center. Our center has become a resource for every senior and member of this community.

Change is hard. It was predictably hard for some of my older seniors, but they have been amazing. As time has gone by, the change has been embraced by most. We are proud to be seniors (even though I would like to take the word seniors out of our name).

We still need to grow. The center should make sense in a community that has more 50-plus individuals than any other population.

Seniors are important in Blaine. We need the support of community organizations as we transform ourselves into a much needed “center for active living”. Pete Nelson is executive director of Blaine Senior Center.

notes far fewer agencies serve rural areas. Contacting a local Home Care Agency can put individuals and their families in contact with professionals who can help match people with particular needs with HHAs who specialize in such care or have extensive experience providing a range of home care services.

• Look into a direct-hire group. AARP notes that direct-hire agencies maintain networks of independent caregivers and facilitate connections between professionals and those seeking help. When working with a direct-hire group, inquire about their fees and ask if they can share any information regarding how to pay independent contractors who can be found through their agencies. It’s also important to ask if direct-hire groups formally vet professionals that can be found through them or if individuals and families must conduct background checks.

Individuals who need assistance with daily living can employ various strategies to find home health aides who can provide such services.

s Pete Nelson. File photo

May Blaine Senior Center Lunch Menu

11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Wed, May 1: Panko Parmesan Cod or Veggie Cutlet, Roasted Yam, Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, Coleslaw, Raspberry Sherbet

Thu, May 2: Pesto Tortellini or Vegetarian Pesto Pasta, Sauteed Zucchini & Peppers, Caesar Salad, Fresh Grapes

Fri, May 3: Cinco De Mayo Lunch –Beef Fajitas w/ Flour Tortillas orVeggie Fajitas, Cilantro Lime Rice, Garden Salad, Tropical Fruit

Mon, May 6: Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce or Marinara, Italian Vegetable blend, Caesar Salad, Sliced Peaches

Tue, May 7: Turkey Meatloaf or Vegan Cutlet, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas and Carrots, Garden Salad

Wed, May 8: Homestyle Chili or Vegan Chili, w/ Cheese & Sour Cream, Cornbread, Green Salad, Ice Cream

Thu, May 9: Chicken or Vegan Tenders, Sweet Potato Fries, Broccoli Bacon Salad, Orange Creamsicle Salad

Fri, May 10: Mother’s Day Brunch – Eggs Benedict w/ Hollandaise, Roasted Potatoes w/ Peppers, Sausage Links, Cheese Blintz w/ Berry Sauce, Fresh Fruit Salad,Brunch Punch

Mon, May 13: Chicken or Veg Cordon Bleu, Baked Yam, Green Beans, Spinach Salad, Ambrosia

Tue, May 14: Shrimp & Sausage or Vegan Gumbo, Rice, Broccoli, Garden Salad, Fresh Pineapple

Wed, May 15: Beef Stroganoff or Veg Burgundy, Rotini Pasta, Nantucket Vegetables, Spinach Salad, Apple Crisp

Thu, May 16: Chinese BBQ Pork or Tofu, Veggie Fried Rice, Sesame Broccoli, Mandarin Oranges, Fortune Cookie

Fri, May 17: Chicken Apple Walnut Salad or Garden Salad, Oatmeal Bread, Sliced Oranges

Mon, May 20: Swiss Steak or Veggie Patty, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Garden Salad, Lime Jell-O Salad

Tue, May 21: Sweet & Sour Chicken or Vegan Chicken, Brown Rice, Asian Vegetables, Asian Sesame Slaw, Tropical Fruit Medley

Wed, May 22: Denver Omelets, Roasted Potatoes, Fresh Fruit, Cinnamon Roll

Thu, May 23: Chicken or Mushroom Pot Pie, Garden Salad, Grapes

Fri, May 24: Bacon or Garden

Cheeseburgers, Baked Beans, Coleslaw, Watermelon

Mon, May 27: Memorial Day

Tue, May 28: Vegetable Beef & Barley or Vegan Barley Soup, Grilled Cheese, Garden Salad, Chocolate Chip Cookie

Wed, May 29: Birthday Lunch –BBQ Chicken, Scalloped Potatoes, Nantucket Vegetables, Citrus Kale Salad, Birthday Cake

Thu, May 30: Pork Carnitas Street Tacos, Spanish Rice, Mexican Street Corn Salad, Fresh Fruit Salad

Fri, May 31: Seared Ahi Tuna Salad, Spring Rolls, Orange Wedges

Subject to change. While quantities last.

At 81, Birch Bay resident is pickleball extraordinaire

B y r oss D avi D so N

Having lived around the U.S. and overseas, Bud Meltsner settled in Birch Bay Village. New to the area and knowing nobody, he was looking for a way to meet people and stay active. He accidentally discovered pickleball and it changed his life, allowing him to both stay active and meet new people.

The year was 2010 and Meltsner instantly fell in love with the game. He started playing in the village and played tournaments across the border in Canada and around the U.S. He invited many of the players he met to visit and play in Birch Bay Village, which developed into an advanced, competitive group of players.

Over the years, many of them have become some top players in B.C. and Washington. Meanwhile, in a few short years, the game of pickleball grew from its

relatively obscure beginnings on Bainbridge Island near Seattle, to the fastest growing sport in North America. Pickleball soon earned the title of Washington’s offi-

cial state sport. It is now played professionally and recreationally around the world by millions of people, young and old alike.

Meltsner helped grow the game

by running clinics and helping to build and renovate many courts in the region. Birch Bay Village now boasts four dedicated outdoor pickleball courts that are kept busy most days with groups of all skill levels.

Meltsner, who oversees the advanced group, is looking to expand the group and is open to any players in the region who consider themselves at a skill level of 3.6 or above. This is a friendly group of competitive players who like to have fun while working to improve their game. To find out more, please email Bud Meltsner at budmeltsner@gmail.com.

In his 81st year, Meltsner still lights it up on the pickleball courts and is looking for more advanced players to join his group in Birch Bay Village.

s A group of advanced pickleball players from B.C. and Washington in Birch Bay Village. Photo by Donna Day

s Bud Meltsner. Photo by Donna Day

Lynden Heritage Museum showcases 65 years of country music

Exhibit features country music legend Loretta Lynn and ‘singing sister’ Darlene “Peachy” Little

The story of two trailblazing women who changed Whatcom County’s music scene in the ’50s and early ’60s – one who became one of country music’s greatest legends and the other who stayed in the county to raise her family – and the 65 years of local country music that followed is now on display at the Lynden Heritage Museum.

The Whatcom County History of Country Music exhibit, which opened April 26, features the “singing sisters,” the late country music star Loretta Lynn and her friend Darlene “Peachy” Little, 87, who were two of the first women to sing with male bands at bars and granges in Whatcom County. Through displays and audio, the exhibit also tells the stories of other country musicians who graced those same stages in the years after and how they contributed to storytelling in the area.

“This exhibit is about country music, but as a whole it’s really about community and how over the decades, the backbone of Whatcom County is the community members who have come together to watch these musicians,” said Amanda May, the museum’s director.

The idea for the exhibit came from a call that Little’s daughter, Laurie Lee Lewis, made to May last December. On the call, Lewis relayed discovering her mother’s tape and written songs in an old cedar chest after her mother had a stroke. Little, who had stopped performing to care for her family, had recorded those songs when Lewis was a young child. As a gift, Lewis helped her mom release a CD with 21 of the songs titled, “Darlene Little –The Other Woman.”

The name, Lewis said, was about Little’s relationship with Lynn when the star got her start playing at local gigs in the

county. Questions surrounded Little’s identity after a Ken Burns PBS documentary aired a photo of Lynn with Little and their agent Alvin “Duke” Saulsbury at Bill’s Tavern in Blaine in the mid-20th century.

“We women didn’t have the voice that we have now, so you can only imagine what it was like to see two powerhouse talented women performing with their own bands of men, raising babies, cooking and canning,” Lewis said.

Lynn moved to Custer at 14

“We women didn’t have the voice that we have now, so you can only imagine what it was like to see two powerhouse talented women performing with their own bands of men, raising babies, cooking and canning . ”

years old when she was pregnant with her first child and began playing around Whatcom County, with regular performances at Bill’s Tavern and the Delta Grange Hall on Loomis Trail Road. Lynn played with a Sumas band called The Westerners and later formed her own band, The Trailblazers.

Little met Lynn in the late ’50s after Little finished a show at the Pastime in Blaine and ventured to Bill’s Tavern, where Lynn was performing. Little said her friendship with Lynn revolved around their love for singing.

“To communicate with music is a gift,” Little said. “Music is a wonderful thing.”

Border towns like Blaine and Sumas were popular for live music during that time, Lewis said.

“Blaine is the only one that

can claim the tavern that Loretta cut her teeth on and built her name,” Lewis said.

Lynn moved her family to Nashville in the early ’60s and became one of the most awarded women in country music. Meanwhile, in Van Zandt, Little and her husband, Jack, raised their family on music, a love that Lewis eventually passed on to her own family.

Little and Lynn kept in touch over the years, with Little visiting Lynn on her tour bus whenever she performed at the Lynden fair.

“The friendship of being able to support each other from two different worlds is priceless,” Lewis said.

Lynden mayor Scott Korthuis honored Little on a stage replicating Bill’s Tavern during the exhibit’s opening night April 26. Lewis and Little had the chance to sing one of Little’s discovered songs, “When My Hair Turns to Silver,” on stage together.

“Mom had the insight for all of us who hopefully will get to grow old of what that will be like and to look back and have good memories,” Lewis said of the song.

Little added, “She sang it so good. It was quite the evening.”

The exhibit will run through Friday, September 27. The exhibit has a dedication wall where 150 musicians’ names are highlighted. May said the museum is still collecting names to be added to the dedication wall.

“A museum will show you that we will die, but the music will live on,” Lewis said.

The Lynden Heritage Museum is located at 217 Front Street in Lynden. The museum is open from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12-4 p.m. Sunday. Children and veterans receive free admission to the museum, while students and senior tickets are $7 and adult tickets are $10.

B y G race M c c arthy

s Laurie Lee Lewis, l., and her mother Darlene “Peachy” Little during the opening reception of The Whatcom County History of Country Music exhibit at Lynden Heritage Museum on April 26. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s From l.; Little, Alvin “Duke” Saulsbury and Loretta Lynn at Bill’s Tavern in Blaine. Photo courtesy Lynden Heritage Museum

s Little’s tapes and old song lyrics that her daughter found in an old cedar chest are on display at the exhibit. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Little looks at a photo of her and Lynn in the museum exhibit opening reception on April 26. Photo courtesy Laurie Lee Lewis

s The exhibit features a replica of the old Bill’s Tavern. Photo by Grace McCarthy

CLASSIFIEDS MARKETPLACE

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF PIERCE In re Estate of LISA TERESE BROWN, Deceased. No. 24-4-00881-3. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030)

The Administrator named below has been appointed 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. 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 non-probate assets.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of BRIAN VICTOR DAVIS, Deceased. No. 24-4-0029437. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) Judge Evan P. Jones JOY MARGUERITE DAVIS has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased BRIAN VICTOR DAVIS must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by 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 have commenced.

The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative 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 this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedent.

DATE OF FILING OF NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH CLERK OF THE COURT: April 5, 2024

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: April 18, 2024

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: JOY MARGUERITE DAVIS

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESEN-

Date of First Publication: April 18, 2024

Administrator:

Patricia J. Brown

Attorney for Administrator: Daniel E. Pizarro, WSBA #47937 Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess PLLC 1200 East D Street Tacoma, WA 98421

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JANET LEE JACOBSEN, Deceased. No. 24-4-00305-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson

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: April 9, 2024 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: April 18, 2024

Name of Administrator: WILLIAM BAYER

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: April 9, 2024

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Administrator: WILLIAM BAYER

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JANET LOUISE LUTZ-SMITH, Deceased. No. 24-4-00246-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Judge Robert Olson.

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: April 10, 2024, with the Clerk of Court

Date of First Publication: April 18, 2024

Name of Personal Representative: Roberta Miller

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: April 10, 2024

True North Legal Services, PLLC

Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Attorney for Personal Representative: Roberta Miller

Published in The Northern Light April 18, April 25, and May 2, 2024.

THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR WHATCOM COUNTY STATE OF WASHINGTON In re the Estate of RICHARD FILLMORE DOWELL, deceased. No. 24-4-0011437. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman.

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against this Decedent must, before the time when the claim would be barred by any applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to personal representative at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented by the later of (1): Thirty (30) days after the personal representative served or mailed this notice as provided in RCW 11.40.020(1)(c), or (2) Four (4) months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time period, the claim will be forever barred except as provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective for claims against both the Decedent’s probate and non-probate assets.

Date of First Publication: April 25, 2024

Personal Representative(s): Carrie Lynn Dowell

Address for mailing or service: Dean Prather Esq. PLLC 1300 W Holly St Ste 203 Bellingham WA 98225

BBWARM to hold meeting on rate design alternatives

The Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on rate design alternatives at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 8 at the Birch Bay Village Clubhouse, 8181 Cowichan Road.

The meeting will also be held via Zoom. The meeting agenda and Zoom link is available on the BBWARM website at bit. ly/3xZbbCR.

BBWARM began considering raising rates for the first time since the district was formed in 2009 due to increasing construction costs and many stormwater improvement projects needed in Birch Bay. In August 2023, the BBWARM advisory committee hired FCS Group to conduct a rate study and funding analysis.

The district has held several meetings on the potential rate increases. After the upcoming meeting discussing rate design alternatives, a final rate structure will be recommended to Whatcom County Council, likely in late June. County council will hold a public hearing before voting on whether to increase the rates.

Rates are based on the density of impervious surface area on a property, such as pavement, roofs, driveways or parking areas. The average single-family home in Birch Bay has 4,000 square feet of impervious surface and pays $75 annually, according to the district.

Election ...

From page 5

(D-Bellingham).

• All four Whatcom County Superior Court judges. The fouryear, nonpartisan positions are currently held by Robert E. Olson, Evan Jones, Lee Grochmal and David E. Freeman).

• Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 3 Judge Position 1. The six-year, nonpartisan position is currently held by Cecily Hazelrigg.

• Public Utility District No. 1

Commissioner District 1. The twoyear, unexpired term for the nonpartisan position represents south and southeast Whatcom County. The position was left vacant when Christine Grant resigned May 1.

• Public Utility District No. 1

Commissioner District 2. The six-year, nonpartisan position representing northeast county is held by Atul Deshmane.

• Charter review commission. The Whatcom County charter is reviewed every 10 years by a commission made up of members serving one-year terms. Three candidates from each county council district are elected in the November election (they bypass the August primary).

• Precinct committee officer positions in Whatcom County. The positions are two-year terms. In addition to local positions,

OBITUARY

Stephen Gerald Hyde

January 2, 1939 – April 23, 2024

Stephen Gerald ‘Steve’ Hyde was born on January 2, 1939 to Raymond Leo and Mildred May Hyde in Anamosa, IA, where he won the new baby contest that year. He died on April 23, 2024 at the age of 85 in Blaine, WA.

Steve grew up in Anamosa, with his sister Devonna Matthiessen and had extended family who lived in nearby farming communities. He attended St. Louis University for undergraduate and the University of Iowa for Dental School. It was at the University of Iowa in the Newman Center (Catholic student center) and in the student dental clinic where he first met Nilda Elida Alvarez, another student at the University of Iowa. They married on June 8, 1963. Steve entered the Army during the Vietnam War as a dental surgeon and was stationed in Fort Sill, OK where his son Stephen Gerald II was born. After leaving the army, they moved to Marquette, MI where his daughter Terri Brook was born. Steve and Nilda were an active part of the community in Marquette until 1980 with two years in Texas in 1977-1979. In 1980, Steve and Nilda brought their family to Mukilteo, WA where he had a thriving dental practice. Steve and Nilda discovered Birch Bay, WA in 1984 and bought land. They retired full time and moved to Birch Bay in 2001.

Steve thoroughly enjoyed his professional life as a dentist and was always learning and expanding his dental skills. He and Nilda started many thriving dental practices in the places they lived in Michigan, Texas, and Washington state. He was part of the communities serving in the Knights of Columbus.

Steve’s motto in life though was that he ‘worked to live and not lived to work.’ While living in Iowa and Michigan, Steve had an avid love of hunting. It was in the early 1970s where Steve discovered his passion for sailing. In the cold winters in Upper Michigan, Steve built a catamaran named the Vasha II after his daughter – a boat he could sail on Lake Superior during the summers. He eventually bought a Westsail 32, named Gitana. This is the boat that he spent over 30 years lovingly building and rebuilding, refinishing the teak decks. When he moved to Texas, he and his son sailed this boat through New York Harbor along the east Coast and to Corpus Christi, TX. He spent over 20 summers taking month long sailing trips through the San Juan Islands, around Vancouver islands, and in some years into the Straits of Juan de Fuca. During these trips he was accompanied regularly by many friends and his grandsons Connor and Eric. He was active in the Birch Bay Village Yacht Club (BBVYC) and served as Commodore. He loved to compete in the sailing regattas held by the BBVYC.

In addition to sailing, Steve’s hobbies ranged from golfing, woodworking, scuba diving, and underwater photography. He was a voracious reader with a particular love of World War II fiction. Upon his retirement, Steve decided that he would learn to play an instrument, the mandolin. He had many years of enjoyment and played with friends in Birch Bay Village.

Steve is survived by wife Nilda; son Stephen (wife Jan) and their children Connor (deceased), Kelsey and Eric; daughter Terri and her children Dylan and Sasha.

A funeral mass was held on Friday, April 26 and a graveside with military honors.

a number of state and federal positions will be up in the November election. Those positions include U.S. Senator (incumbent Maria Cantwell), U.S. Representative (Rick Larsen), Governor (Jay Inslee), Lt. Governor (Denny Heck), Secretary of State (Steve Hobbs), State Treasurer (Mike Pellicciotti), State Auditor (Pat McCarthy), Attorney General (Bob Ferguson), Commissioner of Public Lands (Hilary Franz), Superintendent of Public Instruction (Chris Reykdal), Insurance Commissioner (Mike Kreidler), Supreme Court Justice Position 2 (Susan Owens), Supreme Court Justice Position 8 (Steve Gonzalez) and Supreme Court Justice Position 9 (Sheryl

Gordon McCloud).

Candidates will file with the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office or the Washington Secretary of State’s Office, depending on the position. The Secretary of State accepts filings for all federal, statewide executive, legislative, court of appeals and superior court positions, while the county auditor’s office accepts filings for all other offices.

Candidates may file their declaration of candidacy online, by mail or in person for both the auditor’s office and secretary of state. For more information on filing, visit the county auditor’s website at bit.ly/44mbXWt or the Secretary of State website at bit.ly/3WqiX2H

sheriff’s repOrts

April 20, 11:12 a.m.: DUI arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 20, 12:30 p.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Seavue Road.

April 20, 4:05 p.m.: Domestic –physical on Anderson Road.

April 20, 4:59 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Terrace Drive.

April 20, 5:39 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Harborview Road.

April 20, 7:49 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Bay Road.

April 21, 7:25 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 21, 2:48 p.m.: Domestic –physical on East Street.

April 21, 5:12 p.m.: DUI arrest on Harborview Road.

April 21, 5:49 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Harborview Road.

April 22, 7:35 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on West Badger Road.

April 22, 10:53 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Seawan Place.

April 22, 11:45 a.m.: Mental health check cold call on Moonlight Way.

April 22, 3:50 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Harborview Road.

April 23, 10:20 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Loomis Trail Road.

April 23, 12:15 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Stein Road.

April 23, 8:23 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Zell Road.

April 23, 11:51 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Delta Line Road.

April 25, 7:31 a.m.: Death investigation on Birch Terrace Drive.

April 25, 9:20 a.m.: Overdose on Coquitlam Drive.

April 25, 10:10 a.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Salish Road.

April 25, 10:20 a.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 25, 11:37 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 25, 12:04 p.m.: Suspicious person on Alderson Road.

April 25, 2:43 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Creasey Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

April 14, 3:00 a.m.: Overdose on Alder Street.

April 14, 2:47 p.m.: Missing child on Kickerville Road.

April 14, 7:43 p.m.: Missing childe on 9th Street.

April 15, 5:35 a.m.: Overdose on Martin Street.

April 17, 4:04 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on Fraser Street.

April 18, 7:12 a.m.: Burglary on Harrison Avenue.

April 19, 11:52 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Grant Avenue.

April 20, 12:21 a.m.: Vehicle prowl on Kingsley Avenue.

April 20, 8:14 p.m.: Drugs on F

Coming up

Kindergarten Registration Open: If your child will be five years old on or before August 31, 2024, register now at blainesd.org/o/ blaine-primary-school.

May Days at the Bridge: Wednesdays–Saturday though May, 11 a.m.–4 p.,m., the Bridge Community Hope Center Boutique, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com.

Community Breakfast: Saturdays, 8–11 a.m., American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. All-you-can-eat pancakes $5, kids 4 and under get free pancakes. Other breakfast items available for purchase. Hosted by G.O.A.T. Sandwiches. Info: 360/296-4204. Portion of proceeds benefits the American Legion.

ACROSS

1. Lions do it

5. In favor of 8. Rest here please (abbr.) 11. Pulpits

13. Leisure activity

14. Fertility god 15. Financial obligations 16. When you anticipate getting somewhere 17. Spanish river 18. Sporting events

20. Type of tree 21. Ceased to be 22. Persons 25. Synthetic resin 30. Relates to photochemical reactions

31. Father 32. Former Cowboys coach 33. City in Finland

38. Run batted in 41. Got through 43. They darken skin 45. In a harmful way 48. Form of weaving 49. City of Angels

hoopster

50. Caucasian language

55. Syngman __, Korean president 56. Sun up in New York

57. Paddled 59. Fishes 60. Affirmative 61. Nimble 62. Doctor of Education 63. Soviet Socialist Republic 64. A small island DOWN

1. Cool! 2. Hebrew unit of measure 3. Swedish rock group 4. College army 5. Favor over another 6. Called it a career 7. Egg-shaped wind instrument 8. Israeli statesman 9. Hurries 10. Slog 12. Midway between south and southeast

14. Benedictine monk 19. Self-immolation by fire ritual 23. Family of regulator genes 24. Surrendering 25. Political action committee 26. S. American plant 27. Long-term memory 28. Bark 29. Breathes in 34. Take hold of 35. Everyone has one 36. Valentine’s Day color 37. Drivers’ licenses and passports 39. Outer walls of castles

40. Enters with force

41. One thousandth of an inch 42. Deceased Chinese politician 44. Sugary secretion of plants 45. Expressed pleasure

46. Shelter 47. Utilizes

Street.

April 21, 2:55 a.m.: Juvenile problem on Willeys Lake Road.

April 21, 1:23 p.m.: Hit & run on Hughes Avenue.

April 22, 5:44 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Shore Pine Lane.

April 22, 8:36 a.m.: Burglary on Harrison Avenue.

April 22, 12:06 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on 15th Street.

April 24, 1:42 p.m.: Hit & run on H Street.

April 25, 11:26 a.m.: Harassment on Natures Path Way.

April 26, 11:56 p.m.: Theft on Boblett Street.

48 Forest resident

51. Fashion accessory

52. A sharply directional antenna

53. __ Kristofferson, actor 54. A bad place to end up 58. MLBer Gordon

THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

tides

April 18-24 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

The Firestarter Conference: May 2–5, hosted by The Christian Way Community Church, 1733 H St. Unit 260. Thursday night is a free youth rally, 6:30–9 p.m., with guest speakers, food, fun and fellowship. Main event is Friday 6:30–9:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday 10–11:30 a.m. Registration is open now! www.thechristianway.church. Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, May 2, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: Cinco de Mayo/Mexico. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Jaz de Mayo: Friday, May 3, 7–10 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Live music by Bellingham Dixieland All Stars, Blaine High School jazz band and jazz and swing choirs. $20 adults, $5 students, $10 members. Proceeds benefit the Blaine Harbor Music Festival.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, May 3, 7 p.m, The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Luke Francis. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Composting and Worms: Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Whether you have been thinking about a compost bin or becoming a worm wrangler, this workshop will get you started on composting. Covering the basics of food waste “recycling” followed by managing worms, indoors and out. Info: nwcore.org.

Star Wars Day: Saturday, May 4, 5:04 p.m., Gateway1890 Taphouse, 429 Peace Portal Drive. Dress in your favorite Star Wars character and meet like-minded friends who love everything Star Wars. We will take a short sidewalk stroll through downtown Blaine and finish at the Gateway 1890 Taphouse. Free. Family friendly.

Blessing of the Fleet: Sunday, May 5, 1:30 p.m., Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive. Remembering local fishers lost at sea during its 40th ceremony.

Write Here Write Now: Tuesday, May 7, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. An informal drop-in writing workshop with author Barbara Davis-Pyles where you can pull up a seat, work on your project, and talk with other writers. Info: wcls.org.

Clamming 101: Saturday, May 11, 1–4 p.m., Birch Bay State Park Heron Center. Learn shellfish regulations, how to dig for clams, clam species and methods of cleaning. Bring your shellfish license, shovel/trowel and a small bucket if you wish to keep clams. Led by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreations and Friends of Birch Bay State Park naturalists. Free. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Luncheon: Thursday, May 16, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Birch Bay Fire Station. 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Speaker: North Whatcom Fire Rescue chief Jason Van der Veen. RSVP: blainechamber.com.

Birch Bay Incorporation Association Quarterly Meeting: Thursday, May 16, 6 p.m., North Bay Community Church, 4895 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Join in-person or on Zoom. County executive Satpal Sidhu and Councilmembers Ben Elenbaas will speak, committees will share progress, address questions and receive feedback. Open to the public. Info: www. incorporatebirchbay.com.

Blaine’s Spring Block Party: Saturday, May 18, starting at 11 a.m.–6 p.m., Blaine G Street Plaza. Live music, street fair, beer garden, food trucks, bounce houses, corn hole. Info: blainechamber.com.

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, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

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

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of April 22 to April 28, 1.9 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 13.9 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 69.2°F on April 23 with a low of 36.2°F on April 22. Average high was 59.8°F and average low was 44.5°F.

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

Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

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

Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Mondays. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.

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

Southwest Airlines to stop operations out of Bellingham

B y G race M c c arthy retiring fourteen aircraft that it had planned to retire.

Southwest Airlines announced that it will no longer operate out of Bellingham International Airport (BLI) come August 4, citing capacity and financial constraints.

The April 25 announcement states a net loss of $231 million in the first quarter of 2024 with record first-quarter operating revenues of $6.3 billion.

Boeing aircraft delivery delays are also anticipated to impact the company in 2024 and 2025. Southwest had previously planned for a shortage of three aircraft as it retired more planes than it received from Boeing. However, Southwest is now planning for a shortage of 15 aircraft. Southwest will delay

Changing travel patterns, higher fuel prices and other cost pressures are also impacting Southwest, Bob Jordan, CEO and president of Southwest Airlines, wrote in the announcement.

In addition to BLI, Southwest will end operations out of the George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Cozumel International Airport in Mexico and Syracuse Hancock International Airport, all of which the company said were “underperforming markets.” Southwest will also reduce capacity at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport as part of its restructuring of other markets.

Blessing of the Fleet returns for 40th year

B y G ary D u N ster

It seems hard to believe that 40 years have passed since the first “Blessing of the Fleet” took place in 1984.

We have honored those who have been lost at sea since the turn of the century. Those fishers number 40.

We honor them by reading their names and ringing the ship’s bell and then placing a flower in a wreath. We also honor those fishers who have passed since the last blessing was held by doing the same.

At the end of the program, the wreath is taken out and set free in the waters of Boundary Bay. The wreath is taken out by a local fisherman and this year it will be Rob Markuson, the owner of the Pamela-Joyce.

The Fisherman’s Memorial Committee will host the event along with the Port of Bellingham and the Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

There will be dignitaries from Washington state and the city of Blaine.

Music will be provided by Bob Gray and his group. Selena Kramme and Mark Williams will also perform.

The clergy will pray for the fishers and their boats to insure safe travel to and from the fishing

Southwest will also cut costs in other ways, including limiting hiring and offering voluntary time off. The company expects to end 2024 with 2,000 fewer employees than the end of 2023.

Southwest began operating out of BLI in November 2021. Southwest flies directly from Bellingham to Las Vegas, Oakland and Denver. Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air and San Juan Airlines also fly out of BLI.

grounds for this fishing season.

The Blaine community has been outstanding in supporting the blessing for 40 years and so I extend an invitation to all. On behalf of the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee, we look forward to seeing you at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 5 at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center on Marine Drive. If the weather is good we will be outside, if not we will gather in the conference room.

s Southwest Airlines at BLI in November 2021.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Photo courtesy Richard Sturgill