The Northern Light: June 6-12, 2024

June 6 - 12, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

Initiative petition to repeal Healthy Children’s Fund, page 5

No injuries in Custer train derailment

A Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) train derailed near Custer on the 7700 block of Portal Way between Arnie and Valley View roads around 10:45 p.m. June 4.

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) didn’t report any loss of life or injury due to the derailment.

No materials were spilled from the six cars that derailed, and there is currently no risk to the public, according to BNSF Railway.

WCSO’s Division of Emergency Management was notified about the train derailment about 11:45 p.m. June 4, and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) and BNSF Railway responded to the incident. BNSF railroad officers “had full control” of the derailed train by 1 a.m. June 5, according to WCSO.

WCSO announced Portal Way between Valley View and Arnie roads would be closed for the remainder of June 5 as the division of emergency management, NWFR and BNSF cleared the railroad and surrounding area.

“Our Division of Emergency Management has processes in place to support first responders in events such as this,” Sheriff Donnell Tanksley said in a statement. “Our priority is always life safety, and it is gratifying that there was and is no risk to the public from this event.”

BNSF public affairs director Lena Kent

Train, page 5)

Scottish festival photos, page 6

Blaine’s badminton champion, page 16

Runners participate in Birch Bay 5K Fun Run

s The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 held its

Activity Center and made their way to Beach Cat Brewing

Increased illegal crossings cause tighter restrictions at Peace Arch Historical State Park

The U.S. Border Patrol has new restrictions for people from Canada visiting the Washington side of Peace Arch Park in response to an increase in people attempting to cross the border illegally at the park.

Jason Givens, a spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, wrote in an email to The Northern Light that U.S. Border Patrol, which is part of CBP, had seen a “dramatic increase” in illegal border crossings in and around Peace Arch Historical Park since 2022.

CBP was unable to provide data on the number of people who attempted to illegal-

ly cross the border through the park. However, CBP data shows a significant increase in illegal border crossings along the northern land border in the Blaine sector.

In 2021, U.S. Border Patrol had 112 encounters in the Blaine sector area. That number grew to 407 in 2022, 1,489 in 2023 and is at its highest with 1,732 encounters so far in 2024, according to CBP data.

“The U.S. Border Patrol is dedicated to preserving the legacy and traditions of Peace Arch Park while also preventing transnational criminal organizations from exploiting the park to gain illegal entry into the United States,” Givens wrote.

The park is located on both sides of the

Three arrested at Luxury Spa in Blaine

B y N ola N B aker

One woman and two men were arrested on May 29 after officers from the Blaine Police Department executed a search warrant at the Luxury Spa, located at the Blaine International shopping center, 1733 H Street, Suite 800. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Bellingham Police Department assisted. Law enforcement vehicles entered the parking lot just after 1 p.m. and arrested

Jie Deng, 39, of Renton, on a charge of second-degree rape, which she is suspected of committing at the spa, according to a May 29 Blaine PD press release. Blaine PD also arrested two patrons who were present, Todd Aric Berge, 57, of Blaine, and Ankhjargal Jargalsaikhan, 38, of Corona, California, on preliminary charges of patronizing a prostitute.

Berge and Jargalsaikhan were booked into Whatcom County Jail around 4:20 p.m. May 29 and released about 5 p.m. the same day, according to jail booking data.

Deng’s bail was set at a $25,000 bond or $2,500 cash, and she was released May 31.

According to an affidavit of probable cause, on April 25, Deng sexually assaulted a female customer who reported the incident to police on May 10. The victim also told Blaine PD that, while paying, Deng attempted to cover up a screen that showed multiple camera views inside the location, including the room where the victim had been assaulted.

According to court documents, Deng

U.S./Canada border, split as Peace Arch Historical State Park in Washington and Peace Arch Provincial Park in B.C. The park previously allowed people from the U.S. and Canada to meet anywhere within it without going through customs, making it a rare and popular location for loved ones to meet when the border was closed to non-essential travel during the pandemic.

Canadians were previously able to enter the U.S. side of the park in Washington from 0 Avenue in B.C., but Givens wrote that Border Patrol agents are telling people attempting to enter the park along 0 Ave-

(See Peace Arch, page 3)

Birch Bay 5K Fun Run on May 31. Dozens of runners left the Birch Bay

on Birch Bay Drive.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

B y N ola N B aker

From page 1

was provided a public defendant and Mandarin interpreter via phone for her preliminary appearance. An arraignment date is

set for Friday, June 7.

BPD officers were seen leaving the business with multiple evidence bags, according to eyewitness reports.

Christine Sittner, manager of the Subway sandwich shop next door, said the 1,200 square-foot spa had

been consistently busy since opening a few months ago, operating on a “cash-only” basis that served both local and Canadian customers coming from over the border. According to the Washington State Department of Revenue, the business is owned by Dandan

Your premier source for landscaping materials in Ferndale, Blaine & Birch Bay

Wu, and has operated with a valid business license since March 20. The city of Blaine did not respond to request for comments on whether Luxury Spa’s business license was still active.

“Our thoughts go out to the victim of the sexual assault,” the

Blaine PD statement said. “We are glad to have been able to bring the suspect to justice. We want to thank the community for your tips and information, which led to the completion of a criminal case and the arrest of three subjects.”

s Blaine Police Department officers made three arrests in the Luxury Spa at the Blaine International shopping center on May 29.

Photo by Nolan Baker

Peace Arch ...

From page 1

nue to enter from the Canadian park. Once on the Washington side of the park, people from Canada are only allowed to roam as far east as the indoor kitchen and bathroom area.

Border Patrol agents have been patrolling Peace Arch Historical State Park and asking park guests from which side they arrived. Signs now line the park informing those who wish to enter the U.S. proper they need to be inspected by customs officers at the Peace Arch port of entry.

Christina Winkler, who runs the snack and gift shack at the park, said she’s observed attempted illegal crossings and increased

Border Patrol activity in the park.

“It is evident to me personally and anyone on both sides of the border who frequents or lives near the park,” Winkler said. Winkler, who also runs the International Peace Arch Park Association, said as a long-time

advocate of the park, she has contemplated the long-term implications, if any, of the situation.

“Let’s all look forward to welcoming the traveling public to Blaine and the international park for the 2024 tourist season,” she said.

s Groups meet on May 30 in the section of Peace Arch Historical Park in Washington where Canadians are allowed without being inspected by customs officers. Park guests from Canada are no longer allowed east of the kitchen and bathroom area in the park. Photos by Grace McCarthy

s A U.S. Border Patrol agent talks with someone in the parking lot at Peace Arch Historical Park on May 30.

s A U.S. Customs and Border Protection graph shows the number of U.S. Border Patrol encounters in

Blaine sector since 2021. There were 112 encounters in 2021, while there

far in 2024.

The Northern L ght

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

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

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

Letters Policy

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

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

Co-publisher & Advertising Director

Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter

Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager

Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

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Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue

Jonathan Jakobitz

Dianne Marrs-Smith

Pete Nelson

The Northern Light

225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXIX, No 51

Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Ace Hardware celebrates grand opening OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

The Blaine school district is in the process of cutting an additional $2.5 million in funds after last year’s devastating budget cuts. This leaves our community’s kids lacking needed support.

Teachers, paras, interventions, libraries and classes have been eliminated to stretch the woefully inadequate funds the state provided for public education.

The state’s paramount duty is to provide education to our children, and the state is falling short.

School districts around our state are in much the same situation or worse. Five school districts in our state are unable to balance their budgets and there are 14 additional districts facing the same fate. 2018’s McCleary ruling has left our community’s hands tied, limiting our voters’ ability to raise levy funds to make up the funding shortfall.

The state is paying $1,000 less per student than they did before the lawsuit designed to remedy funding inequities!

School funding is an incredibly complex issue but the May 27 article in the Seattle Times by Janelle Retka does a wonderful job of summarizing the issues and explaining the devastating effects.

I encourage all people in Blaine to read the article and use their voices to advocate for our kid’s futures. We need more funding from the state. We need a fix to existing laws that limit Blaine’s ability to provide funds itself. Please join us as we work with our legislators to secure adequate funding to save our schools. There is a petition circulating on Change.org –“Fund Schools Now!”

Blaine has always supported our schools. Please join us as we work together to secure their future.

Vanessa Rushing Blaine

The Editor:

When will the Blaine dead of this community wake up?! After street parking becomes sold off as “garages” for these buildings resulting in reduction of public use parking spaces? After 70-foot tall condominiums are built that encroach downtown and remove vistas? Too late then. Irreversible. Damage done.

On June 10, Blaine City Council votes on the city hall brainstorm to reduce parking requirements for buildings constructed downtown, and to allow the city to sell street parking to these developers. Why? Because the city wants to allow these condos to be built with almost no onsite parking. Reducing parking requirements makes sense only if people don’t need cars. In Blaine cars are a necessity. Also, can the city even sell off parking located on a state thoroughfare?

Blaine, please wake up before the council approves this. That will be hard though because the sedative the city is using is to ignore the public. Parking alternatives were offered in writing by the community to the city and planning commission with neither entity publicly considering them. Why not? Council has anesthetized residents too by closing off public comment. Hmm, doesn’t state statute require such situations to have, “continuous two-way public input?” BTW, council’s use of Roberts Rules of Order also doesn’t allow for that.

All these buildings and parking would

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.

be located right in the middle of our business zone. How will this stimulate business? Where will business patrons park? (Bellingham.) Why? Because residents of these buildings will want to park in front of their homes, thus taking away parking from businesses. When I park my car on the street, it is in front of my house. Would Mike Harmon and Alex Wenger park their transportation to work by Edaleen’s and then walk from there to city hall? (No.) Since Blaine residents have again been cast aside by the city, I urge residents to show up in numbers as a wall of denied people on June 10. Let the council know this matters. If not, besides losing parking, we will lose Blaine. Ray Leone Blaine

The Editor:

Many thanks to the organizers and participants in the Scottish Gathering held for the first time in Blaine on June 1 at Marine Park. Deserving special recognition is the founder and executive director Heather Richendrfer, who pulled together countless elements and personalities to create an event that will become a treasured memory for the attendees. Congratulations to all the musicians, dancers and athletes who donated their time and talents to celebrate the glories of Scottish culture. Please come back next year!

MacLeod Cushing Blaine

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. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.

s Ace Hardware celebrated its grand opening in Blaine with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 30. The store, which held a soft opening in November, now has a paint department, outdoor garden department, lawnmowers, grills and other goods. From l.; Blaine Chamber of Commerce president Tim Woodard, chamber director Pete Nelson, store manager Ray Maxon, store owner Philippe Boulos, district manager Vicaro Weston, chamber executive director Jacquee Sovereign, and chamber treasurer Doug Cornelsen.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Auditor’s office reviews initiative petition to repeal Healthy Children’s Fund

Initiative 2024-01, a measure to repeal Proposition 5 that created the Healthy Children’s Fund, is under review by the Whatcom County Auditor’s office for inclusion in the November 5 election.

The petition, backed by a political action committee called Washingtonians for a Sound Economy, was submitted to the county auditor’s office June 3. Auditor Stacy Henthorn said she expects the office will finish verifying signatures by the end of the week.

The petition needs 6,392 signatures from registered voters in Whatcom County to move forward in the initiative process. The petition submitted 9,833 signatures, Henthorn said.

Whatcom County voters passed Proposition 5 by only 20 votes in the November 2022 election, which had a turnout of nearly 71 percent of county voters.

Proposition 5 authorized the county to increase property taxes to fund early learning pro-

grams, childcare and support for homeless and other vulnerable children. Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS), which has four employees working fulltime on the Healthy Children’s Fund, administers the money to organizations operating the programs.

The measure increased the regular property tax levy by $.19 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for the next 10 years, equating to about $95 collected annually from the owner of a $500,000 home.

The fund is collecting roughly $10 million annually, and has collected about $15 million so far, said Sarah Simpson, child and family program supervisor at WCHCS.

Washingtonians for a Sound Economy’s website outlines that its main purpose in repealing Proposition 5 would be to lower county taxes. The tax worsens housing affordability and hurts residents struggling financially, the political action committee wrote on its website.

Campaign spokesperson Ash-

ley Butenschoen said momentum for the repeal initiative began during election season last year, when volunteers for other campaigns were hearing concerns about Proposition 5 and general cost of living increases while talking to voters. The group began collecting signatures across Whatcom County on March 27.

“Hearing from the residents of our community, they’re stressed about the affordability of Whatcom County and Washington state as a whole,” Butenschoen said. “This is a way to push back on a measure that wasn’t widely supported.”

According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Washingtonians for a Sound Economy had raised $59,700 in donations as of June 3.

The WCHCS has so far contracted or awarded $6.2 million for the Healthy Children’s Fund, which include $2.8 million for families at risk of homelessness, $800,000 for basic needs for children and $500,000 for drop-in childcare, Simpson said.

“We’re super excited about the

Blaine book review: “Calling for a Blanket Dance” by Oscar Hokeah

B y J o N atha N J ako B itz

“Calling for a Blanket Dance” is a moving tale of the power of heritage and generational connections. Author Oscar Hokeah stitches together a series of distinct narrative vignettes to create a unified story; one deeply profound and heartbreaking, yet also uplifting and inspiring.

The thread running throughout the book is the life of Ever Geimausaddle. Ranging from 1976 to 2013, “Calling for a Blanket Dance” begins with Geimausaddle’s early exposure to extreme violence in his infancy and spans to the struggles of navigating adulthood and particularly the challenges he faces as the father of a troubled adopted son.

Hokeah’s talent is on full display in “Calling for a Blanket Dance,” as he pieces together a series of compelling short stories to tell a full tale. These stories convey the generational trauma that is part of the Indigenous experience, balanced by the connection and hope one can find in grounding in heritage and community. Each chapter is a lived experience and perspective, full of life and evoking empathy, but also a patchwork piece of the larger narrative that forms to unfold Geimausaddle’s life.

Geimausaddle’s story is one of trauma, rage and anger, but tempered by kinship, hope and healing. “Calling for a Blanket Dance” is a beautiful reminder that trauma and violence doesn’t need to change one’s narrative

forever. These experiences leave scars, but with time and effort, we can heal from them.

“Calling for a Blanket Dance” should appeal to readers of contemporary fiction, memoirs and those looking for a greater understanding of the Indigenous experience in North America.

Visit wcls.org to find “Calling for a Blanket Dance” and other similar stories.“Calling for a Blanket Dance” is the June selection for the Books & Bites book group. Join Books & Bites at Blaine Public Library at 1 p.m. Friday, June 21 for a time of community and lively conversation. For more information, visit, bit.ly/4c6dSB4

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

progress being made and know more and more community benefit is going to be rolling out as time goes on,” Simpson said.

The auditor’s office began verifying signatures June 4. The public is able to watch the verification process at the auditor’s office, which can accommodate up to 12 people. Signatures will be verified from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the auditor’s office, 311 Grand Avenue, suite 103, in Bellingham. Signature reviewing will not be live streamed on the auditor’s website because state law prohibits photos being taken of voter signatures.

If the petition is verified, Whatcom County Council will need to accept the petition and create a resolution, allowing the auditor to put the measure in the November general election. Council may also adopt a substitute proposal, and both proposals would be on the ballot.

For questions about the auditor’s office reviewing the petition, contact the election division at the office at elections@co.whatcom.wa.us or 360/778-5102.

B y G race M c c arthy

s A train near Portal Way and Valley View roads in Custer around 11 a.m. June

Photo by Louise Mugar

Scottish festival held for first time in Blaine

The Bellingham Scottish Gathering held its first festival in Blaine on June 1.

The event, held at Blaine Marine Park and on Semiahmoo Spit, attracted a crowd of people for a highland dance championship,

highland strength games including stone throwing, drumming competitions, a massed band performance, traditional Celtic music from the Oregon-based band Adams, Martin and Linahon, food and merchandise vendors,

informational booths on Scottish clans, boat rides on the Koinonia between the festival’s two locations, and more.

Heather Richendrfer, event founder and executive director, estimated that a few thousand

people attended the festival, which had 500 game and dance participants. Richendrfer started the festival in 2018 after a group stopped running its Scottish festival in Whatcom County.

She would like to hold the festival again in Blaine because of its scenic backdrop and boat ride reminiscent of Scotland.

“I think I’ve really latched onto something that could be a tourism magnet,” she said.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Louise Mugar

CONGRATULATIONS BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL

Koen Alexander Stephen Anderson Myca Andruscavage Justin Ascencio Emersyn Bakker

Samual Baldwin Owen Bankston Jasmine Bautista Christopher Benard Amelia Berkeley Emily Bilson

Leonardo Blanco

Brooklyn Bouchard Tyler Bouma

Christian Bullard

Joaquin Bushman Aimar Carpintero

Noah Chilson Isabella Clark Ryleigh Clark Katie Cline Cali Condos

Alia Ball

Sabrina Boczek

Brandon Chadwell Mya Chevis

Taylee Abshere Mason Akre

GO BORDERITES!

CONGRATULATIONS BLAINE BORDERITES

Kale Pai

Elby Pritchett

Samuel Radke

Sara Olinger-Stirrat

Cameron Russell Josie Russell Cameron Saunders Abigail Schmidt Kaleb Sefrit

Victor Gervol Armand Gill

Riley Ihde Shaden James

Adama Marshall

Corey Oldham

Cheyenne Rose

Ryan McCarty Nicholas Mendoza

Justin Minjarez

Jasper May Anakin Marts

Connor Kendall Emily Rae Kober Marina Kovalenko

Matthew Hayes Sydney Henderson

Tanner Karuza

Diego Gutierrez

Deja Dube Austin Ebert

Brian Doyle

Jesse Deming

Lucyanna Dahl Conner Dalry

Stella Nunamaker

Blake Goltz

Hades Rasmussen

Ava Freeman Lydia Gamble Jasmyn Garza

Liam Simpson Ely Mager Kieran Markusen

Arriana Horton Payton Rector Gracie Renskers Gabrielle Reynolds

Nicolai Montoure Jonathan Morris

Murphy

Keanu Lau Amanda Lazarus

Malachi Hester Aisling Hockstedler Ashden Holley

Hodges

Calvert Fitzgerald Jessica Estrada

Tyler Wilson Isabel Witt Teyana Zaddack

Owen Wenger

Maximus Wiederspohn

Ella Wannamaker Zoie Ward Kai Weiss Connor Welch

Kijah Van Rijswijck Jackson Veals Hunter Vezzetti

Jordyn Vezzetti Isabella Vezzetti

Tori Taengdaen

Grady Swinburnson

Eddie Stipkala Jack Streeter Kodi Stuart

Noah Tavis Neely Thomas Bennet Thorpe

Logan Totten Kaylee Tolsma

Samuel Stiles

Ellie Tanjuaquio

Cadyn Valdez

Villegas

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: INGRID JOHNSEN, Deceased. No. 23-4-00029-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.40.030

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Anna Engler Hebert, Deceased. NO. 244-00444-37. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.42.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal

The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s 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.

Date of First Publication: May 23, 2024

Notice Agent: Guy Frank Hebert 5010 Yellow Brick Road

of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: May 31, 2024 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: June 6, 2024

Name of Personal Representative: URSULA KYLIE FREDERICK

Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262

Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229

Telephone: (360) 325-2550

Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com

DATED: May 31, 2024

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

Attorney for Personal Representative: URSULA KYLIE FREDERICK

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If notice was not provided under RCW Chapters 11.40 or 11.42, the creditor must present the claim within twenty-four months after the decedent’s date of death. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Notice of First Publication: May 30, 2024

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

restaurants. South-facing condo in Jacobs Landing provides stunning views & wealth of amenities, including indoor pool, hot tub, private clubhouse, racquetball court, & tennis court. Short-term rentals allowed, condo is currently managed as short-term rental. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

Enjoy the sweeping west facing saltwater views from your private deck or while strolling the walking path along Birch Bay Drive. Kitchen has LVP flooring, new quartz counters, ontrend white cabinets, tile wall & island backsplash & custom stainless-steel finishes! Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

Birch Bay book club review:

“Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah

B y D ia NN e

M arrs - s M ith

Trevor Noah is a comedian, writer, producer and actor who grew up in South Africa during apartheid, which is detailed in his autobiography “Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood.” Born to a Black mother and a white father, Noah experienced a life of not fitting into either group. Being a mixedrace South African, he found no comfort among his peers either, dealing with bullying, oppression, poverty and violence.

With his parents’ relationship being illegal, Noah lived with his mother. His mixed-race caused his parents and family to often deny his existence in public. Told with a matter-of-fact tone, Noah uses self-reflection and a dash of humor to tell his story.

“Born a Crime” takes us through South African history, apartheid and how the teaching of history played a part in Noah’s life in the 1990s. We learn about his mischievousness, thievery and accomplishments that came from his environment. Throughout, we see the way Noah navigates the world around him, the complex relationships with which he grew up and his reliance on humor to make his way through life.

Friends of Birch Bay Library Book Club will discuss the book 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 19, and is open to all. This book is available at wcls.org or the audiobook is available on WCLS’ account on the Libby app. Dianne Marrs-Smith is the Lynden Public Library manager and Friends of Birch Bay president. She reads and listens to a variety of books, enjoys a variety of movies, and loves board games. Her favorite genre is horror.

OBITUARIES

Lynne Forsberg Kennedy

July 27, 1937 – May 27, 2024

Lynne Forsberg Kennedy, 86, devoted mother, Nana, Great-Nana and friend, passed away on May 27, 2024, with loving family by her side at home in Eastover, NC.

Born July 27, 1937, Lynne was the daughter of Swedish and Norwegian immigrants who came to the United States through Ellis Island and traveled to the Pacific Northwest in search of a new life for their family. They moved to the Seattle area, home to a large Scandinavian community, before settling in Blaine, WA, near the Canadian border.

In 1953, Lynne met the love of her life, a young Airman named James Thomas “Tom” Kennedy, who was stationed with the U.S. Air Force at nearby Birch Bay. The couple were married in 1955.

They traveled the world together, residing in Washington state, Seymour Johnson AFB in North Carolina, Misawa AFB in Japan, Riverside AFB in California, Elmendorf AFB in Alaska, Sheppard AFB in Texas and back to Alaska before retiring in 1972 in North Carolina where they made their forever home with four children.

“Even though Mama was a Pacific Northwest girl, she knew Daddy loved fried chicken, and she later learned how to fry chicken better than any natural born Southerner,” recalled her children and grandchildren, who added that Nana set an example with her kindness, commitment to family, church and work ethic.

Lynne was employed by the Civil Service GISA at Fort Bragg from 1972-1992. After Tom retired from the service, he became a pioneering real estate broker in Fayetteville. After they both fully retired, they square danced their way around the United States and visited many fun places. “Of course, they both loved the grandchildren, better than life itself and the kids and grandkids always came first.”

Lynne was preceded in death by her husband, Tom, and their son, John Edward Kennedy.

Survivors include daughter Teri Kennedy Marley (Sandy), son Jeffery Thomas Kennedy AKA Carolina, and daughter Lisa Kennedy Geddie (David). Also, grandchildren Alison Ellison (Brad), Christina Little (James), Amanda Salter (Cam), Logan Geddie Heine (Austin), Tripp Geddie (Natalie), Sarah Kennedy Frost (Adam) and Colton Marley. Great-grandchildren Marley Sahinoglu, Eli Sahinoglu, Holt Ellison, Bowen Ellison, Anabelle Little, Lila Little, Sara Little, Luke Heine, Leighton Heine and Ford Geddie.

The family would like to express special gratitude to Lynne’s best friend, Shirley Carter, for all the fun times and being her forever friend.

The family plans a private service for this fall. Memorials may be made to Salem Methodist Church, 3947 Dunn Road, Eastover, N.C. 28312.

Janice Magnuson

June 12, 1944 – May 21, 2024

Janice “Jan” Marie (Sampson) Magnuson was born June 12, 1944, in Tacoma, WA. Her father worked for Nalley’s Potato Chips and moved the family from Tacoma to Billings, MT, to Albuquerque, NM, where Jan graduated high school. She returned to Seattle to attend the University of Washington, where she got her degree in speech pathology. She married Joel Magnuson in Seattle, March 20, 1971. Jan worked primarily as a homemaker but also part time as a nurse at her children’s schools.

She found many creative outlets through her church, such as directing a summer camp for middle school girls, leading Vacation Bible School, teaching Sunday school, and singing in the church choir.

In the last four years of her life, Jan struggled with Alzheimer’s disease. She died May 21, just shy of her 80th birthday. She is survived by her husband, Joel, now residing in Bellingham; their children, Brian, who resides in Seattle, and Sara (Mike), who resides in Denver, CO; two grandchildren; and her sister, Jo (Ron) of Spokane, WA.

Her life will be celebrated June 12 at 3 p.m. at Birch Bay Bible Community Church, where she and Joel attended faithfully for twenty years.

This space can be yours for only $38 per week.

13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve.

s The book cover for “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. “Born a Crime” is June book of the month for the Friends of Birch Bay Library Book Club. Courtesy image

sheriff’s repOrts

May 25, 12:32 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Sea Breeze Court.

May 26, 1:10 p.m.: Theft cold call on Fir Street.

May 26, 5:18 p.m. Domestic order violence on Halibut Drive.

May 26, 10:03 p.m.: Domestic physical cold call on Seafair Drive.

May 27, 1:43 a.m.: DUI arrest on Delta Line Road.

May 27, 1:51 a.m.: Harassment cold call on Seafair Drive.

May 27, 2:51 p.m.: Death investigation on Cody Road.

May 27, 9:02 p.m.: Threat on Seafair Drive.

May 28, 8:39 a.m.: Juvenile problem on Drayton Harbor Road.

May 28, 4:43 p.m.: Theft on Ramona Lane.

May 28, 7:25 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

May 29, 9:25 a.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Glendale Road.

May 29, 12:47 p.m.: Hit and run cold call on Odell Road.

May 29, 3:20 p.m.: Trespass on N. Enterprise Road.

May 29, 7:00 p.m.: Trespass arrest on Holeman Avenue.

tion

ACROSS

1. Baby’s dining accessory

4. Something free 8. Ancient Egyptian deity 10. Set-like mathematical categories 11. Top-quality 12. Expansive

13. Seizure

15. People with congenital absence of pigment

16. Gains 17. Mocked online

18. Clint’s son

21. Body part

22. Humor

23. Code number

24. Your physique 25. Family of regulator genes

26. LA football player (abbr.)

27. “The Blonde Bombshell” 34. Charity 35. Bluish greens

36. Examined closely

37. A type of equa -

May 29, 9:41 p.m.: Child abuse cold call on Halibut Drive.

May 30, 10:36 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Main Street.

May 30, 11:29 p.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Ronald Drive.

May 31, 11:37 a.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Ronald Drive.

May 31, 11:55 a.m.: Death investigation on East Street.

May 31, 1:07 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Morrison Avenue.

pOLiCe repOrts

May 24, 3:34 p.m.: Child abuse cold call on Haynie Road.

May 24, 8:35 p.m.: Fight on East Street.

May 25, 12:32 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Sea Breeze Court.

May 25, 6:56 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Anderson Road.

May 26, 1:10 p.m.: Theft cold call on Fir Street.

May 26, 10:03 p.m.: Domestic physical on Seafair Drive.

May 27, 1:43 a.m.: DUI arrest on Delta Line Road.

May 27, 2:51 p.m.: Death investigation on Cody Road.

May 27, 9:02 p.m.: Threat on Seafair Drive.

May 28, 8:39 a.m.: Juvenile

38. Stretched uncomfortably 39. Indian religious god 40. Clocks 41. Slowly leak through 42. Witnesses

43. Midway between south and southeast DOWN

1. Nestlings

2. Induces vomiting 3. A place to eat 4. Partner in the air 5. Offered one’s take 6. Nobel-winning French biologist 7. Farm animals 9. Prevent from growing 10. Sensationalist periodical 12. Soft-bodied beetle

14. Very fast airplane 15. Imaginative

creation

17. Recipe measurement (abbr.)

19. Evoked a response

20. French river 23. Shiny yellow minerals

24. Make illegal 25. U.S. military branch

26. River in France and Belgium 27. A woman of refinement

28. Male child 29. Type of medication

30. German city 31. Animal disease 32. Mediterranean dietary staple 33. Sneak out 34. Radioactivity unit

36. Performs on stage

problem on Drayton Harbor Road.

May 28, 11:16 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Seashell Way.

May 28, 4:43 p.m.: Theft on Ramona Lane.

May 28, 7:25 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

May 29, 9:25 a.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Glendale Road.

May 29, 12:47 p.m.: Hit and run cold call on Odell Road.

May 29, 9:41 p.m.: Child abuse cold call on Halibut Drive.

May 30, 10:36 a.m.: Fraud on Main Street.

May 30, 3:26 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Birch Bay Drive.

tides

June 6 - June 11 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

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.

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.

Karaoke Night: Friday, June 7, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Come sing, watch and even dance. Free. Snacks provided. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Beach Fest: Saturday, June 8, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center and beach. Low tide walks, kids activities, refreshments and opportunities to learn more about the stewardship of Birch Bay. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Artists Reception: Saturday, June 8, 2–4 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Browse the gallery and purchase art from our featured artists. Advanced tickets $15 by calling 360/392-0955 or $18 at the door. Ticket includes a beverage and nosh. Percentage of ticket sales benefits the Blaine Fine Arts Association. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Birch Bay Library Community Engagement Session: Monday, June 10, 6–7:30 p.m., home of the future Birch Bay Vogt Library Express, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Meet the design team for the future library and view the floor plan, color schemes and give feedback. Info:wcls.org/birch bay.

What’s Next Resource Fair: Friday, June 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy a variety of community vendors and presentations on estate planning and advance care planning. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Friday, June 14, 5 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Enjoy memorable country western and swing music from On the Loose. Bring a camp chair and picnic for a rockin’ good time. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

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

Bees, the Keystone Pollinators: Saturday, June 15, 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Saturday, June 15, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Bellingham’s Homegrown Irish-American folk band The Devillies perform an eclectic mix of original and traditional songs and tunes from dear auld Ireland and beyond. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

ABCs of Self Care: Combatting Stress: Monday, June 17, 12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. We live in a chaotic world and learning to deal with stress is essential. Learn how to combat this silent killer. Free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

After Hours Networking: Thursday, June 20, 4–5:30 p.m., Black Forest Steakhouse, 638 Peace Portal Drive. No host networking with local professionals. Info: blainechamber.com.

Birds and Native Plants Walk: Friday, June 21, 10 a.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Come and learn the insights and benefits of native plants. Learn about the insects and birds that they support while taking a nice stroll on the trails in Birch Bay State Park. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Birch Bay Kite Festival: Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Birch Bay State Park. Free kite creators and limited quantities of free kites for kids. Reusable kites available for purchase. Plus live music, jugglers, painting, food trucks and vendors. Info: birchbaychamber.com.

Tidepool Exploration: Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m., meet at Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Info bbbparkandrec.org.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 27 to June 2, 1.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 16.8 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 62.9°F on June 1 with a low of 41.3°F on May 31. Average high was 59°F and average low was 49.2°F.

WeatherUnderground.com

Pan Wizards Steel Orchestra: Saturday, June 22, noon-1:30 p.m., Blaine’s G Street Plaza. Top high-school level, 37 member, steel orchestra from Seattle. Free. 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.

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.

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

Active S eniors

Blaine

Thu, June 6: Spinach & Mushroom Quiche, Breakfast Potatoes, Orange Juice, Cinnamon Roll

Fri, June 7: Chicken Cobb Salad or Vegetarian Salad, Wheat Roll, Red Grapes

Mon, June 10: Country Fried Steak or Veggie Fritter, Mashed Potatoes & Country Gravy, Buttered Peas, Garden Salad, Ambrosia

Tue, June 11: Split Pea & Ham Soup or Vegan Split Pea Soup, Rosemary Focaccia, Tomato Cucumber Salad, Fresh Apple Slices

Wed, June 12: Coconut Curry Chicken or Vegan Coconut Curry, Basmati Rice, Steamed Broccoli, Asian Slaw, Mandarin Oranges

Thu, June 13: Seafood Fettuccine Alfredo or Veggie Alfredo, Italian Vegetables, Caesar Salad, Sherbet

Fri, June 14: Father’s Day Lunch – BBQ Pork Ribs, Roasted Brussels w/ Bacon, Potato Salad, Garden Salad, Strawberry Shortcake

Mon, June 17: Savory Roasted Chicken or Vegan Cutlet, Scallop Potatoes. Carrots, Kale Citrus Salad, Orange Cream Salad

Tue, June 18: Pork Salsa Verde (Not Spicy) or Vegan Salsa Verde, Rice, Roasted Corn Salad, Rice Pudding

Wed, June 19: Juneteenth – Blaine Senior Center is closed

Thu, June 20: Tomato Basil Soup or Vegetarian Tomato Soup, Grilled Caprese Flatbread, Garden Salad, Peanut Butter Cookie

Fri, June 21: Salmon Burger or Garden Burger, Sweet Potato Fries, Coleslaw, Watermelon

Mon, June 24: Beef Enchiladas or Black Bean & Cheese Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Corn & Pepper Salad, Fresh Banana

Tue, June 25: German Brat or Vegan Brat, German Potato Salad, Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage, Garden Salad, Cherry Apple Crisp

Wed, June

June

Fri, June 28: Shrimp Salad or Veggie Salad, Oatmeal Bread, Fresh Orange Slices

Subject to change. While quantities last.

Leading by example at Blaine Senior Center

B y P ete N elso N

I guess you could say I am on a mission. I focus my life on our most experienced generations. Why am I enthusiastic about this? Every day, I get to see people who live their full lives, who give back to our community, and I hear amazing stories about life.

I am on a quest to support our older populations because I see how they can be difference-makers in our society. Within our aging population we have so many talented, experienced, knowledgeable and healthy people who can help our society and local community. I also see an opportunity for change. There is a stigma associated with our elders. Ageism, however, has no place in our everyday lives. Getting older is simply a stage and should not be designated by age, looks or how many grandchildren we have.

As we get older, we may begin to have battle scars from life. But we also have all the wonderful attributes that come from experiencing life. We are not genetically different from past elder people. But technology, and medical/ biological advancements have made living longer a reality and one we need to embrace.

For the first time, people born in the U.S. will more than likely live a long life. It is time to shape our community to accept the fact we are living longer and develop age-friendly perspectives and support systems.

This means we need to look at how to make growing older a celebration and establish a community that enables our mature generations (or as I like to call them, “super adults”) every opportunity to be supported and contribute.

It isn’t just an investment in our elders because our children will also likely live long lives. Setting a foundation now will help our children in the future. However, we have also changed the societal norm for retirement. Our system and our communities were not established for us to have 40 golden years, or 40 years of down time. Super adults need to have a game plan of how to continue being part of society.

Do you know what has been deemed the most essential part of longevity? Community. At the senior center, there is so much we can do, and your insight and support make the possibilities endless.

I don’t want people to join the senior center because they need a place to be taken care of. We are not a convalescent home. I want people, as they get older, to come to the center to embrace life. To contribute and continue to learn and grow.

To stay healthy and to live in their homes for as long as possible. To give back and lead by example so that our children will be excited at the prospect of a long and fulfilling life. Our center needs your support. No matter what stage of life you are in, we welcome you to support financially, mindfully, spiritually, emotionally and physically. We can create a community that makes a difference, is a foundation for what life offers, and is a pillar for the future – not the past.

The Blaine Senior Center is now fundraising to modernize its gym equipment and fitness support services. Your support is highly appreciated.

Pete Nelson is executive director of Blaine Senior Center.

26: Birthday Lunch – Roasted Turkey or Veggie Cutlet, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Garden Salad, Birthday Cake

Thu,

27: Swedish Meatballs or Veggie Swedish Meatballs, Egg Noodles, Buttered Dill Carrots, Kale Citrus Salad, Pistachio Pudding

s Pete Nelson. Courtesy photo

continued from page 15

Meet Liz Parker, Blaine’s badminton champion

Blaine local Liz Parker is better at badminton than you. The 78-year-old physical therapist regularly competes across the border where she says the competition is most fierce, and returned home in April with a ton

of hardware from the Canadian Masters Badminton Tournament near Toronto, winning gold in the age-75+ mixed doubles and age-70+ women’s doubles events, along with a silver and bronze in singles events.

Parker is now training for her appearance in the world champi-

onships in Taipei, Taiwan in September, where she will face off against the best senior badminton players on the planet. The excitement of the world’s fastest racquet sport drew her in, and the community of competitors kept her going, Parker said.

“That’s one of the things I like about it, it’s a very fast sport,” Parker said. “There’s a lot of nuance to the shots, you can hit the bird in so many different ways according to what you want to do on the court.”

Parker grew up playing tennis – even coaching for a few years – and didn’t pick up a badminton racquet until college. Fifteen years ago, she got serious about the sport again after meeting a group of competitors while living in Santa Fe.

Flash forward to today, and Parker is taking weekly classes with a personal badminton coach, plays competitively in Vancouver with a group of equally committed friends, and constantly works on her game in preparation for the world championships.

Parker said keeping active and staying in shape with the fastpaced sport is fun, but that it’s the community of peers she’s made that is the most rewarding part of her passion.

“Especially when you’re older, having that kind of community – not just community here, but a community around the world – has been so valuable,” Parker said. “It’s been an opportunity to make friends in a lot of different places.”

APY is Annual Percentage Yield. Penalties may be imposed on early withdrawal. Visit ourfirstfed.com/personal/savings/cd-rates or scan the code for details. First trip to europe

s Liz Parker, 78, Blaine, won multiple doubles events at the Canadian Masters Badminton Championships in April, and will head to Taiwan for the world championships in September. Photo by Nolan Baker