Ballots for the August 6 primary election are set to be mailed to voters across Whatcom County on July 17.
According to the most recent data from the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, 160,384 registered voters were slated to receive ballots in Whatcom County this week.
Below are the positions and measures up for election that will most impact Blaine and Birch Bay residents:
• Federal positions: Senate, District 2 Congressional Representative
• Statewide positions: Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, State Auditor, Attorney General, Commissioner of Public Lands, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Insurance Commissioner
• State legislature: District 42 State Representatives – position one and two
• State Supreme Court Justice Position Two
• Various precinct committee officer positions
• Proposition 2024-17: Levy lid lift for North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR)
The NWFR levy lid lift is a measure to increase the property tax collected for the fire district from its current $0.76 per $1,000 to $1.10 per $1,000 in assessed home value. It would cost the owner of a $500,000 home an additional $14.16 per month, or $170 a year.
The funds would go toward replacing the aging Fire Station 63 in Birch Bay, hiring more personnel and upgrading fire engines, according to NWFR.
For more information on specific candidates for each position, visit bit.ly/3W81KsW.
Registered voters can vote as soon as they receive ballots, either by mail, drop box returns, or in person at the auditor’s office.
Voter registration and address changes done online or via mail must be received by the auditor’s office by Monday, July 29 in order to be eligible to vote in the election. After July 29, people will need to visit the auditor’s office to register to vote or make an address change.
There are 21 drop boxes in Whatcom County accepting ballots for the primary, including at Blaine Public Library (610 3rd Street), North Whatcom Fire and Rescue’s Birch Bay station (4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road) and Custer Elementary School (7660 Custer School Road). All ballot boxes will close at 8 p.m. on Election Day, August 6.
Plover launches after undergoing major repairs
s Plover senior captain Richard Sturgill, r., waves goodbye as the historic Plover ferry cruises on July 12 from Blaine Harbor to
ahmoo Spit for the first time since summer 2022. The 80-year-old boat underwent extensive repairs over nearly two years to replace aging wooden planks, among other issues. The city of Blaine, which owns the boat, paid $130,000 to the boat’s operator, Drayton
Maritime, for the repairs. Sturgill said a start date for regular boat rides has yet to be determined.
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) lieutenant Adam Smith was sleeping in Birch Bay Station 63, resting from a demanding shift, when a ceiling tile fell on him due to a waterlogged roof.
Smith wasn’t injured, but it was just another event highlighting structural and safety concerns at the aging fire station. Since then, repairs have kept the station operating, including buckets scattered around the floor of the station to capture rainwater.
“I think the best way to think about Station 63 is that it’s kind of like an old shoe. It’s a little bit too small. There’s a lot of holes that have been patched up,” said Liz Bronder, a firefighter who works
and lives at Station 63. “I think last time I checked, we had five different leaks in the roof that are just leaking into buckets on the ground.”
NWFR chief Jason Van der Veen said the station needs to be replaced as the list of problems grows. The training tower has visible cracks, which firefighters are unable to use due to structural concerns. The training tower would not withstand a large earthquake, and while a structural survey of the entire station has not been done, Van der Veen said he believes the station would not stand.
The building layout is also outdated, Van der Veen said. The building is not up to current ADA standards, female firefighters
Photo by Nolan Baker
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Ballots must be returned into a drop box by 8 p.m. August 6, or postmarked by August 6 to be counted, according to the auditor’s office. Whatcom County Auditor Stacey Henthorn has invited the
public to attend open election center tours to observe the election process, witness the security measures in place and see how votes get counted. Tours are held in the auditor’s office, located in suite B03 of the Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Avenue, Tuesday, July 30 through Friday, August 2 from 9 to 11 a.m. or from 1 to 3 p.m.
To schedule a tour, contact Kellye Connor at 360/778-5108 or kconner@co.whatcom.wa.us Space is limited and tours last between 30 and 45 minutes. For more information on voting in the August primary, how to register to vote, or any other election information, visit the auditor’s office at whatcomcounty. us/199/Auditor.
Blaine Arts Council brings art festival to city
Blaine Arts Council (BAC) is set to bring the arts to Blaine during The Wave Art Festival and opening fundraiser Friday, July 26 through Sunday, July 28.
BAC will start the festival weekend with The Wave En Blanc evening fundraiser 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 26 at Blaine Harbor Boating Center. The event will have a silent auction, food and drink, artwork on display, wine pull and live music. Tickets are available $30 for BAC members and $40 for non-members before the event, with prices increasing $10 the night of the event. The dress code is “nice white casual,”
Paddle
according to BAC. The Wave Art Festival will occur from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 27 and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 28, with a cadre of artists displaying at Blaine Marine Park, in addition to several locations across Blaine. The park will have live music, food vendors and a beer garden, and free parking will be available in the open field on the park’s west end.
The festival’s other locations for art will be BAC’s new art gallery at 922 Peace Portal Drive and at least two open studios from Shawna Morris and Joseph Kinnebrew.
to Puyallup canoe journey to stop in Birch Bay
The Nooksack Indian Tribe will welcome canoes landing in Birch Bay Monday, July 22 for a stop along the Paddle to Puyallup Canoe Journey.
The canoes are expected to stop at Birch Bay State Park about 5-6 p.m., tide permitting, wrote Frank Leyva, grants and compliance manager for Nooksack Indian Tribe, in an email to The Northern Light. The public is welcome to join and dinner will be served at the bp Heron Center in celebration of the paddlers’ arrival, Levya wrote.
The paddlers will leave early Tuesday, tide permitting, to travel to their next stop on the shores of Lummi Nation.
About 50 tribes and First Nations located in Washington, Alas-
ka, B.C. and other areas will participate in the annual canoe journey, according to a proclamation governor Jay Inslee issued July 5 on the canoe journey. The canoe journey’s official stops run from Squamish, B.C. to the Olympic Peninsula and include Vancouver Island.
Canoes will arrive at traditional territory of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians on July 31. A week-long celebration will follow the arrival of the canoes.
The canoe journey is an annual tradition for tribes in the Pacific Northwest and B.C. to travel ancestral waterways. This year’s theme for the canoe journey is a focus on youth, with the hope that elders will share their knowledge and youth will feel more confident to step into leadership roles, according to the Puyallup Tribe of Indians website.
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Brilliant Planet, a new, local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families get into nature, will host its first community meet-and-greet event on Friday, July 26 at the Blaine Senior Center to showcase its new free bike program for Blaine youth. The event is a chance for Brilliant Planet to reach more fami-
lies who may be interested in the organization. The event will be held at 5 p.m. at 763 G Street, and feature a Q&A portion for families curious about the free bike program.
Brilliant Planet was created by Terra and Jiggy Sorrell as a way to give back to their community and encourage children and families to get outside, whether it be down a trail by foot, or down the
street by bike. The free bike program started during the school year, and has already received dozens of applications.
“We’re excited to share that we had nearly 50 families respond with bike requests and we will be delivering about 100 bikes to kids in the Blaine/Birch Bay community in December of 2024,” Terra wrote to The Northern Light Brilliant Planet teamed up
with the Blaine Police Department, Blaine Senior Center, Blaine business members and Bellingham-based bicycle manufacturer Trek to supply the children’s bikes, along with helmets and other gear.
Terra said that while registration is closed for this year’s free bike program, the organization will continue to gauge the community’s need as kids grow out of their bikes, Terra said.
For more information on the free bike program, visit bit. ly/467Y92G. For more information on Brilliant Planet, or to donate to help continue to supply local youth with recreation opportunities, visit brilliantplanet.org
“We are so grateful and inspired by the community here, and so thankful for the opportunity to provide this as our first program,” Terra said.
“Against” statements needed for Blaine school district bond measure
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The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office is seeking candidates for the “Against” committee for Blaine school district’s general obligation bond which heads to ballots in the November 5 general election.
The bond would be funded through a $0.76 per $1,000 in assessed home value property tax, nearly identical to a proposed bond that narrowly missed the 60 percent supermajority hurdle in the
February 2024 special election.
Funds would go toward extensive middle school renovations, upgrades and additions to Pipeline Athletic Complex, improvements to the primary and elementary schools, and designs for a future Birch Bay school, according to the district.
Ballots are expected to be mailed out by October 18 and will be due in ballot boxes by 8 p.m. on election night, Tuesday, November 5.
State law requires a three-mem-
ber “For” and “Against” committee be created for every ballot measure.
To be appointed, members must be a resident and registered voter within the voting jurisdiction (roughly all of Blaine, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo and Point Roberts), “pledge to work cooperatively with other members of the committee,” and have access to email. At least one committee member must be willing to put their name in the voter’s pamphlet, according to the auditor’s office.
The deadline to request a committee appointment is noon August 12. The deadline to submit a statement is the same date at 4:30 p.m. Those interested in applying can email a request in-
cluding their name, phone number and voter registration address to elections@co.whatcom.wa.us Applicants must include they’re applying to write a statement for Blaine school district.
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
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com
Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com
Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com
General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com
The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 6
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Ragnar relay race starts from Peace Arch Park OpiniOn
Letters
The Editor:
Every day I feel blessed getting to live at Birch Bay. I grew up here in the summers, never dreaming it would someday be my home. Surrounded by natural beauty and away from the stress of living in the city.
However, there can be some disadvantages too. One that affects everyone that chooses to live or visit Birch Bay is the lack of quick and certain emergency services. As the saying goes: It doesn’t matter until it matters.
When we have a fire, accident, fall or worse, heart attack in the middle of the night, we want to know that help is not just on the way, but will be there quickly. For that, we depend on North Whatcom Fire
and Rescue, and now, they are asking us for our help so that they can keep helping us.
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue is asking us to approve a levy lid lift that will appear on the August ballot. The last time they got an increase in the levy lid, which they depend on for funding, was in 2006! Since then they have received only a one percent increase each year.
Just imagine if you had to feed your family, pay bills or buy clothes for your children with the same amount you had in 2006 with only a one percent increase each year. It wouldn’t be just difficult; it would be impossible for you to keep up.
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.
That’s exactly what North Whatcom Fire and Rescue is having to do. As a result, they are having a very difficult time providing us with the emergency services we so desperately want and need, especially when it matters.
Please vote “Yes” for the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue levy lid lift in August. Your life may depend on it someday. Pat Jerns Birch Bay
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 Robin Balder-Lanoue, of Monticello, Minnesota, runs past the starting line of the Ragnar Road Northwest Passage Race at Peace Arch Historical State Park in Blaine on Friday, July 12. Relay teams made their way from Blaine to the finish line in Langley, on south Whidbey Island, during the annual 200-mile, 12-leg race.
Photo by Katie Zuehlke
Blaine residents take action to protect deer in Semiahmoo
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It’s been a busy past two fawn seasons on Drayton Harbor Road and other wooded roads around Blaine and Birch Bay, with locals reporting multiple traffic collisions that have proved fatal for wildlife and costly for drivers.
Jennifer Plombon, who holds a position on Blaine Planning Commission and Whatcom County Wildlife Advisory Committee, received multiple complaints from residents last spring when vehicles struck fawns in consecutive days on Drayton Harbor Road.
Plombon reached out to Blaine City Council after the deer fatalities to inquire about reducing the speed limit on Drayton Harbor Road below the current 35 mph limit.
“Maybe a speed limit of 35 is a little inappropriate on that road because it’s not just deer,” Plombon said. “It’s walkers and bikers and dogs and other wildlife.”
City council initiated a traffic study December 6-15, split between east and westbound traffic on Drayton Harbor Road. The study showed that while eastbound traffic roughly stayed within the posted 35 mph limit, westbound traffic was faster, with an average speed of 45 mph, and trucks averaging 51.2 mph.
After petitioning city council to
put up radar speed signs at Drayton Harbor Road, the city installed its first in June on the eastbound lane. Plombon walks that road as a pedestrian frequently, and said she immediately saw the results.
“I could see people literally slowing down when they saw the sign and continuing to be slower,” Plombon said. “So I cannot wait until they flip it around and put it westbound, and then hopefully they’ll do another study.”
Deer collisions have become so commonplace on Drayton Har-
bor Road that Plombon began collaborating with city council member Sonia Hurt to create their own deer crossing signs along the two-lane road.
“Everybody is in such a big hurry,” Hurt said of speeding drivers. “You’re driving around the harbor, you’ve got this beautiful landscape, slow down and enjoy it. A lot of people would give their right arm to live in a place like we do, and yet everybody just takes it for granted and just keeps speeding around.”
Inslee appoints Whatcom County judge
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Governor Jay Inslee has appointed Jennifer E. Slattery to the Whatcom County Superior Court bench, the governor’s office announced on July 12.
Slattery will fill a fifth position the Washington state legislature created earlier this year. The position was created to help with a backlog of cases.
During her 15-year legal career, Slattery has focused on family law and general civil litigation, having operated her own firm, Kulshan Law Group, for the past seven years. She has also served as pro tem commissioner for Whatcom County Superior
Court since 2023.
“Jennifer Slattery is dedicated to her community. She is respected, experienced, and well-prepared to serve Whatcom County in this role,” Inslee wrote in a statement.
“I’m pleased that she will bring her integrity, work ethic, and compassion to the Whatcom County Superior Court bench.”
Outside of work, Slattery is a member of the Bellingham Sunrise Rotary Club, has served as a board director of Whatcom Community College Foundation and as a volunteer attorney.
Slattery earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington and law degree from Seattle University Law School. s
Fawn season runs roughly from spring through early summer, and usually causes an uptick in not only deer on the road, but doe followed closely by their young fawns. People who see a deer or fawn in the roadway should come to a stop when safe and engage hazard lights to warn other cars, Plombon recommends.
This week’s supporters: Glenn and Marleen Rinkel
Elizabeth Canez-Banagan and George Banagan • Donna Jerns
TOURISM GRANTS ANNOUNCEMENT
THE CITY OF BLAINE IS NOW ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 TOURISM RELATED PROPOSALS.
Grant applications are available on the City’s website www.cityofblaine.com or by emailing Alex Wenger, CDS Director at awenger@cityofblaine.com
Applications must be emailed to Alex Wenger by 9 a.m. Friday, September 9th. For questions please email or call (360)543-9979
Blaine
School District
Budget
On July 10, the Blaine School District will have completed its preliminary budget for the 2024-25 school year. A budget summary will be on file at the district administrative office at 765 H Street, and a copy will be furnished to any person requesting one. The summary will include a projected total of expenses and revenues.
A public hearing on the 2024-25 budget will take place during the regularly scheduled Board meeting, August 26 at 7:00 p.m. at 770 Mitchell Avenue in Blaine. Anyone in attendance will have the opportunity to speak for or against any part of the budget, the four-year budget plan or changes to use of enrichment funding. Board adoption will take place during the meeting.
Jennifer E. Slattery.
Photo courtesy Office of the Governor
s Blaine residents, including Jennifer Plombon, petitioned the city of Blaine to install radar speed signs on Drayton Harbor Road. The city put up the first sign in June.
Photo by Louise Mugar
Birch Bay Station 63 in pictures
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also don’t have their own bathroom for showering or changing, and there is no community gathering space for events like CPR classes.
As operating costs continue to rise, Van der Veen said he sees the price of maintaining the aging station as a misuse of public funds. NWFR budgeted $561,000 on facility maintenance throughout the district in 2024, and spent twice what it expected in 2023 for building maintenance within the district, causing NWFR to pull back in other areas. Van der Veen did not immediately have the percentage of those funds used in Birch Bay. NWFR is asking voters to con-
sider a levy lid lift in the August 6 primary election that would, in part, provide kick-starter funds for replacing the station, in addition to funding other district priorities, such as staffing and new vehicles.
Under the current levy lid lift proposal, the owner of a $500,000 home would pay $14.16 more per month, or $170 annually, according to NWFR. Ballots are mailed to residents starting July 17, with ballots due by 8 p.m. August 6.
If the levy passes, NWFR will then consider a commissioner indebtedness bond, which would mean the commissioners would take a loan on behalf of the district. The loan would be paid from the general operating fund, which would increase if the levy passes.
“It’s like an internal bond,” Van der Veen said.
Initial estimates show the Birch Bay station replacement could cost up to $15 million, though
“God forbid, if we get a reasonable-sized earthquake, that station is going to fall down, and it’s supposed to be the public safety pillar of the community,” NWFR
commission chair Bruce Ansell said
der Veen said he was working to lower that number. NWFR
“We’ve had quite a few customers mention our ad in The Northern Light. I personally talked with 4 people in one day who said they saw our ad. Best response we’ve had from print and radio advertising. I’m very happy with the results of this ad campaign in The Northern Light.”
Geoff Broersma General Manager at Vista Materials
would budget about $1 million annually for the replacement.
If the levy doesn’t pass, Van der Veen said it would impact the Birch Bay station replacement. The fire district would consider relocating crews from Station 63, which could impact response times in Birch Bay, or would consider going out for a bond, which would delay the building replacement.
Station 63, which is the district’s busiest station, has received minimal upgrades since it was built in 1981, according to the NWFR 2020 Master Plan.
The building’s general condition is considered fair and was recommended for a major upgrade or remodel, according to the report.
Van der Veen, who has been the fire chief since April 2020, described Station 63 as being in the worst condition of any of
the district’s stations.
Station 63 is one of four stations within NWFR, officially known as Whatcom County Fire Protection District 21. NWFR serves roughly 33,800 people over 156 square miles across Blaine, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo, Custer, and areas surrounding Lynden and Laurel.
Van der Veen said NWFR has a staff of 50 career firefighters/EMTs who respond to both fire and medical calls. Last year, NWFR responded to 1,722 calls, of which 1,469 were medical and 412 calls were engine responses, he said.
One of Van der Veen’s concerns with the station is that vehicles blow exhaust into the apparatus bay, where the vehicles and gym equipment are stored. To mitigate the exhaust, NWFR installed a
23,600 weekly readers in Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo. Largest circulation newspaper in Whatcom County.
views each month from Seattle to Bellingham.
Van
s An “unsafe area” sign is posted to the door of the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue training tower at Station 63 in Birch Bay. Cracking on the building is caused by rebar corrosion, according to an October 2021 report from Bellingham-based Kingworks Structural Engineers.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
s The Birch Bay Station 63 training tower on July 15.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
s A missing panel in the bedroom where a ceiling tile fell on a North Whatcom Fire and Rescue lieutenant during the night at Birch Bay Station 63. Photo courtesy NWFR
s Water damage is evident inside a room at Birch Bay Station 63. Water will also pour into the station’s garage during heavy rainfall. Photo courtesy NWFR
s A blown pipe fitting in the training tower. The tower’s structural degradation has come from its construction type, weather effects and past seismic activity, NWFR chief Jason Van der Veen said.
Photo courtesy NWFR
s Birch Bay Station 63, at 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. The building doesn’t have a community meeting space and is not up to current ADA standards, NWFR chief Jason Van der Veen said.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
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point-capture system that collects exhaust as vehicles start and blows it out through the roof. However, Van der Veen said the exhaust that seeped into the station walls before the system was installed cannot escape and no exhaust capture system is 100 percent effective. Sleeping quarters are also on the other side of the walls.
“They breathe in all the diesel or gas particulates that stick to the walls and ceiling,” Van der Veen said.
Regarding the station’s sleeping quarters, Bronder said it’s like sleeping at summer camp.
“We all sleep in one room together, separated by curtains. We have one firefighter bathroom that was designed to be used as a communal locker room-style bathroom, but now, with a variety of different people who work at the station, it has been converted to just a single-use bathroom.”
Other concerns Bronder mentioned include having gym equipment in the apparatus bay where exhaust is blown, garage doors malfunctioning and frequent leaks from the roof.
Bronder said she feels the fire chief and district leadership prioritize safety concerns, however; lack of funding has prevented them from
addressing a lot of them promptly.
“The levy is basically going to give us the tools that we need to continue to provide the community with the service that they deserve,” she said.
Despite these concerns, Bronder said she enjoys working at Station 63 with its variety of calls, fast pace and good co-workers.
“We still come to work and do our jobs and serve the community to the best of our ability, but we know that we could provide better care for people and better response times if we had the money to improve things,” Bronder said.
Fire commissioner chair Bruce Ansell said he thinks that firefighters have a work ethic where they make do with what they have.
“We’re making it work because everyone in our department believes in the mission to help the community, but we need their help now,” he said.
Ansell said that Station 63 is safe for daily operations; however, due to the age of the station, it doesn’t have the latest seismic improvements that newer buildings would have.
“God forbid, if we get a reasonable-sized earthquake, that station is going to fall down, and it’s supposed to be the public safety pillar of the community,” he said. “Don’t go to the fire station if there’s an earthquake. It might not be there.”
Ansell said budget constraints
aren’t limited to NWFR, but to departments across the state.
“We’re approaching that point where bad things are going to start happening, and then someone’s going to say, ‘Well, why didn’t we do something about that?’” he said.
To learn more about the levy lid lift, contact NWFR chief Jason Van der Veen at 360/3189933, email jvanderveen@nwfrs.com or attend one of several upcoming community meetings. Information on the meetings is available at bit.ly/3LqRaIX.
Grace McCarthy contributed to the reporting of this article.
Blaine Harbor Music Festival 2024
Blaine Harbor Music Festival brought a week of live music to Blaine July 7 through July 13. The annual event featured a music camp for youth ages 12-20 that brought instructors from as far
away as New York City and Luxembourg. Instructors and campers put on free concerts throughout the week that included a weekday noon concert at G Street
student
Performing Arts Center and Saturday street fair with performances in downtown Blaine. The festival also had a ticketed swing band performance at Barnstar Events in Ferndale on July 11.
s Blaine Harbor Music Camp faculty hosted a free evening concert that filled G Street Plaza on July 10.
Photo by Ruth Lauman
s Camp faculty and students put on a swing band performance at BarnStar Events in Ferndale on July 11. Photo by Deedee Marshall
s Blaine resident Andrew Baer, c., and fellow students attended the music camp July 7-13 in Blaine. Photo by Deedee Marshall
s Blaine Harbor Music Festival faculty and campers hosted live music events throughout Blaine during the week-long music camp.
Photo by Deedee Marshall
s Greta Matassa, c., sang jazz tunes to a crowd at the G Street Plaza in downtown Blaine on July 9. Photo by Nolan Baker
s From l.; pianist David Joyner, guitarist Christopher Woitach, bassist Clipper Anderson and drummer Julian MacDonough performed with Greta Matassa at G Street Plaza on July 9. Photo by Nolan Baker
Plaza,
showcase at the Blaine
s Majid Khaliq plays the violin during the evening concert on G Street Plaza. Khaliq, who graduated from The Juilliard School, was a faculty member at the camp.
Photo by Ruth Lauman
ADVICE FROM THE PROS
Q: Can physical therapy help with recovery from surgery?
A: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in postsurgical recovery by improving mobility, strength, and function. After surgery, a tailored physical therapy program helps reduce pain, swelling, and scar tissue formation while enhancing circulation to promote healing. Therapists guide patients through exercises that restore range of motion, prevent stiffness, and rebuild muscle strength. Gradual progression of activities ensures safe recovery, reducing the risk of complications or re-injury. Physical therapists also educate patients on proper movement techniques and posture to protect the surgical site. Overall, physical therapy facilitates a faster, more effective recovery, helping patients regain independence and return to their daily activities and pre-surgery levels of physical performance.
Q: We have been avoiding creating a financial plan due to fearing the outcome. Do most financial plans have successful results?
A: Clients are often concerned about the outcome of their financial plan. I can’t say that all financial plans are successful, but I do feel that having the knowledge of what actions can make the financial plan successful helps alleviate the fear for most clients. Skyline’s financial professionals educate clients so they are aware of actions that can both harm but also help support their goals; thus making their plan successful. Once clear financial goals and budgeting habits are on track, clients’ anxiety about their financial future is minimized. Additionally, an annual check-in to ensure the plan is on target helps clients feel that they can stay financially flexible and in control. At Skyline Advisors, we aid and collaborate with our clients to alleviate their feelings of anxiety and transition them to establishing a more secure financial future.
Q: Can I stop by an open house if I’m not currently looking to buy?
A: Absolutely! Visiting an open house can be a great way to get a feel for the neighborhood, gather design inspiration, or even scout for a friend or relative who might be interested. Just be upfront with the Realtor hosting the open house about your intentions, and always remember to be respectful of the owner’s space. Open houses are a fantastic opportunity to explore and learn without any pressure to make an immediate purchase. I’ll be holding several open houses this weekend; check the Windermere ad and online for locations and times.
Many dog breeds love to get outdoors and run. Dogs’ love of activity endears them to millions of animal lovers, and it’s one of the first distinctions people make between canines and other popular pets, such as cats.
It’s not uncommon for dogs to look for a place to lay down and relax after a play session. And certain dog breeds, such as English bulldogs, tend to be less physically active than others. However, low energy levels throughout much of the day and an unwill-
ingness to get up and run around could be signs of something serious in dogs that typically embrace physical activity.
The United Kingdom-based People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals notes that lethargy in dogs may indicate a host of problems. Identifying the cause of low energy in dogs can be the first step toward helping man’s best friend get back to being his or her energetic self.
Potential causes of lethargy
The PDSA notes that various medical conditions can contribute
to low energy in dogs. A veterinarian should be consulted immediately if a dog’s energy levels suddenly dip. Certain issues that compromise canine’s energy levels could prove fatal if left untreated.
Infections are a potential cause of lethargy in dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, canine distemper is a serious disease caused by infection with the canine distemper virus. Vaccination can prevent canine distemper, but dogs that are not vaccinated can suffer a range of symptoms, including lethargy, if they are infected with the virus. Obesity is another potential cause of lethargy in dogs. The PDSA notes that overweight dogs tend to move around less, so pet owners may need to alter
pets’ diets and exercise routines to help them lose weight and become more physically active.
Overweight dogs are at an elevated risk of developing diabetes, which the PDSA notes is one of a handful of hormonal issues, including Cushing’s disease and hypothyroidism, that also can cause low energy in dogs. Each issue is serious and dog owners are urged to work with their veterinarians to help dogs lose weight. Dogs also can suffer from heart disease, which can cause low energy. PetMD notes that many dogs develop heart disease as they age. The most common forms of heart disease in dogs are heart valve disease, myodcardial (heart muscle) disease, heartworm disease, and arrhythmia. Heart disease in dogs affects blood flow and makes it hard for the heart to pump blood, which can make dogs tired.
Additional causes of low energy
in dogs include anemia, kidney disease and liver disease. Certain medications also can cause low energy in dogs, so it’s vital that pet owners discuss potential side effects of any medicine prescribed to their dogs. Low energy in dogs can be a warning sign of various issues. Dog owners are urged to contact their veterinarians immediately if dogs exhibit signs of low energy.
File photo
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF PIERCE In re Estate of GUY W. THIEMANN and BARBARA S. THIEMANN, Both Deceased. No. 24-4-01197-1. 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.
Date of First Publication: July 11, 2024
Administrator: Cecilia Masinas
Attorney for Administrator: Daniel E. Pizarro, WSBA #47937 Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess PLLC 1200 East D Street Tacoma, WA 98421
SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR SKAGIT COUNTY. No. 24-4-00368-29. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW
11.40.030) In the Matter of the Estate of Terrence S. DeValois, Deceased.
The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced.
The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and non-probate assets.
the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: July 18, 2024
Personal Representative: Nick Joseph 3228 Cottonwood Ave., Unit A Bellingham, WA 98225
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: ADRIANA VAN HORSEN, aka JENNY VAN HORSEN, Deceased. Probate No. 24-4-00556-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS.
Assigned Judge: David E. Freeman
The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)
Date of first publication: July 11, 2024
Personal Representative: Michelle R. VanDellen
Attorneys for Personal Representative: SKAGIT LAW GROUP, PLLC
MEGAN OTIS MASONHOLDER, WSBA #29495
P.O. Box 336/227 Freeway Drive, Suite B Mount Vernon, WA 98273
6926 Holeman Ave
MLS #2233859 $1,095,000
7704
Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838
Turnkey money making opportunity or your new water view dream home...you decide! Professionally managed short term vacation home is being offered fully furnished & completely ready for the prime rental season. Featuring a new roof, air conditioning and flooring, 4 bedroom/2.75 bathroom Point Whitehorn coastal charmer was designed to capture the sweeping bay and mountain views. Relax & unwind from multiple decks, without concern about bank erosion. Jen Freeman 360-815-0803
Bellingham investment group organizes business pitch competition
B y J oshua k or N feld
Calling all entrepreneurs in Whatcom and Skagit counties:
The Bellingham Angel Investors (BAI) will be hosting a business pitch competition in August. BAI aims to empower local leaders to support the economy by making local investments. The group has invested more than $30 million since its founding in 2005, most of which goes to startups in the Pacific Northwest and B.C. Interested applicants can fill out a questionnaire on the BAI website, and BAI investors will review the pitches before inviting the finalists to pitch at a live event in November, with prizes totaling $10,000. Investors will also offer coaching to help applicants refine their pitches.
Applicants need to have submitted a formal business proposal and have a presence in either Whatcom or Skagit counties, though businesses are allowed to operate outside of this area, according to a BAI press release.
“At least one team member should reside in Whatcom or Skagit counties and the business should either have a presence here, if it already exists or plan to do so, if it is still in the ideation
(See Investors, page 15)
OBITUARIES
Carole Jean Liebert
Carole Jean Liebert passed away on June 14, 2024 at the age of 81.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 1 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 2505 W. 27th Ave., Kennewick, WA 99337. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to the Blaine Senior Center, Blaine Food Bank or Grace Lutheran Church in Blaine.
Dr. Christine Carlson 1951-2024
Christine peacefully passed away June 29, 2024, at The Sacred Place.
Christine was born December 31, 1951 in Detroit, MI and moved to Blaine, WA after successfully graduating from Texas A&M school of Veterinary Medicine where she established a successful veterinary practice in Blaine better known as Blaine Animal Hospital. We would like to honor Chris for her years of kindness, professionalism and her dedication to her job and her clients and most of all her patients. She will be greatly missed by the community. Donations in her name may be given to the ASPCA or your animal rescue of choice and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. There will be no service, as requested.
Elizabeth Gwen Bennett Buckner
December 27, 1925 – June 23, 2024
Gwen decided to leave this earthly place when her fun tank finally hit empty. Gwen was born on an undoubtedly cold December day in Lougheed, Alberta, Canada in 1925 to Aleck and Wilhelmina Whyte (nee Aitcheson). She spent her early childhood on the prairie before moving to Haney, B.C. There she spent some time living in a boarding house while her parents were away working in the logging camps where Aleck was a mule skinner and Willa a cook. After graduating from Coquitlam Secondary School, she attended St. Paul’s Hospital School of Nursing in Vancouver. The first job she accepted was a nursing position on the island of Bermuda. There she met a dashing young airman named Tommy, a hurricane hunter for the US Air Force. They married and her first two children (Mike and Mark) were born there. Later the family was transferred to Sacramento, CA. There her third son (Matt) was born. Tragically in 1962, her husband Tommy was killed in a plane crash during a test flight. Now a U.S. citizen, Gwen moved the boys to Bellingham, WA to be closer to her family. She continued her nursing career at St. Joseph Hospital, where she would work for the next 30 years.
In 1970 she met and married George Buckner, a Blaine-born forest ranger who joined Gwen in her appreciation of dancing and card nights. George and Gwen spent their winters snowbirding in the Southwest and traveled with family to Hawaii and Mexico. In retirement, Grandma Gwen was often found with her five grandchildren playing cribbage, watching Lawrence Welk or leading trips to Barter’s Drive-In for hamburgers. In 1990, Gwen and George moved to Birch Bay Village where she made countless friends and found great joy in attending social club activities, dance and exercise classes, card games and Mahjong dates.
Always physically active, Gwen was an ice skater, skier, golfer, an accomplished swimmer and snorkeled well into her 80s. In her 90s she learned to tap dance and was a volunteer at Stafholt nursing home in Blaine to help the “old people”- most of whom were much younger than her. Fiercely independent, Gwen was able to live in her home (with a little help) right up to a month before passing, when she began to need additional care.
She was preceded in death by her two husbands, sister Barbara, brother Duff and likely all her contemporaries. She is survived by her sons Mike Bennett (Carolyn), Mark Bennett (Shirley) and Matt Bennett (Carrie) along with grandchildren Austin (Kira), Renee, Holly (Ian), Brett (Athena), Karena (Josh) and six great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff at Avista Senior Care Center and the home healthcare providers. Most of all, a HUGE THANKS to all her friends, her “Guardian Angels,” as Gwen called them, both inside and outside Birch Bay Village. These “Angels”, transported her to appointments, shopped for her groceries and supplies, checked on her wellbeing and were a source of great friendships for many years.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 21, 2024, from 2–5 p.m., at the Birch Bay Village Club House. If you are not a BBV resident and wish to attend, please RSVP to 360-739-3371. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gwen’s name can be made to the Birch Bay Village Service and Social Club (BBVSSC) at 8055 Cowichan Road, Blaine, WA 98230.
sheriff’s repOrts
July 6, 9:18 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Comfort Lane.
July 6, 11:37 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Square Street.
July 6, 11:38 a.m.: Overdose on Cedar Street.
July 6, 4:28 p.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
July 6, 4:31 p.m.: Death investigation on West 29th Drive.
July 7, 1:46 a.m.: Runaway cold call on West Badger Road.
July 7, 12:25 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Bay Road.
July 7, 1:00 p.m.: Missing child on Kispiox Road.
July 7, 2:12 p.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Lane.
July 7, 4:04 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Birch Bay Drive.
July 8, 12:15 a.m.: Threat cold call on Seashell Way.
July 8, 4:04 a.m.: Prowler on Birch Bay Square Street.
July 8, 9:24 a.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
July 8, 1:55 p.m.: Missing child on Haynie Road.
July 9, 5:43 a.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Waters Edge Way.
July 9, 1:39 p.m.: Death investigation on Seafair Drive.
July 10, 9:31 a.m.: Death investigation on Birch Bay Drive.
July 10, 9:30 p.m.: Theft cold call on Petticote Lane.
July 11, 9:32 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
July 12, 8:30 a.m.: Domestic violence on McGee Road.
July 12, 10:48 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Square Street.
July 12, 4:54 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
July 12, 5:41 p.m.: DUI arrest on Birch Bay Drive.
July 12, 6:49 p.m.: Domestic –physical on Anderson Road.
pOLiCe repOrts
July 6, 7:35 p.m.: Theft on E Street.
July 6, 8:07 p.m.: Burglary on Osprey Road.
July 7, 2:20 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Kingsley Avenue.
July 7, 11:02 a.m.: Vandalism on Great Horned Owl Lane.
July 7 1:20 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Peace Portal Drive.
July 7, 8:42 p.m.: Vandalism on Great Horned Owl Lane.
July 8, 12:12 p.m.: Threat on Great Horned Owl Lane.
July 9, 8:50 a.m.: Animal problem on Boblett Street.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS
1. Letter of the Greek alphabet 4. Cause to become entangled 10. Swiss river 11. Conversation 12. “Magnum” was one 14. Small integer 15. Christmas 16. Of a specific mountain region 18. Burrowing bugs 22. Of a symbol worthy of veneration 23. A type of syndrome 24. Cephalopod mollusks
26. Metric ton
27. Ornamental box
28. As quickly as can be done
30. “Hoop Dreams” subject Arthur
31. Old TV part
34. Extinct flightless birds
36. Former CIA
37. Successor
39. Archaic form
of you
40. Within 41. Danny Hurley’s alma mater
42. Not sacred or biblical
48. Written law
50. Popular hairstyle
51. Congressman 52. Type of font
53. A predetermined period in office
54. Pouch
55. Hormone that stimulates ovulation (abbr.)
56. One from a particular Asian region
58. One’s sense of self-esteem
59. Headgear used to control a horse
60. The habitat of wild animals DOWN
1. A right conferred through legal means
2. American island state
3. Inflexibly en -
trenched 4. “Pollock” actor Harris 5. Foolish person 6. Follows a particular Chairman 7. Choose 8. Sunrooms 9. One hundred grams (abbr.) 12. A symptom of some physical hurt or disorder 13. South American hummingbird 17. “Girl Chopping Onions” painter 19. Wild dog 20. Units of land 21. Footwear 25. Possessing a constant temperature
29. Hormone that promotes water retention (abbr.) 31. Popular game 32. Pension (German) 33. Giant of industry 35. Inferred 38. One who revolves 41. Kept possession of
Coming up
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.
Make a Wind Chime: Thursday, July 18, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Kids grades kindergarten–5th grade decorate a wooden wind chime and hear the wind moving around us and make a pinwheel and the wind. Story and painting too, so wear clothes you can paint in. All supplies provided. Info: wcls.org.
Teen Art Camp: Thursday, July 18, 2:30–4 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Kids grades 6–12 make art and make connections. Projects designed to stretch creative muscles and help see the world in new ways. Info: wcls.org.
July 9, 3:10 p.m.: Vandalism on Grant Avenue.
July 9, 4:36 p.m.: Harassment on Garfield Avenue.
July 9, 7:27 p.m.: Drugs on Grant Avenue.
July 10, 10:13 a.m.: Hit and Run on Cedar Street.
July 10, 8:40 p.m.: Bicycle theft on Mitchell Avenue.
July 11, 11:14 a.m.: Civil problem on Cedar Street.
July 12, 2:23 p.m.: Theft on Grant Avenue.
July 12, 6:29 p.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.
43. Loss of electricity
44. Stoppered bottle
45. Everything
46. First to walk on the moon
47. Engrave
49. Female organs
56. Equal to 1,024 bytes (abbr.)
57. Northeast
tides
July 18-24 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Sunsets, Sculptures & Serenades Concert: Thursday July 18, 6–7:15 p.m., Blaine Marine Park (near the orcas). Featuring Bram Brata, a 30- piece high school steel drum band from Richland, WA. Bring a picnic dinner and lawn chair.
Tidepool Exploration: Friday, July 19, 10 a.m., meet at Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Every day at the beach is a new discovery. Enjoy learning about the habitat at Birch Bay State Park with naturalists. Info bbbparkandrec.org.
Karaoke at the Center: Friday, July 19, 5:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Sing and play along to our favorite songs. Open to the community. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Midsummer Night by the Bay: Friday, July 19, 6–9 p.m., Birch Bay Beach Park and Birch Bay Library. Enjoy an enchanting evening filled by captivating stories around a campfire, games and crafts for the kids, plus a special performance of Midsummer Night’s Dream by the talented children of the BBBPRD2 camp. Free hotdogs by the Friends of Birch Bay Library.
Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, July 20, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Games start at 12:30 p.m. Eight games $15. Lunch available for $8. Info: 360/332-8040.
Walk on the Wild Side: Spring and Summer Wildlife: Saturday, July 20, 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. The Whatcom Humane Society Wildlife Center experiences a wave of wildlife babies each summer. Learn about the different species the wildlife center commonly receives and what happens once they are admitted to their care. Bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Paddle to Puyallup Canoe Journey Landing: Monday, July 22, approximately 5–6 p.m., Birch Bay State Park. The public is welcome to watch the Nooksack Indian Tribe landing and join in a dinner celebration. The landing is part of an annual Native American and First Nations journey from B.C. to the Puyallup Tribe of Nations.
Sculpting Class: Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting July 23, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Join Sculptor Heather Onyon as she teaches a 4-part sculpting class. Learn about polymer clay and create a bust. Limited space, registration required. $20. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Trees and Other Entanglements Documentary Film Screening: Wednesday, July 24, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Trees and Other Entanglements is an HBO original documentary and deeply human tale of our relationship with the natural world and one another. This free screening is made available by the Whatcom Million Trees Project and HBO Max. This movie has a rating of TV14. Info: wcls.org.
Fire Levy Lid Lift Info Meetings: Wednesday, July 24, 7 p.m., station 61, 9408 Odell Road and Thursday, July 25, 5 p.m., station 63, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Learn about the proposed North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Service levy lid lift. Info: nwfrs.net.
The Kindness of Cedars: Thursday, July 25, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Cedar trees play an important role in Coast Salish culture. Kids grades kindergarten–5th grade learn about how cedars are integral to our lives and collaborate to weave a cedar bark mat for each library. Materials for individual paper mats will be provided. Info: wcls.org.
Ferndale Pioneer Days: Friday, July 26, starting at 11 a.m. and Saturday, July 27, starting at 9 a.m., Pioneer Park, Ferndale. Kids activities, food and craft vendors, live music, dancing, beer garden, log cabin museums and more. Info: and schedule: whatcomoldsettlers.com.
Native Plant Walk: Friday, July 26, 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. 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.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of July 8 to 14, no precipitation was recorded. The 2024 yearto-date precipitation is 18.8 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 85°F on July 9 with a low of 54.4°F on July 12. Average high was 82.2°F and average low was 57.7°F.
Giant Insects of the Amazon and Asia: Friday, July 26, 3 p.m. Birch Bay State Park’s wildlife theater. Park rangers present real specimens of the largest bugs in the world. Bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Free Bike Program Info Night: Friday, July 26, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Discover new programs for kids including free bikes. Refreshments. Sponsored by Brilliant Planet. RSVP: tinyurl.com/brilliantplanetmeetandgreet.
The Wave En Blanc Fundraiser: Friday, July 26, 6–9 p.m., Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive. Live music by Michael Dayvid, food, drinks, silent auction and fundraising for the Blaine Arts Council gallery. Tickets and info: blaineartscouncil.org.
Blaine Art Festival: Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday, July 28, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Blaine Marine Park. Enjoy a variety of different genres of artist displaying and selling their art, plus music and food trucks and beer garden. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Investors ...
From page 13
phase,” Gene Kishinevsky, BAI board member, wrote in an email to The Northern Light Applications are due August 25, with finalists selected in September and presentations set for November at Whatcom Community College.
“The pitch competition is focused on local startups and growing the local ecosystem,” Kishinevsky said.
Companies are welcome to ap-
Leaving your job?
ply regardless of startup stage or industry, Kishinevsky said. He also said BAI has funded previous startups including computer, medical, and water filtration companies.
BAI has invested in several northwest businesses including Membrion Inc., a commercial wastewater company; Vega Cloud, a digital cloud storage company; and KitoTech Medical, a medical product company.
“In future years, as the event grows, we may add specific categories,” Kishinevsky said.
BAI doesn’t have a physical office or exact estimates on head-
Let's talk about your options.
count. However, Kishinevsky said they are always interested in new members.
Applicants are encouraged to ap ply to get potential funding oppor tunities, network and feedback to prepare pitches for investors.
To apply for funding or to learn more about BAI, visit its website at bit.ly/3RQl7ps.
