August 22 - 28, 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay
County primary results certified, page 2
Port hires PR firm to improve public image
The Port of Bellingham unanimously approved spending nearly $100,000 on public relations to improve its public image during its August 13 meeting.
Commissioners authorized port executive director Rob Fix to contract a one-year strategic communications campaign with Conflux Associates, a Bellingham-based company owned by Peter Frazier. The contract is set to end August 31, 2025.
The port’s goals with the communications campaign include increasing public awareness of its vision, clarifying the port’s work, gaining public support, increasing the port’s power and ability to do its work, and improving employee morale and retention, according to a port memo.
The port already employs a public affairs administrator, Mike Hogan.
The contract comes on the heels of public scrutiny toward the port, most recently after the port let go of Bellingham International Airport’s aviation director in mid-July. Deputy aviation director Emily Phillipe resigned August 12, according to an August 14 Cascadia Daily News article.
The port commissioners approved the contract in their consent agenda, a section of the meeting where items are voted in a single motion typically without discussion. The contract was one of 14 consent agenda items, and four items were listed as action items.
Conflux Associates LLC did not appear to have a website and the business address provided on the contract agreement was for a home on Chuckanut Point Drive in Bellingham. The Washington State Secretary of State website shows the company
Man arrested for homicide attempt, page 3
City announces Plover start date, page 3
Questions on Blaine musician answered
s Blaine resident Steve Lawrenson, l., shows documents to
wrote an article in The Northern Light asking for information
Mutchler’s inquiry generated phone calls and
A 20-year-old Bellingham man was charged with vehicular homicide following a crash on I-5 in Ferndale that killed a 47-year-old Blaine motorcyclist and injured four people, including the driver, during the early morning hours of August 16. The man, who was suspected of driving under the influence, was booked and released from Whatcom County Jail the same day.
Collin Rene Cayo, 20, of Bellingham, was driving a 2005 Pontiac GTO when he entered southbound I-5 from Portal Way just after 2:30 a.m. August 16, according to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) news release. Cayo had two Ferndale residents, ages 18 and 20, in the Pontiac as well as an
unidentified third passenger.
As the Pontiac was entering the highway, Blaine resident Evan L. Hayes, 47, was driving a 2006 Yamaha motorcycle southbound on I-5.
Cayo lost control of the Pontiac and struck the left side barrier, coming to rest in the lane, according to WSP. Hayes was unable to evade in time and struck the Pontiac. Hayes, who was wearing a helmet, and his motorcycle came to rest in the second lane, according to WSP.
Hayes was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he died later that morning.
Cayo and two of his passengers were
Jon Mutchler regarding his great-grandmother, Harriet Rogers Owen. Mutchler
on Owen after her music sheets from the early 20th century were discovered.
emails from readers, with information on Owen, including Lawrenson. Read more on page 5.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
SHOP,
EAT AND READ LOCAL
End of Season Sale!
“I need more room.”
Come on in and let’s talk bikes!
August primary results certified in Whatcom County
of the vote, and Bhachu 47.1 percent.
Election results for the August 6 primary in Whatcom County were certified August 20, and the Secretary of State will certify statewide results by Friday, August 23.
As of August 19, 656 ballots in Whatcom County had not been accepted of the 73,337 returned, according to the auditor’s website. About 44.8 percent of county voters participated in the election.
Raymond Pelletti, a Republican from Blaine, will face incumbent Alicia Rule, a Democrat from Blaine, for the 42nd Legislative District State Representative Position 1 in the November general election. Pelletti received 45.7 percent of the vote, with Rule receiving 46.6 percent and Janet Melman, a Democrat from Bellingham, receiving 7.6 percent.
Kamal Bhachu, a Blaine Republican, will challenge incumbent Joe Timmons, a Bellingham Democrat, for the Legislative District State Representative Position 2. Timmons received 52.7 percent
Incumbent Atul Deshmane and Dan Johnson will be on November ballots for Public Utility District No. 1 Commissioner District 2, garnering 46.4 and 41 percent of the vote respectively. A third candidate, Austin Anderson, received 12.3 percent of the vote.
Proposition 2024-17, authorizing a property tax levy lid lift for Fire Protection District 21, also known as North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, was called soon after the ballot count. The ballot measure failed with 57.7 percent voting against it.
As for state results, Bob Ferguson (D) will face Dave Reichert (R) in the governor race. State results remained largely unchanged from the first ballot counts, except for the Commissioner of Public Lands, which the Seattle Times has reported is one of the states narrowest vote margins in decades.
A statewide hand recount is needed to determine who will be in the November election with Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler in the lead for the Washington lands commissioner with 22 percent of the vote, according to the Seattle Times. As of election results at 5:17 p.m. August 20, Democrat Dave Upthegrove was ahead of Republican Sue Kuehl Pederson by just 51 votes to be the other candidate in the election.
Washington has a top-two primary, meaning the two candidates with the most votes advance to the November general election, regardless of party. The general election is scheduled for November 5.
For Whatcom County results, including precinct-level results, visit bit.ly/46YiRmo. To view a full list of state election results, visit the Washington State Secretary of State’s website at bit.ly/4dAtFJe.
B y G race M c c arthy
Photo by Joshua Kornfeld
Police arrest Birch Bay man
A Blaine area man was arrested for an attempted murder in the morning of August 20 after dropping off a female with extensive injuries to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and suggesting to officers that he, “intentionally attempted to kill the female earlier that morning,” at his home in Birch Bay according to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO). The woman was later transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for treatment.
Clayton Edward Dubois, 43, was arrested at the hospital by Bellingham police and booked into Whatcom County Jail on one count of attempted murder in the second degree and one
Crash ...
From page 1
transported to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, according to WSP. The WSP report states it was unknown whether the third passenger sustained injuries and whether anyone in the vehicle was wearing seatbelts. Drugs or alcohol are believed to have been involved in the ac -
count of DUI. Bail has not yet been set for the second degree murder charge.
After the arrest, WCSO deputies went to Dubois’ home on Lincoln Road in Birch Bay, “in an attempt to contact any person still inside the residence,” WCSO public information officer Deb Slater wrote in the press release. Deputies discovered what appeared to be blood and other evidence of the attempted murder in an open, detached garage on the property.
Deputies were granted a warrant to search the home and found additional evidence, including firearms, Slater wrote.
According to court records, Dubois has been the respondent of several filings for domestic violence protection orders dating back to 2006.
cident, according to WSP. Cayo was booked into Whatcom County Jail at 7:30 a.m. August 16 and released later that day after posting a $10,000 cash bond.
The 20-year-old passenger from Ferndale was also booked and released from jail that day on warrants for previous charges of violating a domestic violence protection order, driving with a suspended license
Dubois has a preliminary hearing in Whatcom County Superior Court set for 3 p.m. on August 21, where bail will be set for the second degree attempted murder charge.
The woman’s condition was unknown by press time.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic or sexual violence, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) 24-hour hotline is available at 360/715-1563 or 877/715-1563.
Brigid Collins Family Support Center, a Bellingham-based nonprofit working to end child abuse, can be reached at 360/734-4616 and brigidcollins.org.
Lummi Victims of Crime has a 24-hour helpline at 360/312-2015.
The National Domestic Violence Helpline operates a chat line at thehotline.org/help.
and negligent driving, according to jail booking data.
As of August 21, the unknown passenger in the Pontiac has not been identified and the seatbelt usage in the vehicle remains unknown, WSP trooper Kelsey Harding wrote in an email to The Northern Light Southbound I-5 was fully blocked after the collision until about 9 a.m. that morning, Harding wrote on social media.
City expected to offer free rides for remainder of season
The city of Blaine announced the historic Plover ferry will resume rides around Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Bay on Saturday, August 24. City manager Mike Harmon said it’s the city’s intention, unless directed otherwise, that the 80-year-old passenger ferry will offer free rides for the remainder of the season.
The city-owned ferry typically ends service after Labor Day Weekend, but Harmon said the city would like to run the ferry through September, hinging upon the availability of captains, deckhands and
Blaine City Council’s support. The ferry would end service earlier if demand slows, Harmon said.The ferry schedule is expected to be finalized by Friday, August 23, Harmon said, adding the city has hired three captains and a retired
(See Plover, page 5)
s The Plover ferry docked at Gate 2 in Blaine Harbor.
File photo
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
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Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com
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Contributors In This Issue Doug Dahl
The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 11
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Low tide in Semiahmoo Bay OpiniOn
Bay to explore the beach this summer.
Letters
The Editor:
As a recently relocated climate migrant from northern California, I must voice my disappointment with this community’s decision to postpone funding for the fire department in the failed ballot measure of Proposition 2024-18. We need access to emergency fire and first response services now more than ever before. The proposed structural modernization and equipment upgrades would allow our firefighters to do their jobs in an effective and secure manner.
As a transplant from the fires of Northern California, I know firsthand that well-equipped firefighters are imperative to our safety and well being. Grasslands once considered golden dry and located
only in California, now are seen in British Columbia, Oregon and Washington. They are tinderboxes awaiting just a spark or ember. Our neighbors to the north of us in B.C. continue to experience profound community loss due to wildfires.
We will never be immune from these devastating fires that now plague the West Coast from the Arctic Circle well into Mexico. Our firefighters and first responders need our political and financial support now. Won’t someone please resubmit the very sensible bill of 2024-18?
Perhaps we, the local citizens of Northwest Washington, just misread and underestimated the value of Proposition 2024-18.
Suzanne Cresswell Blaine
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.
Correction
In the August 15 issue of The Northern Light, an article titled “Planning commission pushes building height recommendation” incorrectly stated Mark Douglas, of Harbor Lands LP, owned the Seascape Condominiums. Harbor Lands LP built Seascape Condominiums. We regret the error.
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 Walkers take advantage of low tide on Semiahmoo
Photo by Caley Woulfe
History on Blaine pianist uncovered
An article in The Northern Light requesting information on an early 20th century Blaine pianist came full circle on August 20 as longtime Blaine resident Steve Lawrenson shared information about his great-grandmother, Harriet Rogers Owen, with article writer Jon Mutchler in the newspaper’s conference room.
Todd Gallahar, pastor of the Northwood Chapel in Blaine, had contacted Mutchler, the former mayor of Ferndale and pianist at Semiahmoo Resort, to see if Mutchler had information on 115-yearold music sheets that Gallahar had found in a free piano.
The two music sheets were called the “Blaine Two-Step” and “Semiahmoo Waltz,” both published in 1909. The composer was listed as Harriet Rogers Owen, and wanting to find more information about the composer, Gallahar and Mutchler searched the internet for any leads. Coming up empty-handed, Mutchler wrote an article in the August 8 issue of The Northern Light asking for the community’s help for information about Owen.
Plover ...
From page 3
U.S. Coast Guard officer to manage its operations.
The city is also determining whether it will need to dock the Plover only at Blaine Harbor, instead of also making a stop at Semiahmoo Spit.
Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM), which oversaw the repairs and has historically operated the boat, leases the slip where the Plover docks at Semiahmoo Spit. However, Harmon said there is a clause in DHM’s slip lease agreement that requires the nonprofit to use the space for recreation and tourism, and the city believes if that clause is not met, Semiahmoo Resort can choose another ferry to dock there. Harmon said he hopes the city has an answer on whether the Plover will dock at Semiahmoo Spit by the afternoon of Thursday, August 22.
The city announced the Plo -
The day after publication, Lawrenson phoned the newspaper to say Owen was his great-grandmother. Lawrenson was among three other Blaine residents who quickly contacted the newspaper with any information they had.
Lawrenson and Mutchler agreed to meet at The Northern Light office to discuss Owen’s life.
Owen was born in Illinois in 1869, and at seven years old, moved to Whatcom County with her family. Her family had a homestead east of Ferndale, in what is now Pioneer Park, and her brothers became agricultural leaders in Whatcom County, according to old newspaper clipping provided by Lawrenson.
Owen spent the majority of her life in Blaine, where she was an involved community member including through a society for the founding women of Blaine and a garden club, Lawrenson said.
Her obituary lists her as a member of the Eastern Star, the music study club, Chapter J, P.E.O., the M.A.C. and as being involved with the Congregational church.
An active musician in the community, Owen performed with “The Melody Men,” which in-
ver’s sailing date in an August 16 news release.
“To show our heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support and patience, we’re offering these inaugural cruises absolutely free,” the city of Blaine wrote. “We’ve missed you as much as you’ve missed the Plover, and we can’t wait to welcome you aboard. Your steadfast enthusiasm for this historic gem of Blaine has been truly inspiring, and we’re thrilled to bring it back to life for our community.”
The Plover concluded nearly two years of major repairs earlier this summer. The vessel made an initial voyage on July 12 before a financial dispute between the city and DHM stalled the official grand opening.
The boat was built in 1944 to transport workers from Blaine Harbor to the old Alaska Packers Association salmon cannery on Semiahmoo Spit, and has been enshrined in the National Register of Historic Places since 1997.
While flipping through Owen’s archives, Mutchler said he felt satisfied the mystery was solved.
“What a thrill to have the discovery and solving of a piece of mystery music reveal to us a long-forgotten Blaine piano teacher and composer, and an important part of our Whatcom heritage,” he said.
Lawrenson said he has learned new things about his great-grandmother. Lawrenson, a former Blaine City Council member whose family has a long line of public service in Blaine, talked with Mutchler, a former Blaine resident and currently serving on Ferndale City Council, on connections outside of Owen.
“We knew we’d find out who this was and we did,” Mutchler said.
Lawrenson added, “The response has been amazing.”
cluded Elias K. Breidford, regularly traveling to Bellingham to perform on the radio, Lawrenson said. She was a music teacher who taught piano and organ lessons in her home.
Owen was also a poet, and wrote a poem for the Peace Arch dedication in 1921 as well as being published in a “Washington Poets” book.
In 1953, Owen died a day before her 84th birthday from lingering illness at a hospital in Bellingham.
Mutchler has posted a recording of Owen’s songs on YouTube at bit.ly/4dsNVwk, and has asked the Semiahmoo Resort to hang the “Semiahmoo Waltz” music sheet.
“One of her poems was dedicated to the Peace Arch, in which she displayed depth and vision of her sense of fellowship and brotherhood of humanity,” according to Owen’s obituary. “She will be remembered for her love, kindness, patience and human understanding and her loyalty to the high principles of Christian living.”
s Harriet Rogers Owen, l., and “The Melody Men” traveled to Bellingham to perform on the radio.
Photo courtesy Steve Lawrenson
s Steve Lawrenson, l., and Jon Mutchler leaf through archives of Owen’s life. Photo by Grace McCarthy
Oktoberfest event to benefit Blaine Food Bank
Beach Cat Brewing Co. has announced it is planning ‘Catoberfest,’ an Oktoberfest-themed fundraiser for the Blaine Food Bank.
The 21-plus, ticketed event will have a beer garden, food, cornhole tournament, live music and a costume contest 12-7 p.m. Saturday, September 14 at the Blaine Marine Park amphitheater. All proceeds from ticket sales and the beer garden will benefit Blaine Food Bank.
Tickets cost $25 for general admission and $50 for VIP. VIP tickets include a souvenir glass, two drink tickets and 20 percent off some of the food vendors.
The beer garden will feature Beach Cat Brewing Co. and have Oktoberfest-style craft brews from over 10 breweries. The beer garden opens at 12 p.m. for those purchasing VIP tickets, and 1 p.m. for general admission.
Performances include Dad Company, Paper Hearts and Michael Dayvid. Food trucks will sell bratwurst, pizza and Filipino cuisine, and L&L Bakery is set to sell German desserts.
Festival organizers are looking for more event sponsors. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor is asked to email Jake@beachcatbrewing.com or Jacquee.sovereign@ gmail.com. Donations can also be made directly to the food bank at blainefoodbank.org/donations.
To purchase tickets, visit the Beach Cat Brewing Co. website at beachcatbrewing.com
registered in June 2017. Frazier, who also helped found Hotel Leo and Heliotrope Hotel, wrote in the proposal to the port that it “pains me to see Port of Bellingham take such a reputational beating. The problem has been growing for some time but has reached a critical nadir.” He added the port’s reputation would impact hiring, job satisfaction and team building. In his strategic communications campaign plan, Frazier wrote that the public’s opin -
ion of the port is low and that “a nuanced discussion about the work of the port is beyond most voters and taxpayers.”
“We will create a soaring and plausible vision of what Whatcom county will look like in the near future when the Port has fulfilled its mission, its partnerships have succeeded, and community economic development opportunities have been realized,” Frazier wrote in the proposal. “Goals help us get to where we want to go, but inspiring people is difficult without a clear, tangible, and attractive vision. This vision is not intended to be public-facing in this form.”
New education foundation to hold first community meeting
B y N ola N B aker
Just in time for the new school year, the Peace Arch Education Foundation (PAEF), a newly formed fundraising organization to support the Blaine school district, will hold its first community listening session 4-6 p.m. Monday, August 26 at the Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street.
The session is meant to be a starting point for the community to voice what it believes are the best ways to help students and staff thrive in a school district that has seen multiple years of budget cuts and dwindling staff.
Former Blaine school board member Charles Gibson, who served on the board for 17 years, along with Bob Feaster and former Blaine mayor Bonnie Onyon, established the foundation as a way to give the community a voice for their ideas. The listening session, according to Gibson, is the first step in that process.
“The purpose of this listening session is to hear from the community what activities would be most beneficial for the Education Foundation to pursue to accomplish the most good for the students of Blaine public schools,” a PAEF press release stated.
Other school districts in Washington have some sort of com-
munity organization that works alongside, but independent from, the school district in an effort to raise money, organize parents and community members, and advocate for the students of its school district. According to Gibson, this will be the first time something like this has existed for the Blaine school district.
The community listening session will be structured around guiding questions to keep conversation focused on benefiting students and staff, and what this new organization can realistically accomplish. For more information on the event, contact Charles Gibson at 360/201-5603, or email info. paef@gmail.com
Survey responses on Whatcom road fatalities needed by August 31
throughout August.
The Whatcom Crash Test is an initiative by Whatcom Council of Governments (WCOG) that aims to understand a wider range of human factors that contribute to road fatalities. In exchange for filling out the survey, participants will be entered into a pool to win $50 gift cards. Surveys must be submitted by Saturday, August 31.
According to the survey, the most common factor in 47 percent of Whatcom County fatalities between 2014 and 2024 has been impaired driving.
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, 810 people died in fatal accidents on Washington roads in 2023, the highest recorded statewide since 1990.
WCOG has been supporting an ad campaign for the initiative through mailers, bus ads and attending community events.
Hugh Conroy is the director of WCOG and manages the Whatcom Crash Test.
Conroy said that WCOG plans to keep the survey open throughout the end of the month to align with the timeframe of the cash prizes. Winners will be randomly selected on September 1.
“To give folks an extra nudge to take and complete the survey, we’ll randomly select 50 survey respondents, as long as they provide us with a way to tell us they won,” he said.
About 103,000 postcards arrived in mailboxes on August 1. Conroy said WCOG has received over 3,000 responses so far this month.
“The number one goal is to simply reduce fatal and serious injury crashes,” he said.
For more information, visit the Whatcom Council of Governments website at wcog.org, call 360/676-6974 or email safety@WCOG.org.
s From l.; Port of Bellingham commissioners Bobby Briscoe, Ken Bell and Michael Shepard.
Photo courtesy Port of Bellingham
File photo
Back toSchool
As we look forward to the 2024-2025 school year, we are excited about the opportunities for our students, staff and community. This year, we remain focused on improving student outcomes through our use of data and strong instruction in each classroom.
We are also increasing our focus on family communication. Our communications will be consolidated with the use of ParentSquare which replaces multiple platforms used in the past. ParentSquare also makes it possible for interested community members to receive my weekly parent newsletter. Click on the QR code link below to sign up for this mailing list. In addition, I want to bring your attention to our district’s social media re-launch. Follow us at “Blaine School District, WA” on Facebook and Instagram.
With careful planning and strategic timing, we are asking voters to consider approval of a capital bond on the November General Election ballot which would (if approved) keep local tax rates flat while allowing us to make major updates across the district. Check our website for opportunities
to learn more about this initiative.
The world of education continues to evolve, and we continue to strive to be the best place for students to receive a high-quality well-rounded education. This includes the addition of a secondary online learning option beginning this year. We get to work with your students each day, and that is a tremendous gift you entrust us with.
It will take all of us working together to maximize the potential for our students and we want to do that in collaboration with you. I will continue to host a monthly Supper with the Superintendent to provide parents and community members with an opportunity to have open discussion in a town hall format. The Superintendent’s Advisory Committee continues to provide feedback on items under consideration for the future, such as a balanced school year calendar. If you are interested in participating on that committee, please email me at cgranger@blainesd.org. Whether it is one of the above options, or volunteering in the building, or joining a parent teacher organization or booster club, we look forward to working with you as a partner in supporting the success of “Each Student, Each Day!”
Dr. Christopher Granger, Superintendent Blaine School District
Back to School 2024-2025
SECONDARY ONLINE LEARNING
We are excited to announce a new opportunity for our students: Blaine High School’s Virtual Learning program (BHSVL). This program offers a flexible, alternative way to learn, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students.
Using the Edgenuity curriculum, a proven and comprehensive educational platform, our online program provides high-quality instruction in a variety of subjects. Whether a student needs a more personalized learning pace, has a unique schedule, or simply thrives in a digital environment, this pro-
gram is designed to help them succeed. The program provides instructor-led online courses to students. BHSVL presents students with an interactive learning experience, not an online textbook. Full-time students are required to spend twenty-eight (28) hours per week working on their online coursework while being monitored by a Written Student Learning Plan. Admission to the program occurs quarterly, and the BHSVL curriculum mirrors the scope and sequence of content taught in the Blaine public schools.
BLAINE HOMECONNECTION
Welcome back Borderites! As we enter a new school year, it’s fun to think about the possibilities that lay before us. New pens and pencils bring inspiration for new ideas and creative thinking. New calculators and graph paper bring the opportunity to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills. New friendships and classmates bring the hope for growth in our students’ abilities to collaborate and communicate in the world around them. We are excited to continue to support students and families in the year to come.
For those who are unfamiliar with HomeConnection, we are Blaine’s Parent Partnership school. We are an Alternative Learning Experience (ALE)
public school within Blaine School District that offers families a way to educate their students outside the traditional classroom setting. We serve students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. In our school families work with a certificated teacher to determine the curriculum needs of their students to develop a Written Student Learning Plan (WSLP) in line with Washington State Learning Standards. We provide families with curriculum materials and support as parents facilitate learning at home. Our teachers collaborate with parents to supervise, monitor, and evaluate student progress. We offer onsite elective classes such as art, history, and science, as well as district and state assessments to
While we still believe in face-to-face instruction for the vast majority of our students, this program is intended to meet specific needs for specific students and families. We invite you to inquire about this exciting new offering by visiting the Blaine High School website, where you’ll find a survey and application. Thank you for your continued support of Blaine High School. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will have with students and the broader community.
monitor student progress. We are looking forward to working collaboratively with our families to provide educational opportunities designed to meet their individual student’s learning needs. If you are interested in our program please reach out as we are excited to welcome new students and families into our school community for the 20242025 school year. Our phone number is (360) 332-0483. You can also reach Dawn Cottnair, Blaine HomeConnection Director, through email dcottnair@blainesd.org. We look forward to supporting families and students throughout the 2024-2025 school year.
“Study hard what interests you the most in the most undisciplined, irreverent and original manner possible.” - Richard Feynman
“A Whale of a Place to Go!” 4825 Alderson Road www.thecshop.com
www.envisioncold.com
“A well-educated mind will always have more questions than answers.” - Helen Keller FROM WhatcOM LaW GROup, p.S. Roger Ellingson, Rajeev Majumdar, Casie Rodenberger, Matt Rommelmann, & Alejandra Cabrales 289 H Street, Blaine • 360-332-7000 www.WhatcomLaw.com
Administrative Offices (360) 332-5881
Pt. Roberts Primary School (360) 945-2223
Blaine Primary School (360) 332-1300
Blaine Elementary School (360) 332-5213
Blaine Middle School (360) 332-8226
Blaine High School (360) 332-6045
Blaine HomeConnection (360) 332-0483 Family Service
Dawn Cottnair, Director Blaine HomeConnection
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! The administration and staff are here to support you every step of the way as we begin another year of learning and growth. As always, we are committed to providing the very best educational experience possible. This year, we are focused on preparing our students not just for graduation, but for the world beyond.
Success in school and life requires more than just knowledge – it demands the right attitudes and behaviors. We emphasize study skills, time management, self-awareness, persistence, and the ability to work effectively in collaborative settings. These skills and attitudes are crucial for success in high school and beyond. Our goal is to ensure that every student graduates ready for college or a career, equipped with the tools they need for a
BLAINE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year. We are blessed to live, work, and learn in Blaine, WA. Blaine Middle School is committed to creating a safe, caring, and respectful environment so that each student gets what they need in order to learn.
We have three focus areas that we will spend our time and energy on this year: School Culture, Academics, and Social and Emotional Learning.
Our first priority is to provide a positive school culture by creating and maintaining a safe and productive learning environment for each student and adult. Additionally, we will once again seek parent and guardian input, as well as invite families to volunteer in our hallways, cafeteria, and classrooms.
bright future.
This year, our focus remains on continuous improvement and clear communication. We will keep you informed through our school website, ParentSquare, social media, and Dr. Granger’s community Q&A sessions. Parents, please make sure your contact information is up to date, especially your email address, as this will be our primary method of communication.
Some things never change, like our belief in our mission:
We Are Blaine High School
We Foster RESILIENCE
We Model RESPECT
We Practice RESPONSIBILITY
We Demonstrate COMPASSION
Academically, students will attend core classes to prepare for the rigors of high school as they are on their journey to graduate. In addition, all middle school students will have classes focused on the skills they need as learners, called WIN (What I Need). WIN classes recognize that each student has a unique set of skills and ways of learning and are designed to build and extend each student’s strengths and areas of growth.
Socially, we recognize that middle school students experience a wide range of emotions that they are learning to regulate. Setting common expectations and behavior support for all students sets the foundation for students to enter and in-
I want to highlight the importance of fostering resilience. Resilience is a powerful skill that helps students overcome challenges and thrive in the face of adversity. It involves believing in your ability to influence your own life, finding purpose in difficult times, and learning from every experience. Know that your teachers care deeply about your success. Work hard, even when the going gets tough, and trust that your efforts will lead to great things.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our administrators via email at eeide@blainesd.org and jradke@blainesd.org. We are here to help you and your students with any concerns that may arise throughout the 2024-2025 school year. Looking forward to an incredible year ahead!
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year at Blaine Primary and Blaine Elementary School! We are beyond excited to begin this new chapter with you and look forward to the incredible journey ahead. My name is Michelle McKeown, and I am so excited, humbled, and honored to serve as the principal of both schools. I have been working in the Blaine School District for 20 years, beginning my journey here as a teacher, and I am thrilled to now have the opportunity to lead these amazing schools. I am joined by two outstanding assistant principals, Kelli Alonso and Kristen Bauer, along with a phenomenal staff of caring, dedicated ed-
ucators.
Thank you for entrusting us with your students and their education. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our dedicated teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing classrooms to welcome students for learning. We prioritize safety, belonging, and positive relationships, fostering an atmosphere that supports each student and their unique personalities.
In the coming weeks, we look forward to reconnecting with returning families and getting to
teract in a predictable environment where they can grow socially and emotionally as young adults.
Teachers will meet in their Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) each Wednesday morning from 7:50-8:50 a.m. with a unified focus on maintaining our positive school culture, improving student learning, and helping students build their social and emotional skills.
Finally, I want to invite middle school students and their families to the middle school cafeteria on August 26 between 2-3 p.m. to take an informal tour, get a copy of your student’s schedule, and update health and family contact information.
This is going to be an amazing Borderite year!
know those new to our community. We encourage all families to become actively involved in our school through various events, volunteer opportunities, and by staying in close communication with teachers and staff through ParentSquare. Together, we can ensure that every child has the support and encouragement they need to succeed. Thank you again for entrusting us with your children’s education. We are honored to be a part of their learning journey and are excited for the year ahead. On behalf of Blaine’s entire staff, we warmly welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year!
Darren Benson, Principal Blaine Middle School
Beth Eide, Principal Blaine High School
Michelle McKeown, P-5 Principal Blaine Primary School Blaine Elementary School
Back to School 2024-2025
Calendar 2024-25
*NOTE: 1-Hour Late Start on Wednesdays, unless noted.
AUGUST
28 First Day of School for Students (Late Start) 28-30 Preschool, TK & K Conferences SEPTEMBER
2 Labor Day Holiday (No School)
3 First Day of School TK & K NOVEMBER
4 Teacher Work Day (Non Student Day)
5-8 K-8 Family Conferences (Early Release)
6 NO late start (Early Release) 11 Veterans Day Holiday (No School)
27 Early Release (K-12 Early Release 12:50pm; No Late Start)
28 Thanksgiving Day Holiday (No School)
29 Native American Heritage Day Holiday (No School)
20 Early Release (K-12 release at 12:50) 23 - January 3 Winter Break (No School)
JANUARY
6 School Resumes
20 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (No School)
27 Teacher Work Day (Non-Student Day)
We're excited to introduce ParentSquare, our new communication platform for staying connected with your school and district. ParentSquare lets you receive and send messages, get alerts, attendance notifications, newsletters, share files, and view calendar items—all in one place!
Invitation emails have been sent to families at the preferred email address listed in their student's record in Skyward Family Access. That email will guide you through activating your account, setting preferences, and choosing your preferred language. Even if you don't activate your ParentSquare account, you'll still receive email messages but won't have access to two-way communication features. For added convenience, download the free ParentSquare app for iOS or Android. Visit our website for more details. We're excited to enhance our communication with you!
Transportation
Your student’s bus route information can be found in Family Access under “Busing”. If you’re new to Blaine School District, have moved or your student’s transportation needs have changed, please visit https://www.blainesd.org/page/transportation and click “Request Bus Transportation”. Some routes, bus stops and times have changed, so please pay close attention to your student’s busing information in Family Access. If you have questions or concerns, please email transportation@blainesd.org or call (360) 332-0700.
Closure Make-up Day (No School Unless Make-up Needed)
7-11 Spring Break (No School)
Teacher Work Day (Non-Student Day)
K-12 Family Conferences (Early Release at 12:50) 16 NO Late Start (Early Release)
5 Teacher Work Day (Non-Student Day)
BHS Graduation
Last Day of School for Students and Teachers (Early Release at 12:50)
Juneteenth Holiday (District
Road Rules:
OBITUARIES
Question: This time of year there are a lot of tractors driving on roads near farms. Is it legal to pass a tractor in a no-passing zone?
Answer: The Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius once said, “The impediment to action advances action. That which stands in the way becomes the way.” This quote has been popularized by modern stoic writer Ryan Holiday as, “The obstacle is the way.” Being a fan of stoic philosophy, I’ve been asking myself, “If the obstacle is a tractor, and I’m in a no-passing zone, how does the tractor become the way?” Maybe Marcus meant it as a metaphor and I’m taking it too literally.
And if I am taking it too literally, the tractor probably isn’t an obstacle. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Any driver should already know that solid center lines indicate a no-passing zone. The question then is, are there any exceptions to the no-passing zone law?
Yes, there is one exception. The law doesn’t apply “when an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway.” (The driver still has to yield to oncoming traffic.) This leads to more questions: What is an obstruction? And when is it necessary? Neither of these terms are defined in traffic law, but we can get a hint from Washington’s criminal code on how “necessary” might be understood. I’m admittedly using it out of context, but in the criminal code necessary is defined, in part, as having no other reasonable alternative.
While “obstruction” isn’t defined, it is used in other places in traffic law, and most frequently it refers to a stationary object blocking the roadway. For example, the secure-your-load law describes objects that have fallen out of a vehicle and onto the roadway as obstructions.
We’re getting into interpretation of the law which, as you might recall from Schoolhouse Rock, is the job of the judicial branch of gov-
Shelby Marie Kerr
September, 2000 – August, 2024
It is with great heartache that we are sharing that Shelby Marie Kerr has gained her wings. Shelby is survived by her mother, Leeann Kerr; her father Todd Eiter; her big brother Zach and half-brothers Micheal and Carter. Shelby is also survived by her aunts Robin and Rhonda, and numerous cousins, Corrina, Justin, Kennedy, Madison, Taylor and Jackson; along with many other friends and family. Shelby was preceded in death by her uncle Kenny, and her grandmothers, Sherry and Joanne.
Shelby had a contagious smile and could fill the room up with her laughter, she was tenacious and goofy and was always asking questions and seeking answers. Shelby grew up in the meeting halls of NA, she easily made friends with the other kids, and enjoyed camping, dances and all the other family events that NA put on. Shelby was Leeann’s side-kick and they rarely were apart, they learned together how to navigate and grow up as a mother and daughter. Shelby was loyal especially when it came to her family or friends, she had a warm, loving heart
When Shelby reached adulthood, she spread her wings and explored what and where she wanted to be in life, with that freedom, it sometimes brings struggles. Although Shelby did struggle, she knew she was loved and her family was her biggest supporter, and she would do her best to stay in contact with them.
With the heartbreak this brings for Shelby’s friends and family, please if you are struggling with substance use, mental illness or thoughts of suicide please reach out. In lieu of flowers, would you please honor Shelby and donate to the National Suicide Prevention, samhsa.gov.
Celebration of Life will be held September 7, 3:30–6 p.m., at Semiahmoo Cannery, 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine, WA National Suicide/Crisis lifeline - Dial or text 988.
Narcotics Anonymous hotline (360) 647-3234 – Whatcom County.
ernment. (I just rewatched that episode and had forgotten that Schoolhouse Rock describes the three branches of government as a three-ring circus with clowns.) I’ll share my understanding, but I’m no lawyer and my opinion carries no weight in a court of law.
A tractor fits the definition of a motor vehicle in the law, and it’s more appropriate to consider it a slow-moving vehicle than an obstruction. The law prohibits passing a slow-moving vehicle in a no-passing zone.
Even if you were to argue that a tractor driving on the roadway is an obstruction, I still don’t think you could legally pass it in a no-passing zone, because it doesn’t meet the “necessary” requirement. Since the tractor is driving, it’s going to eventually pull into a farm or reach a stretch of road where it’s safe to pass. You might not like the wait, but it’s a
reasonable alternative to passing in a no-passing zone.
The exception to crossing the centerline in a no-passing zone is intended for inanimate objects, like a couch that’s fallen out the back of a pickup truck. It’s not going to get out of your way, so it’s necessary to go around it. (Or if you’re a kind-hearted soul and you think it’s safe you could push it out of the roadway, but that might be a dangerous option.)
Getting back to our stoic teachers, maybe it’s not the tractor that’s the obstacle, but our sense of urgency. Then the tractor becomes the way; the way to practice patience. Too philosophical and preachy? Fair enough. Even so, I’m sticking with my answer: It’s not legal to pass a tractor in a no-passing zone.
Doug Dahl is a Blaine resident, manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.
B y d ou G d ahl
sheriff’s repOrts
August 11, 2:22 p.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Bayshore Drive.
August 12, 11:12 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on East Street.
August 12, 1:32 p.m.: Drugs on Pacific Highway.
August 12, 4:12 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
August 12, 7:37 p.m.: Missing child cold call on Halibut Drive.
August 12, 9:43 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Birch Bay Drive.
August 13, 7:38 a.m.: Serve warrant on Boblett Road.
August 13, 11:04 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Arnie Road.
August 13, 11:32 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Valley View Road.
August 13, 4:15 p.m.: DUI arrest on Delta Line Road.
August 13, 8:27 p.m.: Burglary cold call on East Street.
August 13, 8:28 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on East Street.
August 14, 10:22 a.m.: Missing person cold call on Richmond Park Road.
August 14, 11:02 a.m.: Vehicle
prowl cold call on Stein Road.
August 14, 3:56 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Drive.
August 14, 8:40 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
August 15, 11:11 a.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
August 15, 2:38 p.m.: DUI
arrest on Loomis Trail Road.
August 15, 8:22 p.m.: Sex offender registration on East Street.
August 16, 1:54 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Square Street.
August 16, 5:19 p.m.: Missing person on H Street Road.
August 17, 6:20 p.m.: Death investigation on East Street.
pOLiCe repOrts
August 10, 10:36 a.m.: Burglary on Clyde Street.
August 10, 8:26 p.m.: Shots on Mary Avenue.
August 11, 4:45 p.m.: Serve warrant on Blaine Road.
August 11, 8:42 p.m.: Drugs on Marine Drive.
August 12, 9:10 a.m.: Theft on Semiahmoo Parkway.
August 12, 5:50 p.m.: Theft on H Street.
August 12, 6:14 p.m.: Theft on Boblett Street.
August 13, 7:18 a.m.: Theft on H Street.
CrOsswOrd
ACROSS
1. Microgram
4. After B
7. Everything
8. An unfortunate development
10. Coat with sticky substance
12. Cylinder of tobacco for smoking
13. Minimum interval take off 14. Yuck! 16. NBA sensation Jeremy 17. Where some rockers work 19. Midway between northeast and east 20. Snake-like fishes
21. Groups of homes
25. Swiss river 26. Useful towel
27. “The Wire” character “Moreland”
29. Oafish creature
30. A major division of geological time
31. Bird-like Chinese dinosaur
32. Sporting events
39. Body part
41. Clerical vestment
42. Shows data
43. Some are “special”
44. Expression of disappointment
45. Students’ rights document (abbr.)
46. Vacation locale Costa __
48. Pop singer 49. Distract outside a city
50. Mark Wahlberg comedy 51. Coniferous tree 52. Midway between south and southeast DOWN 1. Lunatic 2. Actress Danes 3. Buttock muscles 4. The 22nd letter of the Greek alphabet 5. Popular 70s rockers
6. Electronic communication 8. Trigraph 9. Sea eagles 11. Low-pitched, resonant sound
14. Northeastern US university (abbr.) 15. Home of the Bulldogs 18. Exclamation of surprise 19. Make a mistake 20. Advantage 22. Monkeys love them 23. Wood 24. Paddle 27. Past participle of be 28. Tall, rounded vase
29. Device manufacturers
31. Financial institution (abbr.) 32. Paper product 33. A type 34. Atomic #43 35. Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer 36. Behaviors
37. Decays
38. Walked confidently
39. Voice (Italian) 40. Class of adhesives
44. Bar bill 47. One-time aerospace firm
ANSWERS:
Coming up
Life Line Screening: Thursday, August 22, American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. Screenings for stroke and heart disease. For info and an appointment: lifelinescreening.com.
Junior Ranger Program: Thursday, August 22, 3:30 p.m. Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Join park aide, Kylie, to learn about trees. At 4 p.m., craft time. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Community Art Workshop: Thursday, August 22, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Paint a pot. Bring your own or buy one from us. All paint and decoration supplies are free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Friday, August 23, 5 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Local band Soul Duck Hot Swing performs swing music in the style of the hot club-style jazz. Hot club style jazz. Bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
August 13, 4:30 p.m.: Theft on H Street.
August 13, 4:50 p.m.: Theft on East Street.
August 13, 5:23 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Blaine Avenue.
August 14, 2:42 p.m.: Burglary on Semiahmoo Parkway.
August 14, 4:27 p.m.: Drugs on Martin Street.
August 15, 12:59 p.m.: Fight on East Street.
August 15, 2:28 p.m.: Hit and run on Grant Avenue.
August 16, 9:44 a.m.: Child abuse on Baldwin Place.
tides
August 22-28 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Karaoke Night at the Center: Friday, August 23, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. A wonderful evening event to sing and play our favorite songs. Open to the community. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Raptor Hunting Strategies: Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Volunteer trainers from Sardis Raptor Center will provide insight into identification anatomy of flight, the raptor’s role in the environment and live birds of prey. Bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Blaine Middle School Orientation: Tuesday, August 27, 1 p.m., Blaine Middle School library. For new middle school students to the Blaine School District. Info: blainesd.org.
BHS Incoming Freshman Orientation: Tuesday, August 27, 8 a.m.–noon, Blaine High School gym. Info: blainesd.org.
Tidepool Exploration: Friday, August 30, 9 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. Junior Rangers help clean up the beach and earn a service pin. Info bbbparkandrec.org.
Naloxone Education and Distribution Event: Friday, August 30, noon–6 p.m., Bellingham City Hall lawn, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham. Come-and-go style event with staff from Whatcom County HCS and EMS will be on hand to answer questions and provide information, guidance and training on administering Naloxone. Free nasal Narcan kit along with education on Narcan administration while supplies last. Info: bit.ly/3ZcBjWz
2nd Annual Love Your Library 5K Fun Run/Walk: Saturday, August 31, 9 a.m. Meet at Cottonwood Beach and travel along Birch Bay’s berm to Lora Lane and back. $25 includes T-shirt, while supplies last. All ages and abilities welcome. After the run, join in story time, lawn games, crafts, summer book sale and a pancake breakfast fundraiser at the Birch Bay Vogt Library, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Registration: bit.ly/3XftkXj
Birch Bay Derby Day: Saturday, August 31. Poker Run from 1–3 p.m., Crab Derby from 3–6 p.m. at 7876 Birch Bay Drive (in front of the Beach Bar) with prizes for rockin’ red, biggest catch limit and monster crab. Duck Derby rubber duck race up Terrell Creek at 4:30 p.m. Info and registrations at birchbaychamber.com.
Falconer: Saturday, August 31, 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s wildlife theater. Presentation with live birds by master falconer Caitlyn of Mount Vernon. Topics will include falconry, native raptor species identification, and conservation. Bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Blaine Chamber Breakfast Meeting: Thursday, September 5, 7:30–8:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Speaker: Paul Schissler of the Blaine Partnership Project. Breakfast is sponsored by Enos Consulting. Preregistration required at 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. Info:360/3326350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.
weather
Precipitation: During the period of August 12 to 18, 0.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 19.9 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 80.8°F on August 18 with a low of 54.9°F on August 15. Average high was 76.7°F and average low was 57.8°F.
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.
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive.
Narcotics Anonymous: Mondays, 7–8 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Everyone welcome. Info: Blainenarcoticsanonymous@gmail.com.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Edward Jones office opens in Birch Bay
B y J oshua k or N feld
Birch Bay has a new Edward Jones financial advisor bringing three decades of expertise to the area.
Financial advisor Terrell Goertz has been at his new office located at 8115 Birch Bay Square Street, suite 118, since June 11.
“Everybody’s heard of investments, and there’s no shortage of ways to invest, but I think there’s almost too much information out there,” he said. “We help people sift through that and find out what’s relevant to their particular situation.”
Goertz has been a financial advisor for 32 years. He started
his career with the firm Waddell and Reed in its Bellingham office for five years before moving to Edward Jones. He then spent 27 years with Edward Jones in Bellingham. His recent move to Birch Bay was influenced by wanting to be closer to home and his clients. Goertz said that Birch Bay and Blaine had been previously underserved by Edward Jones before the June opening.
In Bellingham, Edward Jones has 20 financial advisors, while the Birch Bay office has two, Goertz said.
Goertz grew up on a chicken farm in Ferndale and started investing at 22 when he first sat down with a financial advisor and discussed investment strategies and goals.
Now, Goertz said he works with roughly 370 clients and enjoys seeing clients benefit from their financial investments.
“We’re trying to bring Wall Street to Main Street, and we are here for face-to-face consultations,” he said. “We’re trying to help people develop long-term, diversified strategies for secure lifetime income.”
Goertz said he feels it’s important for clients to have a good relationship with their financial advisor and have financial goals in mind. He said he doesn’t make predictions about elections, the
economy or pandemics.
“We won’t predict the direction of the wind, but we will adjust the sails,” he said.
Terrell Goertz’s office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday.
To learn more about the services offered, visit Goertz’s website at edwardjones.com/terrell-goertz or call his office at 360/738-3454.
s Terrell Goertz. Courtesy photo
s Financial advisor Terrell Goertz opened an Edward Jones office in Birch Bay Square in June. Photo by Joshua Kornfeld
