August 29 - September 4, 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
Plover ferry faces additional repairs, page 5
Birch Bay Derby Day returns this weekend
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Birch Bay Derby Day is back Saturday, August 31 for a day full of crab derbies, rubber duck races, a library fun run/walk and more.
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce will hold its last large event of the summer from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend at several locations around Birch Bay.
The day will start with Friends of Birch Bay Library’s 2nd annual “Love Your Library Fun Run and Walk” fundraiser on the Birch Bay Berm. The fun run starts at Cottonwood Beach, which is north of Bay Center Market. Registration costs $25 for the 1.6-mile (one-way) or 3.2mile (roundtrip) fun run, including a T-shirt. The event is stroller, wheelchair and dog friendly.
After the fun run, there will be a pancake breakfast from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the library express location, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. The library will have story time at 10 a.m. and kids activities until 2 p.m. A book sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Rubber ducks for the afternoon duck derby will be sold from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the library and Birch Bay Visitor Information Center, 4819 Alderson Road, unit 103.
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce will hold a poker run along Birch Bay Drive 1-3 p.m. Participants will travel across Birch Bay by golf cart, bicycle or foot in search of getting the best fivecard poker hand to win prizes. Registration is required.
Billy Brown’s annual crab derby will take place 3-6 p.m. in front of the Beach Bar, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Brown, an active Birch Bay resident, will weigh crabs and give out crabbing-related prizes for heaviest catch limit, heaviest single crab and the largest red rock crab. Winners will be announced just after 6 p.m.
The rubber duck derby will start at 4:30 p.m. at Terrell Creek. Rubber ducks that participants can purchase for $5 each will float to the C Shop, where volunteers will attempt to catch them. Prizes will be given to the first 10 ducks caught as well as the last place duck, or the “slacker quacker.”
City council vacancy, page 5
CAP coat drive runs September 1-30, page 13
Blaine schools welcome back students
A case of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in Thurston County that has striking parallels to the 2021 deaths of Murray Church and Gail Amundsen in Point Roberts has led to charges against two men accused of improperly installing a gas appliance.
A father and son, Frank McCutcheon, 53, and Brett McCutcheon, 32, have been charged with manslaughter in the second degree after a 21-year-old Evergreen State College student, Jonathan Rodriguez, died December 11, 2023, from CO poisoning due to the improper installation of a tankless hot water heater. Two female students, ages 19 and 20, were treated for CO poisoning but survived.
The two men were service technicians working for Olympia Sheet Metal, a Tumwater-based HVAC company.
The charges were laid July 11 by the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office following receipt of an investigative report issued by the Washington State Patrol after a three-month investigation.
The Washington State Patrol hired a Texas-based forensic engineering firm, Bison Engineering (BE), to examine the modular housing unit the three students occupied to determine the source of the CO. BE investigators discovered a new tankless water heater inside the unit had not been installed per installation instructions nor
Photo by Nolan Baker
CO deaths ...
From page 1
according to national fuel gas codes. According to the engineering report, both the intake and exhaust vents were improperly installed.
The heater had been installed on December 4, but it wasn’t until December 11 that CO detectors began sounding off. Housing employees turned off the detectors a number of times, believing the problem was due to the detectors being faulty. According to the Thurston County Prosecutor’s Office, a technician who arrived later in the evening began moving through the unit to check the detectors and found the three students in distress. Rodriguez was declared dead on the scene.
According to the charges, the forensic engineer found that “no outside combustion air was provided to this unit … the exhaust piping was not sealed and properly connected, the improper air intake and exhaust venting was the cause of the carbon monoxide, and the unit had not been installed per the manufacturer’s installation instructions or in accordance with National Fuel Gas Code.”
The engineer also stated that the heater’s installation was outside of the accepted practice in the industry and was a negligent installation, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
Under Washington state law, a person is guilty of manslaughter in the second degree when, with criminal negligence, he or she causes the death of another
person (RCW 9A.32.070). Manslaughter in the second degree is a class B felony.
The law states a person is criminally negligent or acts with criminal negligence when he or she fails to be aware of a substantial risk that a wrongful act may occur and his or her failure to be aware of such substantial risk constitutes a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would exercise in the same situation.
The Evergreen tragedy has striking similarities to the deaths of Murray Church and Gail Amundsen, who died of CO poisoning in their Point Roberts home on Thanksgiving 2021. Their deaths were also due to the improper installation of a gas appliance; in their case, a condensing boiler installed in their newly constructed home by Custer-based Andgar Home Comfort. The installer failed to replace the furnace’s injector with one designed to be used with propane instead of the natural gas injector that comes standard from the factory. Point Roberts has never had natural gas service and all gas appliances must be converted for use with propane, a fact that is wellknown to businesses installing gas appliances in Point Roberts.
The Andgar installer also failed to perform tests required by the furnace manufacturer that would have highlighted the error, he failed to place a sticker saying the furnace had been converted to propane and the exhaust pipes leading to the outside appeared to
(See CO deaths, next page)
be installed incorrectly. It was the exhaust pipe’s failure after it was blown apart that allowed CO to accumulate inside the residence, leading to the two deaths.
In this case, no alarms were set off. According to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) investigation, no CO detectors had been installed by the electrical contractor, Shoreline Electric, despite the fact that CO detectors have been required in new and remodeled residences since 2011.
(See CO deaths, previous page) talk it through, and we’ll make a determination,” Richey said. Told that in this case the WCSO had merely forwarded a copy of the investigation and had determined on their own that no criminal charges were warranted, Richey asked, “So they said they had dropped off something at the civil department?” When told, “Yes,” Richey merely replied, “OK.”
In addition, Whatcom County issued a final occupancy permit despite the obvious deficiencies with the furnace installation and the lack of CO detectors.
A civil lawsuit filed by the children of the couple against the furnace manufacturer, the county, Andgar, Shoreline Electric and general contractor Optimum Contracting was partly settled for $8 million earlier this year. Neither the county nor the furnace manufacturer was part of the settlement and the lawsuit against them continues.
Following the news of the charges being laid against the Tumwater two, The Northern Light contacted Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley to ask how the sheriff’s office and the prosecutor’s office work together to determine if charges should be laid, especially in cases where the criminal element may not immediately be apparent. In response, WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater wrote in an email that “The WCSO consults with the prosecutor’s office on a case-bycase basis. In this case, it was determined that this was a tragic accidental event with no intent to harm anyone.”
In a follow-up email, The Northern Light asked if the WCSO had consulted with the prosecutor’s office specifically on the Murray/Church case and it had been mutually determined that it was an accidental event. In response, Slater wrote, “The WCSO forwarded a copy of the investigation to the civil division of the prosecutor’s office. The WCSO determined that there were no grounds for criminal charges.”
In a phone interview on August 27, Whatcom County prosecutor Eric Richey was asked how the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the WCSO would normally determine if criminal charges were warranted. “The way it works is, we have conversations with the sheriff’s office, they’ll meet with us and
Asked if the lack of discussion between the two agencies surprised him, Richey said, “You know, I can’t really comment on that, we are a party to civil litigation at this time.”
Asked if he was able to explain why charges had been laid in the Evergreen College case but not in the arguably more negligent case in Point Roberts, Richey said, “I can only say that I have not had a criminal case referred to me for criminal charges involving this. I can go further on that and say criminal charges are not always filed. I don’t know what happened here. I guess I don’t want to comment any more than that. I really can’t comment.” Asked if the prosecutor’s office might be interested in taking a deeper look at the case, Richey said, “Again, I’m not going to comment on that.”
Following the deaths, in December 2021 The Northern Light made an open public record request of Whatcom County, asking for copies of all communications received or sent by county staff regarding the circumstances behind the couple’s death. There was just one email that included the county prosecutor’s office. In it, county public works assistant director Steve Roberge asked civil prosecutor Royce Buckingham to weigh in on the county’s response to an enquiry made by The Northern Light on December 13 regarding the deaths. Roberge wrote, “Royce, would like to discuss our response with you prior to giving it. Let me know if that should be a separate meeting or if we can incorporate in our 11 [a.m. meeting]?”
One of the questions asked by The Northern Light was how an occupancy permit was issued given the glaring deficiencies in the final inspection process. Roberge responded by writing, “We know that the house was inspected by our staff prior to occupancy. At the time of inspection, the house was approved for occupancy. Carbon monoxide detectors are required for new construction and are included in the final inspection review.”
On January 23, 2023, the
county filed its response to the lawsuit brought against it and the other parties. In it, the county took the position that while the county’s “actions were taken pursuant to a duty owed to the public and required by statutes that require the Defendant to inspect buildings … [T]he Defendants owed no duty to the Plaintiffs as individuals.”
The county then cited a case that says the public duty doctrine “creates a duty [only] where the building inspector has actual knowledge of an inherently dangerous and hazardous condition.” It then went onto to say, “However, the Defendant did not have actual knowledge of an inherently dangerous and hazardous condition at 549 Calder Drive…” Given that furnaces and CO detectors are part of the final inspection, one could infer from the legal response that the building inspector did not actually check either the furnace or the detectors.
In a follow up open public records request made by The Northern Light on August 20 asking for all WCSO and prosecutor’s office communications regarding the Church/Asmundsen deaths, public records officer Rick Gregory estimated it would take until September 30 to provide any records and would take until December 6 before a search of the county’s email server could be undertaken.
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.
Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor
Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com
Creative Services
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com
Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com
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The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 12
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue:
Blaine officers honored for life-saving efforts OpiniOn Letters
The Editor:
In your story last week, “Port hires PR firm to improve public image” by Grace McCarthy, published on August 22, it’s like the port is trying to out-trump Trump. Wow.
How about now spending public money on some vaguely-stated program of puffery, and cutting your sky-high moorage and hangar rates?
Don’t spend money trying to look good. Just be good.
Thank you. My invoice for a lot less than $100K for this good advice is in the mail.
Jack Kintner Blaine
The Editor:
This past week, the Democrats held their national convention. I hope you got a chance to watch. I came away with a new feeling of optimism I haven’t had for some time. Democrats are now smiling and shedding tears of joy, taking back the word “freedom.” Convention-goers held signs of support and love at the Chicago convention, thanking President Joe Biden for the remarkable job he’s done. Thousands of Republicans, even those who worked in Trump’s White House are taking a refreshed look and supporting Democratic candidates, wanting to add their names to those who can happily look forward to our American future.
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.
Their Republican party has changed and abandoned them. And it has abandoned you. The energy at the Democratic National Convention was palpable, electric and a form of renewable energy. Renewable on November 5! Join me in voting to bring a positive future for America, and shedding some tears of joy. Thanks for voting, we have a republic to save. Gary Meader Nooksack
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 From l.; Blaine police chief Rodger Funk presents officer Jordan Maphumulo and officer Bryan Beaulieu with a life-saving service award, and officer Travis Campbell with a chief’s commendation award during the August 26 Blaine City Council meeting at city hall. The officers were honored for efforts to save a man who wasn’t breathing or conscious.
Photo by Pat Grubb
Plover roundup: Ferry not running, damage to stern, Sturgill retires from boat
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The city of Blaine announced August 23 that it ran into difficulty operating the Plover and would not start operations as previously anticipated. The city stated ferry service would remain suspended until further notice.
The city made the announcement one day before ferry service was supposed to begin August 24, which was highly anticipated after the vessel had undergone nearly two years of repair work. The Plover was expected to start earlier in the summer but was delayed due to final repairs and then a financial dispute with Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM), contracted by the city to conduct repair work and the nonprofit that has historically operated the Plover.
The city announcement read, “We ask for your patience as we
navigate through some other issues. Rest assured, we’re working tirelessly to resolve these as soon as possible.”
City manager Mike Harmon said during the August 26 Blaine City Council meeting that a plate over the corner of the stern fell off on August 25 due to rot behind it. This happened while the Plover crew was undergoing required training, he said, adding that a U.S. Coast Guard structural inspector was scheduled to look at the boat August 28.
“It’s likely that we’re seeing only the beginning of the rot, and there’s likely more rot,” Harmon said. “Plans will be made once we know the extent of the rot on the stern of the Plover.”
The Plover captains said water would enter the boat if they operated the vessel, Harmon said.
(See Plover, page 15)
City of Blaine accepting applicants for city council seat
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The city of Blaine is looking to fill a vacancy on Blaine City Council for the Ward 1 Position 2 seat left vacant by Kerena Higgins.
Higgins wrote in an August 26 email to The Northern Light that she stepped down from her position because she moved and was no longer eligible to serve.
The Ward 1 Position 2 seat covers central, eastern and southeastern parts of the city, east of 6th Street and east of I-5 to city limits. The area includes the neighborhood directly north of Blaine school district, the neighborhoods around Lincoln Park and the IGA Market shopping plaza, all of east Blaine, and follows east of I-5 to where city limits end near O’Dell Street.
The city is accepting applicants until 4:30 p.m. Friday, September 20, and city council will likely interview candidates in October, according to a city notice on the vacancy.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, have lived in Blaine for at
Derby Day ...
From page 1
Prizes include a Kona bike from the Birch Bay Bike Shop, Seahawks tickets and Mariners tickets.
“The ducks are always fun and entertaining,” said Sacha Sanguinetti, Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce event coordinator. “I
s Blaine City Council’s Ward 1 covers central, eastern and southeastern Blaine, east of 6th Street and east of I-5 to city limits.
least a year, and be registered voters in Blaine when they submit their applications, according to the city. The appointed council member will serve until the November 2025 election.
Council members are required to attend council meetings, held the second and fourth Monday
don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone leave without a smile on their face. It’s a great exclamation point to the end of the summer.”
Sanguinetti said the chamber was unable to hold the derby day parade this year due to cost and permitting. To register for events, visit the chamber website at birchbaywa.org/birchbay-derby-day.
Map courtesy city of Blaine
evening of each month, as well as additional study sessions and special council meetings.
To submit an application, visit the city of Blaine’s website at ci.blaine.wa.us/327/city-council. For more information, contact the city clerk’s office at clerkrecords@cityofblaine.com.
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
THE CITY OF BLAINE IS CURRENTLY SEEKING MEMBERS FOR THE FOLLOWING CITY COUNCIL VACANCY:
CITY COUNCIL VACANCY
PEOPLE LIVING IN WARD 1 – POSITION 2 ARE ELIGIBLE.
This is an excellent opportunity to serve your community. Regular City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of every month. Attendance is also required at Study Sessions and Special Council meetings. Applications may be submitted online at https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/327/City-Council”https://www. ci.blaine.wa.us/327/City-Council. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office for additional information at HYPERLINK “mailto:ClerkRecords@cityofblaine.com”ClerkRecords@ cityofblaine.com.
The applicant must be a citizen of the U.S. and the state of Washington, a registered voter of the city at the time of filing, and a resident of the city for at least one (1) year. This appointment will fill a vacancy until the November election in 2025.
Applications must be submitted by 4:30 PM Friday, September 20, 2024. The City Council is expected to interview applicants in October.
Here is a QR code to the City Council page where the ward map and application can be found:
“Thank you for your newspaper. We are new to Blaine and your paper is great! Better than the Bellingham Herald. Thank you!” - Bob and Deb Taylor
This week’s supporters: Andrea Daniels • Bob and Deb Taylor
s A plate over the corner of the Plover’s stern fell off on August 25 due to rotten wood underneath, city manager Mike Harmon told Blaine City Council during its August 26 meeting.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
2024 BORDERITE
FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE
FOOTBALL
DATE TIME OPPONET SITE
9/7 3 pm Renton Home
9/13 7 pm Cedar Park Christian Home
9/20 7 pm Chelan Chelan
9/27 7 pm Granite Falls Granite Falls
10/4 7 pm Nooksack Valley Nooksack Valley
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
DATE TIME OPPONET SITE
9/5 5 pm Meridian Meridian
9/10 6:30 pm La Conner La Conner
9/12 7 pm Lakewood Home
9/17 7 pm Squalicum Squalicum
9/18 5:30 pm Orcas Island Home
9/19 7 pm Lynden Christian Home
9/23 7 pm Nooksack Valley Nooksack Valley
9/25 7 pm Sedro-Woolley Sedro-Woolley
9/30
10/15 7 pm Anacortes Home 10/17 7 pm Sehome Sehome
10/21 7 pm Ferndale Home
10/23 7 pm Mount Vernon Mount Vernon
10/30 7 pm Oak Harbor Oak Harbor
BOLD = Home Games
Dates and times subject to change.
CROSS COUNTRY
DATE TIME OPPONET SITE
9/14 10 am Many teams Civic Field
9/18 4 pm Ferndale, Sehome Lake Padden
9/21 10:30 am Many teams South Whidbey
9/25 4 pm Anacortes, Lakewood, Squalicum Lakewood
10/2 4 pm Many teams Burlington
10/5 2:45 pm Many teams Cedarcrest GC
10/12 11 am Hole in the Wall Lakewood
10/17 3:45 pm Many teams Lake Padden
10/23 3:20 pm Many teams Civic Field
GIRLS SOCCER
DATE TIME OPPONET SITE
9/10 7 pm Oak Harbor Oak Harbor
9/12 7 pm Lakewood Home
9/17 7 pm Squalicum Squalicum
9/18 4:30 & 7:30 pm La Conner Home
9/19 7 pm Lynden Christian Home
9/24 6:30 pm Nooksack Valley Nooksack Valley
9/26 7:30 pm Sedro-Woolley Sedro-Woolley
10/1 7 pm Meridian Home
10/3 7 pm Lynden Home
10/8 4:30 pm Mount Baker Mount Baker
10/10 7 pm Burlington-Edison Home
10/12 TBD Mount Vernon Mount Vernon
10/15 7 pm Anacortes Home
10/17 7 pm Sehome Sehome
10/22 7 pm Ferndale Home
10/24 7 pm Bellingham Home
BOLD = Home Games Check www.borderitesathletics.com
Blaine school board adopts pared down budget
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In the last school board meeting before the new school year begins, the Blaine school board unanimously approved the adoption of the 2024-25 budget during the August 26 meeting. The first day of school was Wednesday, August 28.
The 5-0 vote authorized a general fund balance of $41.2 million, $5.86 million for capital projects, $4.7 million for debt servicing, $645,000 for transportation vehicles, and $299,539 for the Associated
Student Body fund.
State law requires the school district’s budget to be adopted no later than August 31.
The board also ratified transferring $1 million from the capital projects fund into the debt service fund, but deferred to the district director of finance to determine the exact timing of the transfer.
There were also some last-minute administration changes, with Blaine high school assistant principal Jordan Radke stepping down from his position to “pursue other opportunities,” accord-
ing to superintendent Christopher Granger.
That move caused a reshuffling of administrators, with Blaine elementary assistant principal Kristen Morris taking Radke’s place at the high school, and Point Roberts elementary teacher/principal Jessie Hettinga taking Morris’ place (the schoolhouse of roughly a dozen students operates with two staff members that split teaching and administrative duties).
“We extend our best wishes to Mr. Radke in his future endeavors and deeply appreciate the adaptability of our administrators and
staff as we navigate this transition,” Granger wrote in an August 27 newsletter.
State law also requires school districts to create a four-year budget forecast, estimating enrollment, tax collection and a general budget through the 2027-28 school year.
The 2024-25 budget puts the K-12 enrollment at 1,944.9 full-time-equivalent students, a slight decrease from last year’s count of 1,988.5 students, illustrating a downward enrollment trend that has persisted roughly since the 2020 pandemic.
The district is implementing new strategies to bolster enrollment, such as starting an online-only high school curriculum with former high school principal Scott Ellis running the new program.
The board also unanimously approved multiple items for onboarding new district director of finance Keith Yaich, who was hired over the summer to replace former finance director Amber Porter. Yaich previously worked as chief financial officer for the Bennett school district in Colorado.
Woman released from ICU in Seattle after attempted murder
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The victim of an attempted homicide near Birch Bay has been released from the intensive care unit at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle in “satisfactory condition,” according to UW Medicine. The woman was admitted to the hospital in serious condition on August 20 after surviving an attempted homicide in a Blaine area home.
Clayton Edward DuBois, 43, was arrested for one count of second-degree attempted homicide with a domestic violence emphasis, and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm in the second degree.
An affidavit of probable cause (APC) filed in Whatcom County Superior Court revealed DuBois attempted to drop off the badly beaten woman at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, sparking a physical altercation with hospital security that resulted in Bellingham Police Department responding at 3:42 a.m. on August 20.
According to the APC, DuBois told hospital security he had a gun in his truck and attempted to go back to his truck before police
arrived. Police also began to wrestle with DuBois before detaining him. DuBois told police he had consumed methamphetamine, marijuana and tequila previously and police arrested him on suspicion of DUI.
The victim, a 41-year-old woman, had multiple injuries including facial fractures, a broken left elbow, broken ribs on both sides, and many lacerations and scrapes. DuBois told officers on multiple occasions that he was trying to kill her, according to the APC, but said he had “a change of heart.”
DuBois told Bellingham police the attempted murder happened at his address at Lincoln Road, just south of California Creek. WCSO deputies and Bellingham police found two guns in a gun safe after executing a search warrant on the house.
DuBois was a convicted felon barred from owning firearms, according to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO). Court records show DuBois has been the respondent of several filings for domestic violence protection orders dating back to 2006.
A preliminary appearance in Whatcom County Superior Court for DuBois was held on August 22, and the court set bail at $500,000, or a $50,000 cash bond. The court issued a no-contact order for the woman, and an arraignment is scheduled for August 30 while DuBois remains in Whatcom County Jail.
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.
Number of employees:
Owners Captain Randy and Isabella Parten, our parents (as trusted senior advisors), a treasured friend who enjoys being here on Saturdays since day-one of the business, a skilled associate captain who expertly helps our sailboat clients, and many quality local sub-contractors.
How long in business: Six years.
Description of the business: We do everything we can think of to help our local people explore and enjoy the gift that is boating in the San Juans. We provide marine towing and rescue, we help buy and sell yachts, we patented and sell a man-overboard rescue device, and we help people care for their yachts so that they can focus on just enjoying them. We also offer pleasure cruise charters, Captain for hire, and local and long-range marine transports of people and equipment.
How the business started: Captain Randy has always had a passion for boating and business. One day, long ago, he thought to himself, “Is there a way to make a living helping others safely enjoy doing what you love?” And then it was. Future goals: To continue as the Northwest’s premier yacht services provider.
s 9131 Great Blue Heron Lane is a private, 5,920-square-foot home designed by Pacific Northwest architect Nils Finne to bring sweeping views of Semiahmoo Bay and abundant natural light indoors.
Photo courtesy Kathy Stauffer / Windermere Real Estate
& Home Garden
(Home, previous page)
.62 acres,
other luxury features such as gated entry, elevator, three fireplaces including one in the
mary bedroom, and walk-in closets. It also has a large basement and an attached garage.
The home highlights natural materials and modern style, as the 2007 Custom Home magazine article titled “Top Flight: An agein-place custom home lands on a Pacific Northwest shore” by writer Meghan Drueding points out. The home has a theme of branch-like patterns throughout, including hanging copper lampshades that
have the same pattern as sand-blasted glass in the kitchen.
The main level has an open floor plan, with the ceiling extending 18 feet, that allows maximum sunlight. Wood and stone are main focuses in the home, with a stone fireplace, red oak floors and cherry cabinetry.
The original owners, who were at retirement age when the home was built, intended the home to be a place they could age in, with details such as making every doorway large enough for a wheelchair and having the master bedroom on the main floor, according to the Cus(See Home, page 10)
s The home, built in 2000, has an open floor plan on the main level, where the ceiling extends 18 feet. The area contains a stone fireplace, red oak floors and cherry cabinetry.
Photo courtesy Kathy Stauffer / Windermere Real Estate
UPPER END HOUSES: $800,000 AND ABOVE:
2-story house with 2,532 SF, 1,500 SF basement, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 520 SF built-in garage, 332 SF balcony. 424 SF deck, built in 1998; marine view, .25 acres land.
1-story house with 2,100 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, attached garage, built in 2024; marine view, .24 acres land.
2-story house with 3,898 SF, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, attached garage, built in 2023; marine view, .29 acres land.
1-story house with 2,028 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 636 SF attached garage, 830 SF deck, built in 1990, waterfront; marine view, .34 acres land.
2-story house with 2.866 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, attached garage, balcony, built in 2024; marine view, .20 acres land.
Condo with 2,884 SF, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, patio, garage, built in 2001, waterfront; marine view/
New house built in 2024; marine and territorial view. .24 acres land
New house built in 2024, .24 acres land
2-story house with 3,109 SF, 3 bedrooms, 4 baths, 1,130 SF built-in garage, 705 SF patio, built in 2008; territorial view, .38 acres land
1-story house with 3,123 SF, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, built in 1977; marine view, .23 acres land
2-story house with 2,816 SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 564 SF attached garage, 450 SF patio, built in 1982, 60 ft waterfront, 60 ft tideland; marine views, .69 acres land
Condo with 1,890 SF, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, built in 2020, waterfront; marine and territorial views.
2-story house with 3,713 SF, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 498 SF built-in garage, 247 SF deck, built in 2023; territorial view, .28 acres land
1-story house with 2,134 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 660 SF attached garage, 318 SF patio, built in 1988; territorial view, .35 acres land
2-story house with 2,950 SF, 1,755 SF basement, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 520 SF attached garage, 556 SF deck, 436 SF patio, built in 1995, marine view, .34 acres land
3-story house with 2,960 SF, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, built-in garage, built in 2023, marine and territorial view, .29 acres land
2-story house with 1,792 SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 140 SF balcony, 560 SF attached garage, 1,040 SF detached garage, 232 SF deck, 240 SF enclosed porch, built in 1910; marine and territorial view, 5.08 acres land
2-story house with 1,704 SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 462 SF attached garage, 400 SF patio, built in 1970, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .23 acres land COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:
Clubhouse with 9,400 SF, built in 1960, 5.64 acres land
Mini Storage with 4,560 SF, built in 1974, 1.69 acres land.
4-plex with 3,896 SF, 1,449 SF carport, built in 2004, .80 acres land.
1-story nursing home with 36,578 SF, 56 parking spaces, built in 1991, remodeled in 1999, 3.11 acres land.
LAND:
7.98 acres commercial land.
.47
4.87
1579 Harbor Seal Drive, Point Roberts
8334 Camas Drive, Blaine
8453 Camas Drive, Blaine
5775 Nakat Way, Blaine
2529 Bora Bora Court, Blaine
Unit 7, Aerie Condominium, 9146 Aerie Lane, Blaine
8330 Camas Drive, Blaine
5674 Lux Ln, Blaine
8965 Bald Eagle Drive, Blaine
5643 Nakat Way, Blaine
1783 Edwards Drive, Point Roberts
#304, Pacific Point Condominiums, 9545 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine
8452 Camas Drive, Blaine
8827 Osprey Road, Blaine
9147 Belted Kingfisher Road, Blaine
5400 Lonicera Drive, Blaine
8422 Shintaffer Road, Blaine
5557 Haida Way, Blaine
8732 Blaine Road, Blaine
1375 Boblett Street, Blaine
260 15th Street, Blaine
456 C Street, Blaine
Blaine Road, Blaine
5505 Canvasback Road, Blaine
4398 Arnie Road, Blaine
$860,000
$824,000
& Home Garden
s Top; natural features are incorporated through the house, including the master bedroom. Bottom; the home was custom made to age-in-place with features like an elevator, doors wide enough for wheelchairs and the master bedroom on the main level.
Home ...
From page 9
tom Home article. While the outdoors can easily be enjoyed from inside, the property also offers a spacious patio and porch as well as a backyard with a manicured lawn and paved area.
The home is owned by Michael and Katie Boczek, according to the Whatcom County Assessor’s Office. The home is part of the Semiahmoo Resort Association, with $135 monthly homeowners association dues. It is within Blaine school district boundaries and property taxes cost $15,105 in 2024. The home has been on the market for four months.
Photo courtesy Kathy Stauffer / Windermere Real Estate
1182 Mitchell Avenue
MLS #2264784 $729,000
9683 Dupree Drive
MLS #2277537 $998,500
picture gallery details just a sample of extraordinary upgrades. The ultimate escape. NO HOA Mike Kent 360-815-3898
This unique contemporary residence, characterized by its craftsman style and design that optimizes natural lighting, is situated in a scenic setting, flat parcel surrounded by towering trees and lively blooms. The estate features a well-kept 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom configuration with two living areas and an open floor plan, includes a spacious kitchen with a walk-in pantry, and the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is outfitted with a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and loft. Jessica Bates 360-410-0900
Better than new stunning sun-drenched modern farmhouse on 5+ acres. Radiating PNW charm, curb appeal sets the stage + every thoughtfully executed detail is spot on. Lives like a single level home (with only a bonus space above the 3 car garage), you’ll love the ceiling height, open concept floor plan & custom high end finishes. Primary suite privately located
CAP coat drive starts September 1
B y G race M c c arthy
The Community Assistance Program (CAP) is holding its annual winter coat drive starting Sunday, September 1 and running through the remainder of the month.
The drive will accept gently used or new coats, gloves, hats, scarves and socks for men, women and children. Men and women sizes XXL and XXXL are in high demand as well as toddler sizes. Any used items should be freshly laundered.
Clothing will be collected at the CAP Center, Blaine Public Library, Blaine Senior Center, Pacific Building Center, Birch Bay Village Recreation Center, IGA Market, Windermere office in Birch Bay Square, Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club and Semiahmoo Resort. Local churches will also be collecting items.
No appointments are needed to attend the clothing distribution at the CAP Center, 508 G Street in Blaine in mid-October.
Distribution will occur from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, October 14 and Friday, October 18; 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, October 16; and from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, October 19.
CAP is also looking for volunteers to organize and distribute the donated clothing. To volunteer, call Amee Nelson at 360/319-0269 or email amee.nelson@yahoo.com.
CAP is a nonprofit that serves Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts residents with services such as the Thanksgiving baskets, discounted holiday toy store and crisis assistance.
For more information on the coat drive, visit blainecap.org.
City
of Blaine receives clean state audit
B y G race M c c arthy
The Office of the Washington State Auditor gave the city of Blaine a clean audit for January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023.
Audit lead Heidi Wiley said during the August 26 Blaine City Council meeting that the city provided adequate controls over the safeguarding public resources.
The audit looked at accounts payable for credit card uses, procurement for public works and professional services, open public meetings compliance and the city’s financial condition.
The auditors found the city took corrective action after the city’s previous audit showed it lacked adequate internal controls over credit card purchases. This came after the city had asked a former public works director to resign in July 2022 and immediately reported the incident to the auditor’s office after the public works director had allegedly spent $8,600 in question-
OBITUARY
Bradley R. Thornton
April 22, 1953 – August 10, 2024
Bradley Rae Thornton, known to friends and family as Brad, passed away peacefully at home in Kent, WA in the presence of his loving family. He was 71. For over 20 years Brad fought a gallant battle against prostate cancer with humor and dignity.
Brad was born in Seattle, WA to parents George William Thornton and Bernice (Maron) Thornton. Brad grew up in Seattle and graduated from Chief Sealth High School in West Seattle and attended Renton Technical College.
While in high school Brad assisted his grandfather Alger with his home construction business. Throughout his lifetime, Brad retained many of the skills learned at an early age. There were few things Brad could not fix with his hands and strategic mindset.
After finishing high school, Brad joined the Navy during the Vietnam conflict. He was a shipmate on the USS Enhance (MSO-437); an Aggressive-class minesweeper that removed submerged mines to ensure the safe passage of ships.
In 1974, Brad married Elizabeth (Liz) Mary Mitchell. They were married 22 years and had two sons Nathan and Matthew. Brad was active in helping with his sons’ Cub Scout and Boys Scout troops and coached their little league baseball teams. One year, Brad and Nathan traveled to Tijuana, Mexico with Habitat for Humanity, along with their church, Cross & Crown Lutheran in Renton, WA.
Brad had an adventurous 37-plus year career with Boeing, as an airplane electrician. If problems arose concerning noise or vibrations, he traveled as a team member throughout the world to address the issues.
In 2004, Brad married Allyson Leavitt in Hawaii. They enjoyed visiting the Hawaiian Islands on numerous occasions and taking winter golf vacations in Arizona. In addition, they boated on Washington lakes and numerous lakes in Northern Idaho. They also belonged to two golf leagues and were active in dance clubs.
For the last 15 years of Brad’s life, he enjoyed living part time in Birch Bay, WA with its sandy beaches, breathtaking sunsets, crabbing, boating and spending time with his friends and dogs at the Bay Rim Condominium’s private beach.
Brad was preceded in death by his grandmother Hilda Hughes (who fled Ukraine at a young age of 7) and her husband Alger Hughes. Also, Uncle Raymond and Opal Maron, his mother-in-law Hilda Leavitt and his beloved dogs Kody, Abbey and Greta.
Brad is survived by his wife Allyson “Ally” Leavitt, his former wife Liz Edmonds (Dennis) and their two sons Nathan Thornton (Heather) and Matthew Thornton, his sister Debbie Lamoree, two grandchildren Nolan and Jorge Bradley “JB” Thornton, niece Shawna (Greg) Garcia and nephew Shane (Tasha) Lamoree; father-in-law Al Leavitt, sisters-in-law Jennifer (Jim) Kollar and Elizabeth Kollar and brother-in-law Lawrence Leavitt; and numerous other nieces, nephews and friends.
Brad’s family would like to offer many thanks to the medical staff at Fred Hutchinson and Evergreen Hospice Care for the excellent and compassionate care given to Brad.
able and misappropriated expenses.
“We want to commend the city for correcting and implementing our recommendations,” Wiley said.
The auditors did find two concerns with documentation of Blaine City Council’s executive sessions and the procurement process that it addressed in a letter to city management.
Regarding executive sessions, the auditors found some differences between the recordings and meeting minutes. For example, Wiley said the purpose for the executive session varied between the recording and minutes at times, and sometimes extensions wouldn’t be documented in the minutes. There was also an executive session that occurred in the recording, but was not documented in the minutes.
When looking at procurement, the auditors look at laws intended to promote openness of government and prevent fraud, collusion or favoritism. The auditors found in May 2023 the city procured a $307,000 agreement for architec-
tural and engineering services that they said showed confusion between the city’s purchasing policy.
The city’s purchasing policy states all architectural and engineering contracts should be advertised and bid out, and does not indicate that using a roster is permitted, though state law permits a roster. The city advertised the contract but when it was unable to negotiate a price, it used a small works roster instead of re-advertising the project. City staff said it reached out to three companies for quotes, but had no documentation of that or how it selected the awarded firm. The city also added additional projects into the contract that weren’t included in the original advertisement, according to the audit.
“It’s a continued concern that we see and we recommend that the policy and our resolution be combined so that it’s more clear on what the processes should be,” Wiley said of the procurement process.
sheriff’s repOrts
August 18, 12:10 a.m.: Fireworks on Harborview Road.
August 18, 3:56 p.m.: Assault – simple cold call on Main Street.
August 18, 5:09 p.m.: Drugs on Loft Lane.
August 19, 7:59 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Alderson Road.
August 19, 1:22 p.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
August 19, 3:26 p.m.: Civil problem on Harborview Road.
August 19, 6:09 p.m.: DUI arrest on West Badger Road.
August 20, 12:34 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Harbor Drive.
August 21, 12:00 p.m.: Death investigation on Delta Line Road.
August 21, 1:54 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Drayton Harbor Road.
August 21, 8:51 p.m.: Prowler on Sagebrush Lane.
August 22, 12:33 a.m.: Overdose on Halibut Drive.
August 22, 9:49 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
August 22, 2:06 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Lincoln Road.
August 22, 3:08 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Siena Court.
August 22, 8:50 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Birch Court.
August 23, 12:46 a.m.: Death investigation on Burk Road.
August 23, 10:42 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
August 23, 8:44 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
August 24, 12:49 a.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Loft Lane.
August 24, 10:17 a.m.: Vandalism cold call on Alderson Road.
August 24, 10:40 a.m.: Hulk vehicle on B-B Lynden Road.
pOLiCe repOrts
August 18, 2:28 a.m.: Domestic – physical on Peace Portal Drive.
August 18, 11:01 a.m.: Threat on Garfield Avenue.
August 18, 11:45 a.m.: Vandalism on G Street.
August 18, 1:35 p.m.: Theft on Adelia Street.
August 19, 3:40 a.m.: Suicidal subject on F Street.
August 19, 6:07 p.m.: Theft on 8th Street.
August 19, 6:24 p.m.: Theft on Bayview Avenue.
August 20, 11:07 a.m.: Juve-
Coming up
Winter Coat Drive: September 1–30. Donations of clean, good quality used or new winter coats, gloves, hats and socks for men, women and kids. Donation drop off locations: Blaine Library, IGA market, Pacific Building Center, Blaine Senior Center, Semiahmoo Resort, CAP clothing bank, Birch Bay Village recreation center, Windermere – Birch Bay Square, Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club.
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.
ACROSS
1. Current unit 7. Reciprocal of an ohm
10. God of the sea
12. A way to disfigure 13. Positioned 14. Tall tropical American tree
15. Large deciduous trees
16. __ and ends 17. Part of a machine 18. Brews 19. One who leads prayers in a mosque 21. Indian state
22. Partisans
27. Top lawyer in the land
28. Former Dodgers MVP
33. Title for women 34. Heated and allowed to slowly cool
36. Copycat
37. Sounds
38. One-time Israeli diplomat Abba
39. Part of (abbr.)
40. Hateful
41. Collide
44. European football heavyweight 45. One who works for you
48. Song 49. Ancient marvels 50. Bridge building degree 51. Delivery boys DOWN
1. Continent 2. Submissive 3. There’s a lot in a bowling alley 4. Sun up in New York
5. Court decision __ v. Wade 6. Finish line 7. Young women 8. Hives of activity 9. Hyman Roth’s right-hand man Johnny 10. Eastern U.S. river 11. Popular cooking ingredient 12. Greek mythological princess 14. Scent for men 17. Cost, insurance and freight (abbr.)
18. Once more 20. Irate 23. Triangular spaces above a door 24. Norwegian playwright and poet Henrik
25. Atomic #58 26. Patti Hearst’s captors
29. Natural logarithm
30. Talk incessantly 31. Went by 32. Strives 35. Fall back
36. Manila hemp 38. Not easily explained
40. Former “Double Dare” host Summers 41. Mollusk 42. Capital of Togo 43. Letter of Semitic scripts 44. Founder of Babism
45. Indicates near 46. Family of regulator genes 47. Indicates before
nile problem on D Street.
August 20, 1:27 p.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.
August 22, 2:39 p.m.: Burglary on Semiahmoo Parkway.
August 22, 8:45 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Birch Court.
August 23, 1:35 p.m.: Trespass on G Street.
August 23, 3:48 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on 3rd Street.
August 23, 5:19 p.m.: Assault – simple on Mary Avenue.
August 23, 7:35 p.m.: Hit and run on Natures Path Way.
tides
August 29-September 4 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Naloxone Education and Distribution Event: Friday, August 30, noon–6 p.m., Bellingham City Hall lawn, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham. Whatcom County Health and Community Services and Emergency Medical Services will be on hand to answer questions and provide information, guidance and training on administering Naloxone (aka Narcan). Attendees may request a free nasal Narcan kit along with education on Narcan administration while supplies last. Info: https://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.
Live Music at the Center: Friday, September 6, 5:30–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Featuring house band, Jaded Lovers, playing rock and country classics, dancing and more. $5 suggested donation. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Whatcom Grooves: Saturday, September 7, 7–8 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Featuring the Jerry Steinhilber with Ben Thomas on vibraphone Trio. Celebrate (late) summer, music and libraries and discover what’s new at local libraries and join neighbors in a joyous evening of live music. Free. Bring a lawn chair.
The Bridge Boutique Ladies Tea Fundraiser: Saturday, September 7, 5–7 p.m., The Christian Way Community Church, 1733 H Street #260. Door prizes, silent auction, guest speaker Andra Skorka. Tickets $5 at the door or online at thechristianway.church. All proceeds benefit The Bridge Community Hope Center. Blaine Emergency Response Team Info Night: Tuesday, September 10, 6–9 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn about the Blaine Emergency Response Team, see demonstrations on life saving first aid techniques, how to put out a fire, how to move an injured person and how to put together a “go bag”. New volunteers welcome. Info: catynwine@gmail.com.
Scam Informational Workshop: Wednesday, September 11, 5:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn simple steps to stop the scams of today. Taught By Pete Nelson, executive director of Blaine Senior Center and representatives from Banner Bank. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Whatcom Water Week Events: September 14–22. Run with the Chums 5K, cleanup events, guided and self-paced tours, photo contests, children’s story times and crafts, trivia and more. Info: whatcomwaterweeks.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of August 19 to 25, 2.25 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 22.1 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 80.6°F on August 19 with a low of 54.7°F on August 19. Average high was 72°F and average low 56.3°F.
12th Annual Run with the Chums: Saturday September 14, 10 a.m., bp highlands, 6898 Point Whitehorn Road. Kids’ Smolt Sprint obstacle course begins at 9:45 a.m. Free 5K run in celebration of healthy water, habitat and people. All speeds welcome. Registration: whatcomcd.org/run-with-the-chums.
Catoberfest Fundraiser: Saturday, September 14, noon–7 p.m., Blaine Marine Park. Live music by Dad Company, Paper Hearts and Michael Dayvid, games, food and beer garden, costume contest, silent auction. Must be 21+. Rain or shine. VIP tickets $50, general admission tickets $25. Tickets and info: beachcatbrewing.com. All proceeds benefit the Blaine Food Bank.
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.
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 CAP 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.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Plover ...
From page 5
Council member Richard May asked city staff if they knew what percentage of the Plover was replaced by new material during the most recent repair, to which Harmon said they didn’t know.
The U.S. Coast Guard had inspected the Plover repairs earlier this summer, but was unaware of the rot. Repairs were done to the keel and bow, but not to the stern, Harmon said.
“When we were talking about the additional cost for the Plover, I was asked if this would be the last time we would spend money, I promised it wouldn’t be,” Harmon said. “This is an old wooden boat and it’s always going to be something.”
The city has spent about $130,000 on the Plover repairs over nearly the past two years. May said the amount of money the city has spent on the repairs is a higher amount than the city would need to purchase a boat of the same size.
“I hope we think very carefully what our next steps are because we now have a sunk cost,” May said. “So much of this boat has been fixed, will just a little bit more money make it completely fixed? And we have to identify whether or not what we should have done two years ago was to buy a similar boat in good condition for about half as much money, paint it and call it the new Plover. That may have been something we should have considered then, but now all we have is bad options.”
Sonia Hurt commended DHM and its executive director Richard Sturgill for nearly three decades of service to the Plover. Hurt said Sturgill has decided to officially retire, and both he and DHM will no longer be associated with the Plover.
Blaine City Council accepted the work completed on the Plover and closed the contract during its meeting.
“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
views each month from Seattle to Bellingham.
s The Plover ferry docked at Blaine Harbor on August 28.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
