The Northern Light: November 14-20, 2024

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Guide to Winter Adventures

Whatcom County Council confirms medical examiner

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Whatcom County Council has unanimously confirmed interim medical examiner Dr. Aldo Fusaro as medical examiner to start on Monday, December 9. Council confirmed Fusaro to the position with a 7-0 vote at the November 6 meeting.

Councilmember Ben Elenbaas said he supported Fusaro assuming the position.

“I was involved in the interview process and I found Dr. Fusaro very kind and insightful,” Elenbaas said. “As he served as our interim examiner, the feedback I’ve received from people who have worked with him, I’ll quote one, ‘It’s like a breath of fresh air.’”

The Northwest Washington Medical Society and sheriff Donnell Tanksley recommended Fusaro to the position, as required in the Whatcom County Code.

In its letter of recommendation, the medical society wrote that the county conducted a thorough interview process and found Fusaro to be well-qualified.

Tanksley wrote in his recommendation that “I wholeheartedly support his appointment and believe he will serve the people of Whatcom County gracefully.”

The county began searching for a new medical examiner in early August as former medical examiner Dr. Allison Hunt transitioned from her contract with the county. Hunt’s departure came after an independent investigation into the storage of two bodies that were improperly stored and severely decomposed in mid-May. The county received six applicants, including Fusaro, and conducted two rounds of interviews.

County council unanimously confirmed county executive Satpal Sidhu’s appoint-

(See Examiner, page 5)

Veterans Day ceremony honors, remembers

WSDOT unveils $67 million project to restore salmon habitat in Cain Creek

Two downtown Blaine buildings planned to be demolished for daylighting

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A planned $67 million salmon habitat restoration project that will uncover parts of Cain Creek in downtown Blaine will result in the demolition of two Peace Portal Drive buildings. The project, which has a 2030 completion date, is in response to a court ordering the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to restore salmon habitats across the state.

Chris Damitio, assistant regional administrator for WSDOT, presented the plan to Blaine City Council during a study session before its regular meeting on November 12.

Damitio said in the mid-20th century, before increased development, Cain Creek flowed through a culvert under Peace Portal Drive that allowed fish to swim both up-

stream and downstream. Today, Cain Creek runs from the State Route 543 truck route to the BNSF Railway tracks at Marine Drive, where the creek flows into Semiahmoo Bay. The stream enters a culvert behind Edaleen Dairy on Peace Portal Drive and stays underground until reaching the bay. The stream runs about 25 feet below the roadway.

“We have seen development both to the east and west of Portal Way that has essentially covered up that culvert extending it quite a distance,” Damitio said.

WSDOT is planning to reroute and daylight part of Cain Creek east of I-5 that currently starts running under the Propack Inc. warehouse at 1124 Fir Avenue, which is between I-5 and State Route 543. Currently, the creek runs underground from the east side of Yew Avenue until it exits Propack. Once it

Whatcom County Superior Court impacted by statewide system outages

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Whatcom County Superior Court is among many courts across the state experiencing service interruptions after unauthorized activity was detected on a court network November 4. Online court services remained down as of press time. The Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) secured critical systems and was working to restore services,

according to a November 4 press release from the Whatcom County Superior Court.

The Whatcom County Superior Court has been unable to provide electronic court record searches, electronic filing, electronic payment processing and filing of nonemergent cases. The court is still offering in-person filing, processing of emergency orders, access to physical court records and court programs.

“We are unable to perform all of the functions of our office due to the system outage,

and the ones we can are now taking much more time,” wrote Raylene King, Whatcom County Superior Court clerk, in a statement.

King said in a November 12 phone call that the AOC was “cautiously optimistic” connection could be restored by Monday, November 18. King said she didn’t have a timeline on how long the subsequent backlog would last.

In a November 12 statement the AOC

exits Propack, it runs in a ditch line, goes in a culvert under I-5, and then flows like a regular creek on the west side of I-5 except for a few culverts, which aren’t owned by WSDOT, closer to downtown. The creek would be rerouted from under Propack and then run parallel to I-5 before reaching Edaleen Dairy.

WSDOT will daylight the stream where it currently goes into a culvert behind Edaleen Dairy, which would likely require a bridge to be built on Peace Portal Drive. The new creek alignment would run through the Que Onda building at 442 Peace Portal Drive and the Cole International building across the street at 441 Peace Portal Drive.

The creek would then go into a short

(See Cain Creek, page 2)

s James Higby salutes during the Veterans Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park
Blaine
Photo by Grace McCarthy

Cain Creek ...

From page 1

culvert under the BNSF Railway tracks that would be the responsibility of BNSF to update. BNSF Railway wants the creek to stay where it is today near the railroad tracks, which Damitio said dictated where the stream alignment went.

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife has estimated the project has the potential to open about 7,000 feet of fish habitat, Damitio said.

“These culverts are not little 18-inch culverts under the road,” Damitio said. “These are likely to end up being in the range of 20-footwide box culverts, or in the case of Peace Portal Drive, we’re probably looking at a bridge.”

The Whatcom County Assessor’s Office lists Nelly Santiago and Abimael Avella as owners of the Que Onda building and Cancon Asset Management LLC as the owner of the Cole International building.

Asked by councilmember Sonia

Hurt how soon those properties would be purchased, Damitio said it would happen as fast as the process allows.

“We have started working with those business owners to see if we can acquire those properties,” he said.

WSDOT will advertise the project in September 2028 and hopes to start construction in April 2029. The construction timeline projects a completion date of November 2030.

Costs include $2.5 million for design work, $4.5 million for property acquisition and construction costs of about $60 million.

The project stems from a 2013 U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington decision that ruled in favor of 21 northwest Washington tribes who sued the state to force it to uphold treaty obligations to preserve salmon and steelhead runs. The court ordered WSDOT to complete the majority of habitat improvements by 2030.

So far, WSDOT has corrected 146 culverts and improved access to 571 miles of blocked salmon habitat, ac-

cording to the WSDOT website.

Councilmember Mike Hill voiced discontent with the project, saying the city can’t get funding for an overpass at Blaine Road and Peace Portal Drive for safety but the state is providing money for this project. He added he’s never seen a fish in Cain Creek.

“You’re going to take two businesses out,” Hill said. “You’re going to disrupt the entire town during this.”

Damitio said the fish may not be in the creek because of historical practices and that WSDOT has observed fish return after the projects.

Hurt asked what obstacles were upstream of the Peace Portal Drive area, to which Damitio said he didn’t know. If there were upstream barriers, Damitio hoped this project would lay the groundwork for future projects removing those barriers and allowing the fish to swim farther upstream.

“This is a generational effort,” Damitio said of bringing back the fish. “It isn’t going to happen overnight.”

A map depicting alteratives the Washington State Department of Transportation considered for its $67 million project to daylight and reroute Cain Creek in two sections near the State Route 543 truck route and from Edaleen Dairy in downtown Blaine to Semiahmoo Bay. WSDOT is

The Northern L ght

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225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXX, No 23

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Christ the King (CTK) Community Church started holding service in its downtown Blaine location, 674 Peace Portal Drive, on October 27.

The church offers service at 10 a.m. Sunday, a group for people exploring faith at 6 p.m. Monday, and a youth ministry for

CTK Blaine opens church doors downtown OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

On behalf of the entire winter clothing distribution team and the Community Assistance Program, I would like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to our amazing community!

Through your generosity we served over 100 families this year. The volume of coats, hats, gloves, etc. that was donated was incredible. We received over 600 coats! Many talented people personally made hats, scarves, gloves and socks to donate as well.

Our community truly knows what it means to take care of each other; from businesses opening their spaces for donation bins, to every single donated item, we thank you!

Amee Nelson

CAP winter clothing drive director

Blaine

The Editor:

I want to offer my gratitude for your terrific newspaper. I live in Birch Bay part of the year, and read every single issue! I so appreciate the coverage you offer including the factual local news you provide along with human interest stories. Your balance of the type of news, along with the totally engaging Doug Dahl “Road Rules” column make me a supporter!

I feel informed about important issues and events because of you. It has allowed me to know when there was an open city council meeting that I have attended, or to know about a community event that I can participate in.

I saw your request in a recent issue for people to donate to support your work. I am happy to pay for a year’s subscription to this important work and encourage others to do so too!

Tuney Kannapell

Birch Bay

The Editor:

I write this letter today from a place

middle and high school students at 6 p.m.

Thursday. The church has service space, two childcare rooms and a coffee area.

CTK Blaine pastor Tyler Michel said the church was open to community organizations using the space, such as Blaine Arts Council holding its Sea to See pop-up art

show at the church on November 2.

“We know we’re in a central location so we want to serve the community with this space,” Michel said.

The church will host an open house for the community at 6 p.m. Sunday, December 1.

of deep regret and sorrow. I have asked myself over and over how is it that three or four volunteer board members could have collectively found a way to create a situation where our deeply loved [Blaine Senior Center] director Pete Nelson is now resigning.

There are approximately 800 members at the Blaine Senior Center, and when Pete Nelson became director a few years ago there were only 400 members. Everything Pete Nelson did for our center was over the top, and he did it from his deep love and appreciation for our senior population. You just tell me how many people any of you know that literally love senior citizens? Not many, and that’s the truth. Pete, on the other hand, adores older people and created an environment where kindness matters. And we had fun together as a collective.

Pete Nelson is no run of the mill guy, he’s an exceptional individual that each of us at the center are going to miss more than we can imagine. This is a very sad and regretful situation for so many of us senior citizens.

In closing, I just wanted to add my personal opinion, I honestly don’t think there will ever be another director at our Blaine Senior Center that will ever care about us seniors the way Pete Nelson did, and always will. This is a terrible loss to all of us seniors here at the center. So many of us love and respect Pete Nelson and all he’s done for us here at the Blaine Senior Center.

A member in deep regret and sorrow.

Tess Tessler Blaine

The Editor:

Several people approached John on Veterans Day at Bob’s Burgers and Brew, saying they read all about him in The Northern Light. One man said he never thought

he would get the chance to meet him and shook John’s hand!

Barbara Finn Birch Bay

The Editor:

I write this after Election Day. I admit, I was not prepared for the psychic trauma that has occurred within me.

Mainly, because I was and am ready for a woman to lead this country, and cannot understand those who refuse to judge women on a level playing field. A strong woman does not intimidate nor threaten me. Women are not weak, they are the stronger sex. They are kinder, more concerned with the greater good, with less ego, and are far less likely to send someone’s children to war. My very first love, my mother. Then, as I grow up, my first romantic love as a teen, another woman. Special teachers who helped me see my value and potential were all women. And when I had a very profound health issue, the doctors didn’t know what to do, so they did nothing. It was the nurses who comforted me when I needed it most and gave me the will to pull through a terrible ordeal. So impressive were they I had to write them a letter of thanks and praise after I had recovered with their help. Again, women.

And finally, my wife, the woman I love most in my life, for having all the qualities of being a woman she brought with her.

Though my chosen team lost, I will not storm the Capitol, or wreak havoc on my fellow citizens who chose differently than I. I am still convinced a woman can and will make a good leader for America. Maybe next time.

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

s Christ the King Community Church opened at 674 Peace Portal Drive in Blaine on October 27.
Photo by Grace McCarthy

Visitors return to Whatcom jail for first time in nearly three years

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The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) is returning in-person visits at Whatcom County Jail for the first time in nearly three years starting Saturday, December 7.

Visits were suspended in January 2022 after the jail’s three main elevators broke down and the

Examiner ...

From page 1

ment of Fusaro as the interim medical examiner during the September 10 council meeting. While serving in the interim position, Fusaro worked concurrently as deputy medical examiner in Montana.

Fusaro has served as deputy medical examiner of the Montana State Medical Examiner’s Office since 2017 and previously served as associate medical examiner for King County from 2005 to 2017. He started his career in the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office in Chicago from 1997 to 2005 after attending medical school at Des Moines University. He has taught at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Rush Medical College.

During the November 6 meeting, county council also introduced an ordinance that will

WCSO announced it was no longer safe to allow visitors. People incarcerated in the jail were able to contact loved ones through video and phone calls as well as messages.

Jed Holmes, spokesperson for the Whatcom County Executive’s Office, wrote in an email to The Northern Light that the repairs took nearly three years because

Dr.

establish the Medical Examiner Department within Whatcom County. The ordinance is expected to be discussed at council’s next meeting on Tuesday, November 19.

The county has been transitioning its medical examiner, historically an independent, contracted position, into a county position. Fusaro was hired as a county employee when he became interim examiner.

the elevators needed to be redesigned to fit the building, requiring new parts to be created. The three elevators also needed to be repaired sequentially and the installer ran into staffing challenges.

Holmes said the repairs began at the beginning of 2024 and finished in September before receiving final inspection in October.

Visitors will be able to see peo-

Courts ...

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wrote, “While analysis is ongoing, there is no evidence that any court or personal data has been accessed, altered or removed during the unauthorized activity that was detected.”

The AOC is prioritizing reconnecting trial and appellate courts and an emergency order authorized those courts to extend their deadlines.

The Whatcom County Superior Court is still operating during typical business hours. The court asks people bring paper copies when filing and notes that invoices may take longer to process. Time-sensitive filings will continue to be processed and there are alternative procedures for emergency matters.

King said she wasn’t aware of any previous example of the Washington court system being compromised similar to this.

“The clerk’s office echoes the

ple incarcerated at the jail on Saturdays and Sundays. In-person visitation times will be listed at the jail’s front desk and whatcomcounty.us/271/inmate-visitation

The Whatcom County Jail was built in downtown Bellingham in 1983. Whatcom County voters approved construction of a new county jail during the November 2023 election.

public’s frustration, as this outage is impacting our office and those we serve,” King wrote in a statement. “Our office is working diligently to assist those in need as promptly and accurately as possible, even though the case management system is down.”

For questions, call the Whatcom County Superior Court clerk’s office at 360/778-5560 or email Raylene King at rking@ co.whatcom.wa.us

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s
Aldo Fusaro. Courtesy photo

Blaine Middle School to host annual holiday market

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The Blaine Middle School Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) will host its popular holiday market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 16 at the Blaine High School cafeteria.

The market was originally set to be held in its former location at the middle school cafeteria, but was moved to the larger high school cafeteria to make space for an increase in vendors.

This year’s event will feature booths from more than 50 student and local artisans, including candles, pottery, jewelry, holiday decorations, apparel, toys and more.

The event is free to attend, and portions of proceeds will benefit the Blaine Middle School PTSO.

The event will also have a $1 per ticket raffle with a chance to win a basket with an assortment of gifts from the vendors.

The market will also have holiday entertainment for shoppers, provided by the Blaine High School Choir.

Last year’s market saw plenty

of attention, but one of the most popular vendors was Blaine Middle School student Liam Luc, who created his own 3D printed toys, raising $835 that he donated to the Blaine Food Bank. Luc, who creates the fidget spinners and other small toys at home with his dad, was honored by the Blaine Food Bank last month with a plaque and a personal tour of the food bank.

He told The Northern Light he intends to make even more toys for sale for this year’s holiday market, and intends to again donate the proceeds to the food bank.

The holiday market will have free parking available in the Blaine High School parking lot behind Borderite Stadium, and the market can be accessed through the Black Box Theater doors.

s Blaine middle school student Liam Luc raised $835 for the Blaine Food Bank at last year’s Holiday Market with 3D-printed toys, and plans to make more for this year’s on Saturday, November 16 at the Blaine High School cafeteria.

Photo by Nolan Baker

CALENDAR

December

Sun. 1: Pickleball Skills

Mon. 3: Bootcamps start

Fri. 6: Parents Night Out

Sat. 7: Holiday Dash

Tue. 10: Santa’s Mailbox

DECEMBER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Family Movie Night: Santa Special Holiday Dash

Sat.. 14: Gingerbread House

Thu. 19: Line Dancing with

Fri. 20: Family Movie Night

January

Join us for a magical evening at our “Santa Special” Family Movie Night! On Friday, December 20, 2024, Santa will arrive at 6:30 p.m., so don’t miss your chance for free photos before the movie starts at 7 p.m. We’ll be showing the classic "Twice Upon a Christmas," and everyone can enjoy free hot chocolate and popcorn. No registration is necessary —just come and enjoy!

Tue. 31: NYE Family Party

Sat. 4: Group Fit Demo Day

Mon. 6: Bootcamps starts

Sat. 18: Fairy House

Sat. 11: Paint and Sip

Join us for a festive day for the whole family at our 12th Annual Holiday Dash! The event kicks off with a Mini Obstacle Dash at 2 p.m., followed by a 5K Fun Run/Walk at 2:30 p.m., all about celebrating the season. Enjoy hot cocoa, chili, live holiday music from the Blaine High School Chamber Choir, free photos with Santa, and his mailbox for your letters. Dress in your holiday best and bring your family and friends for a great time!

Sat., Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at Marine Park in Blaine. Adults: $10 • Family up to 5: $30 Ages 5-17: $5 • 4 and under: Free Registration required.

Fri., Dec. 20, 2024, Santa arrives at 6:30 p.m. Movie starts at 7 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Free, registration not required.

Sun. 12: Intro to Pickleball

Fri. 17: Family Movie Night

Sun. 26: Pickleball Skills

Fri. 31: Teen Night

February

Sun. 2: Pickleball Skills

Sat. 8: Adult Prom

Sat. 15: Fairy Garden

Sun. 23: Pickleball Skills in Birch Bay

Hot Chocolate Workshop Accessories Workshop Decorating Party Santa and Mrs. Claus

Fri. 21: Family Movie Night

New Year’s Eve Family Party

Join us as we celebrate the arrival of 2025 with a family party! Get ready to dance, enjoy soft drinks, and snack on tasty treats as we count down to our "midnight" at 4 p.m. This is the perfect way for families to ring in the new year together without having to stay up late!

Tue. Dec. 31, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center.

$5/Family. Registration required.

Write to Santa!

Santa’s magical mailbox arrives at the Birch Bay Activity Center on December 10! Drop off your letter by December 20 for a chance to get a special reply from the North Pole. It’s a great way for kids to boost their writing skills and get into the holiday spirit!

Parents’ Night Out

Take a well-deserved break this holiday season while your kids enjoy an evening of festive fun! We invite children aged 5 to 12 to join us for a variety of holiday games and activities. It is the perfect opportunity for you to tackle those last-minute preparations or enjoy a night out. It is a pajama party, so have your kids wear their coziest pajamas. Don’t miss out on this chance for both you and your little ones to enjoy some holiday cheer!

Fri., Dec. 6, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center, $10. Registration necessary.

Soccer Clinic

Kids 7 -11 years old are invited to join us for a 90-minute soccer clinic coached by the talented Katie, an experienced player and coach! This clinic will cover a variety of skill drills suitable for all levels, so whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your

Sat. Dec. 14, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the

Blaine Pavilion, $10. Registration necessary. skills, this is for you!

Line Dancing with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Ho Ho Ho! The holiday season is almost here, and Santa and Mrs. Claus invite you to a night of fun at a holiday-themed line dancing class led by Charlene Brooks. This event is for all ages. Festive costumes and accessories encouraged!

Thur. Dec 19, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Blaine Pavilion. $3/person. Registration not required.

Gingerbread House Decorating Party

Get into the holiday spirit and join us for a festive afternoon of creativity! We invite you to gather your friends and family for an exciting event where you can unleash your imagination and decorate

your very own gingerbread house. With an array of colorful icing, delightful candies, and all the holiday cheer you can muster, this is the perfect opportunity to create a sweet masterpiece. Join us in making cherished holiday memories and take home your unique gingerbread house to display with pride. We can’t wait to see what you create—let’s make this holiday season one to remember!

Sat. Dec. 14, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the BP Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park. $35/person. Registration required.

December Fitness Bootcamps

Join one of our two holiday fitness boot camps to stay active and motivated throughout the season! Choose Angela’s Early Bird bootcamp, which meets at 6 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday, or join Jenn’s Blaine Evening bootcamp on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Both options provide a great opportunity to keep fit while enjoying the festive spirit. Don’t miss out on the chance to energize your holidays! Registration required.

Ready to try something fun and social? Come join us for a two-hour Introduction to Pickleball session with Coach Gary Cassera! See for yourself why pickleball is becoming everyone’s favorite game.

Sun. Jan. 12, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center, $20. Registration required.

Access our website at www.bbbparkandrec.org, or call/text us at 360-656-6416.

Intro to Pickleball

JANUARY AND FEBRUARY EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Group Fitness Demo Day

Fitness

Join us for our 2025 Group Fitness Demo Day on Saturday, Jan. 4, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center! Try out 25-minute sessions of each class, meet our instructors, and enjoy free classes with the chance to win raffle prizes. Don't miss this chance to kickstart your fitness journey!

Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Free, no registration required.

Bootcamps and Sessions:

Our 6-week bootcamps and fitness sessions require dedication ... and registration!

Greatest HIITS Early Bird Bootcamp with Angela: Jumpstart your fitness journey with intense morning workouts at 6 a.m. for 6 weeks. Sign up today!

Blaine Evening Bootcamp with Jenn: Join us every Monday and Wednesday evening for a challenging program that improves strength and endurance in a supportive environment.

Cardio Fusion with Kate: Experience dynamic cardio bursts with light and heavy weights for a full-body workout.

Beginner Bootcamp with Celine: Perfect for newcomers, this bootcamp offers lower impact exercises and modifications in an intimidation-free zone.

Sunday Yoga with Amanda: Enjoy a Vinyasa Flow class that combines breath and movement, focusing on alignment and accessibility for all bodies for a great workout.

Skills and Strategy Workouts

Join Coach Gary Cassera for an engaging 2-hour session designed to help you enhance your Pickleball skills and refine your strategy. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn valuable tips and techniques from an experienced coach! Sun., Jan. 26 (Novice), Feb. 2 (Intermediate) and Feb. 23 (Novice), 2025 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center. $35. Registration required.

Adult Prom!

Relive your prom night with a twist at our Second Adult Prom Night! This year’s masquerade theme promises an evening filled with lively music, dancing, delicious food, and a selection of refreshing non-alcoholic drinks. You will also have the chance to dress up, mingle, and create unforgettable memories. The night will culminate with the crowning of our prom king and queen. Mark your calendars and get your tickets to a magical evening of nostalgia and fun!

Sat. Feb. 8, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Blaine Pavilion. 21+. $25/person. Registration required.

Find us on Facebook and Instagram too: Search for bbbprd2.

Soccer Clinics

Join Coach Katie for two soccer clinics at the Blaine Pavilion for kids ages 7-11! These clinics offer skill drills for all levels, from beginners to advanced players.

Sat. Jan. 11, and Sat. Feb. 22, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Blaine Pavilion. $10/person/clinic.

Registration required.

Family Movie Nights

Save the dates! Join us for Family Movie Nights at the Birch Bay Activity Center— Friday, January 17, 2025, and Friday, February 21, 2025,

at 7 p.m. These free events include complimentary popcorn. Bring something comfy to sit on, or use our folding chairs. No registration needed. For movie details, visit bbbparkandrec.org

Teen Strength Classes

Teens ages 12-18 are invited to join the Strength Training Camp, running from January 6 to February 12, 2025, at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Learn safe, effective weightlifting while getting a great workout!

Mon. and Wed. from Jan. 6, 2025 to Feb. 12, 2025 at the Birch Bay Activity Center. $40 for all six weeks. Registration required.

Teen Night

Join us for Teen Night, an exciting event for teens ages 13-16, featuring a variety of fun games and activities, delicious pizza, and much more! It is the perfect opportunity to hang out with friends, make new ones, and enjoy a night full of entertainment.

Fri. Jan. 31, 2025 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Border Town Pizza. Free.

Registration required.

After School Enrichment Program

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Rec. offers an afterschool enrichment program that combines STEM projects with social-emotional learning to boost academics and life skills. The program runs Monday through Thursday, from 2:50 p.m. to 5 p.m., with pick-up at Blaine Elementary's covered area.

$7/child/day. More information and registration options can be found on our website: bbbparkandrec.org

Join our monthly class series with Kim Morris and create a Fairy Garden. In January, you will create a fairy house, followed by crafting accessories in February, and a fairy pot in March. The series culminates in a Fairy Garden Party in April. Sat. Jan. 18 and Feb. 15, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Birch Bay Activity Center. 8y +. $20-25/person/class, all materials included. Registration required.

Paint and Sip Hot Chocolate

Come get creative with Artist Alia Masonsmith as she guides you through painting a beautiful winter scene at L&L Bakery! Open to participants ages 8 and older, and kids are welcome to register with a parent. Sat. Jan. 25, 2025 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at L&L Bakery. $30/person. Registration required.

Fairy Garden Workshop Series
Pickleball

ONGOING FITNESS CLASSES and COURT SPORTS

and

Schedules are subject to change.

A word from our Director, Heather Lindsay: I want to thank our participants, volunteers, and community for supporting Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District #2. This year, we’ve expanded outdoor activities with hikes, Crabbing and Fishing 101, and a kids' day camp, along with fitness classes at the Blaine Pavilion. We’ve also offered art, music, and creative classes like painting, pottery, and photography.

As Blaine and Birch Bay grow, so do we, and we couldn’t do it without our dedicated volunteers. From Pirate Days to Holiday Dash, they’ve shown up with smiles to serve the community. Our goal is to create a recreational space where everyone can find something enjoyable to do.

With the Blaine Chamber of Commerce:
With the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce:
Ring of Fire
Hope December 31, 2024
Polar Bear Plunge January 1st, 2025
Holiday Harbor Lights November 30, 2024

Road Rules: Roundabout speeds

Question: There’s a freeway exit I sometimes take that ends in a roundabout. The speed limit for the roundabout is 10 mph. When traffic is heavy, it is very risky to enter the roundabout because people do not slow down. Would speed bumps prior to the roundabout get people to slow down or would that make it worse?

Answer: Before we get into roundabouts, let’s talk about speed limits. We tend to think of a speed limit as the sign with black numbers on a white background. That’s part of it, but the first paragraph of the speed limit law requires drivers to travel at a reasonable speed for conditions, be aware of potential and actual hazards, and limit speeds to avoid a collision. Sometimes the legal speed is lower than what’s posted on a speed limit sign. Take roundabouts, for example.

You may have noticed on approach to a roundabout a yellow sign with the roundabout symbol, and below it a yellow placard with a speed on it (usually 15 or 20 mph). That’s not a speed limit; it’s an advisory speed – a recommended speed based on highway design.

You’ll often find advisory speeds paired with a warning sign alerting you to an upcoming change in “horizontal alignment,” which is traffic engineer speak for a curve in the road. You can tell a warning sign from a regulatory sign by the background color (yellow or white, respectively).

I’m familiar with a stretch of highway that has a 50-mph speed limit and roundabouts at the intersections. If someone were to try to drive at the posted speed limit through the roundabout, instead of driving closer to the advisory speed of 15 mph, there’s a good chance they wouldn’t make it through without hitting some-

thing or losing control. Even though they haven’t exceeded the posted speed limit, their speed isn’t reasonable for the conditions and they’ve ignored the warnings about changing road design. They’ve violated the first part of the speed law.

When you said the speed limit for the roundabout is 10 mph, I was skeptical, even as an advisory speed. The Department of Transportation Design Manual specifies that roundabouts be designed for speeds of 15 to 25 mph. But I did some searching and, while uncommon, there are roundabouts with 10 mph advisory speeds.

It’s possible though, in favorable conditions, to drive safely above an advisory speed. Advisory speeds are set conservatively, with consideration for the comparatively slower cornering of trucks and for drivers who are unfamiliar with the road. Given a design speed of 15 to 25 mph, it may be

safe, absent any additional factors, to drive a car through the roundabout at 20 mph, even though it has a 10-mph advisory speed.

You’re not likely to see every driver follow the 10-mph advisory speed in your roundabout, but if drivers are coming into the roundabout faster than the design speed, there are options to slow them down. The best strategy is to design roads that naturally encourage driving at safe speeds, and roundabouts are usually pretty good at that. Speed bumps wouldn’t be the right choice, as they’re intended for very low

Real Estate

speeds, like five mph. But raised crosswalks are an approved strategy for encouraging slow vehicle speeds in roundabouts. They’re like a speed bump, but as wide as a crosswalk with gentler slopes, allowing for speeds consistent with roundabout design. And to all those in a hurry in a roundabout, it’s better to drive slow and wish you were going faster than to drive fast and wish you were going slower.

Doug Dahl is a Blaine resident, manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com

s A vehicle drives through the roundabout at Peace Portal Drive and Marine Drive in Blaine on November 12. Photo by Grace McCarthy

CLASSIFIEDS MARKETPLACE

time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: November 7,

Blaine book review: “Beasts of a Little Land” by Juhea Kim

Juhea Kim’s debut novel, “Beasts of a Little Land,” is a historic epic about the Korean peninsula during the first half of the 20th century. Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea and its struggle for independence, this vast national story is conveyed primarily through the lives of courtesans and orphaned street thugs, as our protagonists struggle to survive during tumultuous times. Rich in detail throughout, Kim conveys a strong sense of time and place as her use of setting deftly serves to draw the reader in to the story.

Of the many themes that run throughout the story, a prominent one is the power of connections: How social interactions, even minor and incidental, can come back to prove meaningful. Kindness or respect shown, or the disregard and contempt held, frequently return in karmic fashion. Social capital serves as a valuable currency for survival in a world of power imbalances.

Societal shifts are also a recurring theme. The central protagonists evolve from courtesan to actress, and from thug to revolutionary, seizing on opportunities for upward social mobility. This shifting narrative further plays out in societal changes as Korea shifts from Japanese occupation to a modern but divided North and South Korea.

Societal norms and mores shift,

Robert Arnold Stenger

October 2, 1943 - October 18, 2024

On October 18, 2024, Honda Bob left the garage for the final time. A life of adventure and hustle. From living in a teepee in Santa Barbara mountains driving hot-rodded open wheel Indy cars to a boat engineer in Alaska to his Custer compound. Always his way, his life with a wry joke, innuendo and a smile. He was surrounded by friends and family at the time of his passing. Bob acquired a large circle of friends with whom he never ceased in helping without expectation of compensation. His gigantic heart would not allow you to pay him. Once a real candidate for American Pickers, Bob was exhilarated at the hunt for auction automotive and repurposed items. A life-long dog owner, he cherished his last companion, Charlie.

He is survived by daughters Kristina Kinyon, Hannah Brown and sister Susan Diehl and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Arnold E. Stenger and L. Adeline Stenger and sister Sharon Knowles. Bob contributed significant time and resources to the Special Olympics, Birch Bay Legion #86, and Big Brothers program. Loved, remembered and will be greatly missed.

A life celebration where regaling Bob stories is planned for Sunday, November 17, 1 p.m., at the Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, Blaine, WA 98230. There will be snacks.

and the actions one took to survive during the Japanese occupation come under scrutiny and censor in a post liberation society, highlighting the trickiness inherent in judging the past by the standards of today.

“Beasts of a Little Land” is a sweeping epic narrative told through the lens of a small set of central characters. The work should appeal to readers of historical fiction, literary fiction, Asian history and character driven epics. Visit wcls.org to find “Beasts of a Little Land” and other similarly themed stories.

“Beasts of a Little Land” is the November selection for the Books & Bites book group. Join Books & Bites at the Blaine Library at 1 p.m. Friday, November 15 for a time of community and lively conversation.

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

62 years or older turn a portion of their home equity into cash that can be used for many different purposes. If you currently have a mortgage, a reverse mortgage could eliminate your mortgage payment (Borrower must still pay taxes and insurance and maintain the home) and also give you access to any additional equity to create a reserve fund, pay for home improvements, provide additional tax free* cash flow or whatever you would like to do.

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Contact me today to learn more or to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

*This advertisement does not constitute tax advice. Please consult a tax advisor regarding your specific situation.

Marie Bjornson

s Jonathan Jakobitz holds “Beasts of a Little Land.” Courtesy photo

sheriff’s repOrts

November 1, 4:47 a.m.: Attempted suicide on Birch Bay Drive.

November 1, 7:24 a.m.: Suspicious person cold call on Lincoln Road.

November 1, 9:03 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Harborview Road.

November 1, 12:55 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

November 1, 1:05 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

November 2, 10:15 a.m.: Hit and run on Castlerock Road.

November 2, 12:03 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Harborview Road.

November 2, 3:05 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Birch Bay Drive.

November 2, 9:16 p.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

November 2, 9:17 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Creasey Road.

November 3, 1:46 a.m.: Suicidal subject cold call on Dawn Lane.

November 3, 1:52 a.m.: Overdose on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

November 3, 8:15 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Anchor Parkway.

November 3, 12:11 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Drive.

November 3, 1:15 p.m.: Search and rescue on Behme Road.

November 3, 2:33 p.m.: Child abuse cold call on Elmwood Drive.

November 3, 10:18 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Henry Road.

November 4, 10:15 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Bruce Road.

November 4, 10:58 a.m.: Trespass on East Street.

November 4, 12:32 p.m.: Forgery cold call on H Street Road.

November 4, 1:54 p.m.: Fraud cold call on H Street Road.

November 4, 9:31 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

November 5, 2:22 p.m.: Suspicious person on Portal Way.

November 5, 3:13 p.m.: Theft

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Defunct airline 4. Beverage container 7. Team’s best pitcher

10. Unit of liquid capacity

11. It comes before two 12. Male child 13. Type of wheat 15. One’s mother 16. Upper side of an organism 19. United is one 21. Extraction process 23. A being with lesser divine status 24. People living together in a community 25. Luxury automaker 26. This (Spanish) 27. Semitic language 30. Period for a defined purpose 34. Wander aimlessly in search of pleasure

35. Up in the air (abbr.)

36. American marsupial 41. Decadent dessert

45. Aquatic plant

46. About aviation 47. Summer footwear

50. Rugged mountain ranges 54. With tin 55. Cut on the surface of a hard object

56. Wrapped in cloth

57. Defensive nuclear weapon 59. “American Idol” contestant Clay 60. Midway between east and southeast 61. Court decision “__ v. Wade” 62. Born of 63. Soviet Socialist Republic 64. Actress __-Margaret 65. Not even DOWN

1. Heat unit 2. __ Faulkner 3. Guatemalan town 4. Of funny things 5. Actress __ de Armas 6. Agents of one’s downfall

7. Takes forcibly 8. Body lice

9. Large nest of a bird of prey 13. Unhappy 14. Popular holiday dessert 17. Habitual drunkard 18. Used of a number or amount not specified 20. Complications 22. Fail to win 27. Before the present 28. Musical genre 29. Flurry 31. 007’s creator 32. Indiana Pacer Toppin 33. Midway between north and northeast 37. Feeling 38. Damage another’s reputation 39. Mottled citrus fruit

40. Beauty product 41. They man first, second and third 42. Harness 43. Herb 44. Expressed concern 47. Mississippi scientific area (abbr.) 48. Consumed 49. Nostrils 51. Gathered fallen leaves

cold call on Birch Bay Square Street.

November 5, 3:30 p.m.: Counterfeit cold call on Harborview Road.

November 6, 2:47 a.m.: Shots on Skyvue Road.

November 6, 6:02 a.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Bay Road.

November 6, 1:58 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Cottonwood Court.

November 6, 2:13 p.m.: Theft cold call on Carstan Loop.

November 6, 3:43 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Giles Road.

November 6, 3:54 p.m.: Juvenile problem on West 29th Street.

November 6, 8:27 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Birch Bay Drive.

November 7, 4:00 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Merle Place.

November 7, 4:10 p.m.: Trespass on Titan Terrace.

November 7, 5:50 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

52. Express good wishes 53. Monetary unit of Brunei

58. Japanese Buddhist festival

Coming up

Let’s Build a Treasure Box: Thursday, November 14, 3–4 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Kids decorate a box perfect for storing those valuable trinkets and treasures you don’t want to lose. Info: wcls.org.

Books and Bites: Friday, November 15, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. November title: Beasts of A Little Land by Juhea Kim. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

Son’s Choice Dance Party: Friday, November 15, 6:30–8 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. A dance for boys and their special guest(s) with music, drinks and treats. Free. Registration required at bbbparkandrec.org.

“The Importance of Being Earnest” Performance: Friday and Saturday, November 15 and 16, 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 17, 2 p.m., Blaine High School Black Box Theater (entrance behind Borderite Stadium). Blaine High School students perform the comedy. Tickets: $12, students and seniors $10. Light concessions.

Intro to Garden Design 101: Saturday, November 16, 9:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Discussing how to look at your yard as if you were a landscape designer. Especially important for placement of food bearing trees, bushes, vines and vegetable gardens.In this presentation, we will talk about your overall yard including hardscape assessments, materials use and integration. Info: nwcore.org.

Blaine Middle School Holiday Market: Saturday, November 16, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Blaine High School cafeteria. Featuring locally crafted wonders, sweet treats, candles, jewelry, toys, ornaments, apparel and much more! Music and raffle. The event supports the Blaine Middle School PTSO. Info: bmsptso98230@ gmail.com.

Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, November 16, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Games begin at 12:30 p.m. Eight games $15. Concession stand snacks available. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Open Season Federal Benefits Health Fair: Saturday, November 16, 2–5:30 p.m., Bellingham Central Library, 210 Central Avenue, Bellingham. The Northwest Washington National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Association will have presentations at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. with open forum after brief presentations. Representatives available discuss their 2025 plans and answer questions and explain how changes in the coming year will affect benefits for current federal employees, NARFE members, retirees, and their spouses or survivors. Info: Call Merry, 360/202-8999.

tides

Supper with the Superintendent: Monday, November 18, 6 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. The community is invited to a questions and answer meeting with Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger. Light meal provided. Info: blainesd.org.

Composting and the Bookworm Project: Wednesday, November 20, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. This workshop covers the basics of food waste recycling and how easy it is by managing worms, indoors and out. You will see huge benefits in your garden. Featuring the Bookworm Bin Project from the Whatcom County Library System. Info: nwcore.org.

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting Luncheon: Thursday, November 21, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., North Bay Community Church, 4895 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Lunch and a look back at 2024 and beyond with some of our friends from the Birch Bay Historical Society. $24. Info and RSVP: birchbaychamber.com.

Blaine Chamber After-Hours Networking: Thursday, November 21, 4:30–6 p.m., The Wheel House Bar and Grill, 746 Peace Portal Drive. No-host networking meeting. Info: blainechamber.com. Birch Bay Incorporation Committee General Meeting: Thursday, November 21. 6 p.m., North Bay Community Church, 4895 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Discussing progress of committees, share findings of research, updates on the 2025 feasibility study and election of steering committee members. In-person or on Zoom. Info: incorporatebirchbay.com.

Family Movie Night: Friday, November 22, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family-friendly movie. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Birch Bay Holiday Market: Saturday, November 23, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Terrell Creek Landing, 4823 Alderson Road, unit 105. Hand crafted holiday items, sales, cookies and cocoa. Info: 922-2447.

Ongoing

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of November 4 to 10, 0.7 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 33.3 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 55.7°F on November 7 with a low of 38.3°F on November 5. Average high was 52.1°F and average low was 44.6°F.

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 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.

Coming

Health & Wellness

Whooping cough transmission high statewide, including

Confirmed cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, have been increasing across the state, including in Whatcom County, where at least 37 people have fallen ill.

There have been 1,193 cases confirmed so far this year throughout Washington state, while there were only 51 cases reported by the same time in 2023, according to the most recent data available from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).

More cases may be under investigation that were tested within the last month and about one out of every 10 cases is reported, according to the DOH.

As of November 2 in Whatcom County, there were 37 confirmed, equaling a transmission rate of 16 per 100,000 people.

The number of cases by November exceeded a typical number of yearly statewide cases, which is between 184 and 1,026 cases, according to the DOH. State health officials see whooping cough spikes every couple

of years and the last epidemic was in 2012, when 4,918 cases were reported.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) wrote in an October 25 press release announcing the increasing cases that county health officials were observing exposures in school-age children who had gathered together and the illness was spreading within large families. WCHCS is conducting contact tracing and notifying people who may be exposed.

Information from DOH officials:

The highly contagious bacterial infection is preventable by vaccine. The infection can cause pneumonia, seizures, brain damage and even death in babies and young children. Older children may experience a runny nose, low fever and cough that lasts up to 10 weeks or more.

Those most at risk for whooping cough include infants, pregnant women and people with chronic respiratory illness. Symptoms typically surface about five to 21 days after expo-

s A

sure, but are most common seven to 10 days after. Whooping cough typically spreads through face-to-face contact, as opposed to spreading through surfaces.

To prevent whooping cough, people should receive the vaccination, wash their hands, cover their cough and stay home when sick. People with a cough or runny nose are encouraged

to not interact with babies or pregnant women. People who suspect they have whooping cough should isolate, ask for an evaluation from their doctor and wear a mask if they need to leave the house.

Children in Washington can receive free vaccines through the Childhood Vaccine Program. Washington Apple Health

covers the whooping cough vaccine and Medicare Part D covers the adult vaccine for people at least 65 years old. Those without insurance may call the Family Health Hotline at 800/3222588, visit the Help Me Grow Washington website at bit. ly/3YNahmr or contact WCHCS at 360/778-6000 to find free vaccination clinics.

M.D. MedSpa welcomes medical team members in Birch Bay

M.D. MedSpa and Wellness Centers has recently welcomed three new members to its medical team in Birch Bay.

Aileen Granada comes to the center with 17 years of nursing experience that includes plastic surgery, aesthetics and wound care. She spent two years specializing in fillers, Botox, weight management and IV hydration.

in phlebotomy, a procedure where a needle is used to take blood, and then became an esthetician.

rience in the medical field. She’s an aesthetic nurse injector who does Botox, dermal fillers and facial rejuvenation.

Madison McKinley started her career seven years ago as a certified nursing assistant before she received training

Micki McDonough has a bachelor’s degree in nursing with two years of experience in medical-surgical care and eight years of expe-

M.D. MedSpa and Wellness Centers has locations in Birch Bay, Fairhaven, La Conner and Poulsbo.

s Aileen Granada. Courtesy photo
s Madison McKinley. Courtesy photo
s Micki McDonough. Courtesy photo

Experts say you need $2,500 for an emergency.1 Stash Savings gets you there faster with 6.00%APY on your rst $2,500.2 INSURED BY NCUA

1 Sabat, J., & Gallagher, E. (2019). Rules of thumb in household savings decisions: Estimation using threshold regression. Social Science Research Network. 2 APY = Annual percentage yield. 6.00% APY on balances up to $2,500; balances over $2,500 will earn .01% APY on remaining balance. One Stash Savings account per member. Minimum opening deposit of $1 is required. Rates are subject to change. Fees could reduce earnings. APY is accurate as of January 31, 2024.

TROVE

NOVEMBER 1 - 30

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