Ferndale Record May 22 2024

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red rel ef oney s one reason for sta n cuts

‘Art will be o ered at both middle schools next year,’ district says

By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter

School Board gave an update on their 202425 budget cycle. e update included a summary of the Ferndale school district’s 2021-23 audit report, which Holly Graham, the district’s director of accounting said included no errors or misstatements in the school’s nancial operations, which Graham referred to in the meeting as a clean audit.

Mayor Greg Hansen gave his state of the city on May 15 to the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce. (Luke Seymour/ Ferndale Record)

State of the city, but with a twist

Ferndale mayor shares city expansion plans during monthly Chamber luncheon

By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter

FERNDALE — Population growth and major projects. Essentially, that boils down Mayor Greg Hansen’s state of the city address at the Ferndale Chamber’s May 15 luncheon.

After a few technical di culties at the front end of his presentation, Hansen presented Ferndale in 10 graphs that would demonstrate the city’s past, present and future growth and infrastructure, as well as lay out some basic summaries of future projects that the city is working on. e mayor called his presentation, “State of the City, but with a twist.”

In 1968, Ferndale had just short of 2,000 residents. Today, more than 16,000 people call the city their home. Hansen then explained that the increase in population, paired with infrastructure that has yet to adapt to meet the needs of this increase in residents, has led to housing affordability issues in the Ferndale area, even if the toll of those issues is not as apparent as it is elsewhere in Whatcom County.

“A comment that we often say is that homelessness looks di erent in Ferndale, but it’s still there,” Hansen said. “ ere are still people who are sleeping in their cars at night, you just don’t see them because you’re in your comfy home.”

One of the ways in which Hansen said Ferndale will look to alleviate this crisis is by planning to build homes that meet the needs of all Ferndale residents, no matter where they fall on the housing spectrum.

“We’re going to look to build housing for people who are at the area median income and higher,” Hansen said. “But we’re also required to plan for housing for people who are at 70% of the median income or 50% or below that.”

Hansen said that although the city has worked hard to meet the needs of all its residents, Ferndale can further alleviate housing troubles by looking to overestimate growth models in the years ahead and to continue to expand city limits in order to develop more a ordable housing.

is also means building more of what Hansen refers to as “missing middle housing,” which are structures that are meant to support multiple occupants at once in a communal living space. Examples of said missing middle housing in-

Graham then detailed the school district’s strategic realignments that have been taking place over the past few months and will continue to take place as the board works toward having their budget launched by July. Graham said no matter what cuts the board might make to sta ng and school resources, ultimately those decisions were

made purely to bene t the school’s bottom line.

“We’re intentionally linking our expenditures to our results,” Graham said. “Data is driving our decisions and we’ve updated our allocation models for certi cated and classi ed sta . Sta ng is based on our enrollment projections.”

Recently, the Ferndale School Board has been faced with grow-

ing concern over the security of teacher positions throughout the school district as some educators have been advised they will not be returning for the 2024-25 school year. Speculation has also accumulated over whether certain classes will be cut from the curriculum, particularly classes that focus on the arts.

Graham explained that sta ng is a school

district’s biggest cost and also that some of the most expensive items in the materials and supplies budget are utilities and insurance.

In support of Graham’s statements, Assistant Superintendent Mark Deebach said sta reductions are a di cult but natural byproduct of a rapidly changing school district.

“One of the unfortu-

nate realities in the way we work is that there is a lot of non-personnel money available for reductions,” Deebach said. “We’re reducing supplies, we’re reducing the non-sta cost the best we can. It’s an unfortunate reality, but there’s not a whole lot of wiggle room in material reduction.”

Earlier, Ferndale residents and teachers

Ferndale, other Whatcom cities plan Memorial Day remembrances

Avenue of Flags 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday, May 27 at Greenacres Memorial Park

By Bill Helm Editor

WHATCOM — Each year, cities all across Whatcom County recognize Memorial Day with their ceremonies and remembrances.

Ferndale’s annual Avenue of Flags is from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. May 27 at Greenacres Memorial Park, 5700 Northwest Drive. Col. Wes Weston is master of ceremonies. is is a display of Veterans ags, with approximately 2,000 veterans ags lining the pathways. Parking is o the Northwest Drive entrance, north side of Greenacres. Handicap parking as space allows, with permit.

At noon, the remembrance ceremony will begin, with speakers who will represent Disabled American Veterans, Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of the American Revolution, and Descendent of Patrick Henry. ere also will be a dove release.

Starting at 11:30 a.m., refreshments will be served by American Legion Post 7 Legion Riders and Ferndale Haggen’s bakery. is event is organized each year by the Whatcom Allied Veterans Council. Guests are invited to bring their own chairs for seating.

Whatcom Memorial Parade

From noon-3 p.m. Saturday, May 25, the Whatcom Memorial Parade will be held in Bellingham. e parade starts at noon at the intersection of Alabama and Cornwall streets and will continue south on Cornwall.

A non-political family event, the Whatcom Memorial Day Parade is a favorite community tradition in downtown Bellingham. Its mission is to remember and honor those who have given the ultimate sacri ce while serving in the United States Armed Forces. For more information, visit whatcommemorialdayparade.com or email info@whatcommemorialdayparade.com. Also call 360-230-8226.

-- Contact Bill Helm at bill@lyndentribune.com.

On Monday, May 27, Greenacres Memorial Park will be the site of Ferndale’s annual Avenue of Flags Memorial Day event. Pictured, 2023 remembrance. (Elisa Claassen for the Record)

FERNDALE — On April 30, the Ferndale

Ferndale hangs locally grown, donated flower baskets

City volunteers, chamber members hang locally grown, donated flower baskets

By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter

FERNDALE — On May 16, members of the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, city volunteers and Ferndale re ghters hung ower baskets along Main Street.

To raise money for the baskets, Ferndale residents were encouraged to donate money to the e ort while the city also organized local events such as the Flower Power 5K that took place on April 27. At the race, attendees could purchase ra e tickets, which would enter them in a chance

to win one of the ower baskets that would be displayed on Main Street.

Several local businesses also made donations, such as AltaGas, which was also one of the presenting partners of the ower basket hanging e ort. Businesses were asked to donate as much as $1,000 each to the e ort and in return, their logos would be put on the gator that waters the owers every day, making for relatively cheap advertising.

Other businesses that donated include the Carnation Oxford Business, the Score, Willands Tech Auto and Phillips 66. Ferndale Chamber Executive Director Heather Sherrill said that although the endeavor to fund and organize the ower baskets this year was marked by its setbacks, it was also dened by the perseverance of di erent contributing members of the community.

“Pete’s Auto Repair donated time and parts last week when I found out the

person that used to water the owers went into the Chamber’s garage, took the

gator apart and left it, lost the keys, and didn’t inform anyone until I went into the

garage and found it that way,” Sherrill said. “Pete came over right away and hauled it to his shop and made sure it was running and spotless before we picked up the owers.”

Sherill also said putting something such as the ower baskets together can take time and resources, and that Ferndale residents and businesses alike can make sure the hanging of the ower baskets continues to be an annual tradition if they get involved with the process.

“Making the owers happen for the community each year is no small task and literally takes the help of our entire community,” said Sherrill. “As the director, I’m so grateful for the businesses mentioned above and the community members that came to the 5K and bought ra e tickets. We will be revamping this program moving forward, and I hope our Main Street and downtown business partners will help us keep this program alive.”

-- Contact Luke Seymour at luke@lyndentribune.com.

NWW Fairgrounds Construction Career Day, May 23

struction Career Day has been established to introduce and inspire Whatcom, Skagit and Island county high-school students to explore careers in construction. Students explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits and are given the opportunity to try a variety of activities from laying mortar on brick, survey-map reading, running a crane WHATCOM COUNTY NEWS BRIEFS

LYNDEN — Join Ameri- can General Contractors of America (AGC) from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. ursday, May 23 for its annual Northwest Washington Construction Career Day at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front St., Lynden.

As many as 45 contractors and construction related organizations will be on hand for the more than 400 high school students in attendance. NW Washington Con-

See Briefs on A5

Members of the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, city volunteers and Ferndale firefighters recently hung flower baskets along Main Street. (Luke Seymour/Ferndale Record)

OBITUARIES

Wanda Cecile Shelly

Wanda Cecile Shelly went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 28, 2024. She was taken to Glory suddenly, at the age of 86, from her earthly home on Wiser Lake Road.

Wanda was born Feb. 9, 1938, at her childhood home on the farm next door to where she and her husband Jim raised their six children. Wanda lived all but the rst couple years of her marriage on Wiser Lake Road.

Wanda’s parents, Carl and Ida Oltman, owned the farm that had been his parents’ farm. Wanda had a great time growing up with “all the animals” and loved being responsible for bringing the

Allen Mitchell

cows in at milking time (though they would have come in on their own)

Wanda got 5 cents each day for this chore. Wanda also liked gathering eggs. She loved recalling how, when only 7 years of age, she drove a horse team to pull the hay wagon and hayfork. Later, when the salesman who sold Carl Oltman his tractor started to show him how it worked, Carl pointed to Wanda and said, “Talk to that one – she’ll be driving the tractor.”

Wanda attended the Lynden Public Schools and loved meeting up with her former class-mates once a month – the last time being this past April 16.

Wanda also enjoyed visiting with her former colleagues from

Scott Allen Mitchell, age 67, passed away at Whatcom Hospice House on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, with his Family by his side. Scott fought a courageous battle against Pancreatic Cancer for the past year. Scott was born Nov. 2, 1956, to Robert A. and Dixie A. (Smith) Mitchell in Bellingham. He graduated from Nooksack Valley High School in 1975, followed by graduating from the University of Washington in 1980 with a BS in pharmacy. Scott married Linda Som on July 12, 1980. Together they raised four kids: Tyler, Jenny, Kyle and Chris. ey were married for 43 years.

Kenneth Hamstra

Kenneth Hamstra of Lynden, met his Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Ken was born on May 6, 1938 in a little house on Hampton Road, Lynden to Ben and Gertrude Hamstra. He lived a life of strong faith and devotion to his family.

Fisher Elementary School. She gave 34 years of dedicated service as playground supervisor and lunchroom attendant. Young adults she’d encounter would often greet her and recall her kindnesses to them as children. Wanda also enjoyed a brief period of time helping children with reading class.

She liked to say that kids were “her thing.” Mom loved to reminisce about helping children. She was an assistant Camp Fire leader as well as a Cub Scout leader.

Wanda was a very devout Christian - at a young age attending Sunday School at First Reformed church and later Ten Mile Chapel. She attended Lynden Community Church for the last fty years of her life – many of those years spent teaching Sunday School. For several years, she played piano for Sunday School,

Scott owned and operated Nooksack Valley Drug in Everson for 42 years, where he took many young people under his wing, whether it was training them as pharmacy technicians, giving students their rst job, or just a place to work while they went through school.

Scott was an active member in the community. He ran the Everson Days Parade for 35 years, was on the Everson City Council, and was a member of the Everson Chamber of Com-merce. He also ran and passed multiple school levys and bonds for the Nooksack Valley School District. Scott also donated both time and money to anyone that asked him. He did score books for the Nooksack Valley boys basketball program, he was a member of the Friday Night Chain Gang for 25 years, and ran the javelin at high school track meets for many years.

Scott loved his family. He spent most of

Ken Hamstra met his future wife Mary Ellen Cobb when they were children playing together on his porch. ey were married on Oct. 23, 1959 in Lynden.

Ken graduated from Lynden Christian High School, attended Western Washington College,

and spent two years in the U.S. Army based at the U.S. Embassy in Paris, France. Ken was employed 33 years in the banking industry at the National Bank of Commerce and Peoples State Bank where he enjoyed forging relationships with customers and fellow employees. At Peoples he was a ectionately known as Mr. H. During this time he purchased 20 acres o of the Vinup Road and realized his dream of becoming a raspberry farmer. After retirement, he did accounting for numerous businesses, and gardening for the city of

Lois Mae Polinder joined the choirs of her Heavenly Hosts and to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, May 17, 2024. Lois was born Sept. 22, 1929 in Brooten, Minnesota to parents Raymond and Wilhelmina (TeBrake) Bouwman. After graduating from Calvin College she began teaching music in Prinsburg, MN. Lois married Junior Kleinhuizen, and became a mother to four boys while con-

on occasion she’d play for church service, and she had played for vespers at the Lynden Christian Rest home.

Wanda loved people and is remembered as a warm, caring person with a sweet smile and kind demeanor.

Wanda is survived by her six children, Gary (Mina) Shelly, Duane (LaVoun) Shelly, Connie (Steve) Regan, Carol Shelly, Keith (Jill) Shelly, and Larry (Tessie) Shelly. Wanda’s grand-children are Derek (Whitney) Regan, Katie (Brady) Miller, Kim (Ben) Curtis, Laura (Chris) araldson, Ti any (Justin)Sovey, Andrew Shelly, Isaac Shelly, Joseph (Elizabeth) Shelly, and Kristen Shelly. Greatgrandchildren include Madison Miller, Macie Miller, Sadie Curtis, and Mila Sovey, and another great-granddaughter ( araldson) is on the way. Her dear sis-

his time outside of work watching his kids participate in multiple sporting events such as basketball, volleyball, football and track, traveling all over the country to watch them play. Scott also enjoyed trips to spring training, Palm Springs and Whistler, as well as camping in the motorhome with Linda. He had multiple hobbies that involved each of his children. He completed many long distance bike rides including the Seattle to Portland with Chris, judged BBQ competitions with Kyle, participated in triathlons with daughter Jenny and did home projects with Tyler. He also became a great cook. Cooking for all family holidays and get-togethers as well as making special birthday meals for his kids and grandkids on ursday nights.

Scott is preceded in death by grandparents Homer and Marguerite Smith, father Robert A. Mitchell, aunt Norah Smith and father-in-law John Som.

Lynden and landscaping.

Ken was a lifetime member of Second Christian Reformed Church in Lynden, where he served a term as elder and several terms as deacon.

Ken lived life to the fullest. He loved to travel with his beloved wife, whether it was going to the ocean, or spring training in Arizona, or to Lake Tahoe to see the snowfall. As Mary Ellen‘s health declined, he sel essly took care of her and considered it a privilege. He loved gardening and generously shared his dahlias with friends and complete strangers. One of his many hobbies was making mints for weddings. Ken looked forward to getting together with his co ee group.

tinuing to teach on a part-time basis.

She and her husband moved to Lynden in 1968. Before long Lois began working at Lynden Christian Schools as a music teacher where she continue to teach until retirement in 1991.

A year or so after her husband‘s death from cancer she was asked if she would be interested in teaching music in Japan. And so for one year she worked in the International School in Singapore serving as a personal tutor to the handicap son of a pastor in a local Japanese church. Lois also directed the choir in the pastor’s church in Japan, which she thoroughly enjoyed. In 1987 Lois married Henry Polinder.

After Henry’s death in 1998, Lois contin-

Rayella Wynne

Rayella Wynne passed peacefully at the family home Tuesday, May 7 at age 81.

Born on Nov. 24, 1942 in Friday, Harbor San Juan County, to omas and Katherine Ralph. Rayella spent her early years living on Shaw Island. Later the family moved to Custer, where her father raised strawberries and chickens. She later graduated from Custer High School. In 1960, she married James (Jim) Wynne. ey purchased the family farm and built their rst home on Delta Line Road. Jim and Rayella raised two sons: John and Je . ey enjoyed camping trips, shing trips and visits to Dawson Creek to visit family. ey attended Sunrise Baptist Church where Rayella taught Sunday school, women’s Bible study and later served as church secretary. Jim and Rayella had a passion for antiques

Greta Lulkovich

ter, Myrna Visser, also survives Wanda.

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband Jim, whom she married on July 27, 1953. Also preceding Wanda in death are her parents, her brother Harold Oltman and his wife Alice, and brother-in-law Jim Visser. ere will be a celebration of life, opened to all of Wanda’s family and friends, on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 2 p.m. at Lynden Community Church on Grover Street. Memorials may be made to the Lynden Community Church’s Mission Fund.

e Shelly family would like to extend a special thanks to the paramedics and rst responders who have come out to help our dear mom over the years.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Scott is survived by his wife of 43 years Linda; children Tyler (Allison), Jenny (Ty), Kyle and Chris (Ali); grandchildren Kade, Finley, Octavious, Sebastian, Liv, Ila, Mae and Van. He will be greatly missed by his mother Dixie Mitchell, uncle Gary Smith; siblings Cindi (Rich) and Randy (Linda); in-laws, Dick (Rozy), Jack (Robin), Rhona (Steve), JoAnn (Mike) and Marvin; and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service is planned for 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Nooksack Valley High School Performing Arts Center. Donations can be made to your favorite local charity.

Scott’s family would like to thank the Hospice House, Kristi Nason, Grant Fishbook and everyone for their thoughts, prayers, calls, visits, cards, texts, emails, owers, and meals. We are truly grateful. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation services.

In short, he was a loyal friend to many and a kindhearted man. If you met him, you loved him and he loved you back unconditionally. God truly blessed him. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 60 years Mary Ellen, brothers-in-law Robert DeGroot, Robert Cobb, and John Cobb. Ken is survived by children David Hamstra (Jacqueline), Kaylene Schiller, Susan Burri (David), and Michael Hamstra; grandsons Eric Schiller (Kristen Patterson), Alex Schiller (Allison) and Addison Schiller (Madeline MacLeod); step-grandchildren Sarah Bouchereau (Carl), Brendan Scott (Marleigh), Alex Scott (Rachel), and Michelle Scott; and step great grandchildren Gabrielle, Layla, Madeleine, Isaac, and Daisy. He will be greatly missed by sister Gayle DeGroot, and sisters-in-law Lena Marie (Mick) VanderGriend, Henrietta Cobb and Hattie Cobb. Memorials are suggested to Project Hope, Christian Hope Association 205 South BC Avenue Suite 117, Lynden WA, 98264. A special thank you to Whatcom Hospice and Seven Sisters for their gentle care. Ken’s graveside service will be Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:15 a.m. in Monumenta Cemetery, followed by an 11 a.m. memorial service at Second Christian Reformed Church.

ued to worship and serve at ird Christian Reformed Church.

Music was a very important part of Lois’s life; as a child, hearing her mother play the organ in church, at Calvin College, singing in the A Cappella choir, teaching children to enjoy music, directing choir, and leading the sing-along at the Christian Health Care Center are ways Lois had experience and shared the gift of music.

Lois and Junior raised four sons Scott Kleinhuizen (Dawn), Bob Kleinhuizen (deceased), Tim Kleinhuizen (Sherrie) and Terry Kleinhuizen (Carole); grandchildren Jason (Cindy), Leisha (Brandon), Ella Avery (Jack), Jenny, Jordan (Becki) Deagan, and Maddox. With her marriage to Henry Polinder, she gained ve more

and started participating in glass and antique shows with the boys. is passion slowly turned into monthly auction nights. In the early 1980s, they built and managed the 1-5 Antique Mall and Auction Gallery. Over 30 years, they enjoyed running the family business and working with the community. ey have enjoyed many cherished relationships throughout these years. Rayella loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. Later this included two wonderful daughters-in-law Sherri and Maria. Rayella was blessed with seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She loved preparing special meals and treats for everyone as well as enjoying many birthday and holiday celebrations together. She will be greatly missed.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday May 31, 2024, at Enterprise Cemetery, 7041 Vista Drive, with a memorial gathering to follow at Pioneer Pavilion in Ferndale, 2007 Cherry St. Memorial donations in Rayella’s name may be made to Whatcom Hospice.

Greta Lulkovich went to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, May 20, 2024. Greta’s graveside service will be at Greenwood Cemetery on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at noon followed by a 1 p.m. memorial service at Second Christian Reformed Church, Lynden. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Mary Therese Keast

Mary erese Keast died on May 15, 2024. Born in Chicago on Oct. 29, 1942 to a charming Italian couple, Frank and Mary Manago, she would become an avid reader, a player of piano and organ, a gure skater, a crafter of crochet and needlepoint, and a believer in the beauty of routine, tradition, faith, and dry wit.

In 1965, she married Richard Keast, which led to traveling, an appreciation of a ready extra layer, and most notably, two children,

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

children: Sherm Polinder (Phyllis), Eleanor Dykstra (Bob), Ron Polinder (Colleen deceased, Judy), Marjorie Bos (Jim) and Karen Herrema (Mike); 14 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren, one deceased with one more on the way; and six greatgreat-grandchildren with one more on the way.

Memorials may be made to Lynden Christian Schools.

Lois’s private family graveside service is at Monumenta Cemetery on Friday, May 24, 2024 at 1:15 p.m. followed by a 2 p.m. memorial service at ird Christian Reformed Church, Lynden.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Heather and Diana, who would both inherit her dark curls and cleverness.

As a grandmother, she served with honors in doting on grandchildren Grace and Dominic.

For work, she served as a psychiatric nurse at Pres. St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago, and later in Ferndale High School’s library, where she aptly applied her well-keptness to the circulation desk.

Mary erese was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Ferndale on May 22.

In lieu of owers, her family invites donations to the Whatcom County Library Foundation.

Scott

Lois Mae Polinder

FORUM

More to new jail than simple tax numbers

Editor, Cal Bratt’s article may be short and seem rather straight to the point, but (its) language and diction are too positive and ignore many obvious problems with the new jail.

e new jail is replacing the old, neglected jail that carries too much mold to be safe. Unless there are new practices put into place, the new jail will deteriorate and need to be replaced just like the old one, wasting tax dollars on a non-sustainable resource.

On top of that, this new jail is built on wetlands that undermine the integrity of a longstanding building. I believe as a journalist if you are going to be reporting on this jail, there should be more logistical and thoughtful information presented rather than simple tax numbers.

e implementation of this new jail doesn’t provide restorative services and is a further burden on our pockets. I also wonder, how does building a new jail to house more inmates reduce incarceration?

John Benford Bellingham

Submitting letters or guest opinions

e Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record newspapers encourage guest opinions as well as letters to the editor. However, submissions must refrain from attacking individuals without providing supporting documentation or a rational and legally defensible justi cation Letters should be emailed to editor@lyndentribune.com and must be received by noon Monday if they are to publish in that Wednesday’s newspaper. If letters cannot be sent electronically, they may be typewritten or neatly handwritten and must be received by Friday if they are to publish in the following Wednesday’s newspaper. Letters should not exceed 300 words. Guest opinions may not exceed 500 words and must include a clear photograph of the author.

Your letter or guest opinion must include your full name, complete address and telephone number. Your address and telephone number will not be printed in the newspaper, but will be used for veri cation by newspaper sta . Neither unsigned letters nor letters containing personal attacks of a libelous nature will be published.

e Tribune and Record newspapers reserve the right to edit or refuse any letter. Furthermore, space limitations may also preclude letters from being published.

All columns and letters on the opinion page are the views of the authors and do not necessarily re ect the views of the Lynden Tribune or Ferndale Record newspaper.

Submitting articles of interest

Readers of the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record newspapers are encouraged to submit articles of interest for inclusion in our newspapers. Submitted articles should focus on areas of interest to the communities we serve. Opinions, complaints and politicking belong in the Letters to the Editor, and will not run as a feature article. Articles promoting a vendor’s services, or advertisements disguised as articles, will not be accepted.

e Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record have a separate mechanism for advertising a business, and that is where such information should be kept. Further, during the election cycle (June through the rst week of November), no letters to the editor nor commentaries naming candidates they support will publish in our newspapers. During the election cycle we publish candidate statements and responses to questions in a Q&A format as we provide balanced election coverage. Our e orts to be accurate, as well as balanced in our coverage, are not negotiable.

Plans are being made for the coming holiday: picnics and barbecues, ball games and such events to be shared with friends and families. Before the day, I would be honored if you would join me on a short imaginary walk.

We are 20-year-old soldiers, Jerry, Harold, Jim and me, a cross-section of 1950s American men. For three months we had been planning a four-week furlough in Europe. Passports, railroad tickets, currencies, lm and, above all, a good guidebook are in hand. Two of us were to visit relatives and those letters had been written. Only civies are to be worn. We had tried to plan it well.

e plan was to go to Paris. I was to be the guide because of a previous visit. en to London. Jim and Harold were going on to Scotland to visit family, Jerry and I to relatives of mine in Holland and Norway. e two of us were open to whatever else would interest us.

ere was to be a side trip to Normandy while in Paris. Jerry had a neighbor widow lady whose only son had died close to Omaha Beach. He was buried there. She had asked Jerry if it was possible to nd and visit his grave.

From Paris we caught a train to the French coastal town Bayeux. We were not sure that we would nd our destination here. When we arrived, we took a cab to a small hotel. On the way we were discussing where the military cemetery might be. Our cabbie became very excited because the French word for cemetery is the same in English.

Before we reached the hotel, we had made plans for him to take us to the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach.

After much gesturing and picture drawing, he was to pick us up the next morning and spend the entire day at the cemetery with us. e price was one carton of Lucky Strike cigarettes. (I just read today in the Travel + Leisure magazine that a similar one-day tour for two is available this summer for $2,440)

It was amazing how this had worked out for us. I began to sense that the cabbie was very honored to do this for us, not for the price but for who we were and what our purpose was.

Our hotel was across from the town cathedral. It had a small four-table restaurant. For young men our age, we had all we needed: a bed, a place to eat, and a ride. Could it get any better?

At dinner time we had di culty with the French menu. When our waitress said the word “steak,” we were in business. We had the best steaks since our pre-military days. e next morning, we ordered steak for breakfast. Our waitress found this funny.

Our cabbie appeared right on time. (From now on in the story, if I write of feelings they are only mine.) Upon leaving town, he stopped in front of a shop. It was a ower shop. We were expected to bring owers when visiting a military cemetery. It was a lesson in manners for us.

What would we nd there? Some gravestones in a pasture? How mistaken

I was! Ahead on a blu overlooking the English Channel, a large white eld shimmered in the sunlight. It made me think of a holy place. e closer we got, the larger it became. is was far bigger than our 60-acre farm back home. From the gate we saw that this place

was immaculate. As we drove up to the

o ce, a French man came out to meet us. He told us of the cemetery, and he would be our guide for as long as we wished. He would take us to the grave we wished to honor. He had seen our owers and knew we had a purpose. He recognized us as young American soldiers.

As I looked through the gate, things were starting to become much clearer. e crosses and stars of David were distinct. en I was walking among the crosses, and I could read names. ere were ranks and unit numbers. ere were ages. is was me. e grief of so many families, sweethearts and children was closing in on me. 9,387 shattered dreams. Very intense thoughts and emotions lled me. en there was one cross, Roland’s. Everything became totally focused on this one cross. I was watching Jerry as he knelt to lay his owers. I wanted to touch him, but it was far too private a moment for that. He knew Roland’s family back home. To be there with Jerry made it personal for me. We were a quiet group of men, each with his own emotions. ere was only a very loud quiet.

After some time, the guide asked me if we would wish to see a mural where Roland’s unit had been engaged in the battle. As I walked away, I wondered to myself, will anyone else ever come and stand to say thank-you to Roland?

“ e Green Fields of France” song

Well, how do you do, young Willie McBride,

Do you mind if I sit down by your graveside?

Did you leave a wife or sweetheart behind, In some faithful heart is your memory enshrined?

Although you died back in 1916, In that faithful heart are you forever nineteen?

Or are you a stranger without even a name, Or enclosed in forever behind the glass frame?

e cab driver took us down to Omaha Beach. ere was wreckage in the surf. Damaged German weapons still faced the ocean. We were soldiers and understood the military part as we explored the area. Occasionally one of us would stop and look up at the cemetery on the blu . At the beginning of this story, I asked you to take a short walk with me. I want

Mick Vander

and his

buddy

and place

ers at a cross in the American military

you now to go to your planned activities for the holiday and enjoy them with all your heart. Only please remember who gave so you could enjoy. As you leave me, there are two questions I ask myself. First, did this have to happen? Yes, Yes, Yes. Months earlier, I had visited another cemetery. It was surrounded by barbed wire. e buildings inside were unpainted and dingy. ere were no lawns, only mounds of ashes for graves of thousands of innocent people. is place was called Dachau -- enough said? e second question I have been asking since that day in France. Will we, the American people, have the soul to ever rise to a threat similar to this? Only time will tell. As the years passed, the few times I met each of my soldier friends we spoke of that day at Omaha Beach. It left its mark on each of us. One time I traveled to Jerry and he took me to meet Roland’s mother. What a privilege and honor for me to visit with her! She thanked me, a stranger, for visiting her son’s grave. She told about her son and missing him. My memories of that day came back. I realized that for a bunch of guys we had done something special for her and for ourselves that day in Normandy years before. When we got back to our hotel, we paid our cabbie his carton of Lucky Strikes and then tipped him another carton. A job well done. We then had one last steak dinner. While we were eating, a French couple at another table were enjoying a dinner of snails. Jim expressed great disgust at this choice of food.

If you have ever traveled with a group, one person is quick to nd fault with the culture you are visiting. Jim was that person in our group.

I could not help myself informing him that we had very likely been eating horse meat. He turned pale and asked where I got that idea. I told him when we get back to Paris I will take you to butcher shop. If there is a golden horse head above the door, it means horse meat is sold there. We went, and he saw the golden horse head. Was it beef or horse? We never knew. It was time to get Jim out of France as quickly as possible. On the train to London, there were three sassy English lassies, but that is another story for another time ...

-- Author Mick Vander Griend and his wife, Lena Marie, have lived all their lives (except his military service) in the Lynden area.

Griend

soldier

Jerry kneel

flow-

cemetery of Normandy, France.

(Photo courtesy Mick Vander Griend)

Through Oct. 26

Tour Lynden, Greenwood cemeteries

“A Walk Back in Time” historic Lynden Cemetery tours will take place at 11 a.m. each Saturday on the south side of Front Street at Guide Meridian Road. Tours of Greenwood Cemetery, 605 E. Wiser Lake Road are at 1 p.m. the last Saturday of each month. Learn about pioneer families and unique cemetery trivia. Tours are free, no reservations needed. Details: 360-354-3675. Also, Whatcom County Cemetery District No. 10 commissioners have printed cards to help folks take their own selfguided tour of the two cemeteries. Each cemetery has its own corresponding card, with a map and numbered points of interest. Cards are available at each cemetery in the public information container on the exterior wall to the right of the o ce door. For more information, email rhdecima@gmail.com.

Through May 26

Collage Constellation art exhibit

Collage Constellation at Meloy Gallery, 301 W. Holly St., Bellingham, downstairs in Bay Street Village. Beautiful, unique works on paper by regional artists. These artists have received awards, residencies, grants and scholarships. Many are professors and have works in public and private collections. Meloy Gallery Hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays noon-5 p.m. or by appointment by emailing rebecca@ rebeccameloy.com. Or visit meloygallery.com

Tuesdays and Thursdays through Sept. 30

Bocce Ball

Lynden Community/Senior Center has Bocce Ball practice at Bender Fields Bocce Ball court on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10 a.m. until noon, through Sept. 30. If there is rain, we will not play, but if it’s sunny come out and join in the fun. Make sure you bring a lawn chair.

and

Third Monday of each month

Minds Alive!

Minds Alive is a partnership between The Upfront Theatre and NWRC to o er improv classes for anyone with early stage memory loss and their care partners. Classes are from 2-3 p.m. the third Monday of each month at The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St., Bellingham. Classes are designed to engage participants in improv exercises that tap into the present moment through creativity, connection and joy. Specially trained Upfront improvisers will facilitate a creative experience surely to enrich, support and entertain. Registration is required, either online, by email at info@theupfront.com, or by phone 360-200-8697.

May 22

Community Educational Program

Join us on May 22 at the Bellingham Yacht Club for a discussion on the vital role of modern libraries in our community. Library Directors Rebecca Judd and Christine Perkins will showcase how libraries enrich lives through innovative programs and services. Learn about the challenges they face and how you can support these invaluable resources. Tickets and more information is available at bellinghamcityclub.org. Bellingham City Club’s mission is to inform, connect, and engage our community to strengthen the civic health of our region.

May 23

Touch-a-Truck In celebrating National Public Works Week, May 19-25, the City of Ferndale will hold its annual Touch-a-Truck event on Thursday, May 23from 1–5 p.m. at Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry St. On hand will be the backhoe, skid steer, front loader, service body truck with tilt-deck trailer, F-550 dump truck, the City’s new dump truck, ROW mower, and hopefully the vactor truck and street sweeper if they are not in action on a project at the time. All ages are

Briefs: Construction Career Day

Continued from A2

simulator to operating actual equipment under the guidance of operators and apprentices.

Use of equipment and other materials is generously made possible by our contractor exhibitors. e students have the opportunity to discuss the career pathways, bene ts and training requirements with construction professionals as to their profession.

Visit agcwa.com for more information.

SPARK Museum launches $2 million capital campaign

BELLINGHAM — e SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention has announced the launch of a $2M capital campaign to support the expansion of the museum through the creation of Wonderlab, a fully interactive gallery for youth and families.

With $400,000 already pledged as a matching donation, SPARK will tackle their most ambitious project yet with the community at the center of it.

Wonderlab will be an interactive gallery dedicated to hands on science experiences that complement the Museum’s worldclass historical collection in their main galleries.

A part of community since the early 2000s, SPARK has seen decades of growth and change as they have responded to community needs and desires and this project is the next major step. In addition to enhancing the current visitor experience, Wonderlab will address some critical needs our community faces.

In particular, SPARK seeks to increase support for science education for local educators and students and create an enriching and a ordable space for children and families to belong.

is multifaceted project will include the renovation of a 3,000 square foot space in the Museum to house Wonderlab, the design and installation of interactive exhibits, the installation of an elevator to ensure accessibility, and other capital improvements to their historic building to ensure sustainability and longevity.

e completion of this project will help put Bellingham on the map as home to the largest interactive science center between Seattle and Vancouver, BC.

welcome to come check out and learn about the equipment used by Ferndale Public Works.

May 24

National Geographic Live: Social by Nature Immerse yourself in the world of social mammals with explorer and acclaimed wildlife photographer Ronan Donovan, May 24, for National Geographic Live: Social by Nature at Mount Baker Theater in Bellingham. Doors open at 6 p.m. He’ll share stories and behindthe-scenes experiences from his time spent with the wolves of Yellowstone to Africa’s mountain gorillas. His work has been featured on PBS’s Nature and at the Smithsonian and is on view now at the Whatcom Museum in National Geographic’sGreatest Wildlife Photographs. National Geographic Live tickets available atmountbakertheatre. com.

May 25

Whatcom Memorial Day Parade

The 102nd Whatcom Memorial Day Parade will take place on May 25 fromnoon-3 p.m. The parade will begin at the intersection of Alabama and Cornwall streets. Theparade marches south to Champion Street where it turns left and then left again on State Street where it concludes. Theme of the Parade is Celebrate our Communities and Honor our Heroes. There will be special recognition of gold star families of fallen service members who died while serving in a time of conflict. The parade attracts participants and spectators throughout Washington state. Visit whatcommemorialdayparade.com for more information.

June 1

Lynden Farmers Day Parade

Lynden’s annual Farmers Day Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 1. The Lynden Farmers Day Parade is one of the longest running parades in the Northwest, and this year will be no

di erent. Watch the parade on Front Street in Lynden as it starts on 10th Street and ends at 3rd Street. Watch as an eclectic menagerie of cars, bands, tractors, trucks, horses and more salute Whatcom County’s agriculture industry of Whatcom County. For more information, call the Lynden Chamber of Commerce at 360-354-5995 or visit lynden.org.

June 1 Service dog for veterans fundraiser Service dog for veterans fundraiser is from 5:30-9 p.m. June 1 at Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham. Meet Join Brigadoon Service dogs and sta , watch them demo their skills, eat some great food, and raise funds for a worthwhile and deserving cause. A nonprofit since 2004, Brigadoon does not charge veterans for a service dog and all monies raised go into the veterans program. Early bird tickets are $50 until May 25, $60 from May 26-June 1, kids 12 & under only $15, and veterans $25. Tickets include a delicious BBQ dinner, drink, music, and games. For more information, email andrea@brigadoondogs.org.

June 1-28

JAT & The Extraterrestrials art exhibit JAT & The Extraterrestrials art exhibit at Meloy Gallery, 301 W. Holly St., Bellingham, downstairs in Bay Street Village. John A. Taylor, lead at Seward Park Clay Studio, brings 24 works on paper; Joe Reno, Ballard Legend, brings paintings and works on paper; Stephen Yates bring images of the universe from Port Townsend; Michellino Angelo bring a Bellingham Clay God. Bring your alien stories to share on Saturday, June 1 from 2-4 p.m. and First Friday Art Walks June 7 and July 5 from 6-9 p.m. Meloy Gallery Hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays noon-5 p.m. or by appointment by emailing rebecca@ rebeccameloy.com. Or visit meloygallery.com

ta n Expired COVID-19 relief

Continued from A1 touched

tion of the meeting.

Vista Middle School English teacher Amy Nylen said she’s “a union leader and so I’m making it a little more di cult for you to lay o my colleagues.”

“I am here today with two amazing early career educators who got pink slips on Friday,” Nylen said, “and I don’t want that to be easy for a second.”

Nylen then spoke about the importance of art education in the neurological development of young people as well as the important roles art teachers play in their lives.

“Our middle school art

teacher was cut,” Nylen said. “I just wanted to remind everyone of the truth, that art requires specialized training. It’s not an optional feature of basic education. Ferndale families want comprehensive, rich experiences for their children, and I’m here to tell you as a family member that art saves lives. So please restore our trained arts educators.”

In a letter to the district’s families, Superintendent Kristi Dominguez wrote that the eliminated jobs were created during the COVID-19 pandemic and were funded by Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief money. ose funds, she added, have recently expired. e letter states that the deci-

sion to cut these roles in the school was made as a means of making better use of district resources to better improve student success.

“As we begin this transition, please know that these changes are closely aligned with our core values and dedication to your children’s education,” the letter states. “We’ve also worked diligently to ensure our budget supports this commitment, focusing every decision on improving educational experiences and outcomes for all students.”

Celina Rodriguez, the district’s executive director of communications, said many of the eliminated jobs do not technically qualify as reductions in force but are being referred to as “provisional non-renewals.”

Although much of the information regarding who and which positions in the school district will be reduced, Rodriquez said roles in the certi cated, classi ed and administrative departments will be impacted by the budget. She added that the district has no plans to cut any art programs this year.

“ ere was a misconception that art was being eliminated from the middle schools,” Rodriguez said. “ at is not true. Art will be o ered at both middle schools next year. e arts are a valued program in our school district.”

-- Contact Luke Seymour at luke@lyndentribune.com.

Average gasoline prices in Washington have fallen 6.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.54/g on May 20, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 2,666 stations in Washington.

Prices in Washington are 9.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 2.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

e national average price of diesel has fallen 3.3 cents in the past week and stands at $3.86 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Washington was priced at $3.59/g on May 19 while the most expensive was $5.49/g, a di erence of $1.90/g.

e national average price of gasoline has fallen 3.5 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.55/g on May 20.

e national average is down 12.0

cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 2.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said the news on gasoline prices “continues to be good for motorists ahead of Memorial Day, with gasoline prices again falling, making it four straight weeks of declines for the national average as we get closer to the start of the summer driving season.”

“While the Middle East, hurricane season, re nery maintenance and any other unexpected disruptions or weather remain wildcards, this summer is shaping up to be mostly favorable for drivers hitting the road, DeHaan said.”

GasBuddy data is accessible at http://prices.GasBuddy.com.

ansen State of the city

Continued from A1 clude duplexes, bungalows and townhouses. After his presentation, Hansen said this is the “housing stock for people who sit either at or below the median income for Whatcom County.

“So if you’re making $60,000 a year, that’s tough to buy a house with,” Hansen said. “So we’re trying to nd opportunities for private industry to build homes that actually hit the mark where someone who’s making $60-80K a year can actually a ord to buy a house.”

Later in his presentation, Hansen gave updates on some of the exciting new public projects that are either underway or in development in Ferndale, including the Metalworks Skatepark that began construction in April, the repairs and replacement of the stage in Pioneer Park and the construction of a whole new wastewater treatment plant.

Business professionals who attended the luncheon said the monthly meetings help keep them informed as well as give them an opportunity to form connections with other business-

es throughout Whatcom County.

“I think it’s a very valuable resource,” said Alex Dorn, a real estate loan o cer for WECU, which stands for Whatcom Educational Credit Union. “It feels great to show up and always get some really valuable information about the local business climate and the economics of local municipalities.”

Also at the luncheon, Erin Cohen said she was pleased to hear about all of the city’s new plans for expansion in the coming years.

“I loved hearing about all of the ways they’re coming up with more a ordable housing to make it easier to live here,” said Cohen, a travel agent. “I also love the idea of the new skate park and giving the local kids in the neighborhood something to do. I just really appreciate coming to these meetings and getting the chance to connect with other business owners in the community and to hear the ideas everyone has for the future. It’s exciting.”

-- Contact Luke Seymour at luke@lyndentribune.com.

TACOMA — Lynden took both state playo s games on May 18 at Lincoln Field in Tacoma to advance to the nal four in the state playo s for the second year in a row.

e Lions won on a walk-o walk in the rst game against Ellensburg.

Junior catcher Tristan omas walked in the bottom of the eighth inning with the bases loaded and Kael Stapleton scored to give the Lions a 3-2 win.

Senior right-hander Lane Simonsen started the game and pitched seven innings, allowed two earned runs and walked one batter. Sophomore Matthew Carroll relieved Simonsen in the eighth inning and pitched one scoreless frame.

Lynden’s momentum carried into their quarternal game against North

baseball

Kitsap with a ve run second inning that proved too much for the Vikings to respond to. Senior River Langstraat went 3-3 with three singles, a walk and two runs scored.

Sophomore Spencer Adams went 2-4 with three RBI and freshman Gordy Bedlington tacked on two RBI himself.

e Lions will square o against Columbia River on May 24 at Joe Martin Field.

Lynden nished the regular season ranked No. 3 in the state and Columbia River, No. 12.

e Rapids from Wenatchee are riding a six game winning streak and they’ve won 18 of their last 19 games.

e rst pitch between the two teams to decide which moves onto the 2A state championship game is scheduled for 10 a.m. Head coach Cory White was not available for comment.

Sensational pitching pushes Meridian to semis

CAMAS — Meridian baseball advanced to the nal four of the 1A state playo s for the rst time since 2012 with a 1-0 win over Seton Catholic on May 18.

Junior left-hander Jonah Aase made his rst start since April 1 and red a ve-hit shutout with 15 strikeouts. In the prior game, played earlier in the day against KionaBenton, freshman right-hander Nate Payne pitched a one-hit shutout and allowed one walk in the Trojans' 3-0 win.

"We went down there to win the thing, not just to get to the nal eight," Meridian manager Steve Slesk said.

He explained they felt going into the two games, Payne was a better matchup against Kion-Benton's lineup and Aase was a strong matchup against Seton Catholic's lineup.

" at was kind of our strategy going in and it worked out for us," Slesk said.

He also explained the Trojans' focus during their week of practice leading up to the two games in Camas.

"It's just another baseball game when it comes down to it," Slesk said. "You don't want the kids to be uncomfortable and trying to do too much. It's just stay the course and our practices are back to basics from day one — making sure we wrap up everything really well and just stay the course on what we've been doing all year."

One of the Trojans' most critical plays of the season occurred in the fourth inning of the second game against Seton Catholic. With runners on rst and second, Seton Catholic out elder Jacob Williams lined a base hit into right eld with two outs. omas Clute rounded third and headed for home. Meridian right elder Tristan Wang came up with the throw from right elder in an attempt to get Clute out at home. Wang's throw came up just up the line, but catcher Ian Forbes had time to make the tag on Clute and hold Meridian's one-run lead into the fth inning.

" at was the biggest play of the day, for sure," Slesk said.

e Trojans held their one-run lead the rest of the game and advanced to the nal four against Cedar Park Christian on May 24. e two teams met in the district championship and the Eagles came out on top, 4-2. Payne and Aase both pitched and allowed four earned runs combined — Payne, four and Aase, none in four innings pitched. "We're right there with them," Slesk said. " ey have good pitching, we have good pitching and we anticipate a low-scoring affair. We just need to scratch out some runs and try to get it done; it's going to be a heck of a battle for sure."

e rst pitch between the two teams is scheduled for 4 p.m. at Joe Martin Field on May 24 and the winner advances to the 1A state championship game.

Lady Lions advance to state playoffs

COMING

SKAGIT

to advance to the state

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

Lynden senior River Langstraat went 3-3 with a walk against North Kitsap on May 18 to help the Lions advance to the final four. (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)

Lynden’s pitchers allowed six earned runs in 15 innings of work in Tacoma over the weekend. (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

Meridian freshman Nate Payne pitched a one-hit shutout against Kiona-Benton on May 18 at Camas High School. (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)

Mount Baker advances to state playoffs

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

LYNDEN -- Mount Baker softball defeated Lynden Christian twice on May 18 to advance to the state playo s for the fourth time in six seasons. In the second game, the Mountaineers overcame a fourrun de cit in the bottom of the sixth inning

with eight runs. e Lyncs could not respond in the top of the seventh inning and Mount Baker came out on top, 10-7. Mount Baker begins their 1A state playo s journey on May 23. Seedings and locations have yet to be published.

-- All photos by Dennis Cairns for the Tribune

Athlete of the Week

Sponsored by

Lynden senior tennis player Anna Samoukovic is the only North Whatcom athlete participating in the state tennis singles this week. She’ll face Calleigh Thompson of Sequim on May 24. rustywagongoodeats.com

Whatcom Wonders

Lesley Thorgeirson enjoys teaching people about her beliefs

A Lynden resident, Lesley Thorgeirson volunteers through her faith, the Jehovah's Witnesses. Through that volunteer path, Thorgeirson teaches the bible and also helps people learn to read.

“I’m not a teacher like in a public school or such but I volunteer to explain how modern archeology can help one’s [understanding of] the bible,” she said.

Thorgeirson explained cart witnessing “is a form of my volunteering where I stand by a public display of free literature to the public and am available to answer any questions one might have about them.” She does this in front of the downtown Lynden post o ce on Wednesdays.

Thorgeirson also volunteers 30 hours each month in her congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.

“I enjoy teaching people where to find the free website JW.ORG on their phones and computers,” she said.

The following is from a Q&A with Lesley Thorgeirson. Lynden Tribune: Why did you get started with volunteering?

Lesley Thorgeirson: I was introduced as a child to helping people learn the bible by making our family available for ones to contact if they ever had questions about our beliefs. I started to volunteer to be a good neighbor to

Tribune: What do you enjoy most about volunteering?

Thorgeirson: What I enjoy most about volunteering is helping older ones in our community by donating to local businesses, and also helping clean their homes inside and out. Also sharing good neighborly principals with them.

Tribune: Describe a moment while volunteering that has stuck with you.

Thorgeirson: I remember a time when I baked some homemade cookies during the COVID-19 pandemic and left them at the front door of man who is in a wheelchairs home, and flowers for his caregiver. They were so surprised that someone had taken the time to think about them and it made them feel good knowing that someone besides a family member cared about them.

Tribune: What does your community mean to you?

Thorgeirson: The definition of community is a feeling of fellowship with others as a result of sharing common attitude's interest's and goals. So, to me it means being part of a tight knit community, where ones can depend on each other physically, mentally and spiritually. Also being a good community member is important by following rules and being an honest citizen.

Tribune: What would you like to tell anyone who may be interested in becoming a volunteer?

Thorgeirson: I would tell others that volunteering brings you an inner joy and satisfaction. Putting yourself out there to bring a greater hope to others and know that you can make a di erence in someone's life by using whatever skill you might

ANNA SAMOUKOVIC

Baker and the game of basketball run deep, with several of her relatives also playing for Mount Baker. Stephanie's mom, Susan,

averaged 21.8 and 27 points per game in the state tournament during her junior and senior seasons in 1984 and 1985 for Mount Baker. Her grandfather, Art Anderson, played center for Mount Baker when they won the rst 1A state tournament title in 1958.

Following her high school career, Stephanie moved on to college and experienced a mix of on-court success and injuries. She transferred to Iowa State for the 202223 season, stayed healthy and averaged 14.4 points per game and 9.9 rebounds per game.

Soares was drafted with the No. 4 pick in the 2023 WNBA draft by the Washington Mystics and immediately traded to the Dallas Wings. She was sidelined all last season with an ACL injury and 2024 marks her rookie season.

Whatcom youth hockey enters new era with Junior Blazers

Youth hockey in Whatcom County will have a new name and new look.

For years, the Whatcom Warriors have represented players from all over the county and region, but now, the program will transition to a new identity: the Bellingham Junior (Jr.) Blazers.

"It's de nitely a re-brand for us,” said Owen Brown, President of the Whatcom County Amateur Hockey Association (WCAHA). “We believe

in building a tight-knit hockey community here in Bellingham, and this move is a big part of that. As a smaller organization, we've noticed that not everyone in Bellingham knows about the passion for this sport, so this re-brand is our way of putting hockey in the spotlight."

WCAHA is the governing organization behind youth hockey in the area. e move to the Jr. Blazers brand will help simplify the process for families looking to join hockey.

"When someone

wants to join hockey, they typically reach out to the rink for information. But with two di erent associations, it can create a bit of confusion and uncertainty," Brown said. "By aligning with the Jr. Blazers, we're streamlining the process and providing a clear pathway for families. Now, when someone wants to join hockey in Bellingham, they'll know exactly where to turn, making the entry into the sport much more straightforward and accessible," he continued.

WCAHA currently

has teams ranging from 8 and under (8U) to 18 and under (18U). e organization caters to a wide range of skills, ages, and elds and has both A and C teams. e teams comprised of players primarily from Whatcom and Skagit counties, with several players from the "North County" communities of Lynden and Ferndale. According to WCAHA, the program had 73 players from the North County area.

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

Dallas Wings center Stephanie Soares was part of Mount Baker’s only girls basketball state championship team as a junior in 2017. (Lynden Tribune file photo)

Merrick Parnell For the Tribune

See Hockey on B4

Seventy-three North Whatcom County kids participate in the Whatcom County Amateur Hockey Association. (Photo courtesy Brett Carron)

Ferndale softball, baseball teams end season with promise

Despite the disappointment of not reaching the playo s, the Ferndale baseball and softball teams demonstrated potential towards the end of the season and left room for optimism for the future.

Sophomore out elder Fenton

Vasaak went 9-18 over the last six games with ve doubles. He raised his batting average from .297 to .364, tied for the team lead alongside senior rst baseman Camden Raymond.

After starting the year 5-9, Ferndale baseball won ve of their last six games to close the season at 10-10 — their fourth season in a row nishing .500 or better.

Vasaak was also a stalwart for Ferndale's pitching sta and posted a 3.50 ERA in 34 innings pitched — second most on the team to Raymond's 38 and twothirds innings pitched.

Junior utility player Rand Dobbins' o ensive production was another bright spot for the Golden Eagles. He was one of three hitters, along with Raymond and Vasaak, to nish the season with an average over .300. In 28 atbats, he batted .357 and nished the season with ve strikeouts in 35 plate appearances.

Ferndale softball featured exceptional hitting performances in the season performance of junior catcher Kaelin Blakely. She nished the season with an OPS north of 1.600 — more than 500 points ahead of the Whatcom County runner-up, Mount Baker's Ava Jeretzky. Blakely also nished the season with the highest batting average in the county at .696.

Blakely is set to return for her senior season, and much of the team will remain intact for next season: their two graduating players, Mallory Butenschoen and Talia Locker.

Butenschoen nished sixth in the county with a 4.89 ERA, and she's committed to playing softball and volleyball at Wenatchee Valley College following her graduation.

sophomore

almost

won the Whatcom County

points and finished the

Unlike the softball team, next year's Ferndale baseball roster will again look quite di erent from this year's group, with eight graduating seniors.

Camden Raymond, rst baseman and pitcher, is one of the graduating players. He nished the season with a team-best 2.17 ERA, alongside his hitting prowess, which included two home runs. He's committed to playing

ball at Edmonds College next season. Despite the departures, as both teams look ahead, the foundation built this season promises an even brighter future for Ferndale baseball and softball.

North Whatcom teams eliminated from playoffs

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

WHATCOM — Meridian

soccer, the only North Whatcom playo soccer team, was eliminated from the 1A state playo s in a 1-0 loss to Royal on May 17.

e Trojans captured their rst district title in over a decade and won the opening state playo game against King’s Way Christian on May 14, 2-1. Meridian won eight of their last 10 games to close out the season.

Nooksack Valley’s softball team was eliminated from the District 1 1A playo s after falling to Mount Baker, 22-15 on May 17. Junior catcher Alayna Dykstra went 3-4 in the loss with two doubles and a triple. Senior center elder went 2-6 with a home run to conclude her

Pioneers athletic career. Lynden Christian baseball was also eliminated in the second round of the state playo s with a 12-2 loss to Tenino in Yakima on May 18. e game was 1-0 in favor of Tenino going into the top of the fth inning before the Bears scored 11 runs in the nal three frames. “ ey’re a good team and they turned it on in the latter half of the game,” said Lyncs head coach Noah Rawls. “ ey just put some balls in some gaps that we couldn’t get to.”

In tennis, three Lynden players advanced to the state playo s. Kelanie and Rilanna Newcomb are slated to participate in the 2A doubles bracket. In the singles bracket, senior Anna Samoukovic will participate in the singles bracket.

Meridian boys soccer won their first district championship in over a decade, however they fell in the second round of the state playo s, 1-0 to No. 3 seed, Royal.

Tribune)

Whatcom youth hockey: New program replaces Warriors

Brett Carron and his daughters are among those from the North Whatcom County area participating in youth hockey in Bellingham with WCAHA. Carron, a Ferndale resident, is also a coach of the U13 program, and his daughters compete at the U13 and U9 levels. Carron has appreciated what WCAHA brings to the community.

"Hockey is unlike any other rec sport o ered in Whatcom County, it's fast, fun and it provides a sense of family and community over other recreational sports o ered locally," he said.

Carron himself is an alum and former player of the youth hockey program and hopes many other players and families take advantage of all the great things their program has to o er.

Taste of Whatcom

"I nished my youth hockey career with WCAHA 22 years ago. Some of my closest friendships I have today started at 12 Relaxing hockey here [at WCAHA]. Some of those friends I now coach with at WCAHA," he continued During the season, the junior Blazers play in the Paci c Coast Amateur Hockey Association (PCA Hockey), a league of lower mainland teams in British Columbia, Canada. In addition to regular season play, the Jr. Blazers program will o er Learn-toPlay programs, which will be coached and instructed in part by the Junior A Blazers players. With the change, the youth hockey organization is excited to collaborate and work with the Junior A Bellingham Blazers, which has been a priority for WCAHA o cials.

e Junior A team will share social media promotions and marketing e orts with WCAHA. e youth players will partner with the Junior A team on game days and participate in the national anthem, starting line-up announcements, and other pre-game festivities.

"It's all about building momentum and recognition for hockey here in Bellingham. With just one sheet of ice serving three counties, it's a real challenge to accommodate all our programs, but we're hopeful that with continued support, we can expand and o er more opportunities for kids to get involved in this incredible sport," said Brown.

WCAHA hopes that the rebrand will encourage more local players to stay in Bellingham for their junior hockey careers and proudly represent our city on the ice.

Ferndale junior catcher Kaelin Blakely

batting title by over 100

season at .696. (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)

Ferndale

infielder Fenton Vasaak raised his average by

70 points over the last five games of the season. (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)

Joe Kramer Sports Editor

(Dennis Cairns for the

The Whatcom Warriors recently rebranded as the Bellingham Junior Blazers, comprised of players from Whatcom and Skagit counties. (Photo courtesy Brett Carron)

to 2030, Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan, which prioritizes street construction and reconstruction projects within the City of Ferndale. The meeting will be held at the City Hall Annex Building, 5694 Second Avenue. This is an open public meeting as defined by the Open Public meetings act. All persons interested in providing a public comment are encouraged to attend and participate. Written comments may be submitted to Public Works Director Kevin Renz by emailing kevinrenz@cityofferndale.org. Comments received prior to 4:00 p.m. Monday, June 3 will be included in the meeting record.

Susan Duncan, MMC City Clerk City of Ferndale

Published May 15 & 22, 2024

LEGAL

Ordinances of the City Council of the City of Ferndale, Washington, passed at the Council meeting of May 20, 2024.

ORDINANCE #2243

An ordinance amending the Unified Fee Schedule Full texts of the above document(s) are available at Ferndale City Hall, posted on the City’s website, (www.cityofferndale.org) or will be mailed upon request

Susan Duncan, City Clerk

Published May 22, 2024

LEGAL

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

The City of Ferndale has received application(s) from the applicant referenced below for a proposed development project within the city limits. Based on review of the materials submitted, the development applications have been determined to be complete and the review process can now be initiated, no approvals have been granted at this time.

Pursuant to Section 14.15.030 of the Ferndale Municipal Code the following notice is provided to inform the community of the City’s receipt of the development application. The public and affected agencies are invited to comment on the proposed project, receive notice of and participate in hearings, to request a copy of the decision once made and the applicable appeal rights.

APPLICANT NAME: Richmond American Homes 20819 72nd Ave S Ste 110 Kent WA 98032

APPLICANT’S AGENT: Core Design, Inc. – Bob Nix 12100 NE 195th St Ste 300 Bothell WA 98011

APPLICATION NUMBER: 24002-AA, 24015-SFR-NEW DATE OF NOTICE OF APPLICATION: May 22, 2024

DATE OF APPLICATION: May 03, 2024

DATE OF COMPLETE APPLICATION: May 15, 2024 SEPA NUMBER (IF APPLICABLE): Not Applicable

PROJECT LOCATION/ADDRESS: 5612 Farmstead Place, Ferndale WA Parcel Number: 3902300964480000

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant is requesting an administrative adjustment per FMC 18.12.185 to FMC 18.32.090 (Maximum lot coverage) to increase the allowed lot coverage from 40% to 44.5%. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: May 22, 2024 – June 05, 2024 PUBLIC HEARING TO BE ADVERTISED IN THE FUTURE: No CONTACT: Jesse Ashbaugh P.O. Box 936 Ferndale, WA 98248 (360) 685-2368 comment@cityofferndale.org Required permits and approvals include, but may not be limited to: 1. Administrative Adjustment, City of Ferndale 2. Building Permit, City of Ferndale Published May 22, 2024

Notice of Trustee’s Sale

LEGAL

TS #: 23-66815

Title Order #: 230556641-WAMSI

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

Grantor: DAVID A HARBST A MARRIED MAN, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE

Current beneficiary of the deed of trust: NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Current trustee of the deed of trust: North Star Trustee, LLC

Current mortgage servicer for the deed of trust: NewRez LLC, D/B/A Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Reference number of the deed of trust: 2070802848 Parcel Number(s): 3902010460240000 AKA 390201 046024 I. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned Trustee, North Star Trustee, LLC will on 6/21/2024, at 10:00 AM at the main entrance to the Whatcom County Courthouse. 311 Grand Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder, payable at the time of sale, the following described real property, situated in the County of Whatcom, State of Washington, to-wit: LOT 2, AS DELINEATED ON EYTON CLUSTER SHORT PLAT, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED JULY 21, 1997, UNDER AUDITOR’S FILE NO. 1970702194 AND THE AMENDMENT THERETO RECORDED UNDER AUDITOR’S FILE NO. 1980600561, RECORDS OF WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON. SITUATE IN WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON. Commonly known as: 470 W POLE ROAD LYNDEN, WASHINGTON 98264 which is subject to that certain Deed of Trust dated 8/17/2007, recorded 8/17/2007, as Instrument No. 2070802848, Rerecorded on 09/10/2007 as Instrument No. 2070900887, records of Whatcom County, Washington, from DAVID A HARBST A MARRIED MAN, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE, as Grantor(s), to WHATCOM LAND & TITLE, as Trustee, to secure an obligation in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), as designated nominee for Peoples Bank, beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, as Beneficiary, the beneficial interest in which was assigned to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, under an Assignment recorded under Auditor’s File No. 2023-1200250. II. No action commenced by the Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust is now pending to seek satisfaction of the obligation in any Court by reason of the Borrower’s or Grantor’s default on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust. III. The default(s) for which this foreclosure is made is/are as follows: Failure to pay when due the following amounts which are now in arrears: PAYMENT INFORMATION

FROM 3/1/2023 THRU 09/01/2023

NO.PMT 7 AMOUNT

$1,735.07

TOTAL $12,145.49

FROM 10/1/2023 THRU 01/31/2024

NO.PMT 4 AMOUNT

$1,762.15

TOTAL $7,048.60 FROM 2/1/2024 THRU 03/01/2024

NO.PMT 2 AMOUNT $1,854.71

TOTAL $3,709.42

Legal Fees Balance: $2,701.10

Other Fees Balance: $1,155.75

Unapplied Funds: ($1,391.98)

LATE CHARGE INFORMATION

TOTAL LATE CHARGES

TOTAL $101.00

PROMISSORY NOTE INFORMA-

TION

Note Dated: 8/17/2007

Note Amount: $289,275.00

Interest Paid To: 2/1/2023

Next Due Date: 3/1/2023

IV. The sum owing on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust is: Principal $175,749.94, together with interest as provided in the

note or other instrument secured from 2/1/2023, and such other costs and fees as are due under the note or other instrument secured, and as are provided by statute. V. The above-described real property will be sold to satisfy the expense of sale and the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust as provided by statute. The sale will be made without warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances on 6/21/2024. The default(s) referred to in Paragraph III must be cured by 6/10/2024, (11 days before the sale date) to cause a discontinuance of the sale. The sale will be discontinued and terminated if at any time before 6/10/2024 (11 days before the sale) the default as set forth in Paragraph III is cured and the Trustee’s fees and costs are paid. Payment must be in cash or with cashiers or certified checks from a State or federally chartered bank. The sale may be terminated any time after the 6/10/2024 (11 days before the sale date) and before the sale, by the Borrower or Grantor or the holder of any recorded junior lien or encumbrance paying the entire principal and interest secured by the Deed of Trust, plus costs, fees, and advances, if any, made pursuant to the terms of the obligation and/or Deed of Trust, and curing all other defaults.

VI. A written Notice of Default was transmitted by the Beneficiary or Trustee to the Borrower and Grantor at the following addresses:

DAVID A HARBST 2901 W COAST WWY STC 20

NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92663

DAVID A HARBST 470 W POLE RD

LYNDEN, WA 98264

DAVID A HARBST 470 W POLE RD

LYNDEN, WA 98264-9660

DAVID A HARBST 470 W POLE ROAD

LYNDEN, WA 98264

DAVID A. HARBST C/O NANCY BERG, ATTORNEY AT LAW 119 N. COMMERCIAL, SUITE 250 BELLINGHAM, WA 98225

JOYCE R HARBST JOYCE RAE

HARBST 2901 W COAST WWY STC 20 NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92663

JOYCE R HARBST JOYCE RAE

HARBST 470 W POLE RD

LYNDEN, WA 98264

JOYCE R HARBST JOYCE RAE

HARBST 470 W POLE RD

LYNDEN, WA 98264-9660

JOYCE R HARBST JOYCE RAE

HARBST 470 W POLE ROAD

LYNDEN, WA 98264

JOYCE R HARBST JOYCE RAE

HARBST C/O NANCY BERG, ATTORNEY AT LAW 119 N. COMMERCIAL, SUITE 250

BELLINGHAM, WA 98225 by both first class and certified mail on 1/11/2024, proof of which is in the possession of the Trustee; and the Borrower and Grantor were personally served 1/11/2024, with said written Notice of Default or the written Notice of Default was posted in a conspicuous place on the real property described in Paragraph I above, and the Trustee has possession of proof of such service or posting.

VII. The Trustee whose name and address are set forth below will provide in writing to anyone requesting it, a statement of all costs and fees due at any time prior to the sale.

VIII. The effect of the sale will be to deprive the Grantor and all those who hold by, through or under the Grantor of all their interest in the above described property.

IX. Anyone having any objections to this sale on any grounds whatsoever will be afforded an opportunity to be heard as to those objections if they bring a lawsuit to restrain the sale pursuant to RCW 61.24.130. Failure to bring such a lawsuit may result in a waiver of any proper grounds for invalidating the Trustee’s sale.

X. NOTICE TO OCCUPANTS OR TENANTS – The purchaser at the Trustee’s Sale is entitled to possession of the property on the 20th day following the sale, as against the Grantor under the deed of trust (the owner) and anyone having an

interest junior to the deed of trust, including occupants and tenants. After the 20th day following the sale the purchaser has the right to evict occupants and tenants by summary proceedings under the Unlawful Detainer Act, Chapter 59.12 RCW. For tenant-occupied property, the purchaser shall provide a tenant with written notice in accordance with RCW 61.24.060. THIS NOTICE IS THE FINAL STEP BEFORE THE FORECLOSURE SALE OF YOUR HOME. You have only until 90 calendar days BEFORE the date of sale listed in this Notice of Trustee Sale to be referred to mediation. If this is an amended Notice of Trustee Sale providing a 45-day notice of the sale, mediation must be requested no later than 25 calendar days BEFORE the date of sale listed in this amended Notice of Trustee Sale. DO NOT DELAY. CONTACT A HOUSING COUNSELOR OR AN ATTORNEY LICENSED IN WASHINGTON NOW to assess your situation and refer you to mediation if you are eligible and it may help you save your home. See below for safe sources of help.

SEEKING ASSISTANCE - Housing counselors and legal assistance may be available at little or no cost to you. If you would like assistance in determining your rights and opportunities to keep your house, you may contact the following: The statewide foreclosure hotline for assistance and referral to housing counselors recommended by the Housing Finance Commission: Telephone: 1-877-894HOME (1877-894-4663) Web site: http://www.dfi.wa.gov/ consumers/homeownership/ The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: Telephone: 1-800-569-4287 Web site: http://portal.hud.gov/ hudportal/HUD The statewide civil legal aid hotline for assistance and referrals to other housing counselors and attorneys Telephone: 1-800-606-4819 Web site: http://www.ocla. wa.gov/ This office is enforcing a security interest of your creditor. To the extent that your obligation has been discharged by a bankruptcy court or is subject to an automatic stay of bankruptcy, this notice is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a demand for payment or any attempt to collect such obligation.

DATED: 02/13/2024

North Star Trustee, LLC, as Trustee Lisa Hackney, Vice President of Trustee Operations Address for service: North Star Trustee, LLC 6100 219th ST SW, Suite 480 Mountlake Terrace, Washington 98043 Trustee Phone No: (206) 866-5345

Trustee Fax No: (206) 374-2252 Beneficiary / Servicer Phone: 800365-7107 STATE OF WASHINGTON

ss. COUNTY OF SNOHOMISH

I certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that Lisa Hackney is the person who appeared before me, and said person acknowledged that (he/she) signed this instrument, on oath stated that (he/ she) was authorized to execute the instrument and acknowledged it as the Vice President of Trustee Operations of North Star Trustee, LLC to be the free and voluntary act of such party for the uses and purposes mentioned in the instrument.

Dated: 02/13/2024

Kellie Barnes NOTARY PUBLIC in and for the State of Washington, residing at Lynnwood, WA My commission expires 6/10/2024 EPP 39367 Pub Dates 05/22 & 06/12/2024

Published May 22 & June 12, 2024

LEGAL

TS #: 23-66423

Title Order #: 230511079-WAMSI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

Grantor: JOHN J. OLIVER, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE Current beneficiary of the deed of trust: NewRez LLC, D/B/A Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Current trustee of the deed of

WNPA STATEWIDE

CLASSIFIEDS – WEEK

STARTING: May 20, 2024

ADVERTISE STATEWIDE with a $325 classified listing or $1600 for a display ad. Call this newspaper or 360344-2938 for details. Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-225-8568 today!

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LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-888-360-1582. STOP OVERPAYING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE! A recent study shows that a majority of people struggle to pay for health coverage.  Let us show you how much you can save.  Call Now for a noobligation quote: 1-877765-1117. You will need to have your zip code to connect to the right provider. PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 money down + low monthly payment options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-888674-7053.

After the 20th day following the sale the purchaser has the right to evict occupants and tenants by summary proceedings under the Unlawful Detainer Act, Chapter 59.12 RCW. For tenant-occupied property, the purchaser shall provide a tenant with written notice in accordance with RCW 61.24.060.

act of such party for the uses and purposes mentioned in the instrument.

Dated: 02/13/2024

Kellie Barnes NOTARY PUBLIC in and for the State of Washington, residing at Lynnwood, WA My commission expires 6/10/2024 EPP 39366 Pub Dates 05/22 & 06/12/2024

Published May 22 & June 12, 2024

Notice to Creditors

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON FOR WHATCOM COUNTY

In the Matter of BURTON JAY AND SUSAN JAY LIVING TRUST, and SUSAN JAY, Deceased.

Cause No. 24-4-00436-37

NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.42.030)

The Notice Agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the above-named decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the State of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed. Any persons having a claim against the decedent must, before the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original claim with the court in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the late of: (1) 30 days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate assets and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: May 22, 2024

Notice Agent: DANIEL A. JAY, Address: 325 Mavis Drive, Pleasanton CA 94566

Address for Mailing or Service: c/o Attorney for Notice Agent: Andrew W. Heinz, WSBA #37086, North Sound Law Group, PLLC, 300 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, WA 98225; Phone: 360-6717700

Published May 22, 29 & June 5, 2024

Probate Notice to Creditors

LEGAL SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR WHATCOM COUNTY

Estate of WILLIAM VANWINGERDEN, Deceased. NO. 24-4-00338-37 PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) PLEASE TAKE NOTICE The above Court has appointed me as Personal Representative of Decedent’s estate. Any person having a claim against the Decedent must present the claim: (a) Before the time when the

2024

Public Notice

LEGAL

Westfront LLC, Eric Weden, PO Box 3246 Ferndale, WA 98248, is seeking coverage under the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Construction Stormwater NPDES and State Waste Discharge General Permit. The proposed project, Eastfront Commercial, is located at 1695 Main St in Ferndale in Whatcom county. This project involves 2.65 acres of soil disturbance for Commercial, Utilities construction activities. The receiving waterbodies are Tenmile Creek, Nooksack River. Any persons desiring to present their views to the Washington State Department of

ANTIQUES

Applegrove Junction Antiques-Buy & Sell

1214 W. Axton Rd. #B, Ferndale • 360-526-2305 www.facebook.com/applegrovejunctionantiques

APPLIANCES & MATTRESSES

DeWaard & Bode

Main Showroom: 3944 Meridian Street B’ham

Outlet Store: 4175 Hannegan Road B’ham

360-733-5900 • www.dewaardandbode.com AUTOMOTIVE

Hinton Chevrolet

8139 Guide Meridian Rd, Lynden • 866-230-4195

Imhof Automotive

Maintenance • Repair • Restoration Over 40 Years Experience-Master Certified Ferndale • 360-393-8938

Jim’s Automotive Experts, Inc.

102 East Main Street, Everson • 360-966-4440

Les Schwab Tire Center • 360-380-4660 1731 LaBounty Dr, Ferndale

www.lesschwab.com

Louis Auto Glass

1512 N. State St., Bellingham • 360-734-3840

407 19th St., Lynden • 360-354-3232

1721 E. College Way, Mt. Vernon • 360-424-9759

Pete’s Auto Repair LLC

6209 Portal Way, Ferndale

360-380-2277 • www.petesautorepair.net

Point S Zylstra Tire

501 Grover St., Lynden • 360-354-4493

Roger Jobs Automotive

Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen • www.rogerjobs.com

2200 Iowa St., Bellingham • 360-734-5230

Vavra Auto Body

411 Nooksack Ave, Nooksack • 360-966-4444

BAKERIES

Lynden Dutch Bakery

421 Front St., Lynden

360-354-3911 • lyndendutchbakery.com

Lynden Just Desserts 1724 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-3911

BANKS & CREDIT

UNIONS

Banner Bank

138 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd., Lynden

360-354-8100 • www.bannerbank.com

CABINETS

Lynden Interiors

2017 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4149 www.lyndeninteriors.com

Westside Building Supply

8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617

CARPET CLEANING

Northwest Professional Services

360-354-4145 • www.npsclean.com

191 Birch Bay Lynden Rd, Lynden CEMETERIES

Greenwood Cemetery • thegreenwoodcemetery.com East Wiser Lake Rd., Lynden • 360-647-4001 Lynden Cemetery • www.lyndencemetery.com

South Side of Front St., Lynden • 360-647-4001

CLEANING SUPPLIES

Bay City Supply

360-671-7400 • www.baycitysupply.com

P.O. Box 2073, 1250 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229

COFFEE

Cruisin Coffee

1976 Kok Rd., Lynden Town Plaza, Lynden 5885 Portal Way, Ferndale • 360-738-3789 CONCRETE

Mt. Baker Mobile Mixing, LLC

360-319-4285 www.mtbakermobilemixing.com

CONVENIENCE STORE

Delta Country Market

1306 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd, Lynden 360-354-1680

DRYER VENT CLEANING

Christensen Home Services

P.O. Box 29286, Bellingham

www.christensenhomeservices.com

Call or Text 360-594-1468

EYE CARE

Everson Vision Clinic, Dr. Alex Ilyin, OD

205 W Main St, Everson • 360-966-0445

Bethgutman.evc@aol.com

FARM & GARDEN

CHS Northwest

3500 Meridian St., Bellingham • 360-734-4010

1720 LaBounty Dr, Ferndale • 360-380-0578

415 Depot St., Lynden • 360-306-3800

119 17th St., Fairway, Lynden • 360-354-5671

300 Main St., Lynden • 360-354-1198

102 Nooksack Ave., Nooksack • 360-966-4193

www.chsnw.com

Portal Way Farm and Garden

6100 Portal Way, Ferndale • 360-384-3688

www.PortalWayFarmAndGarden.com

Smits Compost

9030 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-3583 www.smitscompost.com

FINE JEWELRY

Originals by Chad 521 Front St., Lynden • 360-318-0210

FLORISTS

Lynden Florea

306 Front St., Suite B, Lynden 360-306-8819 • lyndenflorea.com

M&M Floral

5453 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360-398-1315 • www.mandmfloral.com

FUNERAL SERVICES & MONUMENTS

Whatcom Cremation & Funeral

“Our Community’s Most Affordable Cremations & Burials - from $995” 360-734-7073 • wcremation.com

GARAGE DOORS

Overhead Door Company of Bellingham 202 Ohio St, Bellingham • 360-734-5960 www.ohdbellingham.com

Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc.

8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155

Westside Building Supply

8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617

GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling, Inc.

250 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd, Lynden 360-354-3400

GIFT/SPECIALTY SHOP

Appel Farms - The Cheese Shop

6605 Northwest Dr., Ferndale • 360-312-1431 www.appelcheese.com

GREASE TRAP

CLEANING

Lil John Sanitary Services, Inc.

Mark Mellema • 360-398-9828 www.liljohnsanitary.net

GLASS, RESIDENTIAL

Louis Auto Glass

1512 N. State St., Bellingham • 360-734-3840

407 19th St., Lynden • 360-354-3232

1721 E. College Way, Mt. Vernon • 360-424-9759

Lyndale Glass • www.lyndaleglass.com

110 7th St., Lynden • 360-354-3937 6172 Portal Wy., Ferndale • 360-384-5956

Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155

HARDWARE STORE

Lynden Ace Hardware

1736 Front St., Fairway Center, Lynden 360-354-2291

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Family Care Network

Lynden Family Medicine • 360-354-1333

1610 Grover St., Suite D-1, Lynden

Birch Bay Family Medicine • 360-371-5855 8097 Harborview Rd., Blaine www.familycarenetwork.com

Ferndale Family Medical Center • 360-384-1511

5580 Nordic Way, Ferndale

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Lynden Interiors

2017 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4149 www.lyndeninteriors.com

Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155

Walls & Windows Inc. • 360-676-5223

4131 Hannegan Rd., Ste. 104, Bellingham

HOME LOANS

Edge Home Finance- Mortgage Broker

Dave Ohligschlager- Loan Officer * O/C 360-815-1768 • daveo@edgehomefinance.com

NMLS #891464 / 422225

Movement Mortgage Hendor Rodriguez, Loan Officer 700 Front St. Suite B, Lynden 360-820-1787 • hendorthelendor.com

Hendor.rodriguez@movement.com

NMLS #404085

INSURANCE & FINANCIAL

Amy Warenski Insurance Agency Inc 8874 Bender Rd Ste 106, Lynden • 360-354-6868 www.amywarenski.com

Brown & Brown

501 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4488

Country Financial®, Len Corneto 102 Grover Street, Ste. 209, Lynden • 360-354-4197

Country Financial®

Lesa Ferguson, Financial Representative 1610 Grover St., Suite B1, Lynden • 360-354-2975

Group of Health Insurance Services, LLC 4202 Meridian Street, Suite 104, Bellingham 360-527-2334 • hicllc.net

Guide Insurance Services 1780 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-2200

Guided Solutions (formerly Vibrant USA)

504 Front St. Suite 101, Lynden 360-733-5111 • vibrantusa.com

Jeff Lamphere Insurance 113 Third St, Lynden • 360-354-5333

www.jefflamphere.com

Oltman Insurance & Financial Services 360-354-5988

8850 Bender Road, Suite 101, Lynden

VanDalen Insurance

Shane VanDalen 517 Liberty St., Lynden • 360-354-4433

LUMBER

Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155

Westside Building Supply

8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617

MEDIATION

Bellingham Mediation & Consulting

Sheri Russell, JD • 360-255-1666 www.bellinghammediation.com

MEDICARE INSURANCE

PLANS

Guided Solutions (formerly Vibrant USA)

504 Front St. Suite 101, Lynden 360-733-5111 • guidedsolutions.com

Jeff Lamphere Insurance 113 Third St, Lynden • 360-354-5333 www.jefflamphere.com

VanDalen Insurance

Shane VanDalen 517 Liberty St., Lynden • 360-354-4433

PEST & RODENT CONTROL

Environmental Pest Control Inc.

3003 Bennett Drive, Bellingham • 360-676-5120

www.epestcontrol.net

PET CARE

Northwest Kitty Care

www.northwestkittycare.com • 360-319-7536

instagram.com/northwestkittycare

PRINT & PUBLISHING

Lynden Print Company www.LyndenPrintCo.com 113 Sixth Street, Lynden • 360-354-4444

Lynden Tribune www.LyndenTribune.com 113 Sixth Street, Lynden • 360-354-4444

REAL ESTATE

HomeSmart One Realty Kyle Christensen 414 W. Bakerview Rd. #103, Bellingham www.kylechristensenrealty.com Call or Text 360-594-1468

HomeSmart One Realty- Rick Meyer

Managing Broker, GRI, CRS, SRES 414 W. Bakerview Rd. #103, Bellingham Call or text: 360-410-1213

RECREATIONAL

VEHICLE STORAGE

Bellingham RV Storage Quality Covered RV Storage Bakerview/Irongate area • Bellingham, WA 360-671-6100 • BellinghamRVBoatStorage.com

RECYCLING, REMOVAL & YARD DEBRIS

Green Earth Technology 774 Meadowlark Rd., Lynden • 360-354-4936

RENTAL EQUIPMENT

Westside Building Supply 8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Bordertown Mexican Food Truck 312 3rd St, Lynden • 360-305-1290 Little Caesars 1804 18th St., Lynden • 360-354-8656

ROOFING

Joostens Roofing Bellingham • 360-815-7663

SENIOR CARE

Echo Valley Adult Day Care and Respite 8472 Silver Lake Road, Maple Falls, WA 98266 Echovalleyrespite.com • 360-319-8958

SEPTIC INSTALLATION

Tyas & Tyas 3966 Deeter Rd., Everson • 360-988-6895

SEPTIC TANK PUMPING

Lil John Sanitary Services, Inc. Mark Mellema • 360-398-9828 www.liljohnsanitary.net

SPORTS & RECREATION

Dave’s Sports Shop 1738 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-5591 Lynden Skateway 421 Judson Street, Lynden • 360-354-3851 www.LyndenSkateway.com

VETERINARY

Kulshan Veterinary 8880 Benson Rd, Lynden 6220 Portal Wy, Ferndale www.kulshanvet.com • 360-354-5095

VITAMINS

Lynden Nutrition Center 527 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4884

A STEAM Fair full of ingenuity at Isom Elementary

Lynden School District

LYNDEN — Isom Elementary PTA and STEAM teacher Ti any McDonald orchestrated the school’s inaugural STEAM Fair. e event showcased an array of student projects, spanning from kindergarten through fth grade, each re ecting the interdisciplinary nature of STEAM education.

e fair welcomed guest speakers from the Lynden community, including a veterinarian, internet safety advocate, Lego and robotics enthusiasts, local artists and nursing professionals. ese speakers shared insights on how their respective professions incorporate elements of STEAM, enriching the

educational experience for students. roughout the event, 87 student projects were on display. Kindergarten through second grade students delighted visitors with animal reports accompanied by Maker Space builds of their chosen creatures. ird through fth graders showcased ingenuity through a variety of projects, including engineering and scienti c inquiries. Melissa Warner’s class also showcased Isom’s robots. e STEAM Fair celebrated academic achievements while fostering imagination and creativity through innovative displays and hands-on builds. Isom thanks LTI and DariTech for supporting the fair with sponsorships.

The STEAM Fair celebrated academic achievements while fostering imagination and creativity through innovative displays and hands-on builds. (Photo courtesy Lynden School District)

Good news in Lynden School District

LYNDEN — e following are some of the stories coming out of the Lynden School District as reported in the district governing board’s April 4 and May 16 agendas:

• Lynden High School has announced their 2024 valedictorians. ere are a record 15 students graduating with a 4.0 grade point average this year. Congratulations to all.

• e district hosted their annual career fair on the Main Street campus for all fth and seventh graders. Eighteen local businesses, agencies, and individuals shared about career opportunities, skills and schooling required for speci c career elds, and what they love most about their jobs.

• Lynden Academy’s leadership class has been focusing on supporting our community and is coordinating a donation drive for Project Hope and New Way Ministries during the month of May.

• Lynden Middle School has the largest applicant pool they have ever received for students who are wanting to participate in the AVID program. is program is o ered to students in grades 7-12 whose goals align with the school district’s mission to prepare students to be college, career, and citizenship ready.

• Lynden High School administered over 200 AP exams this month. Students signed up for these classes in an e ort to earn college credits.

• Vossbeck Elementary’s physical education teacher, Michelle Wright, applied for and was awarded a Bowling Unit Grant from Bowler’s Ed. is unit was a fun addition to their PE classes for grades TK-5. Students have enjoyed learning about bowling and cheering each other on.

• Buildings celebrated several sta appreciation days in the month of May including School Nurse Appreciation Day, School Lunch Heroes Day, and Teacher Appreciation Week.

• Lynden Middle School spring sports is coming to a close. anks to coaches Peter Bovenkamp, Grant Bonsen, Lynne Barrios, Cabe VanderYacht, Amy Ohligschlager, Katelyn Dekoster, Clark Bourgault and Isaiah White for helping to make a positive experience for all students.

• Vossbeck Elementary students participated in Bike To School Day on May 8. ey had 123 students ride their bikes to school on a beautiful sunny morning.

• Isom Elementary completed their spring bike safety unit for fourth graders and fth graders during PE class. Students spent the rst two weeks practicing in a coned o portion of the parking lot, and then ventured onto

city streets and neighborhoods during the third week while practicing hand signals, right of way, and tra c navigation. e bikes were secured through a grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation and are shared between the three elementary schools.

• Lynden High School hosted study intervention groups called Sunrise & Study during the late start state testing schedule. While the work originally focused on freshmen, they invited all other grades as well. Students made signi cant academic progress with content speci c educators there to support them.

• Fisher Elementary is showing some great growth through their targeted interventionist program utilizing the University of Florida Literacy Institute Intervention curriculum that is aligned with the science of reading and our new CKLA curriculum. All grade levels exceeded the average number of expected growth by 150215%. ese intervention groups included Tier II and Tier III students.

• Vossbeck Elementary’s librarian, Mrs. Grewal, taught students about poetry and helped some of them enter the Young American Poetry Digest’s annual poetry contest. irty-three students in grades 1-5 were selected as contest winners and had their work published! Congratulations!

• Vossbeck Elementary’s STEAM teacher and the BVE PTA hosted their rst Egg Drop. Students interested in this fun science experiment had to ll out an application, submit it to Mrs. VanHulzen, and bring their egg baskets to BVE for an evening event. Fifty students and their families arrived with creative egg basket designs and had fun watching them being dropped from high up.

• Lynden Middle School hosted an event for its Migrant Program on Saturday, May 4. Dr. Veronica Velez spoke to students during the morning session about resiliency and being welleducated- both within the context of individual cultures and as a minority in the country. e afternoon session was aimed towards parents and Dr. Velez asked what they would like to see happening in their children’s schools. A lengthy discussion followed on their desire to see their students’ cultural backgrounds re ected in their school environments and the importance of promoting education at home.

• Lynden Middle School used the March Madness basketball tournament to generate college awareness. Classes chose a team from the tournament to research and decorated their doors with information about the school including what the requirements to get into that school are and

what types of programs they o er. Students ended March Madness with a spirit week full of college swag.

• Students from Fisher Elementary’s Honor Choir performed at the San Juan Music Educators Association Festival. Sixteen schools from Whatcom, Skagit and Island counties participated in the elementary honor choir event. Schools received the music pieces ahead of time and practiced on their own. All of the schools then came together for one rehearsal and performed the pieces together. is was the rst time Lynden students participated in the honor choir event.

• Lynden High School’s Wind Ensemble also participated in the San Juan Music Educators Association Festival and received a Superior rating for the large group event for the 30th straight year.

• Lynden High School’s top sixperson Knowledge Bowl team proved itself one of the brightest in the state, recently capturing eighth place in the nal statewide competition, this coming o a rst-place nish at the district nals.

• e Youth Mental Health First Aid course led by sta members Coral Bartlett and Stacey Anderson on March 23 was a successful event with 11 community members participating. is course for adults introduces common mental health challenges of our youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a ve-step action plan for how to help young people in crisis and non-crisis situations.

• Lynden Middle School hosted a community-wide viewing of Screenagers on March 25. is is an awardwinning lm that depicts struggles over social media, video games and academics. e lm reveals how tech time impacts kids’ development and o ers solutions on how adults can empower kids to best navigate the digital world and nd balance. Over 30 attendees from both Lynden and Lynden Christian attended the event.

• Lynden Middle School’s Chess Club hosted their second Lynden Middle School versus Lynden Fire Department event. First responders from the Lynden Fire Department, Lynden Police, Whatcom Sheri ’s O ce and US Border Patrol & Customs participated in the event where they competed against LMS chess club members. A great time was had by all.

• Building leadership teams met last week to collaborate around multitiered systems of support (MTSS). is work involving over 50 professional educators representing each of our schools is an important step toward alignment through the development of a common understanding of MTSS and Universal Design for Learning.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Jennifer Haugen: Three decades of dedication to Lynden students

Lynden School District

is post is part of the Lynden Schools Sta Spotlight series

LYNDEN — For three decades Jennifer Haugen has dedicated herself to some of the youngest students within the Lynden community. And she couldn’t be any happier with the age group, serving them as a teacher at two di erent Lynden schools since 1993.

Currently a second-grade teacher at Fisher, Haugen has also taught fourth grade and third grade and has been at both Isom and Fisher elementaries over the years. Where’s she’s teaching now, though, stands as her favorite. “I absolutely love spending my days with this age group,” she said. “We practice what it means to be an independent thinker and speak up for ourselves to get our needs met. We learn about what it means to be a friend and have a friend.”

Haugen says her students tell the best stories and love to learn new things, even as they navigate losing teeth, learning to tie shoes and scraped knees at recess. She knows that her time with the students is just a short ninemonth window, but that can still o er a lot of chance for growth.

“Sometimes they come to me as shy little 7-year-olds and before you know it, they have grown three inches, built con dence and are o to being big third graders,” Haugen said. “Second graders are the best.”

While she enjoys the day-to-day interactions with the young students at Fisher, she also nds it rewarding to see my students as grownups and productive members of society.

“I have had the amazing opportunity of teaching students of parents I previously had in my class,” she says. “It’s pretty special to take care of a former student’s child and maybe share a funny story or two about their mom or dad.”

Born and raised in Whatcom County, Haugen and her husband raised two daughters here too. e family loves boating in the San Juan Islands, traversing the area’s many hiking trails, and Haugen and her husband have recently taken up playing pickleball.

“I love this community,” she said, “and look forward to seeing my grandson wear green and gold one day.”

Lynden School District

Jennifer Haugen