The Northern Light: May 23-29, 2024

May 23 - 29, 2024

Q&A with U.S. Border Patrol chief in Blaine, page 3

McFrugal’s Discount Outlet opens in Blaine

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McFrugal’s Discount Outlet, a discount closeout retailer, held a soft opening May 14 in Blaine.

McFrugal’s sells apparel, outdoor gear, hardware, toys, household goods, linen and furniture. The Blaine location had clothing items under $10, $6 dolls and bins with 50 percent off items. Many of the products come from Walmart, Target and Amazon.

The items change often as the store is supplied with overstock buys and closeouts, according to its website.

“We buy from manufacturers and retailers who are clearing goods out and sometimes discontinued items,” McFrugal’s CEO Jason McDougall said. “We pass the savings onto customers.”

McDougall said the company decided to open in Blaine because it saw a void in the marketplace for discounted goods and merchandise. The store is located in the Cost Cutter Plaza, at 1733 H Street, suite 500.

McFrugal’s has four other locations in B.C., Saskatchewan and Alberta. McDougall is also the CEO of Fields Stores, which sell discounted goods throughout rural Canada.

McDougall wants to help people stretch their dollar and said he likes to open stores in areas where people would otherwise have to drive outside their community to purchase goods.

“We sell just about anything,” he said. “Whatever we can get a great buy on.”

BHS track and field sends 10 to state, page 6

Plover repairs continue into summer, page 10

Blaine spring block party draws crowd

Sidhu, Shewmake talk Birch Bay incorporation

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu and state senator Sharon Shewmake (D-42nd District) fielded questions about what it would mean for Birch Bay to become its own city during the May 16 Birch Bay Incorporation Association meeting at North Bay Community Church.

While Shewmake and Sidhu said they were neither for nor against Birch Bay incorporation, the two said a city government would provide Birch Bay more of a voice on issues, ranging from the county to federal level. Both admitted they had never been involved in an incorporation and were catching up to speed on the topic.

“I don’t know whether or not to incorporate is the right thing to do and I think

that is OK. It’s not my decision to make as I live in Bellingham,” Shewmake said. “But if you think it’s the right thing to do for your community, I’m here to help.”

Sidhu said he’s discussed Birch Bay incorporation with the sheriff’s office, public works, and planning and development services department so they were aware of the possibility.

“No one has come up and said, ‘Oh my God this could be a disaster. Don’t do it.’

Or, ‘Do it this way. Do it that way,” Sidhu said.

Sidhu encouraged Birch Bay residents to consider having their own school district to keep property taxes in their community. Sidhu also told residents that a

s Russell Duncan of Paellaworks makes a paella with local oysters, clams, adobada sausage and more on H Street Plaza during the Blaine spring block party on May 18. The street fair filled downtown streets with vendors, live music, youth activities and more. See

on page 8.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

s McFrugal’s Discount Outlet in Blaine.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Birch Bay ...

city would inherit assets and the state may be able to provide funding as the city started.

Birch Bay incorporation would mean the county would receive less money, but it also would be providing fewer services to the

residents would want to include the area containing Birch Bay Square, which is not in the proposed incorporation boundaries, to collect its sales tax.

Whatcom County Council is anticipated to vote in June on approving $200,000 for an incorporation feasibility study. The study would be the next step in the lengthy incorpora-

$1,300 of that so far and is applying for grants, BBIA chair Matt Berry said after the meeting. A few people voiced their opposition to incorporation. Some residents asked that mailers be sent to households to better gauge if the community wanted to pursue the feasibility study. Berry said BBIA did not have the funds for the mailers and Sidhu said county council may be able to vote on additional funds.

Sidhu said the county would provide as much information as it could to people with questions about how incorporation could

“We want the citizens to independently make their decision on how they want to be gov-

BBIA holds quarterly association meetings, with the next meeting scheduled for August 15. For more information about BBIA, visit incorporatebirchbay.com.

s Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu provides his perspective on Birch Bay incorporation during the Birch Bay Incorporation Association meeting at North Bay Community Church on May 16.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Q&A with chief patrol agent ahead of U.S. Border Patrol centennial

A: It first started May 28, 1924 and it was a very small agency. It was really the U.S. Immigration Service, our founding agency.

I’ve seen growth since I joined in 2000. We were under 10,000 agents. Now, we’re approaching 20,000 and Congress recently approved us to grow to 22,000.

The immigration piece has changed over the years. The demographics have changed.

With the creation of CBP and Department of Homeland Security, we’re still growing and maturing into our new roles. We foster our partnership with our federal partners and make sure we’re coordinating with them.

Q: On the 100th anniversary, what do you see as the biggest challenges Border Patrol faces, especially on the northern border?

ern border surrounding Blaine?

A: We try to have a good mixture of technology, personnel and partnerships. Some of the difficulties we face is the diversity of terrain, very mountainous to the east and maritime to the west. We can run into different types of difficulties with getting technology signals but that’s where it comes into working with our partners or headquarter staff to come up with solutions.

Q: Is there anything else you

would like to add?

A: My personnel are always my most important thing. The agents are part of the community. They have kids that attend schools, significant others who work in the community and they want to be a part of their community. We care about the communities we work in. We’re out there doing what we can every day to make sure they’re safe and protected, and that this country and the nation is protected.

The U.S. Border Patrol is celebrating its centennial May 28. Leading up to the anniversary, The Northern Light sat down with Rosario Pete Vasquez, chief patrol agent for the Blaine sector of U.S. Border Patrol. Vasquez, who has held the position since last June, oversees the largest geographical sector in

the U.S. which includes western Washington, Oregon, northern California and Alaska. The sector covers about 37,000 miles of coastline and 1,600 miles of land border.

Border Patrol

The beginning of U.S.

The U.S. Border Patrol started May 28, 1924 as a way to patrol the area between inspection stations.

Dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, the U.S. Immigration Service patrolled the border but their patrols were infrequent, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, and border inspectors realized their efforts were ineffective without enforcement between the stations.

The 18th Amendment imposed the federal prohibition of liquor in January 1920 and the Immigration Acts of 1921 and 1924, which limited the number of immigrants allowed into the U.S. Both changes led the way to the creation of Border Patrol.

The U.S. Congress passed the Labor Appropriation Act of 1924 on May 28, officially establishing the U.S. Border Patrol.

The Border Patrol had about 450 employees in the beginning stages, according to CBP. A majority of the agents were assigned to the Canadian border as liquor smuggling was prevalent there. An August 1924 article in the Bellingham Herald confirms border patrol was operating in the Blaine area shortly after the agency began.

Border Patrol is now part of CBP, which is an agency of the Department of Homeland Security.

Vasquez has held over a dozen positions within the federal agency, including as a canine handler in Yuma, Arizona, working at headquarters in Washington, D.C., assistant attaché for U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Canada, and various leadership positions in San Diego, including patrol agent in charge of the Campo station, his last position before Blaine.

Vasquez discussed the 100th anniversary of border patrol, how the agency has evolved over the years and the biggest challenges the Blaine sector faces today.

The interview was edited for brevity and clarity.

Q: What made you interested in joining the U.S. Border Patrol?

A: Initially, I was getting my degree in fire science because I wanted to be a firefighter paramedic. I went to Southwestern College and Miramar College in San Diego. And then I found out that Border Patrol was starting a unit called the Border Patrol, Search, Trauma and Rescue Team (BORSTAR) and that interested me with the law enforcement piece, but also being a medic and doing search and rescue.

I had an application with San Diego City Fire and Border Patrol. I told myself, ‘I’m going to go wherever selects me first’ and Border Patrol called first.

Q: What does 100 years of U.S. Border Patrol mean to you?

A: The Border Patrol has a very long and rich history over our 100year period, from prohibition days, to helping civil rights and helping during national security events. After 9/11 and the creation of CBP, our mission has expanded to prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the country. We are also called upon to assist with natural disasters or national emergency events. That was especially important during Hurricane Katrina, when there was sniper shootings and looting. We provided security for the rescue resources deployed.

Q: How has Border Patrol changed over the years and how have you seen it change during your time?

A: The northern border is very expansive. We’re always in competition for resources with the southern border. We work to maximize our partnerships. There’s a lot of work to be done on border security overall for the entire country. We need more personnel and resources to do our job.

Q: What do you envision for the future of Border Patrol in Blaine?

A: I hope to see additional staffing, additional resources. I’d like to see us have a more robust maritime presence in this area.

And I’d really like to see additional affordable housing for our personnel. The one thing that’s always important on my list is taking care of the Blaine personnel and making sure they have what they need to get the job done, but also to have a good family life and time away from work.

Q: What are aspects of Border Patrol that people may not realize?

A: A lot of people equate us to just being immigration police, but that’s not our primary focus and our mission is much broader. Our focus is national security and border security. Anything crossing the border is of interest to us, whether that’s people or contraband. And we’re going to do what we need to mitigate that.

We have to think about terrorists crossing the border, weapons, narcotics or other illegal contraband. We’re an all threats agency for anything that’s crossing the border that’s not supposed to be. It gets politicized and our personnel get villainized.

Q: Can you explain how Border Patrol works to secure the north-

unexpected maintenance of the Lummi Ferry.

s Rosario Pete Vasquez, chief patrol agent of the U.S. Border Patrol Blaine sector. Photo courtesy U.S. Border Patrol

The Northern L ght

The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.

Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.

Letters Policy

The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue Doug Dahl

The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXIX, No 49

Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

May 24

on May 18. The show was a western musical adaption of “Beauty and the Beast.”

Blaine students perform western musical OpiniOn Letters

The Editor: Thank you for the excellent article “CDC to put tight restrictions on dogs traveling across the border.” I beg you to keep following up on this crazy plan from the CDC. I am a long-time veterinarian working in Bellingham. We frequently send cases to Canada to receive timely, lifesaving specialty veterinary care. Under these new rules, the dogs can go to Canada but not return! It’s nuts!

I love how if I travel to Canada with my dog and then back to my home in Bellingham I am “importing” the dog to the U.S.A. Do I import my car each time I cross the border?

I have reached out to state veterinary leaders but have received no help predicting the specifics for returning to the USA from Canada. The CDC is creating a Dog Import Form. How? Why? Who signs off? When will we have access to this form? (Ed. Note: the CDC website says it will be available July 15, 2024.)

When you contact the CDC seeking information on how to prepare for travel to and from Canada for people who travel with pets, you receive an automatic reply that recommends using the DogBot on their website. When you use it, you will get all sorts of information about bringing in dogs

from all over the world from all sorts of rabies-infested countries, but you won’t get information about bringing Bowser home from a weekend trip to Canada, a country considered rabies-free by the CDC.

Denise Petryk, DVM, MBA Birch Bay, WA

The Editor:

Thank you for this warning story. Here in Washington state and B.C., there must be a lot of dogs that cross the border many times a year with their owners, whether visiting family, or going to second homes or recreational destinations on both sides of the border. Particularly burdensome for Canadians with dogs vaccinated for rabies in Canada is the proposed requirement that the certification of vaccination and an examination by a vet (saying the dog is healthy) cannot be more than 30 days old at the time of entry. For families with weekend and recreational properties that cross the border often, this will be a logistical burden and a significant cost – potentially a monthly visit to the vet for the exam and certificate. Reading the statistics – only one case of rabies on average every two years in the United States due to dog bite, and no statistic showing the origin of the dogs concerned were from outside the United

CiviC Meetings

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Meetings are second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

States (rabies has domestic reservoirs in many species of wild animals transmissible to dogs), one has to wonder why the CDC would impose such onerous protections where almost no risk appears to exist from dogs that have been vaccinated within Canada and the United States.

The burden on Customs and Border Protection, the paperwork, the expense, and the advance planning required will be a particular burden on many families who do not travel without their four-legged family members in tow. There must be many thousands of frequent border crossers who will be affected – and against what risk?

Geoff Lewis

Vancouver/Semiahmoo

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

In the May 16 issue of The Northern Light, the sports article misspelled Uno Nevarez’s name. In the May 16 issue, an article titled “Spring block party coming to downtown Blaine” had an incorrect festival time. We regret the errors. Correction

Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: Third Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee meets quarterly in-person and on Zoom. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.

s Students from Blaine elementary and primary schools performed “Beauty Lou and the Country Beast” at the Blaine High School Black Box Theater

Photo by Leah Crews

FedEx driver to retire after 39 years of serving Blaine

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FedEx driver David Grayston will retire after 39 years serving the Blaine community on Saturday, June 1.

Grayston, 64 of Blaine, had his first day on the job with FedEx in 1985. He had been a subcontractor for the company when it expanded into Bellingham and decided to give delivery a try. He remembers on his first day being sent out with an engineer who was designing routes. They took what would become Grayston’s beginning route: Bellingham, Ferndale, Custer, Birch Bay, Blaine, Sumas, Nooksack and Everson.

In the nearly four decades since, Grayston’s route gradually shrunk to the area he serves today, which is mostly the city of Blaine, minus Semiahmoo and new developments on H Street. Grayston said he’s watched generations of families grow, from the death of parents to the birth of children.

“You’re on your own driving around, watching the seasons

change, getting to know people, their joys and their sadness too,” he said. “The circle of life.”

Grayston has gotten to know people on his route through little interactions, such as bonding about their love of horticulture.

The smaller pieces make the bigger picture, he said.

“I wish I would have kept a journal, so I could have written a book about it,” he said.

Over the years, Grayston has watched both the world, and his employer, change. He said most people don’t realize the time pressure FedEx drivers face, with cameras in the vehicle to track their productivity.

When he first started, Grayston’s nearest coworker was in Bellingham; now there are two FedEx drivers in Blaine.

In the weeks leading to his retirement, Grayston has been wearing his white uniform from 1985.

After his last day working, Grayston plans to volunteer at Peace Arch State Park, travel to Europe with his wife Donna, and take his terrier Rudy on more walks.

s FedEx driver David

four

Blaine Planning Commission approves downtown parking recommendation

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In a 7-0 vote, Blaine Planning Commission unanimously approved its downtown residential parking recommendation for city council during a May 15 special meeting.

Commission’s recommendation would allow developers to reduce residential parking to .5 stalls for a studio, .75 stalls for a one-bedroom unit, one stall for two- and three-bedroom units, and .5 additional stalls

for each bedroom larger than three bedrooms.

If developers decided to use the minimum parking requirements, they would need to pay a fee to the city for downtown transportation improvements.

City council would set the fee and could adjust it annually.

The proposal no longer has a request for additional parking relief on the west side of Peace Portal Drive in the downtown core. The original proposal had suggested developers in that

area could opt for a 50 percent reduction in residential parking on top of overall reductions proposed throughout downtown.

The option for developers to have reduced parking will sunset, per the proposal.

Alex Wenger, director of the city’s Community Development Services, said he would likely present city council with the proposal during its Tuesday, May 28 meeting. Council is expected to vote on the proposal at a future meeting.

Scottish Gathering looking for volunteers for Blaine event on June 1

The Bellingham Scottish Gathering will be coming to Blaine for the first time on Saturday, June 1. The event is a Scottish cultural celebration that will be held in Marine Park and on Semiahmoo Spit. It will have music, dancing,

food, athletics, Scottish clans, storytelling, merchandise, a beer garden and boat ride between Semiahmoo Spit and Blaine Harbor. Heather Richendrfer, executive director of Scottish Dance Society, said anyone interested in volun-

From page 1

The Blaine store held its grand opening Saturday, May 18 and will continue adding more mer-

chandise to the shelves. McFrugal’s is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call the store at 360/201-5522.

teering can contact her at heather@scottishdancesociety.org. For more information, visit the scottishdancesociety.org.

on Saturday,

Grayston will retire

June 1. He has spent nearly

decades delivering packages to Blaine.

Photo by Louise Mugar

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Ten Borderites qualify for track & field state tournament, softball loses in districts, multiple athletes named to All-NWC

Softball

Sometimes, the other team gets hot.

In two consecutive games at the District 1A Tournament on May 16 in Lynden, that’s just what happened to the Blaine softball team.

After a stellar season that saw the Borderites finish near the top of the Northwest Conference standings and enter the tournament with the second seed, the Borderites lost its first game in a back-and-forth battle against Lynden Christian, 4-3, and couldn’t finish a comeback against Nooksack Valley in the loser-out game, losing 13-8.

“The thing with softball, the best team doesn’t always win,” coach Riley Miller said. “It’s just a matter of who shows up.”

The first game featured multiple lead changes, and Jordyn Vezzetti’s fifth-inning RBI triple to score Shaylie Daniels tied the game up late, but the Lyncs answered with a RBI triple of its own to knock the Borderites into the losers’ bracket.

The elimination game against Nooksack Valley (a doubleheader immediately following the loss to Lynden Christian) went to extra innings after Blaine rallied for a miraculous five-run bottom of the sixth inning. But Nooksack Valley answered in the top of the eighth with another five runs, and the Borderites couldn’t get another rally going.

“That game [against Nooksack Valley] showed what kind of

character my girls had and how much fight they had,” Miller said. “I got every last drop out of them effort-wise. They left it out there and it was one of those things where you lose two and you’re done, and that’s unfortunately what we did.”

Miller said after the double-header was over, Bakker had pitched 15 innings and “almost

300 pitches” through two games – something the team is rarely forced to ask of the young pitcher. Jordyn Vezzetti and senior first baseman Teya Zaddack each drove in three runs on the game, but it wasn’t enough to put the Borderites through to the next round and into state contention.

Miller said she has been coach-

ing the upperclassmen on the team since they were in middle school, and seeing what they have accomplished over the last four years has been a dream come true.

Jordyn and Isabella Vezzetti, Bakker, Zaddack and Millie Berkeley will graduate and depart the program after multiple winning seasons and a deep state playoff run in 2023.

“They are just so, so special and I know whatever they do going forward, they are going to do amazing things,” Miller said of the senior class. “It makes me super emotional because I was 18 when I started with them and now they’re my age when I met them. I have no words for them,

(Continued on next page)

s Senior Jordyn Vezzetti pulls into second base during Blaine’s 13-8 loss against Nooksack Valley on May 16. Photo by Janell Kortlever

B y N ola N B aker

s Senior Shaylie Daniels readies a throw to base during Blaine’s May 16 game against Nooksack Valley in the District 1A Tournament. The Borderites forced extra innings in the elimination game, but lost 13-8, missing out on state qualification.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

innings over two games, but the Borderites weren’t able to earn a state bid.

(Continued from previous page)

they’re just a really good group of kids that are super bonded.”

Bakker finished with a 14-7 record, 124 innings pitched, 79 hits allowed, 35 earned runs allowed, 218 strikeouts to 82 walks, and held a league-leading 1.98 ERA and 1.30 WHIP.

Daniels slugged 25 RBI, five doubles, a triple and three home runs and finished the season with an outstanding .516 average, .610 on base percentage, and .774 slugging percentage.

Miller said seniors Berkeley, Zaddack and sophomore Aaliyah Bowman, all contributed immensely to the team while flying below the radar.

Although it wasn’t the end to the season the program wanted, Bakker and Daniels get the consolation prize of being named to the All-NWC team, with Bakker named first-team pitcher and Daniels second-team catcher.

The Borderites finished the year with a 14-7 record, going 11-4 in NWC play.

Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com

Boys Golf

In a nasty, blustery day at Riverside Golf Club in Chehalis on May 21, Blaine’s Uno Nevarez and Ellis Griffin couldn’t make the cut for round two of the 1A State Championship, ending their season one day shy of when they hoped.

Head coach Rick Shockey said the goal at the beginning of this spring was to play at

Photo by Janell Kortlever

state. That goal was reached, but Nevarez and Griffin both wanted to lift hardware and emerge victorious out of the massive, 60-golfer field.

“They knew they could shoot better than what they did,” Shockey said. “But you can tell your kids and your grandkids, ‘I made it to state in golf.’”

Shockey said he was impressed with how many talented athletes joined the team this year, with the program boasting 17 golfers, all of whom Shockey said improved over the course of the season. As a league policy, any golfer who shoots a 115 two games in a row is demoted to junior varsity – it never happened this year, a testament to the depth of talent on the team, Shockey said.

“I’m really proud of all 17 kids,” Shockey said. “The success that they had, they worked hard for. They were excited, and the camaraderie between the varsity and JV teams was something you dream about.”

Shockey finished his final season as head coach of Blaine boys golf after over 15 years heading the program.

Looking back over years of talented golfers who grew up in this community, Shockey said coaching not only great golfers, but great student-athletes has been an honor.

“They’re student-athletes,” Shockey said with an emphasis on student. “Not only are they

(See Sports, page 13)

s Emersyn Bakker throws a pitch to Nooksack Valley on May 16 at the District 1A Tournament at Bender Field in Lynden. Bakker threw 15

s Senior Shaylie Daniels catches a pitch on May 16 at the District 1A Tournament at Bender Field in Lynden. Daniels was named to the AllNWC second team as catcher.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

Blaine spring block party 2024

The Blaine Chamber of Commerce held a spring block party in downtown Blaine on May 18. Roads were blocked off for a street fair with over 65 vendors, live music, a beer garden, food trucks and more. Blaine-Birch

Bay Park and Recreation District

2 held its Picnic at the Park event in tandem with the block party, which provided a variety of activities for children.

Photos by Ruth Lauman, unless otherwise noted

Photo courtesy Celine Mauger/BBBPRD2

ADVICE FROM THE PROS

Mary and Gary Gibb

360-734-9700

Q: Help, my water heater went out! What should we do?

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1. Safety First: Prioritize the safety of everyone in the household. Immediately turn off the power supply to the water heater by flipping the circuit breaker or shutting off the gas supply if it is a gas water heater. This will help prevent any electrical or gas-related hazards.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply:  Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off to stop the flow of water to the burst water heater. This will help minimize water damage and prevent further flooding.

3. Details Matter: Before calling the professional plumbing company, gather some important information. This includes the brand and model of the water heater, the size, any visible signs of damage or leaks, and a brief description of the issue. This information will help the plumber assess the situation more accurately and come prepared with the necessary tools, parts and replacement if needed.

Once you’ve has taken these initial steps, you may confidently reach out to Gary’s Plumbing and Heating for professional assistance in repairing or replacing the burst water heater.

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Q: This summer I want to get outside more. How do I start a walking program to improve my health without getting injured?

A: To start a walking program safely, begin with 3-4 days a week, walking 20-30 minutes at a comfortable pace. Wear supportive shoes and comfortable clothing. Start each session with a 5-10 minute warm-up of dynamic stretches like leg swings and arm circles. Gradually increase your walking time by 5-10 minutes each week and your frequency to 5-6 days. Incorporate intervals of faster walking and add in hills or stairs to build strength and endurance. Include rest days to prevent overuse injuries. Walk on even, well-lit surfaces to reduce the risk of falls. Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain. Cool down with 5-10 minutes of slow walking and static stretches. Stay hydrated, and track your progress using a journal or app.Vary your routes and consider a walking buddy to maintain motivation.

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retirement accounts. In 2024 if you are turning 73 years old, you must withdraw your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) no later than April 1st of 2025. It’s important to understand that if you wait to withdraw your RMD until 2025 you will have to take the required withdrawal for both 2024

Q: I’m considering a move, do I need an appraisal?

A: Certain situations, like refinancing, securing a mortgage, handling tax matters, estate settlements, divorce proceedings, or establishing insurance value, require a licensed or certified appraiser.

However, if you are considering selling your home and simply want a qualified opinion, I can help. Reach out to me for a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Using similar valuation methods to what I would use when completing an appraisal, I’ll prepare a detailed CMA and a Net Proceeds Estimate. Additionally, I can provide you with stats that update at the beginning of each month to aid in your decision-making process now and down the road.

This way, you get a credible opinion of your home’s value without the cost of a formal appraisal.

If you think you can’t buy a home on your own, think again. According to the National Association of Realtors, single people make up over a quarter of all home sales. If you have questions about qualifying

Natalie Milligan, MPT, MS

Plover won’t sail for Memorial Day weekend

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The Plover ferry did not meet the city of Blaine’s May 15 deadline to finish restoring the boat before the annual first sailing of the season on Memorial Day weekend, but the crew is working to return the boat to the water as soon as possible.

Plover captain Richard Sturgill said the Plover ran out of money on May 15, which is also when the city had required the vessel be seaworthy in its contract with Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM), the nonprofit repairing and operating the boat. The passenger ferry transports people between Blaine Harbor and Semiahmoo Spit.

In fall 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard discovered problems with the boat that grew to become a restoration.

DHM went over its original $30,000 contract by $17,000 last year and the city subsequently solicited bids to finish the project.

DHM bid $82,000 to finish the repairs last fall and the city entered into another agreement with the nonprofit, the sole bidder.

So far, the city has spent nearly $130,000 on the Plover restoration.

Sturgill said repairs will cost about $16,000 more, all of which will go toward paying the crew-

members for the remaining work.

City manager Mike Harmon said the city has a lump sum contract with DHM, meaning the city gave the nonprofit a fixed price to complete the repairs. DHM is contractually obligated to finish the work, he said, adding the city will not provide additional funding.

“DHM needs to finish the work in accordance with the terms of the contract,” Harmon said.

The contract requires the nonprofit to pay the city $100 of liquidated damages per day after May 15. This money will be deducted from the $82,000.

Harmon said the city was informed the work was not finished on May 17, two days after its deadline.

“The city will explore all possible legal remedies to enforce the provisions in the contract,” he said.

Sturgill helmed the Plover’s restoration in the mid ’90s and DHM gave the Plover to the city for $1.

“When Drayton Harbor Maritime bid on this boat, Drayton Harbor Maritime didn’t bid on it for a profit like a typical boatyard,” Sturgill said. “Our motive was to save the boat.”

Sturgill said the boat has less than a month left of consistent

work until it’s seaworthy, but its deadline is not guaranteed now that the crew is working without pay. A crew of about five is putting on the last eight planks on the boat and then will waterproof and paint the vessel.

The crew members who are working to finish the boat in its home stretch hope there will be future funding to reimburse them, Sturgill said. He said the

crew lost time when it waited for funding from the city last summer and fall before bidding on the project, and doesn’t want to lose its rhythm again.

“To let it go now would be a waste of a resource,” Sturgill said. Sturgill said anyone who wants to donate to DHM can call him at 360/332-5742. Sturgill said the crew members are experienced shipbuilders and cannot accept

anyone without that education.

The U.S. Coast Guard was scheduled to inspect the Plover’s repairs on May 22.

“It’s not for not trying,” Sturgill said of not sailing Memorial Day weekend. “If you’re going to do a job with integrity, you have to work expeditiously at the momentum that you can confidently do a job that’s Coast Guard approved and something you can be proud of.”

Pets & Pet Care

Dog owners may be familiar with heartworm medication used to address infection in canines, but no such option is available to treat heartworm in cats.

According to the American Heartworm Society, the medication veterinarians use to treat heartworm in dogs cannot be used in cats. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

notes it has not approved any drugs to treat heartworm in cats, and the organization urges cat owners to emphasize prevention. Several products that prevent feline heartworm infection in cats have been approved by the FDA, and all must be prescribed by a veterinarian. Prior to issuing such a prescription, a veterinarian may suggest testing the cat for heartworm, an approach the FDA recommends.

Submit Pet Paparazzi photos to editor@thenorthernlight.com

s The Northern Light reporter Nolan Baker’s cat, Max, is rudely awakened from a nap in the sun.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s Bert Howey, who attended the Northwest School of Wooden Boatbuilding near Port Townsend, repairs the Plover ferry in captain Richard Sturgill’s yard on May 21.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

. The first review deadline is 4:30pm on May 24th. The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: May 8, 2024 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 16, 2024

Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL

Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262

Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229

Telephone: (360) 325-2550

Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com

DATED: May 8, 2024 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL

8965 Bald Eagle Drive

MLS #2230537

golf course, enjoy all the added amenities; Clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, playground, and nearby trails. Perfect for anyone seeking leisure or second homeowners craving a tranquil getaway.

Kristin Miller 360-305-9197

Kathy

working hard on their golf game and their athletics, but they’re also working hard in the classroom, and they’re not just onesport athletes. In a small community like this, the kids can’t do just one sport, the school won’t survive.”

Track and Field

10 Blaine track and field athletes across seven different events are headed to Yakima for the 1B/2B/1A State Championship on May 23.

At the 1A District 1/2 Championships in Granite Falls on May 16, both 4x100-meter relay teams finished top-five to qualify for state. Jaiden Paez, Dylan Johnson, Justin Minjarez and Beckum Bleazard ran a 44.61 time for fifth place in the boys final, and Cheyenne Parker, Brietta Sandell, Kaitlyn Ritter Von Trautmann, and Juliana Zuzarte placed third with a time of 51.0.

Parker, a freshman, also qualified for the 100- and 200-meter events at state, leading the program by earning a spot in three different races. She ran a fifth place time of 13.16 in the 100-meter dash, and finished second in the 200-meter dash with a time of 26.28.

Sandell, another member of the girls relay team, will compete in the 100-meter hurdles after running a fifth-place time of 17.1.

Freshman Teia Dube was one of four state qualifiers in the high jump to record a 4-8.0 jump, tying for second place. Jayden Winslow rounded out the Borderite field team for the state championship with a PR, fourth place finish in shot put, throwing 43-8.0.

All told, the Borderite contingent headed to Yakima is relatively young, with only one senior – relay sprinter Justin Minjarez – on the state roster. Of the 10 players headed to the state tournament, half are underclassmen, with three freshmen – Parker, Ritter Von Trautmann and Dube, filling out the squad.

The 1B/2B/1A State Championship will begin with field events on Thursday, May 23 at 3:40 p.m. at Zaepfel Stadium at Eisenhower High School, S 40th Avenue, Yakima.

The event will continue throughout the weekend and conclude May 25.

Boys Soccer

Four Blaine boys soccer players were named to the 1A All-Northwest Conference team after great individual performances throughout a season that saw the Borderites finish with a 9-5-2 (43-1 NWC) record.

Juniors Isaiah Zuch and Blake Koreski were named all-conference as forwards, junior Dmitriy Yuryev was named as a midfielder, and sophomore Maxim Yuryev earned the honor on defense.

Eighth Grade Baseball

The Blaine middle school 8th grade baseball team was crowned Northwest Conference Champions after finishing the season with a stellar 8-2 record.

Head coach Brian Van Winkle said the season came down to a final game against Lynden, with

OBITUARY

Michaele Sharon (Finley) Hansen

August 7, 1934 – May 15, 2024

Michaele was born to Archie and Dagmar (Gudbranson) Finley in Bellingham. The family moved to the Birch Bay area in 1945, where they ran Finley’s Store. She graduated from Blaine High School in 1952 and from Bellingham Business College then married the love of her life, Rodney (Ron) Hansen. Their children are Jeff, Karen (deceased) and Eric Hansen. She was employed by the Bellingham School District and St. Joseph Hospital where she was a medical transcriptionist.

She and Ron enjoyed many years of traveling together in the U.S. and 31 other countries. They were boaters for many years and held countless family parties at their home on Lake Samish. They also enjoyed crosscountry skiing, dancing and entertaining friends and family. She loved babies, gardening, shopping and also enjoyed sewing, needlepoint and crossword puzzles. She was a longtime member of the Daughters of Norway.

She was considered the matriarch of her large family of siblings, children and grandchildren. Loved and respected by all, she served as a role model for others and demonstrated great strength during times of loss. Her memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved her and whose lives she touched. Instead of a funeral, her sons had a “Bon Voyage” party for her while she could still enjoy it. It was a loving, joyous and sad event that she enjoyed tremendously.

She is survived by sons Jeff (Susan) and Eric (Cindy, deceased), brother Scott Finley (Ande), sister Brooke Finley-Rieg (Joe Rieg), brother-in-law David Beatty and sister-in-law Nancy Finley. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband of 58 years, their daughter Karen (Hansen) Sundean, great-granddaughter Anna Brulotte, sister Marsha Beatty and brother Loren Finley.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to Kelly, Eden Hospice nurse, and Sound Home Care. They all provided professional and compassionate care, easing her transition during her last days. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Michaele’s name to Eden Hospice, Sound Home Care or the ALS Assn. A graveside service will be held in August.

the Blaine boys coming back from a 5-2 deficit and winning on a walk-off to clinch the conference championship.

Van Winkle said the team is excited to make the jump to the next level and play for Blaine high school, especially after attending high school varsity games and practices throughout the season. Some high school coaches even attended the 8th grade team’s final games, Van Winkle said.

“The boys were extra fired up about them being there and performing and showing out for their future coaches, hopefully,” Van Winkle said. “I’m sure that there’s going to be several boys from this

team that will play possibly next year on the varsity team.”

Every team, every season, is different. Not every team will win its conference, let alone have multiple players continue on to compete at the next level. Knowing that, Van Winkle said he was happy to honor their middle school careers with a championship.

“It was a complete honor for me to get in with this group of guys and be able to work with them for two years,” Van Winkle said. “They’re good people, they’re good young men, and they’re great ball players. And absolutely the best group of parents, very supportive.”

s NWC champions Blaine eighth grade baseball team. From left, coach Brian Van Winkle, Ivan Vekved, Connor Brown, Isaac Bouma, Sam Campion, Riyer Hamel, Colton Pereira, Brian Loos, Matt Campion, Wyatt Nissen, Holden Briner. Bottom row from left, David Parkes, Cooper Smith.

Photo courtesy Brian Van Winkle

sheriff’s repOrts

May 10, 2:53 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Yellow Fin Court.

May 10, 3:36 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident on Harborview Road.

May 10, 9:08 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Dean Drive.

May 11, 11:53 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Dahl Lane.

May 11, 12:29 p.m.: Assault arrest on W Badger Road.

May 11, 1:58 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) cold call on Treevue Road.

May 12, 1:53 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Alderson Road.

May 12, 4:40 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Helweg Drive.

May 13, 12:16 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Seashell Way.

May 13, 2:03 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Loomis Trail Road.

May 13, 3:27 p.m.: Domestic physical cold call on Morningside Drive.

May 14, 1:05 p.m.: Vehicle

theft cold call on Birch Bay Square Street.

May 14, 1:14 p.m.: Theft cold call on Yellow Fin Court.

May 14, 7:13 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Sandcastle Drive.

May 15, 12:14 a.m.: Burglary arrest on McGee Road.

May 15, 2:48 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch

Bay Drive.

May 15, 3:59 p.m.: Assault simple cold call on Shintaffer Road.

May 15, 6:54 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Jackson Road.

May 16, 12:16 p.m.: Drugs cold call on Birch Bay Drive. May 16, 6:39 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Jackson Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

May 11, 10:06 a.m.: Domestic – physical on Baldwin Place.

May 12, 7:52 a.m.: Fraud on 3rd Street.

May 12, 2:34 p.m.: Harassment on Sandwood Lane.

May 13, 4:12 a.m.: Suspicious person on C Street.

May 14, 12:19 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Yew Avenue.

May 14, 2:03 p.m.: Fraud on H Street.

May 14, 10:17 p.m.: Security check on Boblett Street.

May 15, 12:51 p.m.: Welfare check on 16th Street.

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Lunatic 7. Doctor of Education 10. Able to make amends 12. Tight-knit group 13. Gland 14. Intestinal pouches

15. Fungal spores 16. Erstwhile 17. Engine additive 18. Nasal mucus 19. Fit a horse with footwear 21. Consumed 22. Settle 27. Larry and Curly’s pal 28. Basketball’s GOAT

33. Exclamation of surprise 34. Made tight 36. Before 37. Actor Nicolas 38. Not hot 39. Talk 40. Pledge 41. Abandon a mission

44. Trims by cut -

ting

45. Aspects of one’s character

48. Boxing GOAT’s former surname 49. Holy places 50. Body art (slang) 51. Attributes DOWN

1. How one feels 2. American Nat’l Standards Institute

3. Information 4. Licensed for Wall Street

5. Keyboard key 6. Born of 7. Choose to represent 8. Small European freshwater fish 9. Everyone has their own 10. Line from the center of a polygon 11. Lebanese city 12. Type of watercraft 14. A way to twist 17. Soviet Socialist Republic

18. Greek island 20. Medical practitioner 23. __ DeGaulle, French President 24. Partner to “oohed” 25. Atomic #52 26. Santa’s helper 29. Rapper __ Rule

30. Month 31. Word formed by rearranging letters

32. Nullifies 35. Young woman ready to enter society

36. Unemployment

38. Weight unit 40. Formal party 41. Computer language 42. Residue formula in math

43. Duty or responsibility 44. Part of (abbr.) 45. Time zone

46. Body part 47. Nucleic acid

ANSWERS:

Coming up

Kindergarten Registration Open: If your child will be five years old on or before August 31, 2024, register now at blainesd.org/o/ blaine-primary-school.

May Days at the Bridge: Wednesdays–Saturday though May, 11 a.m.–4 p.,m., the Bridge Community Hope Center Boutique, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com.

Community Breakfast: Saturdays, 8–11 a.m., American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. All-you-can-eat pancakes $5, kids 4 and under get free pancakes. Other breakfast items available for purchase. Hosted by G.O.A.T. Sandwiches. Info: 360/296-4204. Portion of proceeds benefits the American Legion.

Primary School Art Walk: Through May 30. Artwork from Blaine Primary School students displayed at various Blaine businesses.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, May 23, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

May 15, 1:43 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

May 16, 3:36 p.m.: Death investigation on D Street.

May 16, 5:19 p.m.: Trespass on 3rd Street.

May 16, 5:44 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Birch Court.

May 16, 6:33 p.m.: Hit and run on Harrison Avenue.

May 17, 7:37 a.m.: Theft on 4th Street.

May 17, 3:00 p.m.: Missing person on Gleneagle Drive.

May 17, 9:14 p.m.: Simple assault on 10th Street.

tides

May 23-29 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Giant insects of the Amazon and Asia: Friday, May 24, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Park rangers presentation with real specimens of the largest bugs in the world. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, May 24, 7 p.m, The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Jami Templeton. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Clamming 101: Saturday, May 25, noon, Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Learn shellfish regulations, how to dig for clams and clam species. Bring your shellfish license, shovel/trowel and a small bucket if you wish to keep clams. Led by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation and Friends of Birch Bay State Park naturalists. Free. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Container Gardening: Wednesday, May 29, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. An “out of the ground and into the box” introduction to container gardening. We will start with the basics from choosing containers and the right plants to learning how to water them. Info: nwcore.org.

Meet Blaine’s New Police Chief: Thursday, May 30, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn more about the city’s new chief, our local police departments and ask your questions. Free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Friday, May 31, 5 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Enjoy music from a group of five musicians performing classic pop, swing, blues and more. Great for all ages. Bring a camp chair and picnic. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Birch Bay 5K Fun Run: Friday, May 31, 6 p.m. Leave from the Birch Bay Activity Center at 7511 Gemini Street and run to Beach Cat Brewing. $35, kids and pets run for free. Info and registration: bbbparkandrec.org.

Bellingham Scottish Festival: Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Blaine Marine Park. Highland dancing, piping and drumming, bag pipe bands, athletic competitions, vendors, clan tents, Scottish breed animals and more. Adults $25, students, seniors and active military $20, group or family of four $62, children under five free. Info: scottisdancesociety.org.

Container Gardening: Saturday, June 1, 9–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. An “out of the ground and into the box” introduction to container gardening. We will start with the basics from choosing containers and the right plants to learning how to water them. Info: nwcore.org.

Hunting Strategies with SARDIS: Saturday, June 1, 3 p.m. Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Raptor Hunting Strategies presented by SARDIS Raptor Center. Listen to highly skilled volunteer trainers who will provide insight into identification, anatomy of flight, the raptor’s role in the environment and much more. Please bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 13 to May 19, 0.32 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 13.9 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 70.9°F on May 15 with a low of 43.6°F on May 18. Average high was 64°F and average low was 47.6°F.

Senior ’24 Worship Celebration: Sunday, June 2, 6–7:30 p.m., The Christian Way Community Church, 1733 H Street (next to Westside Pizza). The UNIFIED youth groups are coming together to honor Whatcom County’s 2024 high school graduates in a multiyouth group worship service. Graduates are encouraged to wear their cap and gown. RSVP to your youth leaders.

Ongoing

Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.

The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2 p.m.–4:30 p.m. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.

Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Road Rules: Has striping paint changed?

Question: Has road striping paint changed? When I’m driving at night or in the rain it’s tough to see the lines. It doesn’t seem as reflective as it used to be.

Answer: You’re probably not looking for a history lesson on road paint, but it’s a cute story so I’m going to tell it. In 1911 Edward Hines was following a milk truck down the road as the truck leaked milk from its cargo hold. The stripe of white milk in the middle of the road inspired Hines, a member of the Wayne County Road Commission in Michigan, to paint centerlines in Wayne County to separate two-way traffic. The folks in Michigan call it the most important traffic safety device in the history of auto transportation. The rest of us think the seat belt claims that title, but it’s still a great idea.

Road paint was initially just paint. The eventual addition of tiny glass beads made the lines retroreflective, increasing nighttime visibility. This is where things get science-nerdy. I’m going to gloss over that (reflective paint pun) and just note that retroreflective objects reflect light back in the same direction it came from.

For a long time road paint

was solvent-based, but the solvent was bad for both the environment and the people who applied it. A road crew leader I spoke with described it as, “nasty to work with.” Today road striping is most commonly water-based paint or thermoplastic. I’m no expert in this, so I talked with a couple of people from city and county public works offices who know their stripes.

There are a lot of differences between paint and plastic, but the two most relevant to this discussion are cost and durability. Thermoplastic is expensive, but it lasts three to five years, and possibly longer. Paint is cheaper, but it may only last a year or two. And the retroreflective beads can wear away faster than the paint itself, sometimes lasting only months.

I’m going to generalize here: cities are more likely to use thermoplastic markings, while counties tend to use paint. It comes down to the budget. Counties usually have more lane miles to paint, so the cost of thermoplastic markings is out of reach.

One of the biggest challenges for striping paint manufacturers is ensuring visibility in wet and

temperatures above 50 degrees. Those wet and dark days when you most need bright stripes are also the days when it’s not possible to apply them.

dark conditions. That describes driving in Washington half of the year. Public works departments prioritize the frequency of road striping based on traffic volume, with top-priority roads getting painted every year. But if the glass beads on a busy road wear out in less than a year, there’s not much they can do about it. To properly apply road paint you need dry weather and

If you could invent a product that’s cheaper than paint, more durable than thermoplastic, and brighter than both, you’d make driving safer for all of us and insure your financial future. Meanwhile, we need to admit that driving conditions are often less than ideal. We tend to think of the speed limit as the black number on the white sign. That’s the absolute

maximum, but the real speed limit is the speed that is “reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.”

To misquote Donald Rumsfeld, you drive on the road you have, not the road you might want or wish to have. And that includes adjusting our driving to the conditions we’re dealt.

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

Boating safety for a happy and carefree summer

B y N ola N B aker

It’s National Safe Boating week, and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is urging the public to learn basic water safety before boating season begins on the Puget Sound.

In a May 20 press release, the USCG said while the sun may be starting to poke its head out of the clouds, weather on the open water changes quickly, and the consequences can be dire.

“Education and foresight are the biggest determining factor of safety on the water,” according to the

USCG. “In all accidents, the five primary contributing factors are operator inattention, operator inexperience, improper lookout, machinery failure and excessive speed.”

National Boat Safe week isn’t just for those out on speedboats and Jet Skis. Blaine and Birch Bay attract paddleboarders and kayakers from around the region, and the USCG said water safety is even more important for those smaller, lighter craft.

The National Safe Boating Council and Coast Guard recommend the following tips to stay boat safe

this summer, and for every summer after that.

Check the weather – Weather. gov has up-to-date information on marine conditions and forecasts. Know before you go.

Take a boating safety course –The USCG provides a host of boating safety resources on its website at cgaux.org/boatinged.

Wear appropriate attire – Pacific Northwest waters are deceptively colder than the air temperature, a risk not often recognized by novice paddlers. Don’t wait until you’re overboard to get your parka on.

Wear a life jacket – Wearing, not just stowing, a properly sized life jacket is crucial for open water survival in the event of an

emergency. “Wearing an improperly fitted life jacket is just as deadly as not wearing one at all,” wrote the USCG.

Make a float plan – Having a detailed trip itinerary, including information on how many passengers you bring and an emergency contact number, can help the USCG in the event of an accident. Use the USCG float plan template at bit.ly/3V9shqx.

Get a vessel safety check – The checks are free, provided by the USCG and take 15-30 minutes. After passing the safety check, you’re provided with a decal that informs any law enforcement agency that you are in full compliance with the law. If you don’t pass, no citation

is issued and the Coast Guard will inform you how to fix your craft. Know who to call – Dialing 911 is the best first response. When outside of cell service, having a VHF radio set to channel 16 (the international distress channel) and signaling “Mayday!” along with location, party information, distress nature, vessel description and if everyone has proper life vests.

Boat sober – It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of any alcohol or dugs, and alcohol is “the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents,” according to the USCG.

National Safe Boating Week runs May 18 through May 24.

s Commercial and recreational boating in Semiahmoo Bay.

Photo by Ruth Lauman