The Northern Light: November 23-29, 2023 by Point Roberts Press

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

November 23 - 29, 2023

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IN THIS

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Winter sports preview, page 7

Wolten home gets renovation, page 8

Bereavement group comes to Blaine, page 15

PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230

Blaine City Council adopts 2024 budget By Grace McCarthy

(See Budget, page 5)

s Over 100 people attended a meeting on Birch Bay incorporation at Christ the King North Bay Community Church on November 15. The group, which has been meeting since June, was formally established as the Birch Bay Incorporation Association during the meeting. Voters also approved city boundaries for a feasibility study and elected 15 steering committee members. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Community group officially forms as Birch Bay Incorporation Association By Grace McCarthy A community group researching the potential for Birch Bay to become its own city has officially formed as the Birch Bay Incorporation Association. Over 100 people packed into Christ the King North Bay Community Church to learn more about the association and participate in its first election November 15. The informal election established the association, set the city boundaries for a feasibility study, and elected 15 steering committee representatives. The hour-long meeting drew a mix of longtime incorporation supporters and new spectators, some of whom voiced opposition to incorporation and the

group’s decision-making. The latest attempt for incorporation began this spring after Birch Bay resident Matt Berry distributed a self-governance survey to the community. Residents who indicated on the survey that they wanted to be involved started meeting monthly in June. The association is considering applying for grants and asking Whatcom County officials for funding to pay for a feasibility study on Birch Bay incorporation. The feasibility study would provide data on city operating costs and tax revenues that the association would use to determine if it wants to move forward in the lengthy incorporation process.

INSIDE

Blaine City Council has adopted a barebones 2024 budget that will bring city expenses in line with its expected revenues. Council passed the $49.4 million budget in a 4-0 vote during its November 13 meeting, with councilmembers Garth Baldwin, Eric Davidson and Rhyan Lopez absent. The budget prioritizes economic development as well as maintenance of parks, facilities and transportation infrastructure. “We have the businesses and services that we need,” city finance director Daniel Heverling said. “But if we had to make more cuts in the future, it would be very difficult because there’s not much we can do.” City administrators’ biggest hurdle was balancing the general fund and street fund, city manager Mike Harmon said. The general fund has struggled with increased expenses as employee salaries and wages rose with inflation, while revenues decreased and the city ran out of its Covid-19 stimulus. General fund expenses, which pay for most of the city’s daily operations, are expected to decrease by about $116,000 from about $8.9 million in 2023 after the city reduced its number of employees and other smaller expenses. The city planned earlier this fall to lay off 10 positions, but through attrition, only needed to lay off three staff members, Harmon said. The street fund, which pays for roadway repairs, is also suffering without as many Canadian customers contributing to the gas tax revenue. While the street fund is anticipated to increase 54 percent, from about $981,000 to $1.5 million, that is only because of transfers from other funds, such as the general fund and real estate excise tax, to pay for needed projects. “We just did a decent amount of cuts, and with what I’m seeing, we should be OK for a few years and wouldn’t have to make more cuts unless something drastically changed with the economy,” Heverling said. City council also approved a one-percent increase to the city’s property tax levy, which will generate about $13,800 in additional property tax revenue. The Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee (BTAC) funds that come from the

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

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s The Birch Bay Incorporation Association approved city boundaries it plans to use a feasibility study. The boundaries follow the Birch Bay urban growth area. Other areas, such as Birch Point or south of Point Whitehorn, could be added if residents wanted to be included. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Birch Bay ... From page 1

“Tonight we don’t have to come to an agreement whether this would be in our best interest or not,” Berry said. “All we have to decide is that we want to ask questions, get better data and spend more time discussing this with anyone who might be affected by this.” Anyone living, working or owning property within the proposed city limits was allowed to vote in the election as long as they were an association member. Berry asked attendees to put their hands in the air to signify if they were for or against each proposal. People in the audience then cast their votes for the steering committee on paper ballots that were counted and certified by four Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce representatives. The incorporation boundaries for the feasibility study will follow the Birch Bay urban growth area, but could later change if Birch Point or south of Point Whitehorn residents wanted to join. The association approved 15 people to join its steering committee, while seven others applied who either did not receive enough votes or did not live within the boundaries. Steering committee representatives will serve one-year terms and meet monthly, while the regular association members will meet quarterly and vote on important decisions. The steering committee representatives are Lisa Guthrie, Matt

Berry, Michael Stringam, Brian Bell, Chuck Kinzer, Caprice Pine, Sharman Burnam, Jonathan Mallahan, Lisa Fisher, Barney Yorkston, Cecil Robinson, Jason Polverari, Patrick Alesse, Wayne Kortlever and James (Bob) Aiken. The representatives vary from new to life-long residents. Some steering committee representatives said during their candidate speeches that they were undecided whether incorporation was a good thing, but wanted to be on the committee to gather more information. “I’m not sure if it’s a good idea or a bad idea but I know the only way to find out is to get involved,” Lisa Fisher said during her statement. Wayne Kortlever said he was opposed to Birch Bay becoming a city, while Caprice Pine and Cecil Robinson said they were on the fence. Chuck Kinzer, Sharman Burnam and Brian Bell said they wanted to serve on the steering committee to ensure it gathered more data. Barney Yorkston said he wasn’t in favor of incorporation but was willing to keep an open mind. Other representatives, such as Lisa Guthrie, supported incorporation. “Right now we’re allowing people who don’t live here and don’t really care about our flavor of life to determine how we grow,” Guthrie said. “They’re already pushing density and development on us. We want to have a say in what that looks like, how we move forward and how we keep Birch Bay, the

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Birch Bay that we all love.” Birch Bay has had several attempts to incorporate over the years, but only an attempt in 1992 went for a vote. If Birch Bay incorporates, it would be the fourth largest city in Whatcom County. Everson was the last city to incorporate in Whatcom County in 1929, and Spokane Valley was the last city to incorporate in Washington state in 2003. The steering committee will hold its first meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, December 4 at Christ the King North Bay Community Church, 4895 Birch Bay Lynden Road. The meeting will be open to the public and streamed on Zoom. The association’s next quarterly meeting will be held in February. Incorporatebirchbay.com has a contact form for people to register for the Birch Bay Incorporation Association’s email list and will have the Zoom link for the first steering committee meeting. “Based on feedback and what we approved in the bylaws, our mission is to be gathering information if incorporation ever goes to a vote,” Berry said.

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

Opinion

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

Local artists on display at Blaine library

s The Blaine Public Library is displaying a fall exhibition of local artists Helen Worley and Tamar Olson. Worley is showcasing nature photography, while Olson has acrylic and mixed media paintings. Exhibits will be on display through December. Photo by Jonathan Jakobitz/WCLS

Letters

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 XXVIII, No xx Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

The Editor: As we begin this holiday season celebrating our blessings of abundance, it is so easy to forget that far too many individuals and families in our community struggle daily to simply put food on the table. Our community never forgets. You are the heart and soul of the Blaine Food Bank and without you we simply would not exist. The beginning of this year we were serving around 550 families each week. Today we are serving over 700 families each week, and that number increases at each distribution as new families seek our help. We are serving increasing numbers of people for longer periods of time as they face skyrocketing prices for food, fuel and housing. These economic challenges have affected everyone, including us, as we face the same price increases as each of you. In addition, donations have decreased dramatically as everyone struggles with higher costs. We are in a perfect storm of increased need and decreased resources. We do our very best to carry families and individuals through these most difficult times, and without doubt, none of what we have faced and

overcome would be possible without the steadfast support of our community. Every year at this time we run our only fundraiser, the Matching Funds Campaign. The funds from this campaign are vital. They are used to purchase meat and egg protein in the upcoming year. A generous and caring anonymous donor and benefactor has offered us $40,000 if our community matches that amount by December 17, 2023. Our community has never wavered in support of our mission to offer hungry individuals and families food for today and hope for tomorrow. We need your help to meet this goal. Our neighbors count on us, and we count on you. Please help us if you can. We can’t do it without you. Donations can be made in person at 500 C Street, by mail at PO Box 472, Blaine, WA 98231 or on our website, blainefoodbank.org using a debit or credit card or through PayPal. We thank you for caring and wish you all a blessed holiday season. Sally Church Blaine Food Bank operations manager Blaine

(See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district offices, 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 and virtual meeting login: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Next issue: Nov. 30 Ads due: Nov. 24

The Editor: Thanks for attending the city council meeting. I proposed that the council switch to requiring developers to adopt the Whatcom County recommendations for managing runoff instead of the antiquated city of Blaine building codes that allow “retention ponds.” These “retention ponds” should be called “redirection ponds” because all they do is allow the water from roofs to run downhill to the next neighborhood. This is because there is a solid bed of clay 12 feet below all of Semiahmoo. There is nowhere for water to go except downhill. We have two lawns that have turned into quagmires, one next to hole 14, and one across the street on hole 16. My crawl space has become very wet. All this happened when the Woodberry development was built and they were allowed to put in a “retention pond.” My other request is for city council to publish a revised evacuation plan for the city of

Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/3EwWiZi. Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Meetings are second Tues-

day, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., council chambers and virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330. Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 11 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

November 23 - 29, 2023 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine school board sees shake up after election By Nolan Baker Election results current as of 4:25 p.m. on November 17. With only a dozen ballots left to count in Whatcom County, excluding late-arriving votes from absentee and out-of-state voters, the Blaine school board is set to see three newcomers and a change in district for one incumbent when members are sworn-in in January 2024.

Letters ... From previous page

Blaine. They are planning on allowing thousands of new homes to be built around Semiahmoo, and there is already not enough capacity for an evacuation. There are only two roads leaving this area, and those are only two lanes, and they both go over the railroad tracks. The city of Blaine is broke and they are allowing new developments to be built without proper infrastructure, just so they can get more revenue in hopes that they can then put in the necessary infrastructure. Blaine needs to get the revenue and build the infrastructure before allowing these homes to be built. How many people will have to suffer and/or die before Blaine takes the proper steps? Rob Shiras Blaine The Editor: I hope I may add something to the conversation about the Lummi Nation fishing in Birch Bay. It was largely due to the Lummi

Budget ... From page 1

hotel/motel tax are projected to increase 39 percent, from about $242,00 to $335,400. BTAC grants City council also unanimously approved BTAC grants worth $67,200, less than the $80,000 budgeted, during its November 13 meeting. BTAC approved 11 of the 14 tourism grants it received. Below are the recipients and their awards: • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $20,000 for the Old Fashioned Fourth of July.

The looming $14 million budget shortfall that forced the cutting of roughly 60 district jobs this past summer was the top issue for most candidates. Erika Creydt unseated Kimberly Akre for the district 1 position, winning with 64.7 percent (3,822) of the vote. Creydt, a third-generation Blaine resident who was appointed to serve the district 3 board position in 2021, won a majority of votes in all 18 precincts. In her written responses to the

candidate Q&A in The Northern Light prior to elections, Creydt sees the enrollment decrease as a huge problem for the district to tackle, especially with state funding expected to shrink in upcoming budgets. Creydt wrote that highlighting parent perspectives and “fostering a culture from the top down that encourages communication,” between students, parents and faculty as a blueprint for keeping students in the district.

For the district 2 board seat, Ben Lazarus defeated Dean Berkeley with 61.4 percent (3,696) of ballots in his favor. Lazarus also won all 18 precincts. Lazarus, who has two children attending Blaine High School, said in his candidate Q&A he doesn’t want the looming $14 million budget deficit to force cuts to things that he says draw in more students, like arts and

nancial support to other community groups such as Blaine Youth Sports and the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. They have given almost $300,000 to local organizations! These programs and events benefit everyone. They support a healthy, active lifestyle, regardless of age, and they also attract visitors to financially support our vibrant community. As Blaine and Birch Bay continue to grow, it is important to be conscious of what kind of place The Editor: I am writing to introduce the we want to live, raise our kids Keep Blaine-Birch Bay Park and in and grow old in. An engaged, Recreation District 2 Political active population is a sign of a Action Committee and request healthy community, and supportyour support for the upcoming ing BBBPRD2 is a fantastic way to ensure that continues. Keeping February election. Happy 60th Anniversary The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and our current levels of support for & Susan St. and Clair Blaine-Birch Bay parks recRecreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) Harvey is a vital part of our growing com- reation is one low-cost way to munity. With the current levy of ensure Blaine and Birch Bay cononly 10 cents per $1,000 assessed tinues to be a place that we are house value, BBBPRD2 is able to proud to call home. We are looking for help and supoffer pickleball, afterschool programs, fitness classes, boot camps, port to spread the word about how as well as events like Wings Over vital BBBPRD2 is to our healthy, Water, Pirate Daze, Holiday Lights growing and active community. Do you have time? Please conDash, and the Trick-or-Treat on sider volunteering with the BBBthe Berm, just to name a few! The BBBPRD2 also offers fi- PRD2 PAC to spread the word.

Do you have financial resources? Please consider a monetary donation to the BBBPRD2 PAC. Do you have a story or a positive, personal experience with an event or activity thanks to BlaineBirch Bay parks and recreation? Please be sure to spread the word. Speak to your friends, family and neighbors about what this organization means to you! Questions or comments can be sent directly to bbbprd2_pac@yahoo.com. Vanessa Rushing Blaine

Nation’s efforts that the Gateway Pacific Terminal, due to open in 2017, was stopped. It would have shipped 48 million tons of coal per year on trains running through Whatcom County, and would have coated Birch Bay, Drayton Harbor, and our lungs with coal dust. I thank the Nation every day for their efforts on this issue. Jennifer Plombon Blaine

• Pacific Arts Association received $10,000 for Blaine Harbor Music Festival. • Scottish Dance Society received $10,000 for the Bellingham Scottish Gathering in Blaine. • Wings Over Water NW received $5,000 for the Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival. • Blaine Arts Council received $5,000 for Arts Connect. • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $5,000 for Harbor Harvest Festival. • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $5,000 for Oysterfest. • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $2,500 for Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival.

Volunteers Needed for "Yes" and "No" Voters Pamphlet Statements Blaine School District is working to appoint two committees, of up to three members each, for the purpose of preparing Voters Pamphlet statements both for and against the district's Replacement Educational Programs & Operations Levy and Capital Bond which will be on the February 13, 2024 special election ballot. Anyone interested in participating in this activity is encouraged to contact the Superintendent’s Office at 360332-5881.

Community members are invited to attend an information session about the levy and bond at the Blaine Senior Center on Tuesday, November 28 starting at 6pm.

(See School, page 7)

• Paul Johnson Films LLC received $2,000 for Birds of Drayton Microfilm. • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $1,500 for Holiday Harbor Lights. • Blaine Chamber of Commerce received $1,200 for Blaine by the Sea Market street musicians. BTAC did not approve $3,500 for Fourth of July restrooms because it is included in the city’s tourism operating budget. The committee also denied a $11,800 request for murals and a $12,780 request for a seasonal one-lane closure of Drayton Harbor Road.

CITY OF BLAINE Information on how to listen to the meeting live will be on the City Council agenda which is located on the City’s website homepage under Your Government, City Council, City Council Agenda. Please check the agenda prior to each meeting as the call in number or location may change.

November 23, & November 24 City Offices Closed

November 27 5:30pm – Study Session: 2024 Legislative Agenda and Legislative Update 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

November 28 3:30pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting

December 11 6:00pm – City Council Meeting December 14 9:00am – Park and Cemetery Board Meeting

6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

H appy 60th Anniversary

Harvey & Susan St. Clair Please join us in congratulating Harvey and Susan St.Clair as they celebrate 60 years of marriage on November 27. Their romance began as Harvey was serving his country at the Blaine Air Force Station. Harvey knew Sue was “the one” as soon as they met in 1963. They married in Sue’s hometown of Blaine the same year. During their 60 years together, they welcomed three children: Amee (Donny) Nelson, Betsy (Kim) Freeman, and Andrew St.Clair. Their family has grown over the years with seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. We love you, Dad and Mom (Grandpa and Mam)

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

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November 23 - 29, 2023 • thenorthernlight.com

Sports Borderite winter sports preview

Boys Basketball The boys basketball program at Blaine is coming off of a fantastic 2023/24 season where it placed third in the 1A State Championship tournament, and finished the season with a solid 19-8 record. Last year’s Borderites were led by two now-departed seniors, forward Matthew Rush who earned first team All-Northwest Conference (NWC) and All-State Tournament honors, and guard Lucas Smith, named a second team All-NWC selection. For Blaine to repeat the success it enjoyed last year with a deep playoff run, it’ll need another solid performance from the upper-

classmen, and to jump to the top of the NWC standings early. Blaine boys basketball will tip off for its season opener on the road against Friday Harbor at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 28. The long, 17-game season will kick up a gear by early December, when the Borderites start its 1A NWC schedule on Tuesday, December 5 when the team visits Bellingham High School. The Borderites first home game is on Saturday, December 2 at 5:30 p.m. against Archbishop Murphy. Girls Basketball This season, Blaine girls basketball is welcoming a new head coach, Vic Wolffis. Wolffis comes to Blaine with an impressive coaching resume, earning two state championships,

placing in the top five seven times, bringing a team to the regional round of the state tournament in every Washington high school athletics classification, and boasting a 351-225 record over his 24 years coaching high school basketball. The girls basketball program will also face Friday Harbor away in the season opener on Tuesday, November 28. The girls team will tip off at 6 p.m. The Borderites’ first home game will be on Tuesday, December 5 against conference foe Bellingham. That game will begin at 7:15 p.m. Boys Wrestling Last winter, the boys wrestling program showed out at the state tournament, with Victor Gervol placing second in his weight class and Cael Button placing third in his division. Those were the only podium finishes for the six wrestlers who made it to state, but the Tom Hinz-coached program is surely hoping for more hardware this upcoming season. Wrestling’s opening meet is on the road at Mariner High School in Everett on Saturday, December 2, featuring matchups against eleven other schools from around western Washington. Boys wrestling’s first home meet will be Wednesday, December 6 at 6 p.m., where the Bor-

s Erika Creydt.

s Ben Lazarus.

s Cliff Freeman.

s Deja Dube goes up for a layup during a game against Mount Baker last season. The Borderites went 4-20 last winter, and will be coached by two-time state champion Vic Wolffis for the upcoming season. File photo by Ian Haupt

By Nolan Baker

derites will face Lynden, Mt. Baker and Sehome wrestlers. Girls Wrestling The girls wrestling team also performed well at last season’s state tournament, placing 8th in the 1A classification. Now-senior Lucy Dahl and departed senior Genesis Vazquez earned All-NWC honors for their efforts last season, with Vazquez earning

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second place at the Mat Classic and Dahl placing fourth. Head coach Damon Higgins’ squad will begin the year on the road at Oak Harbor High School Wednesday, December 6 at 6 p.m. The team’s first home meet of the season isn’t until Wednesday, January 10 when Blaine meets against Sehome and Meridian at 6 p.m.

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School ... From page 5

sports programs. It is unclear what programs, if any, will be cut or reduced to meet budget requirements, but Washington state law requires every public-school student to have “access to arts education.” Cliff Freeman defeated Jeff Carrington for the district 3 position, winning 62.7 percent (3,695) of the vote as of November 9. In his written responses to The Northern Light, Freeman said he is adamantly opposed to any new taxes or levies to increase revenue

s Don Leu. to the district. Freeman also wrote he intends to review school curriculum and state requirements, which he called “craziness.” Freeman wrote that the school board needs to “stop the woke agenda that is poisoning the minds of our kids.” In the position 4 race, Ryan Ford defeated Derrick Bovenkamp with 59.2 percent (3,472) of the vote. Ford told The Northern Light he plans on exploring novel options to garner more funding for the district, like government or even private sector grants. Ford also believes there is a growing rift between the teaching staff and the district that is in need of mending.

“There is a lot of repair needed [between teachers and administration] and I want to see what can be done through open communication with teachers,” Ford wrote. Don Leu, who has been on the school board since 2022, ran unopposed for district 5, winning 98.9 percent of all votes. Leu earned a master’s degree from Harvard University and a Ph.D. at University of California, Berkeley, and is a retired University of Connecticut professor. He’s authored numerous books on literacy education and taught elementary school in the Bay Area. The election will be certified November 28.

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

Garden

A monthly special section in The Northern Light

Historic Wolten home finds renewal with new owners By Madisun Tobisch One of Blaine’s historic homes is entering a new chapter in its legacy thanks to a local family’s patience and dedication to renovation. The home on the corner of Clark and 3rd streets, also known as the 1913 Wolten family home, was purchased earlier this year by Rachel and Wayne Vezzetti, who hope to restore the building back to its original use

as a family home for themselves and their four kids. Rachel grew up in an 1800s farmhouse in Ridgefield, Washington and is no stranger to the work it takes to upkeep a historic home. The couple comes into the project with construction experience after building their last two homes in Blaine and Semiahmoo. When she and Wayne moved back to his hometown of Blaine in 2006, the Wolten home almost immediately caught Rachel’s eye.

“I fell in love,” she said. “We would drive by and I would glue myself to the window. When our last house sold, we thought, ‘why not?’” After tracking down and contacting the former owner, who turned out to be a longtime friend of Wayne’s uncle, the Vezzettis found themselves being handed over the skeleton key and the role of caretakers for their dream home. It was like being passed the baton, Rachel said.

The family are working with a contractor who specializes in historic homes and they hope to use as many remaining original details as possible – from the stained glass windows and original hardwood flooring to the ornate door knobs and vintage light switches. Some of the Wolten family’s cabinetry from the original Wolten and Montfort Grocery Store lies waiting for reuse in the basement, which Rachel said will be converted into a family space.

“It’s got good bones, so that helps,” Wayne said. The biggest surprise so far, Rachel said, was how intact the four-bedroom, one-bathroom home was when they first walked through in April, with no idea what to expect. Before the rebuilding can begin this spring, the Vezzettis plan to spend the winter continuing to clear out any excess materials (See Home, next page)

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s Rachel and Wayne Vezzetti stand on the staircase of their newly purchased historic home. They hope to keep as much of the original detail as possible in the home including the stained glass and wood railings pictured. Photos by Madisun Tobisch

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November 23 - 29, 2023 • thenorthernlight.com

&Garden

Home ... From previous page

and artifacts that have accumulated over the last century. At the end of last summer, they hosted a 15-hour estate sale to speed up the process and give the community a chance to see the inside of the building so deeply rooted in Blaine’s history. “I think that the really neat part is how many people in this community are excited and willing to help out,” Wayne said. By the end of this summer, the Vezzettis hope to have a period-appropriate garage with an upstairs apartment built on the property so they can stay close to the project while in progress. There is no set end date for the completion, but the Vezzettis hope to invite the community back for an open house to celebrate the restoration. “It’s probably not the best financial decision, and that’s OK s The exterior of the historic Wolten family home, 110 years after it was built. Blaine residents Rachel and Wayne Vezzetti bought the house earlier this year in the hopes of fully restoring it to its original use as a family home. Photo by Madisun Tobisch

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because it’s really not just for us,” Rachel said. “Blaine is super special, and so it feels like we’re doing something for the community.” In the future, Rachel said she would like to see an official Blaine historic district dedicated to the continued preservation of the town’s oldest structures. With plenty of work ahead of them, Rachel and Wayne are looking forward to turning the house into their home. Plans for the garden, watching fireworks from their new balcony and stringing the place with lights for every holiday season are already underway.

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

CAP Thanksgiving Basket director retires By Grace McCarthy After 20 years volunteering with the Community Assistance Program’s (CAP) Thanksgiving Basket program, director Shirley Tobian has decided this year will be her last. Tobian was volunteering with the Semiahmoo Women’s Club and Blaine Scholarship Foundation when former Thanksgiving Basket director Brent Brentnall invited her to assist with the annual program. Tobian said she fell in love with the program when she began in 2003, and eventually became director. “I’ll miss the volunteers and seeing the people and the smiles on their faces,” Tobian said. “It’s very rewarding.” Tobian’s duties as director gear up in August and reach about 300 volunteer hours each year after she creates a food list, orders groceries, takes reservations, organizes volunteers, writes donor letters and thank you notes, and more. A group of community members and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) firefighters then distribute a couple of hundred baskets with Thanksgiving fixings a few days before

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the holiday. “It runs like a clock,” Tobian said. “I think that’s what made me be able to stay at the program for as long as I have.” NWFR lieutenant Mike Nelson has volunteered with the program since 1999, when he learned about the program after inspecting a Blaine restaurant where the program started. Nelson enlisted the help of NWFR firefighters over the years. “It’s a huge undertaking,” Nelson said of Tobian’s work. “She does a huge part of the organizing. It’s invaluable.” Nelson said he’ll always remember Tobian as well-organized and steadfast. “She has to hold a tight line to make it all work,” he said. “We call her the general or the sergeant.” After finishing her time with the Thanksgiving Basket program, Tobian said she’ll remain involved with CAP, volunteering one week per month with its crisis assistance program. “It’s a community effort, and in Blaine, we are very lucky that we are a community that cares,” she said. “I’m very grateful for being able to be involved.”

s CAP Thanksgiving Basket program director Shirley Tobian, l., and longtime volunteer Mike Nelson.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Julie Anne Brown, Deceased. NO. 234-01056-37. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030. JUDGE: Evan P. Jones The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed 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 person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time 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 of the claim with the court in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty 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 and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: November 9, 2023 The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington on November 1, 2023, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent: Bonnie Jean Gregory 116 44th Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Attorney for notice agent: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of notice agent’s Declaration and Oath: Superior Court of Whatcom County Cause Number: 23-4-01056-37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR WHATCOM COUNTY STATE OF WASHINGTON In re the Estate of RUBY G. WHITE, deceased. No. 23-4-01013-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman. The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against this Decedent must, before the time when the claim would be barred by any applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to personal representative at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented by the later of (1): Thirty (30) days after the personal representative served or mailed this notice as provided in RCW 11.40.020(1)(c), or (2) Four (4) months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time period, the claim will be forever barred except as provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective for claims against both the Decedent’s probate and non-probate assets. Date of First Publication: November 16, 2023 Personal Representative(s): Gerald G. White and Laura L. Griffith Address for mailing or service: Dean Prather Esq. PLLC 1300 W Holly St Ste 203 Bellingham WA 98225

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Matter of the Trust of: ANNETTE TENNYSON, Deceased. No. No. 23-4-01088-37. NON-PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.42.030 . Judge Robert E. Olson The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed 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 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 Decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent and a personal representative of Decedent’s estate has not been appointed. Any person having a claim against Decedent must, before the time 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 of the claim with the court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty (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 (4) 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 Decedent’s probate and non-probate assets. Date of First Publication: November 23, 2023 The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on November 16, 2023, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct. Robert Tennyson, Notice Agent AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Notice Agent 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham, WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com www.averyelderlaw.com Court of Notice Agent’s oath and declaration and cause number: Whatcom County Superior Court, cause number as per above caption.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: KATHLEEN MICHELE MURPHY, Deceased. No. 23-4-00397-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: November 9, 2023 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: November 16, 2023 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: November 9, 2023 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

MORE LEGALS ON PAGE 12

The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

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Legals (cont.) IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: CHARLOTTE JANE RYERS, Deceased. No. 23-4-01095-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: November 17, 2023 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: November 23, 2023 Name of Administrator: GEOFFREY BURKE FIREBAUGH 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: November 17, 2023 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: GEOFFREY BURKE FIREBAUGH www.averyelderlaw.com

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All real All realestate/rentals estate/rentals advertisadvertising in this ing in this newspaper is subject newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act to the Federal Fair ofHousing 1968 as makes it illegal Act amended, of 1968 as which amended, towhich advertise preference, limitation or dismakesany it illegal to advertise any preference,based limitation discrimcrimination onorrace, color, religion, ination based on familial race, color,status religion, sex, handicap, or national orisex, or handicap familial status or nagin, an intention to make any such preftional origin, or an intention to make erence, limitationlimitation or discrimination. This any such preference, or disnewspaper willnewspaper not knowingly crimination. This will not accept any advertisement estate which is in viknowingly acceptfor anyreal advertisement for real of estate is in violation olation thewhich law. Our readersofare hereby inthe law. that Our readers are hereby informed all dwellings advertised in thisCommunity Newspaper of Blaine, Birch Bay & Semiahmoo formed that all dwellings advertised newspaper are available on an equal opporin this newspaper are available on an tunity basis. To complain of discrimination, equal opportunity basis. To complain call HUD toll-free 1-800-877-0246. of discrimination, callatHUD toll-free at

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: LYNDA S. FEENSTRA, Deceased. No. 23-4-01055-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Lee Grochmal. The Person named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: November 15, 2023, with the Clerk of Court Date of First Publication: November 23, 2023 Name of Personal Representative: Ina Kathleen Feenstra Attorney for Personal Representative: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 P: (360) 639-3393 E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com DATED: Novemebr 14, 2023 True North Legal Services, PLLC Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Attorney for Personal Representative: Ina Kathleen Feenstra

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: MICHAEL DEAN INGALLS, Deceased. No. 23-4-00841-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: November 16, 2023 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: November 23, 2023 Name of Administrator: EVAN P. INGALLS 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: November 16, 2023 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: EVAN P. INGALLS www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Louise Joan Ehlers, Deceased. NO. 23-4-00357-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal. The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: November 9, 2023 Personal Representative: Cindy Maxwell PO Box 32510 Bellingham, WA 98228 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-00357-37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Gloria Vance, Deceased. NO. 22-400122-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: November 16, 2023 Personal Representative: Raeann Taylor 3993 Gentlebrook Lane #41 Bellingham, WA 98226 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 22-4-00122-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Janet M. Vitali, Deceased. NO. 23-401059-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Evan P. Jones. The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: November 16, 2023 Personal Representative: Denise J. Christensen 4997 Mosquito Lake Road Deming, WA 98244 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-01059-37.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: GERALD K. ZEVENBERGEN, Deceased. No. 23-4-00929-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Evan Jones. The Person named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(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 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: November 14, 2023, with the Clerk of Court Date of First Publication: November 23, 2023 Name of Personal Representative: Michael Scott Zevenbergen Attorney for Personal Representative: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 P: (360) 639-3393 E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com DATED: Novemebr 14, 2023 True North Legal Services, PLLC Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339 Attorney for Personal Representative: Michael Scott Zevenbergen

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November 23 - 29, 2023 • thenorthernlight.com

Road Rules: How traffic fatalities BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL and enforcement trends have changed

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much or how we get it back. I’ll leave that to the data researchers and the conspiracy theorists. I do know that within the law enforcement community there is the will. A few weeks ago I had the privilege of speaking at a conference to over 100 law enforcement officers who came together because of their commitment to making our roads safer. They are just a fraction of the many officers out on the roads arresting impaired drivers intervening in high-risk driving behaviors. Last year we had the most traffic fatalities since 1990. But let’s give that more context. Almost every year prior to 1990 exceeded 750 traffic fatalities. From 1968 (as far back as I could find records) to 1990 we averaged 827 traffic deaths a year, peaking at over 1,000 in 1979. Yes, it’s a tragedy how many people die on our roads. But it’s not hopeless. From 1990 to 2010 we reduced traffic fatalities by nearly half. If we all agree that it’s important enough, we can do that again. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

360.739.5606 evelynehendricks@gmail.com

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Question: I’m writing in response to data you shared surrounding the increase in traffic fatalities. A question comes to mind: Are there statistics compiled showing overall traffic enforcement, and any trend over the past three to five years? And does that trend in enforcement have any correlation to the increase in fatalities? Call it anecdotal, but I would suggest there is a trend. Answer: You’re asking a great question, but I don’t think you went big enough. It’s hard to spot a trend in a three-to-five-year window. So I went bigger. Let’s take a look at the last 20 years of traffic fatalities and traffic enforcement. I’ve got all the actual numbers, but before we get to the details, take a look at this simplified chart that overlays the patterns for the last 20 years of traffic enforcement and fatalities. Near the middle of the chart (2003-2009) we have a peak in traffic enforcement. For several years after that, traffic fatalities declined. Then as enforcement decreased fatalities began to rise. Here’s the high

point for each category of enforcement, the lowest year for fatalities, and last year’s levels: • Infraction – 1.28 million in 2009 versus 417,156 in 2022 • DUI/physical control – 44,685 in 2003 versus 19,646 in 2022 • Other criminal traffic – 199,669 in 1995 versus 41,612 in 2022 • Traffic fatalities – 436 in 2013 versus 750 in 2022 For anyone bad with numbers, I’ll spell it out. We’re going the wrong way. Does this mean that more traffic enforcement would reduce fatalities? I wish it were that easy. Enforcement matters, but we can’t arrest our way to zero fatalities. In the past, stricter DUI laws and primary seat belt laws reduced fatal crashes, but so did a shift in cultural attitudes toward impaired driving and wearing a seat belt. Improvements in vehicle engineering and better road design save lives, along with setting speed limits that make sense for the driving environment. So does the proximity of the nearest emergency responder. Yes, enforcement is part of the solution. I’m not going to speculate on why it dropped off so

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

Coming up

Police Reports November 11, 7:18 a.m.: Hit and run on East Street.

November 16, 8:28 a.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.

November 16, 4:46 p.m.: Burglary on H Street.

November 11, 10:43 a.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on C Street.

November 16, 2:25 p.m.: Theft on G Street.

November 16, 4:48 p.m.: Trespass on Marine Drive.

November 11, 4:20 p.m.: Fraud on Cherry Street.

November 16, 3:35 p.m.: Trespass on G Street.

November 16, 6:21 p.m.: Trespass on Adelia Street.

November 12, 1:34 p.m.: Suspicious person on D Street.

November 16, 4:26 p.m.: Trespass on G Street.

November 16, 10:17 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Pipeline Road.

Community Toy Store Registration: Holiday gift assistance program for families living in the Blaine school district. For more info and to register, visit blainecap.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Registration deadline: November 26.

November 12, 8:11 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on Marine Drive.

November 16, 4:39 p.m.: Burglary on G Street.

November 17, 8:51 a.m.: Hot rod on Drayton Harbor Road.

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

November 13, 2:16 p.m.: Fraud on Clark Street.

November 14, 3:56 p.m.: Vandalism on F Street. November 14, 6:46 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on Marine Drive. November 15, 12:58 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on H Street. November 15, 1:18 p.m.: Trespass on H Street. November 15, 6:31 p.m.: Vehicle prowl on Peace Portal Drive. November 15, 10:22 p.m.: Domestic – verbal on Bayview Avenue. November 16, 1:26 a.m.: Music on Great Horned Owl Lane. November 16, 5:46 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Peace Portal Drive.

November 12, 12:54 a.m.: DUI on Blaine and Birch Bay-Lynden Road. November 12, 10:44 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Gulf Road. November 13, 3:24 p.m.: Parking problem on Fern Street. November 13, 6:03 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. November 13, 6:25 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. November 13, 8:40 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Loomis Trail Road. November 13, 10:55 p.m.: Security check on Makah Road.

Crossword ACROSS 1. Old English letters 5. Sculpture 11. Showing up again 14. Tie the knot again 15. Washington city 18. Stiff structures in invertebrates 19. Mark over a vowel 21. Explosive 23. Popular race: __ 500 24. Pile up 28. Mint 29. Commercial 30. A minute amount (Scottish) 32. Small Eurasian deer 33. Baseball stat 35. Numbers cruncher 36. Japanese masked drama 39. Gasteyer and de Armas are two 41. Blood group 42. Assist in wrong doing 44. Language spoken in Cameroon and Chad

Whatcom Hospice “Grief and the Holidays” Session: Thursday, November 30, 1–2:30 p.m., at Blaine United Church of Christ, 815 4th Street. The class will focus on navigating the holidays after a loved one has died. Free and registration required. Info: 360/733-5877 or whatcomhospicegrief@peacehealth.org.

Sheriff’s Reports

November 13, 7:06 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Mitchell Avenue.

46. Grayish-white 47. A woolen cap of Scottish origin 49. Microorganism 52. Place under prohibition 56. Calm, dependable 58. Congressman 60. Force 62. As a result of this document 63. One of two main branches of Islam

DOWN 1. Make a mistake 2. Gordon and Snider are two 3. Geographical region of Finland 4. Ejected saliva 5. A way of performing 6. Scotland’s longest river 7. One of the six noble gases (abbr.) 8. Body art 9. Two-toed sloth 10. Electronic counter-countermeasures

12. Foolish person (Brit.) 13. Of the wind 16. Grand home 17. Sound 20. English river 22. Symbol indicating ownership 25. Exclamation of surprise 26. Pouch 27. Apart from 29. Satisfaction 31. The bill in a restaurant 34. Sea bream 36. Port in southern Japan 37. Double-reed instruments 38. Center 40. South Dakota 43. An orderly crowd 45. Indicates position 48. __-pedi 50. Nonsense (slang) 51. Republic of Ireland 53. Nocturnal flyers 54. American state 55. Clusters in fern fronds 57. Patriotic women

Community Toy Store Donation Drive: Through December 1. Brand new, good quality toys and $25 gift cards for teens will be accepted at the Blaine Library, Senior Center and Pacific Building Center. Visit blainecap.org for more info, additional locations in Semiahmoo and Birch Bay and online and monetary giving options. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.

November 14, 7:30 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. November 14, 8:59 a.m.: Mental health cold call on Surf Place. November 14, 9:48 a.m.: Welfare check on Drayton Harbor Road. November 14, 2:26 p.m.: Domestic order violence on Moonglow Court. November 14, 3:40 p.m.: Fraud cold call on East Street. November 14, 5:07 p.m.: Impound private on Valley View Road. November 14, 5:41 p.m.: Civil standby on Stein Road.

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting: Thursday, November 30, 5–7 p.m., Christ the King North Bay, 4895 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Chamber members and guests are invited for an evening of music, light food and drink and silent auction. $25. RSVP: birchbaychamber.com.

58. A person’s brother or sister 59. Breed of sheep 61. Popular film “De spicable __”

Pacific Arts Market: Friday–Sunday December 1–3, 8–10, 15–17, Bellis Fair mall between JC Penney and the food court. Enjoy carefully curated handmade gifts including candles, soaps, jewelry, ceramics, photography, woodwork, clothing, desserts, resin pour art, fiber arts and beautifully upcycled décor. Info: pacificartsmarket.com.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

November 23-29 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME

HEIGHT

TIME

HEIGHT

Th 23 1:58 am 10.8

7:15 am

7.4

1:51 pm 14.3

8:54 pm

5.2

Fr 24 3:22 am 11.9

8:21 am

8.7

2:21 pm 14.2

9:30 pm

3.8

Sa 25 4:28 am 13.0

9:25 am

9.8

2:51 pm 14.1

10:06 pm

2.6

Su 26 5:26 am 14.0 3:21 pm 13.8 Mo 27 6:16 am 14.7 3:51 pm 13.5 Tu 28 7:04 am 15.1 4:23 pm 13.1 We 29 7:50 am 15.2

10:25 am 10.7 10:42 pm

1.9

11:21 am 11.3 11:18 pm

1.6

12:17 pm 11.6 11:56 pm

Semiahmoo Resort Holiday Lights Market: Friday, December 1, 5–9 p.m. at 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Celebrate the winter season with wares from local artists, family activities for all, live music and woodfire pizza at Semiahmoo Resort. St. Anne Christmas Market: Friday, December 1, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday, December 2, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m., St. Anne Church, 604 H Street. Crafts, baked goods, raffle. This year’s theme: winter wonderland. To rent a table, call 360/319-3643. Olde Fashioned Christmas in Ferndale: Friday and Saturday, December 1 and 2, 4–9 p.m., Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry Street, Ferndale. Costumed volunteers will open the log cabin doors to greet you, so you feel the holiday cheer as it drifts into the winter air. Stroll the sidewalks while enjoying Christmas music and over 90,000 lights. Tickets: $5 adults and $3 for children. Info: ferndaleheritagesociety.com.

Holiday Harbor Lights at Blaine Senior Center and Pavilion: Saturday, December 2, 8 a.m.–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Community breakfast from 8:30–10:30 a.m., Blaine Community Theatre performs at 10:30 a.m., holiday craft bazaar 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m., kid care for bazaar shoppers for ages 5+ from noon–4 p.m., crafts at noon, 12:30 and 3 p.m., live music from noon–7 p.m., and beer garden with Gateway Taphouse 3–7 p.m. Info: 360/332-8040. Library Book Sale: Saturday, December 2, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaine Library meeting room, 610 3rd Street. Something for everyone. Books, DVDs, CDs and more. Sponsored by Friends of Blaine Library.

Tides DATE

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, November 30 , 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

1.7

1:15 pm 11.8

4:53 pm 12.7

Weather Precipitation: During the period of November 13 to 19, 0.4 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2023 year-to-date precipitation is 22 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 60°F on November 18 with a low of 30.9°F on November 16. Average high was 54.9°F and low was 34.4°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Holiday Harbor Lights Downtown: Saturday, December 2, downtown Blaine. Holiday craft bazaar and beer garden with Beach Cat Brewing 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; meet the Grinch 1–3 p.m., Blaine High School choir and band, 4–5 p.m.; tree lighting at 4:45 p.m., visit with Santa and free carriage and train rides 5–7 p.m. Info: blainechamber.com. 11th Annual Holiday Lights Obstacle Dash: Saturday, December 2, 2 p.m. Lincoln Park, Blaine. A winter-themed fun run through the park. Adults $10, Family up to 5 $30, ages 5-7 $5, 4 and under free. Info and registration: bbbparkandrec.org.

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 blainefood@hotmail.com. The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2 p.m.–4:30 p.m. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome. CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484. Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Narcotics Anonymous: Mondays, 7–8 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Everyone welcome. Info: Blainenarcoticsanonymous@gmail.com. Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Mondays, noon–1 p.m. on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: Jerrylyn at 360/305-2246. Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at noon, Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at noon, women’s meeting Mondays at 4 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Info: 307/349-0450.

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

November 23 - 29, 2023 • thenorthernlight.com

Bereavement services offered in Blaine By Grace McCarthy Whatcom Hospice will hold a class on grief during the holidays in Blaine and then will bring a support series to the community at the start of the new year. Whatcom Hospice will hold its “Grief and the Holidays Session” 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, November 30 at Blaine United Church of Christ, 815 4th Street. The class will focus on navigating the holidays after a loved one has died. A six-week grief support group

called “A Journey Toward Hope and Healing” will be held 1-2:30 p.m. every Thursday from January 11 through February 8 at Blaine United Church of Christ. Two Whatcom Hospice Bereavement caregivers will provide education and support on grief throughout the month-long series. The group is limited to 10 people. Whatcom Hospice will also host its annual Celebration of Light service 6:30 p.m. Saturday, December 2 and 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 6 at Squalicum

Boathouse, 2600 N. Harbor Loop Drive in Bellingham. The Celebration of Light will honor loved ones who have died with a reading of names, live music, a speaker and light refreshments. People are encouraged to bring a picture or meaningful object to the program. Registration is required. The Whatcom Hospice programs are free and require registration. To register for Whatcom Hospice programs, contact Whatcom Hospice at 360/733-5877 or whatcomhospicegrief@peacehealth.org.

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City of Blaine enters contract for power outage communications The city of Blaine has contracted a dispatch service to respond to residents during power outages. Blaine City Council unanimously approved the contract with Basin Electric Power Cooperative’s dispatch team during its November 13 meeting. The company, located in Bismarck, North Dakota, will charge the city a sign-up fee of $2,000, plus a base fee of $650 per month plus an additional 16 cents per meter. Blaine public works crews

have previously needed to answer calls about power outages while working on high voltage lines, causing a safety hazard for the crews, according to the city. The dispatch service will update residents on the status of the outage, as well as take payment and turn on the power for residents whose power is disconnected when they fail to pay. The dispatch will answer incoming calls to public works outside of business hours and

will try to answer callers in a timely manner, according to its contract with the city. The company uses automated answering and customers may experience queues during heavy call times. The dispatch team will contact the public works department about outages and give all non-emergency calls to public works by 8:30 a.m. the following business day. The contract was set to start this month.

Sustainable Connections gift cards highlight local businesses Sustainable Connections is rolling out a gift card that can be used at more than 270 Whatcom County businesses this holiday season. The Think Local First gift cards, which Sustainable Connections created to help local businesses, covers shops, restau-

rants, services and entertainment throughout the county. The Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer businesses where the card can be used are Semiahmoo Resort, Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, Living Pantry, Blaine Healing Arts Massage Therapy, Day to Day

Dance, Velocity Athletic Training, Bow Wow and Woofs, Beach Cat Brewing, Travel with Angela, Grace Harbor Farms and Widnor Farms. To view the full list of businesses included on the Think Local First gift card, visit app.yiftee. com/gift-card/bellingham.

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The Northern Light • November 23 - 29, 2023

Blaine-Birch Bay parks and recreation hosts son’s choice dance Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 hosted its first son’s choice dance at the Birch Bay Activity Center on November 18.

Children danced the night away with their favorite dance partner, while enjoying glow sticks, lively tunes and snacks.

Photo by Celine Mauger

Photo by Laura Brudvik

We’ve Got That HOT TURKEY SANDWICH Available daily in November starting at 11AM Open-faced hot turkey sandwich. Texas toast layered with sliced turkey, topped with giblet gravy, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.

$15.95

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