Though the historic Plover ferry remains seaworthy, Blaine City Council discussed the sunk cost endured to repair, maintain, operate and insure the aging vessel during a Monday, March 9 study session before the regular council meeting.
During the session, City Manager Mike Harmon said this year could be the Plover’s swan song. Increasing maintenance and staffing costs, difficulty insuring passengers and crew aboard the vessel, dwindling tourism funds and a dispute with the Plover’s former caretakers are all pushing the city away from another year of tours.
LIMITED SCHEDULE
The Plover will run in 2026. But with only $40,000 budgeted by the city, Finance Director Jennifer Heiner warned council members that will not be enough to run as often as in previous years.
Last year, the Plover ferried 4,280 passengers over 15 weekends and cost the city roughly $135,000 in expenditures while bringing in $22,000 in revenue, Heiner said.
Funding for the Plover comes from the city’s tourism dollars, which have dwindled over the past few years. Heiner warned council that the city must reduce its tourism spending by $110,000 in 2027 to stay above water.
Over the past four years, the city has spent about $325,000 on the Plover, with the majority of expenses going toward repairs and maintenance, Heiner said.
PLOVER BECOMES
HARDER TO INSURE
The Plover operates with two insurance policies: one standard policy for the boat and equipment, and another operational policy for passengers and crew members.
The latter policy is up for renewal in June, and Harmon said numerous insurance companies denied requests to insure operations for more than the current $1 million liability policy.
Even Lloyd’s of London, the British insurance marketplace known for insuring complex and high-risk endeavors from offshore oil rigs to singer’s vocal cords, refused to insure the Plover, Harmon said. According to Heiner, the city spent $15,500 insuring the
Plover, page 5)
Blaine City Council lifts downtown building, design requirements for one year
Blaine City Council voted 5-1-1 during its Monday meeting to approve an interim ordinance that would create a one-year Wild West for downtown zoning by eliminating building height restrictions, design review and minimum parking requirements.
In theory, the one-year window could give developers an opportunity to create a skyscraper with any design of their choosing in downtown Blaine, though Blaine Planning Director Alex Wenger said other regulations could impose additional requirements.
“I would look at it like an economic stimulus package that’s valid for up to one year,” Wenger said.
City Manager Mike Harmon asked the planning department to review possible changes to its downtown zoning regulations that could incentivize housing growth.
Wenger said the decision was a culmination of several factors, including the city struggling to attract downtown developers and housing growth sprawling from the city. It also came as the city was updating its comprehensive plan for long-term growth and responding to new state legislation focused on increasing housing stock, especially for affordable homes.
Design requirements will become guidelines that still require staff approval. Other reviews, such as for ADA and stormwater,
(See Zoning, page 3)
s Mount Vernon High School’s mariachi
Photo by Traci Bowe
Photo by Joe Meche
Zoning ...
From page 1
will remain. Larger buildings will also have a State Environmental Policy Act review that could trigger additional requirements, Wenger said.
Harmon told the council that the city could reverse its interim ordinance if it received an influx of development interest.
Councilmembers Sarbie Bains, Don Enos, Isaac Newland, Jiggy Sorrell and Mayor Mary Lou Stewad voted in support, while Richard May was against and Sonia Hurt abstained.
INTERIM ZONING ORDINANCE
Washington state law allows city council to enact interim zoning ordinances for up to one year without prior public hearing, as long as the public is allowed a hearing two months after the ordinance’s adoption and city staff develops a work plan to study the related zoning changes.
The interim ordinance may be extended in six-month increments after one year if a public hearing is held before each extension.
Permanent zoning changes go before the planning commission, which makes a recommendation to city council, often requiring deliberation over several meetings.
The interim ordinance had not been discussed at a prior council meeting, and a public hearing notice was later published March 5 on the city’s website. Wenger said city staff decided to hold the hearing during the same meeting as the vote, which he said allowed councilors enough time to vote.
Harmon and Steward recently met with developers who wanted to build in downtown Blaine, but said government regulations were a barrier. Attracting that growth has been an ongoing challenge for the city, which has faced lower sales tax revenue, especially from lower border traffic in recent years.
“Since I’ve been your manager in Blaine, the one word I’ve heard over and over is potential. Blaine has so much potential,” Harmon said. “Why can’t Blaine unlock its potential?”
The decision followed contentious zoning changes in 2024 that drew public pushback but failed to attract downtown developers.
These interim changes are more significant than those made
in 2024, when council allowed building heights on the west side of Peace Portal Drive to increase from three to four stories, and allowed developers to have reduced downtown residential parking requirements in exchange for paying the city a fee for transportation improvements.
City staff wanted to revisit maximum height restrictions because the limitations made housing less affordable by limiting the number of units on one lot.
Staff also said parking requirements had an inordinate impact on housing costs, and pointed to two brief parking studies that city consultants conducted in 2024 that showed downtown Blaine had adequate parking.
Wenger said the city wants to direct new growth downtown, where the city just finished a $4 million downtown revitalization project and infrastructure is already in place. Over the past few years, most of the city’s housing growth has been focused in east and west Blaine, which require
costly utility infrastructure. Wenger said the changes would better align with recent statewide legislation that asked cities to plan for affordable housing, allow existing mixed-use buildings to accommodate more housing, and streamline design review processes.
PROPOSED BUILDINGS
Johannes van Leenen is CEO
and president of Fifth Avenue Homes, a Canada-based development company that is considering two buildings in downtown Blaine. During the meeting, van Leenen said the interim ordinance would allow his company to move forward with a six-story building it designed for 648 Peace Portal Drive, between Black Forest Steak
House building and Ttowa Sushi. The building, called Peace Portal Rentals, would have 54 rental
(See Zoning, page 6)
Member of the Month
Reichhardt & Ebe Engineering Inc.
423 Front Street, Lynden, WA 98264 360-354-3687
www.recivil.com
Number of employees: 22.
How long in business: Reichhardt & Ebe was established in 1993.
Description of the business: We are a consulting Civil Engineering company that predominantly works for local municipalities mostly in Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties. We design and provide construction management services for projects like streets, utilities and recreational facilities. Recent projects in Blaine include Boblett Street and the Boys and Girls Club.
How the business started: In 1976, Carl and Marjorie Reichhardt moved to the Blaine area, Carl as a consulting engineer for the DelMonte Corporation, the initial developers of Semiahmoo, and Marjorie spearheading the Semiahmoo Park project. After the Semiahmoo Marina project was completed in 1981, the Reichhardt’s remained in the Blaine area and Carl formed Reichhardt Engineering, doing many civil engineering projects in Whatcom County. In 1993 Carl and Greg Ebe formed Reichhardt & Ebe Engineering, Inc. The company grew rapidly in the next ten years, specializing in municipal engineering. In 2012 Reichhardt & Ebe, Inc. was sold to three employees, Luis Ponce, Dale Buys and Nathan Zylstra. Greg Ebe returned to his family farming heritage and Carl Reichhardt continued as a project engineer for Reichhardt & Ebe.
Future goals: Our goals include providing value-based local services to the communities in which we live. To improve our communities with reliable water, and sewer; safe streets, and enhanced recreational opportunities. Providing jobs in one of the best places to live.
“Thank you for your dedication to journalism and local news.” - Barbara Swansen
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“We appreciate the broad coverage of events happening in Northern Whatcom County, including Blaine, Birch Bay, and Semiahmoo. We like the format, size, and the fact that it is supported by the community without subscription through donations and advertisers. Compared to the weekly local paper in our home city, this one far outshines! Please keep up the good work.” - Lynn Wilson
“Thank you for putting out a great paper for last 35 years I’ve been in town.” - Kind Regards, Marv Adam
The Northern Light is published weekly by Daffodil Press, LLC.
About Daffodil Press
Daffodil Press is a locally owned, community-centered publishing company dedicated to strong local journalism and vibrant regional storytelling.
We proudly publish:
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We welcome thoughtful letters from our readers. Letters should address local issues of broad community interest and help foster informed civic dialogue.
Please include your name, address, email and daytime phone number for verification. Letters are limited to 150 words. We may edit for clarity, length, legality and standards of civility. We do not publish falsehoods or hate speech.
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Our letters page is like a town square
We’ve made a few updates to our letters to the editor policies.
But the core principle remains the same: The letters page is our town square, and we support that tradition.
Community newspapers have long served as the place where neighbors debate ideas, challenge leaders, and speak directly to one another. We believe that’s an important part of civic life, and we want the letters page to remain a place where a wide range of voices can be heard.
But a town square still needs rules.
And newspapers, whether we like it or not, have a lot of them.
Newspapering is older than America itself. By the time the First Amendment was written, newspapers were already central to public debate, which is why freedom of the press was written into the Constitution. Over the centuries since, a complex web of laws and standards has developed around publishing. Much of it is byzantine and multilayered.
But one principle is simple and non-negotiable:
We fact-check.
The Northern Light
229 Marine Drive
Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXXI, No 38
Circulation: 11,000 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
The Editor:
I have to congratulate you on assuming the reins at The Northern Light. It truly is a smart and dedicated source of dialogue and informed outlook for our small part of the world and you have such an informed and intelligent readership.
Blaine is truly unique in its political footprint in having such a cross border populace. Opinions from both sides of the aisle are truly how this thing called democracy is supposed to work. I, for one, enjoy the letters and the discussion of all topics that have to do with our little corner of the state.
I would hope that you might reconsider your commencement of limiting the Letters to the Editor section to 150 words. Sometimes it takes more, to get a message across, pro or con. We are a diversified community that celebrates a wide scope of views and beliefs.
Limiting letters to such a small word count I believe would inhibit such valuable attitudes and ideas that might be voiced to educate and inform your readers. Thank you.
Current word count at 200. Sometimes it takes a little bit more to get a message or sentiment across.
Tom Cresswell
Blaine
The Editor:
This is in response to "Blaine school district creates citizen advisory committee to consider bond" published Feb. 12, 2026, in The Northern Light, regarding the bond supermajority changes:
The current legislative push in Olympia
If a letter contains factual claims, we will verify them. If the facts don’t bear out, we won’t publish them.
Some readers occasionally ask why that matters in an era when people can say almost anything online.
The answer is straightforward: Newspapers are legally responsible for what they publish.
In print, the publisher is responsible for the final act of libel — publication. If we knowingly publish false statements, we can be held liable.
By contrast, social media platforms operate under a different legal framework. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (1996) generally shields online platforms from being treated as the publisher or speaker of user-generated content. In other words, liability for defamatory statements typically rests with the person who posts them, not the platform that hosts them.
That distinction exists for practical reasons — platforms can’t realistically vet billions of posts — but it means the standards governing newspapers and social media are very different.
For a newspaper, the rule is clear.
Letters
to lower the voter approval threshold for school bonds from 60% down to 55% — represented by Senate Bill 5186 and Senate Joint Resolution 8200 — threatens a critical protection for Washington taxpayers. While proponents argue that this change “modernizes” the standard, it actually undermines the necessary community consensus required for long-term, multi-decade debt.
Maintaining the 60% supermajority is essential for several reasons:
Ensuring broad consensus: School bonds are not short-term levies; they often carry 20- to 30-year commitments. Such longterm debt obligations warrant a higher standard of approval to ensure they reflect a true community-wide agreement rather than a narrow, potentially temporary majority.
Taxpayer protection: The 60% threshold acts as a vital safeguard against excessive property tax increases. It compels school districts to develop fiscally responsible plans and communicate their necessity effectively to the entire community, rather than just a simple majority.
Encouraging better planning: As some opponents of the bill have noted, the answer to failed bond measures is not to change the rules, but to build a better case for voters. A high threshold ensures that only the most well-vetted and necessary projects move forward.
Constitutional integrity: This requirement has been part of our state's foundation for nearly 75 years. Altering it requires a constitutional amendment, a process that should not be taken lightly just because some districts find the current standard "unachievable."
CiviC Meetings
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Town halls typically at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday meeting each month. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee: Third Wednesday of each month, 6 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Updated meeting info: bit.ly/3QmWVcX.
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-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday of each
We cannot — and will not — publish unverified accusations or claims that don’t hold up under basic fact-checking. If a statement proves unfounded, we won’t print it, even if someone insists on saying it.
It’s also worth saying something else clearly: No one has a “right” to be published in a newspaper whenever or however they want.
This is still a business. We have a finite amount of ink, paper, space — and time for fact-checking. Every letter we publish requires editing, verification and production resources.
That’s why we limit writers to one letter per month, and every letter will still be factchecked before publication.
The goal isn’t to restrict debate. It’s to make sure the letters page remains fair, civil and accessible to many voices rather than dominated by a few.
The letters page is a place for strong opinions, vigorous debate and community conversation.
But it must also remain a place grounded in facts, fairness and accountability — the same principles that have guided newspapers for centuries.
Lowering the bar to 55% would allow a minority of projects to impose long-term financial burdens on the rest of the community without the broad support that such significant investments demand. We should insist that our school districts meet the high standard of excellence and transparency that a 60% vote requires.
Paul Engelund
Custer
The Editor: After decades of “controlled damage” to my fingernails with manicures at salons that are mostly about getting customers in and out quickly, my naked fingernails are literally paper-thin, easily folding backward, tearing, splitting, ripping.
When I heard about Gina Freeman’s new Moonberri Spa (wait ‘til you hear the story about the name), I was excited that at last my fingernails can be healthy again! Gina heard my story, examined my nails and laid out an action plan. It will take many weeks to repair the damage, but I am certain the whole procedure will be worthwhile.
I am excited about this wonderful new shop in downtown Blaine; I expect this will be a house of healing for our city. Check it out at 380 H St. and moonberrispa@gmail.com. Jeanne Halsey Birch Bay
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
month at 6 p.m. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
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.
Port of Bellingham: First and third Tuesday, 4 p.m., Port of Bellingham Harbor Center, 1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. 146, in Bellingham and via Zoom. Info: portofbellingham.com.
Plover ...
From page 1
“Anything that happens over a million bucks, we’re writing checks out of the general fund because we cannot get insurance beyond that,” Harmon said.
Council members suggested the possibility of gifting the boat to a historical society for preservation, or creating a replica Plover, similar to the Lady Washington wooden ship.
PLOVER WON’T
DOCK AT SEMIAHMOO
The Plover will also no longer dock at Semiahmoo Marina due to a dispute with Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM), which owns where the Plover docks.
Instead of retracing the commute taken by cannery workers from Blaine to Semiahmoo and back during its heyday, the historic wooden ship will instead do short tours of Semiahmoo Bay, departing from and returning to Blaine Marina for each trip, Harmon said.
Due to a dispute over insurance, the city is unwilling to pay a fee to DHM to continue using the dock, Harmon said.
The city refuses to pay insurance for a dock that it does not own, and DHM cannot allow a boat to unload passengers at an uninsured dock, according to its lease with Semiahmoo Resort.
Brad Bytnar, a member of the DHM board of directors, said the maritime nonprofit is disheartened with the city’s decision to forgo its historic route.
“It’s disappointing,” Bytnar said.
“The Plover’s never been a money maker. It’s been subsidized its entire existence. It’s a piece of Blaine history, a piece of maritime history. It is Blaine. The face of Blaine is the Plover.”
Bytnar said the city would need to pay $6,600 to insure the dock for the next year, and that the policy will lapse on March 16.
After a 2022 U.S. Coast Guard inspection discovered structural damage in the ship’s hull, the city awarded DHM a $130,000 contract for major repairs. DHM got
the Plover sailing during the summer of 2024, but went $35,000 over budget.
Bytnar said DHM believes it is still owed that amount since it could not reasonably estimate the repair costs when initial bids were requested. DHM was the only bidder, according to previous reporting by The Northern Light COUNCIL DISCUSSES
MARINE PARK UPGRADES
The Plover’s fate lies in whether the city will earmark about $4 million in extensive Marine Park upgrades to attract more tourism.
During the work session, council discussed how it could fund upgrades that could include at least a half dozen pickleball courts, a basketball court, skate park, pump track and splash park.
The city took public comment on park plans in June, with 48 respondents opposing the changes due to noise, loss of bird habitat and lack of open space. The 78 respondents who supported the upgrades cited enthusiasm for
the wide range of activities, especially those geared toward children and families.
To finance the project, the city would likely need to dip into its tourism fund that could soon be running in the red. Heiner said an unbalanced fund would mean the city couldn’t fund Marine Park upgrades, the Plover and other tourism-related amenities like the Visitor Information Center, all at once.
“All these things coming together,” Heiner said. “Really it’s part of one grand discussion.”
s The Plover ferry leaves Blaine Harbor in July 2024.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Plover in 2026.
Zoning ...
van Leenen said. COMMUNITY FEEDBACK AND COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Over a dozen people discussed the zoning proposal during the public hearing, many of whom were in support of downtown growth but were wary of what fewer development restrictions and taller buildings could mean for maintaining the city’s character.
“We
a development that’s already been designed that we would like to start building on,”
Blaine resident Kyle Burton said the interim ordinance brought mixed emotions.
“It’s exciting for growth, and
then also what’s going to come of it?” Burton said.
Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. co-owner Steve Seymour told council he wasn’t sure how he felt about the interim zoning changes. He said he applauded the city for trying to spur downtown growth, but was worried what it would mean to remove design and height requirements.
Blaine resident Benjamin Meeker said he was concerned there wasn’t enough housing for young adults.
“The kids graduating high school today, long term, how are they to live in Blaine if they love Blaine?” Meeker asked. “My only recommendation is anything you can do to help more housing in Blaine.”
Following the public comment, May recommended council approve the interim ordinance with an amendment that removed the garden district, a one-block district buffering the Salishan Neighborhood, whose residents have raised concerns about downtown development near their homes.
Councilmember Sarbie Bains said Salishan residents didn’t attend the meeting to share their perspectives.
“They knew the meeting was happening. Everything is publicized, right?” Bains said. “So I think if somebody had a problem with it, why wouldn’t they show up?”
Hurt responded that residents didn’t attend because the hearing was quickly put together.
“It’s unusual to do something within just a two-week period,” Hurt said.
May’s amendment was struck down by other council members before council approved the temporary removal of downtown building height, design and parking restrictions.
The new zoning changes will go into effect March 16.
Nolan Baker contributed to the reporting of this article.
s A rendering of Blaine Harbor Rentals, a six-story building with 103 rental units planned at 277 G Street. Image courtesy of Fifth Avenue Homes
s A rendering of Peace Portal Rentals, a six-story building with 54 rental units planned at 648 Peace Portal Drive. Image courtesy of Fifth Avenue Homes
cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Each year, more than 154,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer.
Since the mid-’80s, the rate of colorectal cancer in older adults has steadily declined. This improvement is largely due to increased screening and changes in lifestyle-related risk factors. However, rates of colorectal cancer are rising among people younger than 50, which makes awareness and screening even more important.
The primary goal of screening is to prevent deaths from colorectal cancer. Screening tests can detect cancer at an early and potentially curable stage. Even more importantly, screening can help prevent cancer from developing in the first place by identifying precancerous growths called polyps. These abnormal growths can often be removed before they turn into cancer.
Who should be screened for colon cancer?
Most people should begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45.
Some individuals may have a higher risk of developing colon cancer due to factors such as a strong family history of colorectal cancer or certain medical conditions. People at higher risk may need to begin screening earlier than 45 and may require different screening strategies. Discussing your personal risk factors with your health care provider can help determine the best screening plan for you.
How is colon cancer screening done?
There are different screening options available for colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening test. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a small camera to examine the entire colon. This test is unique because it allows doctors to detect and remove polyps during the same procedure, making it both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool.
A colonoscopy can identify most small polyps and nearly all large polyps and cancers. If polyps are found, they can usually be removed immediately. If the colonoscopy is normal and you have no additional risk factors, the test typically does not need to be repeated for 10 years.
Another screening option includes stool-based tests, which check for hidden blood or abnormal cancer DNA in a stool sample. Some polyps and cancers can bleed, and these tests are designed to detect those signals.
However, stool tests may miss 5070% of advanced polyps, which are polyps that carry a higher risk of becoming cancer.
If a stool test result is positive, a colonoscopy is required as the next step to determine the cause.
Early detection is key Colon cancer screening saves lives. Detecting cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, and removing precancerous polyps can prevent cancer from developing altogether.
Every conversation about screening is an opportunity to prevent cancer. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important reminder to prioritize colon cancer screening and prevention.
Dr. Rinad Tabbalat is a board-cer-
tified gastroenterologist at Northwest Gastroenterology and Endoscopy in Bellingham. Her experience caring for patients with colorectal cancer across different age groups has inspired her dedication to advancing early screening and prevention.
s Dr. Rinad Tabbalat.
Photo courtesy of NW Gastroenterology
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Carole McNeese, Deceased. NO. 26-400129-37. 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: February 26, 2026
Personal Representative: Scott McNeese 209 Bayside Road
Bellingham, WA 98225
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Robert Plumb, Deceased. NO. 26-400142-37. 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: February 26, 2026
Personal Representative: Susan Plumb
202 Forest Lane Bellingham, WA 98225
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Jack Sadler, Deceased. NO. 26-4-0016337. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson
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: February 26, 2026
Personal Representative: Paul M. Sadler 4341 Cable Street Bellingham, WA 98229
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 Num-
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. 26-4-00142-37
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: RUTH ANN ARDELL BURLEY, Deceased. No. 26-4-00154-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Evan P. Jones
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: February 19, 2026 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: February 26, 2026
Name of Administrator: LEE A. SCHREUDER
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 February 19, 2026
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S.
STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Administrator
LEE A. SCHREUDER
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. 26-4-00163-37
B.C. makes change to permanent daylight saving time
B y a ly M c G ee
Clocks, phones and watches sprang forward for the last time in British Columbia on March 8. When Washington residents “fall back” Nov. 1, they will be falling into a different time zone than their northern neighbors.
B.C. is adopting permanent daylight saving time. B.C. passed the Interpretation Amendment Act in 2019, which allowed the change, but chose not to enforce it to “co-ordinate timing with neighbouring U.S. states in the same time zone,” according to the B.C. government website.
B.C. officials explained on the government website that “recent actions from the U.S. have shifted how B.C. approaches decisions that merit alignment, including on time zones.”
It’s not yet clear how this will impact border crossings. While the Boundary Bay, Peace Arch and Pacific Highway border crossings are open 24 hours, NEXUS lanes have specified hours.
For more information on B.C.’s change to permanent daylight saving time, visit bit.ly/4rTYwbq.
Emergency shellfish closure issued in Drayton Harbor
Drayton Harbor is under an emergency shellfish recall and harvest closure following reports of several people falling ill from raw oysters they ate Feb. 13-23, Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) wrote in a March 5 announcement.
WCHCS has closed recreational and commercial harvesting of clams, oysters and mussels in Drayton Harbor. The raw shellfish in question was harvested Feb. 13-20, and the county health department has issued a recall of oysters and clams sold at Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. between Feb. 13-23 and at the Bellingham Dockside Market on Feb. 21.
OBITUARIES
Danny ‘Dan’ R. Shackelford
December 29, 1946 – March 3, 2026
Danny ‘Dan’ Rex Shackelford of Grove, OK, passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 79, in Joplin, MO. Born on December 29, 1946, in Miami, OK, to the late William and Della (Welch) Shackelford, he was a distinguished communicator, known for his articulate, intelligent and quick-witted nature.
Dan’s academic journey included completing his early education in Miami, OK, graduating in 1965 from Blaine High School, Blaine, WA, and furthering his education with an associate’s degree from NEO in Miami, OK. He then earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Missouri Southern College in Joplin, MO.
He served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was wounded and received three Purple Hearts. Following his active duty, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves as a military policeman and chaplain.
Dan was called to Christian ministry early in his career, pastoring both Emmanuel Temple in Vinita, OK, and Miami Full Gospel Tabernacle in Miami. His dedication to faith extended to his roles as a pastor on radio and television. Additionally, he worked for the sheriff’s department in Springfield, MO and at Paul Thomas Funeral Home in Miami during his career.
A man of deep faith, Dan worshipped most recently at Crossroads Church in Grove. His hobbies reflected his diverse interests, including beadwork, exploring Native American culture, fishing, and writing. He authored a Christian-based book titled “Christ of the Revelation” and children’s fiction, as well as writing curriculum for ministry.
Left to cherish his memory, by his wife, Helen Shackelford; his son, Steve Shackelford of Grove; and granddaughters Taylor Miller and Lauren Shackelford; also, among many nephews and nieces, by his niece Jeanne (Gossett) Halsey of Blaine.
He was preceded in death by his sisters Joyce Gossett, Roberta Rogers, Sylvia Meyers; and his brother, William ‘Bud’ Shackelford. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m., on Monday, March 16, at Brighton Cemetery in Brighton, MO. Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services in Grove, OK, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Dan will be greatly missed by his family, friends and many colleagues. 2nd Timothy 4:7.
Tami K. (Yates) Vogel
April 10, 1964 – February 28, 2026
Tami K. (Yates) Vogel, whose life was defined by courage, love, and an adventurous spirit, passed peacefully at her home in Blaine, WA, on February 28, 2026, surrounded by love. She was the beloved wife of Jim Vogel and daughter of the late centenarian Fred and June (Cook) Yates of Blaine. Born April 10, 1964, in Bellingham, Tami grew up immersed in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Her childhood was filled with boating in the San Juan Islands, hiking local trails, playing tennis, and spending treasured summers at Camp Firwood on Lake Whatcom, where she formed lifelong friendships. During the rainy winter months, Tami traveled with her parents throughout the American Southwest, Mexico, and Portugal, homeschooling while experiencing places and cultures that nurtured her independence and lifelong love of travel.
After graduating from Blaine High School in 1982, where she participated in softball, basketball, cheerleading, and skiing, Tami attended SST Travel Academy in San Diego, launching a career in the travel industry. In 1984 she joined the early team of America West Airlines in Phoenix, working a variety of roles including flight attendant, ramp agent, gate agent, ticket agent, and reservation agent—depending on the day!
In the late ‘80s, Tami returned to Whatcom County to settle and start a family. She worked in the travel business before launching her own agency, Portside Cruises & Tours, in 1992 following the birth of her daughter, Valerie. Through her home-based business she helped clients explore destinations around the world, often leading group trips with Valerie and sharing her enthusiasm for adventure.
An avid hiker and skier, Tami was rarely still. She spent countless days exploring local parks, the trails around Bellingham, and the mountains of British Columbia with her daughter and friends. Through the Bellingham Ski Club she built enduring friendships and a strong skiing community.
She met her husband, Jim, in Whistler, a cherished place for them as they were later engaged and married there. Together they shared many adventures, including 21 wonderful years in Colorado and four fun-filled years in Lake Bluff, IL.
Travel and good health remained central to Tami’s life. In 2018 she began spending part of each year in Lagos, Portugal, where she embraced a plant-based lifestyle, daily hiking, and integrative approaches to health and wellness.
Toward the end of her life, Tami and Jim moved home to Blaine to be surrounded by an extraordinary support system of golden friends and nearby family, along with her holistic care team and the exceptional short-term care staff at St. Joseph Hospital. Tami stepped up once again with determination optimism and gracefor the eighth time since high school.
She cherished simple moments—sailing the San Juans, baking with grandchildren, watching the sunsets over Semiahmoo Bay and looking forward to her next adventure—with faith.
Commercial and recreational harvesting is expected to reopen March 24, according to WCHCS.
Drayton Harbor Oyster Co.’s restaurant in downtown Blaine remains open and has stopped selling raw or cooked shellfish sourced from Drayton Harbor. Potentially impacted oysters have also been discontinued from the retail store.
County health authorities recommend those who bought raw oysters impacted by the recall to dispose of them. Anyone who believes they may have become sick from consuming shellfish can report their illness on the WCHCS website at bit.ly/40dRW3i.
Tami lived boldly, loved deeply, and inspired others to embrace adventure wherever life led.
She is survived by her husband, Jim Vogel; her daughter, Valerie Zediker (Shana) of Seattle; her niece Brandi Miller of Denver; stepchildren Athena Vogel (Meg), Phil Vogel (Angela), and Jack Vogel (Jennifer); grandchildren Henry, Linus, Alice, and Ollie; and her sister Sharon (Roy) Mixer of Palm Desert, California. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sandi Jackson (Steve) formerly of Friday Harbor.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on March 19, 2026, at Dillon Community Church in Dillon, Colorado, followed by interment at Dillon Cemetery.
There is also a Celebration of Life being planned for Tami‘s friends and family in Whatcom County for the end of June 2026. Details to follow on Tami’s tribute site (Mt. Baker Cremation) and social media.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Firwood’s scholarship fund in memory of Tami.
OF LIFE NellAnn McGee
March 18, 1945 – December 19, 2025
NellAnn McGee, age 80, of Blaine, WA, passed away peacefully December 19, 2025 at St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham, WA. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 21, 2 p.m., at American Legion Post #86, 4580 Legion Drive, Blaine. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Legion Post 86 in her memory.
sheriff’s repOrts
March 1, 9:48 a.m.: Assist agency on McGee Road.
March 1, 4:06 p.m.: Noise on Seafair Drive.
March 2, 12:29 a.m.: Welfare check on W. Badger Road.
March 2, 7:17 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident on Birch Bay Drive.
March 3, 10:34 a.m.: Harassment cold call on Halibut Drive.
March 3, 2:04 p.m.: Hulk vehicle on Grandview Road.
March 4, 6:31 a.m.: Welfare check on Bridger Road.
March 4, 7:50 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Square Street.
March 4, 10:34 a.m.: Death investigation on Birch Bay Drive.
March 5, 12:50 a.m.: Assist citizen on Stein Road.
March 5, 1:40 a.m.: Sex offender registration on East Street.
March 5, 8:33 a.m.: Vandalism cold call on Bridge Way.
March 5, 12:16 p.m.: Mental health check on H Street Road.
March 5, 3:57 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Whitehorn Way.
March 6, 6:37 a.m.: Alarm audible on Treevue Road.
March 6, 11:25 a.m.: Welfare check on Carson Road.
March 6, 12:48 p.m.: Hot rod on Terrill Drive.
March 6, 10:06 p.m.: Mental health check on Stein Road.
March 6, 10:20 p.m.: Welfare check on Blaine Road.
March 7, 2:22 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay Drive.
March 7, 12:55 p.m.: Animal problem on Sweet Road.
March 7, 3:55 p.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay Drive.
For a complete list of WCSO reports, visit whatcomcounty.us/2120/Activity-Reports.
pOLiCe repOrts
Feb. 22, 4:17 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Peace Portal Drive.
Feb. 22, 4:51 p.m.: Vehicle theft on 4th Street.
Feb. 24, 11:40 a.m.: Domestic order violation on Peace Portal Drive.
Feb. 24, 12:22 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Peace Portal Drive.
Feb. 24, 3:14 p.m.: Missing child on 9th Street.
Feb. 25, 11:15 a.m.: Sex offender registration on 12th Street.
Feb. 25, 1:54 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Grant Avenue.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS
1. Political action committee
4. One point north of due east 7. Marital 12. Religious building 15. Intrinsic nature of something 16. Safe to drink 18. Letter of credit 19. Single Lens Reflex 20. Keeps you cool in summer 21. Monetary unit 24. The Eye Network
27. Moving with a bounding stride
30. Figures
31. Of the pia mater 33. Male offspring
34. Indicates near 35. Calvary sword
37. South American plant
39. Doctor of Education
41. Something to take
42. Remove the edges from 44. Inattentive 47. Pick up 48. Latch for a window
49. Region of the U.S. 50. Windy City ballplayer 52. The NFL’s big game (abbr.) 53. Be permanently present in 56. Novice 61. Pirate novel 63. In a law-abiding way 64. Where one sleeps 65. Criticize DOWN 1. Bullfighting maneuver 2. Egyptian Sun god 3. Predatory semiaquatic reptile 4. Register formally 5. Eating houses 6. Japanese port 7. Genus of rodents
8. Nigerian city 9. Milliwatt 10. Mistake! 11. Women’s __ movement 12. Greeting 13. Songbirds 14. An arrangement scheme 17. Heartbeat test 22. Push back 23. Intended for the audience only 24. Cycles per second 25. Impartiality 26. Polio vaccine developer 28. Bowel movements 29. South American Indian 32. Queen of Sparta 36. Confederate soldier 38. Emerged 40. Death 43. __ and flowed 44. Folk singer DiFranco 45. Email folder 46. Throbbed rhyth-
Coming up
Youth Peace Poetry Contest: Now through May 29. Kids ages 4–18 submit their work in the form of poetry, song lyrics, personal reflections, or any form of writing that sparks their imagination. Youth are encouraged to share what peace means to them in ways that are authentic and inspiring to them. Info and submission forms: bit.ly/4cr22oW. Sponsored by Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center and Village Books.
Grief Share Support Group: Thursdays, March 12–June 4, 6–8 p.m., North Bay Community Church, 4895 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Find hope and healing after the death of a loved one. Free, workbook $20. Info: grief@northbay.cc.
Feb. 26, 11:53 a.m.: Threat on H Street.
Feb. 26, 4:56 p.m.: Brandishing on Boblett Street.
Feb. 27, 3:59 p.m.: Warrant arrest on 2nd Street.
Feb. 27, 8:25 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Berthusen Road.
Feb. 27, 8:40 p.m.: Burglary on Peace Portal Drive.
Feb. 28, 8:34 p.m.: Brandishing on H Street.
For a complete list of BPD reports, visit Facebook.com/ BlainePoliceDepartmentWA.
mically
51. English rockers
54. Disaster relief operation
55. American model and TV personality Katherine 56. Potable
57. Tough outer layer
58. __ Spumante (Italian wine)
59. Troubles
60. Negative 62. Camper
tides
12-18 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Blaine Arts Council Wings Over Water Exhibition: Thursdays–Sundays, March 14–April 5, Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. Opening reception Friday, March 14, 4–6:30 p.m. The exhibition features a wide range of artistic mediums and styles, including jewelry, sculpture, watercolor, oil and acrylic painting, collage and mixed media, and ceramics. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.
Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival: Friday–Sunday, March 13–15. Birding expo, Skagit County birding field trips, keynote speakers, live raptor presentations, local field trips, workshops, viewing stations, Salish Sea birding cruises, kids activities, and more. See complete schedule and field trip registration at wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.
Community Dinner: Thursday, March 19, 5:30–7 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy dinner, community and connections. Free. Donations accepted. Info: call/text (360) 656-6416. Native Plant Sale: Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Pioneer Park, 2007 Cherry Street, Ferndale. This free event includes native plants for purchase, family-friendly activities and exhibitors from local nurseries, community groups, artists, and more. Limited selection of free plants for kids. Info: plantsale@whatcomcd.org. Sponsored by Whatcom Conservation District.
Pruning 101: Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Trees are breaking hibernation earlier, so take advantage of some of our sunny winter days and brush up on those pruning skills. Discussing tools, why prune, decisions necessary (learning to understand growth habits of trees/bushes). We will also present on overgrown trees and how to get them back in shape. Bring your questions. Info: nwcore.org.
Genealogy Workshop: Monday, March 23, 2–5 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Free informal help session. Limited number of computers available, bring a laptop, if you have one. Info: (425) 345-2979.
DSHS Mobile Office at the Library: Wednesday, March 25, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Providing crucial services in environments that may not have DSHS brick-and-mortar offices nearby, and to be agile in meeting the needs of people who could benefit from their programs. Info: wcls.org.
Comedy Night Dinner and Auction: Saturday, March 28, Great Blue Heron Grill, 8720 Semiahmoo Parkway. Silent auction and dinner seating 5–6:30 p.m., comedy show at 7 p.m. Tickets $75 includes dinner with choice of nine entrees. Tickets at semiahmoo. com. Proceeds benefit the Blaine High School class of 2026 safe and sober grad night.
Ongoing
Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Info: (360) 3326350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.
The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2:30 p.m.– 4 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 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.
Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $6 per meal ($10 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First-come, first-serve basis. Info: (360) 332-8040.
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Thursdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com.
Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Mondays. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of March 2 to 8, 1.6 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2026 year-to-date precipitation record is 8.5 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 62.9°F on March 2 with a low of 90.9°F on March 2. Average high was 56.7°F and average low was 43.2°F.
Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.
Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Friday–Sunday, 1–5 p.m., through May 31 at 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome.
Blaine Senior Center Book Club: Last Thursday of the month, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. Info: wcls.org.
Celebrate Recovery: Wednesdays, Northwood Chapel, 580 C Street. Dinner by donation at 5:30 p.m. and 12-step program for hurts, habits and hangups at 6 p.m.
DATE OPPONENT SITE TIME 3/18 Ferndale Loomis Trail GC 2:00 pm 3/24 Fern,
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