District discusses school merger, page 3 Birch Bay incorporation meeting, page 2
Longtime Whatcom County councilor Barbara Brenner dies at 78
B y G race M c c arthy
Former Whatcom County Councilmember Barbara Brenner, one of the longest serving councilors in recent history, died from respiratory failure on February 9. She was 78.
Brenner, who did not follow political party lines, was known for her deep commitment to the Whatcom County community, whether that was standing up for environmental issues or keeping tight oversight on county spending. She served 28 consecutive years on county council, from January 1992 until January 2020.
“She didn’t think of herself as a politician,” said Edward Morris, Brenner’s husband. “She thought of herself as a public servant.” Brenner was born in the Boston area on October 10, 1946, and grew up between Boston and Tampa, Florida. She traveled to Central and South America in her young adult life, studying in universities and creating portraits of people along the way. Eventually, she moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where she created artwork inspired by nature for a living. It was there where she met Morris, who had posted on a travel board looking for a ride to Bellingham at a time when Brenner was driving through the area.
“She later told me that she tore down my ad, which is why no one else answered,” Morris said. “She wanted someone to travel with, but she also wanted someone with mechanical knowledge. I got a kick out of that.”
Morris and Brenner settled in east Ferndale, where they bought a furniture refinishing business and Brenner nurtured the family’s yard, planting large evergreen trees and lilacs. Brenner had only lived in Whatcom County for a few years and was rearing her two young children, Wesley and Collin, when her public service career began. Brenner was driving the kids to school in the late ’80s when she heard a radio announcement about a public hearing on whether the Thermal Reduction Company’s incinerator that was out of compliance should continue operating in Ferndale.
(See Brenner, page 5)
Five Borderites earn podium spots at state
The latest news from the Blaine City Council meeting on February 24. Ethics discussion
City of Blaine attorney Peter Ruffatto led a study session on ethics for Blaine City Council, a training Blaine lawyers hold periodically for council to provide ethics training and guidance on how to answer questions from the public regarding ethics issues.
Councilmember Sonia Hurt asked Ruffatto if there was any problem of a developer making a donation to the city, to which Ruffato said that was allowed by state law.
A small group of residents had voiced concern after Skip and Katie Jansen, the developers of The Ridge at Harbor Hills,
had donated rocks to the city in December 2022, prior to city council’s approval of a zoning text amendment that allowed large manufactured home parks in east Blaine.
Ruffatto pointed out the city of Ferndale has a policy that requires councilmembers to recuse themselves whenever discussing issues that benefits them personally, while Blaine’s policy is less stringent.
Following the study session during the regular meeting, councilmember Eric Lewis introduced a motion calling for the city to adopt the same ethics policy by Ferndale. Councilmembers Sonia Hurt and Richard May supported the proposal to go before council for a vote
(See City, page 3)
Photo
Harnack
A magnitude 4.8 earthquake shook B.C. and the Blaine area at 1:26 p.m. February 21. Mike Harmon, city manager for the city of Blaine, said Blaine Public Works Department was aware of the earthquake, but reported no infrastructure damage or power outages within city limits. The earthquake hit Sechelt,
B.C., near Squamish, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. No injuries or damages were reported immediately after the earthquake.
Blaine and Birch Bay residents reported the earthquake was felt in areas including Blaine Harbor, H Street, and Birch Bay Village.
B y G race M c c arthy
Sheriff Donnell Tanksley answered questions on how the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) could support law enforcement in Birch Bay if it became a city during the Birch Bay Incorporation Association (BBIA) meeting on February 20.
Speaking to a crowd of several dozen people at North Bay Community Church, with more watching remotely, Tanksley made it clear he was neither for nor against incorporation. He said he was only stating how WCSO could provide services to Birch Bay if it incorporated and the residents wanted to contract law enforcement services with the sheriff’s office, rather than starting their own police department.
(See BBIA, page 13)
Photo courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey
Blaine school board gives green light for budget reduction process
B y N ola N B aker
The Blaine school board voted unanimously on February 24 to direct superintendent Christopher Granger to prepare a reduced education plan for the 2025-26 school year, marking the third consecutive year of significant budget cuts to the school district.
A finalized budget projection and a full plan that will likely include reductions to certificated, classified and administrative staff and student programs, similar to previous reduced education plans, will be voted on at the next school board meeting on Monday, March 24.
only school district in Whatcom County with a dedicated primary school, which serves pre-K through second grade. The primary school will continue to serve preschool and kindergarten classes, Granger said. The plan was met with consternation from primary school parents who are concerned with overcrowding and safety.
Amanda Madrid, a mother of three students in Blaine schools ranging from pre-K to middle school, said during the board meeting that the district is more concerned with keeping a balanced budget than creating positive student outcomes.
in a future meeting.
Community center contract awarded to parks district
Harmon announced the city has awarded a contract to the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) to provide staffing and operational support for senior services at the Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Both the parks district and senior center submitted proposals to manage the center, which has historically been run by the senior center.
Harmon said BBBPRD2’s proposal consistently scored higher.
“Staff is simply recommending to you that we believe the more competitive proposal was the district,” Harmon said to council. “Our plan is to bring you back a contract. That doesn’t mean you have to accept it.”
Harmon said he thought there was a way for the senior center to work collaboratively with the district. May asked if the senior center could have an advisory committee to the parks district, to which Harmon said was a possibility.
Harmon previously said during the February 10 meeting that the proposals had similar prices and programming.
“In my opinion one is stronger on safety and governance,” Harmon said. “I would say the other is stronger on experience.”
City staff had requested Whatcom County Parks and Recreation director Bennett Knox to review both proposals to provide an outside perspective, Harmon said.
Oral comment
item was scheduled to be discussed, Steward proposed that council begin holding a 30-minute town hall before regular meetings on the first Monday of each month. Originally an idea suggested by Richard May last year, the purpose of the town hall would be to provide a dialogue between the city and public. However, unlike council meetings, councilmembers would not be required to attend the town halls.
“Town halls will be recorded and available for any person who wants to hear what was discussed,” Steward said. “It allows for efficient and orderly council meetings.”
Any time limit for speaking would be equally applied to all participants. Previously, there had been controversy over the fact that council had allowed certain speakers more time than others.
Lewis said he thought the city needed to return oral public comment as soon as possible, saying, “My feeling is the town hall is mostly a test to see if free speech works or if oral public commentary works.”
Hurt said she didn’t see it as a test, but as a rearrangement of the previous public comment to keep council meetings succinct.
Council passed Steward’s motion to start town hall meetings 6-0, with councilmember Eric Davidson absent. Council did not discuss the action item regarding oral comment after approving the town hall format.
The first town hall could occur as soon as the next meeting on Monday, March 10, city manager Mike Harmon said.
Police officer swearing in
Mayor Mary Lou Steward administered the oath of office to Blaine Police Department’s newest officers, Zachary Taxdahl, Trevor Chau and Andrew Richardson. Taxdahl, joining from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, has started on-the-job training, while Chau and Richardson will begin basic law enforcement training in Arlington in March.
bird hunting and reading Shakespeare, among other hobbies.
Chau graduated from Blaine High School in 2010 and has worked and coached at Blaine school district. He lives in Blaine with his wife and five kids.
Originally from Georgia, Richardson has lived in Blaine for the past three years. He’s worked as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in Whatcom and Skagit counties and spends his free time with his fiancé and children.
The three new officers bring Blaine Police Department to full staffing.
Downtown
revitalization construction
Council unanimously approved a $3.7 million construction contract for its long-awaited downtown revitalization project with Premium Services, Inc.
The project will revamp two blocks of downtown and provide minor improvements outside of that area. It will replace sidewalks on Peace Portal Drive to help with ADA accessibility, replace downtown trees with a species that won’t buckle the sidewalk and upgrade the Martin Street and Clark Street parklets.
The project, which was slimmed down due to budget constraints, has been moving through city council for over two years.
Stormwater manual
Lewis proposed a motion for city staff to provide more information at a future meeting of the pros and cons of updating its stormwater manual from the state’s 2019 to 2024 version. The discussion arose because some members of the public have been calling on the city to update to more recent standards.
This plan is different from the past two reduced education plans as it includes merging first and second grade classes from the Blaine Primary School with the elementary school to save an estimated $600,000. Blaine is the
“I understand we have a huge deficit in the budget. I understand we’re operating underwater,” Madrid said. “And while that’s a priority, it shouldn’t come at the expense of our students. I felt like
The agenda included an action item proposing to reintroduce an oral public comment period at the beginning of regular council meetings following a motion by Lewis, Hurt and Richard May in favor of doing so at an earlier council meeting. Steward had discontinued the comment periods last February following a series of acrimonious sessions in which a few members of the public had raised objections to various council and city decisions. However, before that agenda
Taxdahl grew up in Ferndale and earned his bachelor’s degree from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before eventually working at the sheriff’s office. He enjoys snowboarding,
“We can use 2019 for now until we are mandated to use the 2024 one,” said Harpiar Gandhi, director of Blaine Public Works Department.
Lewis’ proposal needed support from two other council members for it to be on a future meeting agenda. Harmon said he wasn’t prepared to give council a recommendation on how the updated version could impact development in Blaine.
Councilmembers May and Hurt supported Lewis’ motion requesting city staff to research the pros and cons of updating the manual and bring it back to council. City ... From page 1
support your development and success every step of the way. Now’s your chance! Join a
fast-growing
and build your future with us in Blaine, WA Apply today! Call 360-671-1098 Email us at recruiting@somifoods.com We can’t wait to hear from you!
(See School, page 13)
s From l.; mayor Mary Lou Steward administers the oath of office to new Blaine Police Department officers Zachary Taxdahl, Andrew Richardson and Trevor Chau during the Blaine City Council meeting on February 24.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
The Northern L
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.
Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor
Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com
Editorial Intern Zen Hill prpintern@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
The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 37
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Gallery to present Wings Over Water artwork OpiniOn
Blaine Art Gallery will have artwork celebrating local birding during the month of March in celebration of the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival.
The exhibit will feature nine local artists who have created photography, painting and other artworks inspired by birds that migrate through the Blaine
area. The artists shown will be Annie Pflueger, Bruce Scott, Deb Freeman, Herbert Rigberg, Kay Dee Powell, Lily Meyer, Marjie Miller, Ruth Lauman and Shawna Morris.
The exhibit will run Thursday, February 27 through March 30 at the gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. A Second Satur-
day event with live music, artist meetand-greets and L&L Bakery nosh will be held at the gallery during the evening of March 8.
The gallery will be a stop along the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival, which will take place in Blaine March 14-16.
Ads due: Feb. 28
The Editor:
As the assistant director of MoreSmiles Learning Center located in Blaine, I am writing to inform the community of a food drive being held by our learning center. Our goal is to support our local food bank while also teaching the children in our care about fundraising, volunteering, supporting community, and most of all compassion.
Donations may be dropped off at 738 Adelia Street.
The staff has also decided to have a friendly competition to see which class can bring in the most donations so please be sure to specify which class you are donating for so that class can receive credit for the donations.
Classrooms include infants, toddlers, early preschool, preschool and pre-kindergarten.
Some of the most needed items are: canned meats, canned fish, beans, lentils, nuts, grains, canned meals, peanut butter, diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, flour, sugar, salt, etc.
We will be running our drive from Monday, February 24 through Friday, March 7. For any questions, or if your company would like to donate, please email toddlers.mslc@gmail.com or infants.mslc@ gmail.com
As a local business we are excited to share this information with the community and get the children involved and excited about community support!
Kassandra Cain
Blaine
The Editor:
My husband and I just got home from seeing the Ferndale High School Theatre production of The Hunchback of Notre
Dame. Students have worked on the actual production since November, but discussions about characters and themes sparked many thought-provoking conversations among the students. The message is certainly pertinent right now.
The production continues to run Thursday, February 27 through Saturday, March 1. It should not be missed. 80 students performed in orchestra and cast, but the scenery and staging were amazing too. Please see this, its message is important.
Ferndale School District theatre, orchestra and drama should really stand tall. What a learning experience for everyone participating! It certainly delighted this retired Ferndale school teacher.
Donna Starr Blaine
The Editor:
The emperor has no clothes. I am reminded of this children’s fable frequently when listening to the daily news.
President Trump and his tool, Elon Musk (or is it the other way around?) make statements daily that defy logic or truth, fail to offer evidence of the fraud and abuse they claim to have found, and as of recently, seem to think that they can re-write the history of Russia’s war on Ukraine as if the American people and indeed the world don’t know that Russia invaded Ukraine three years ago and annexed Crimea in 2014.
Who do they think they are fooling? Surely the American public does not go along with this view or the assault on science, scientists, and common sense.
I am embarrassed by our president. He must be stopped before our status in the world is completely destroyed, be-
fore world dictators take advantage of his weaknesses, and before any more starving children are denied life-saving food in order to fund a billionaire’s dream of travelling to Mars and other such schemes.
Nancy Sheng Bellingham
The Editor:
We have seen the kind invitation of the mayor of Blaine inviting Canadians to come back to visit and shop. She said that what we hear is not what they think and we should come back.
Well, I felt it necessary to respond to your invitation. My husband and I make it a weekend to visit Blaine and Bellingham for a shopping trip maybe four times a year. We have a lovely time. We stay in a hotel, eat at restaurants and shop. That isn’t going to happen again for the next four years.
We heard your kind invitation but we hear Trump and Musk running your country and threatening Canadians and the rest of the world. It is so sad. What we don’t hear is anyone saying “No, that’s not what we want.” You are letting him bully you and we’re watching. Sadly, the world is watching.
Canadians are polite but we have no problem saying that we’ll just stay home. We won’t go to the U.S. and we won’t buy U.S. products. No one has to lead us, it is just happening. Our grocery stores are only carrying produce from Mexico, Chile and other countries. Nothing from (See Letters, next page)
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
s Blaine Arts Council artist Marjie Miller’s encaustic artworks “Welcome to the Flock” and “It’s Been a Day” will be on display at the Blaine Art Gallery during its March exhibit, which is in collaboration with Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival.
Photos by Ruth Lauman
Once Brenner learned that the incinerator was burning hospital waste and the subsequent health impacts, she began petitioning to close it – even spending 10 weeks on the steps of the state capitol in Olympia with her children, talking to anybody who would listen.
“She didn’t sleep a lot,” Morris said. “She’d research through the night. She was on the phone a lot and wouldn’t give up until she got her answer.”
She ran for Whatcom County Council in 1989, losing narrowly to well-known opponent Dennis Vander Yacht, before she won her second election that earned her a council seat in 1992.
One of Brenner’s most significant accomplishments was ending long-distance calling in Whatcom County in the early ’90s, when calling to and from Bellingham to other parts of the county incurred long-distance rates. Brenner also fought for county residents to be able to vote for all county councilmembers, not just the councilor representing their district, because she believed the council should represent everyone.
Letters ...
From previous page
U.S. in Costco this morning. We’re reading labels on other groceries. Made in Canada is selling out while U.S. products are sitting on the shelves. We don’t protest with guns, we protest with our wallets.
We’re sorry but you voted them in and you got what you asked for. We’ll watch in disgust but won’t be returning until Trump is out of your government.
I used to shop in Blaine.
Kathy Brown Nanaimo, B.C.
The Editor:
The time to stop Trump is now. He is a typical bully. Say boo, and he is already running. 25 percent tariff yesterday becomes 10 percent today and zero tomorrow.
Put some feet (soldiers) on the ground in Ukraine today, and he will be running, hiding behind Putin’s back.
Trump’s rampage is the result of 30 years of grievances being played out, having been denied his lifetime righteous claim for the Presidency. Not because he wanted to be a politician, he just wanted to be the President of the United States.
Brenner was a longtime representative of District 3, which represented the northwest part of the county including Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts. After the districts were reorganized, she promised those residents that she would continue to look after their interests despite not being their official representative.
Brenner served on the council’s budget committee, where she would review the budget line by line. Even if money was going toward something she supported, such as cleaning Lake Whatcom, Brenner would vote it down if the money wasn’t audited, Wesley said.
“You can see how her decisions were consistent with a moral code she had but not consistent with any political party,” Wesley said. “She wouldn’t sway votes or be swayed by money or power. She loved her community and wanted to serve the people of Whatcom County.”
Morris said Brenner hated to miss council meetings, estimating that she likely only missed a few meetings in her nearly three decades of service.
Despite Brenner’s success representing county residents, her family says she had no aspiration to be a career politician. She did not like the role of money in pol-
His father selected him as the child he wanted to succeed him as the owner and director of his huge real estate business. Since he was born, his father has mercilessly beaten into his brains, the world was his oyster, never to accept defeat, and never let anybody take anything away from him.
He has had many business failures during his lifetime, and his father kept bailing him out. Over the years those bailouts amount to about $400 million, while his siblings never collected a dime.
He has conducted a lot of business with Russian president Vladimir Putin, who obviously has a lot of control over him. It would be easy to believe Elon Musk has even more control.
Trump hijacked the American government, and has become a non-stop social, economic and political wrecking ball. His destructive rampage has become a formidable threat to local and global stability.
Now he is threatening Republican members of Congress who do not support him, and harassing their family members. They no longer feel safe in their homes. He has become a very sick man, and must be stopped.
Andy Thomsen Kelowna, B.C.
“Our favorite ‘local newspaper’ even if we’re not full time residents. Keep on publishing as we keep on reading, thanks for having it available online.” - John Kros
This week’s supporters:
Steve Agnew
Gordon and Julia Wilson
Mary and Don Jorgensen
Laura Kritz
John Kros
Elizabeth Canez-Banagan and George Banagan
itics and self-funded every campaign, they said, and even turned herself into the Public Disclosure Committee after she realized she had discussed an election on her council phone.
Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, who joined council in 2015, served alongside Brenner for nearly five years.
“Councilmember Brenner was fiercely independent and freely spoke her mind,” Sidhu wrote in a statement to The Northern Light “She had an outsized presence on county council, and her tenure was unprecedented in length, spanning five presidential eras. I found her historical knowledge to be invaluable, as she was able to provide important context for the issues that came before the council.”
Outside of public service, Brenner was passionate about her love of dark chocolate, which Morris said she was always trying to make darker and gifting to those around her. She also was a silversmith, caregiver and dog-lover who brought Rosie, her Labrador-Rottweiler mix, with her anytime she was in the county council office.
“It is amazing how that sweetens and helps me stop thinking about the problems of the world,” Brenner said, referring to choc-
olate, in a 2019 article in The Northern Light. “If you are ever interested in trying any, just give me a call at 360/384-2762 and we can arrange for you to come over for a taste.”
Brenner is survived by her husband Edward (Ed) Morris, sons Wesley and Collin, and sisters Nancy, Patricia (Patty) and Susan. She was preceded in death by her
The City of Blaine is excited to invite proposals from qualified organizations to manage the Blaine Welcome Center and Visitor Information Center starting in April of this year.
This is an opportunity to contribute to Blaine’s vibrant downtown community and enhance visitor experiences. Proposals are due March 3rd at 4:00 p.m. by emailing Alex Wenger, CDS Director, at awenger@cityofblaine.com.
The initial one-year contract is renewable annually, with the potential for a two-year extension.
Please see the City of Blaine website, www.cityofblaine.com, for more information.
brother George and parents Ernest and Elinor.
Those wishing to pay tribute to Brenner’s life are encouraged to leave messages on her landline, 360/384-2762. Donations can be made to the Sean Humphrey House, an adult home for people with low incomes living with HIV or AIDs.
The family is planning a memorial in May.
March 24, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
March 25, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting
s Barbara Brenner, third from l., with Whatcom County Council in 2019. Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, l., worked alongside Brenner on council for five years. Photo courtesy of Whatcom County
spOrts
Blaine wrestling shows out at Mat Classic with five podium finishers
The Borderites were kept achingly close from an outright state championship in the Mat Classic XXXVI at the Tacoma Dome on February 23, showing why Blaine wrestling is one of the best 1A programs in the state, with the girls team placing 15th with 66 points, and the boys team placing 18th with 67 points.
The boys wrestling team finished its season with three podium placers at the state tournament and a district championship among its accomplishments, and the girls team punched way above its weight at the Mat Classic, earning 15th place with just four wrestlers competing among teams with plenty more, along with a second place district finish.
Boys Wrestling
Senior heavyweight Otto Shelton led the charge for the Borderites at the Mat Classic last weekend, winning his first two rounds by pin before falling to Angel Levya of Wapato in the semifinal round. Shelton went on to win the third-place match over Montesano’s Logan Roberts – the number one ranked heavyweight 1A wrestler in the state – by a 4-0 decision.
Battling illness for the past week and unable to fully practice prior to the tournament, Shelton had to dig deep to finish off his high school wrestling career on a high note, and dig deep he did.
“He wrestled a really calculated third place match,” head coach Tom Hinz said. “He was so energized from the day and wrestled a really great match. He was super proud of his execution and just his preparation for it. You don’t
always get to stand on top of the podium, but sometimes taking third is more than you ever dreamed of.”
The demands of a state tournament, where wrestlers have possibly three straight days of all out effort with consecutive matches having as little as a 30-minute rest in between, aren’t lost on Hinz. But he said the atmosphere and finality of the Mat Classic usually get his team invigorated enough to tough out the breakneck pace.
“It gets them hyped up,” Hinz said. “But the thing is, they make it their goal to place at state. Sometimes it’s really hard to achieve
your goal and [continue to] wrestle the next two matches.”
Daniel Johner was a perfect example of that, Hinz said. The 132-pounder knew he earned at least a podium finish early in the tournament, a yearlong goal of his. But he had to continue to wrestle tougher and tougher opponents, a mental hurdle that not every wrestler can clear, Hinz said.
Johner won his first two rounds, reaching the semifinals where he lost to Castle Rock’s Cooper Williams, a returning state champion.
“He wrestled great. It was an
Border Town Pizza
738 Peace Portal Drive Blaine, WA 98230 360-703-3996
www.bordertownpizza.net
Number of employees: Seven.
How long in business: 10 years.
Description of the business: Small, woman-owned, family-owned and operated Italian American cuisine. We’re a mom and pop-style restaurant that is cozy and family-friendly!
How the business started: Laura Massaro bought the Pizza Factory restaurant and debranded after three years. She curated an entirely new menu, restaurant design, and made it her own!
Future goals: Become a Blaine/Birch Bay landmark for families and all walks of life. We want to be the place people come to for amazing service, incredible food, and a strong sense of community. We hope Border Town Pizza carries on for generations to come!
awesome tournament for him,” Hinz said. “He knew that he was on the wall, and he respects so many of the people that are on our wall.”
Vinnie Saia was the third wrestler to also place on the podium, finishing sixth in the 120-pound division after going 3-3, losing in the fifth-place match to Hoquiam’s Junior Soto.
Hinz said he’s excited to see how his core group of young wrestlers improves upon a great year come 2026, and expects another stellar season ahead with a strong group of freshman and graduating eighth graders.
“We just had a really solid core group of kids that really enjoy each other,” Hinz said. “Super tough kids that came in every single day and battled.”
Results courtesy of TrackWrestling.com
Girls Wrestling
Despite entering just four wrestlers into the 1B/2B/1A state tournament, the Blaine girls wrestling program had a banner day, placing 15th among the field, the third-best performance among Whatcom County teams in the same classification.
“I’m ecstatic about how we played,” head coach Damon Higgins said. “15th place with four girls and each girl got at least two wins while we were there. We we’re good, we did what we came to do.”
Julianne Whaley, the fifth Blaine wrestler to qualify for the tournament, was forced to bow out due to a shoulder injury, Higgins said.
Analicea Ordonez earned a podium placement, finishing in third in the 155-pound division after going 4-1, and Abigail Marquez finished with a 2-2 record at the tournament after falling in her first round and then winning her next two matches by pin.
Senior Makenna Lausier led the way for the Borderites throughout the weekend with the team’s highest podium finish, earning second place in the 105-pound division. Lausier was defeated in the championship round by Malia Riojas, who Higgins said is one of the best lightweight wrestlers in the country.
Analicea Ordonez Junior Wrestling
Analicea completed
s Blaine senior Makenna Lausier, second from l. stands at the podium after winning second place in the 105-pound division at the 1A State Championship at the Mat Classic XXXVI in Tacoma on February 23. Lausier went 2-1 before falling in the final round.
Photo courtesy Damon Higgins
Mat Classic ...
From page 6
Lausier dominated the start of her tournament, defeating Isabella Tiwebemal (Kettle Falls), Savvy Grimm (East Jefferson) and Madison Magana (Connell) en route to her second-place finish, but couldn’t get the final win for a state championship.
Higgins commended Lausier for her constant improvement throughout her high school wrestling career, which started as a freshman where she won just one match all season, to now finishing on a podium at the Mat Classic. After a heartbreaking loss in the championship round, her final as a high school wrestler, Higgins reminded her of a promise he made to her in the seventh grade.
“I told her that if she stuck with wrestling and put her all into it, we would get her to the Tacoma Dome and she would end up wrestling for a state champion-
ship,” Higgins said. “She looked at me with this wonderful Makenna smile and goes, ‘I don’t remember that.’ I remember it. We pinky promised on it.”
Higgins said the future of the Blaine girls wrestling program is bright, and the returning class of wrestlers that made it through the heavily taxing season of wrestling will be ready to reload come next season.
“You have to be a little sadomasochistic. You have to enjoy giving and receiving pain,” Higgins said. “The girls who can stay through that and become strong through that, they’re able to create a core unit that will be able to withstand a lot of external pressure.”
Ending this season with multiple podium finishers will create a solid foundation for years to come, Higgins said.
“I’m looking at this young group of girls, they stayed with it, they’re building their skills and they’re hungry to wrestle more,” Higgins said. “When you have that as a
starting point for next year, that’s really exciting as a coach. When you have kids that care and want to do it, that’s really exciting.”
Results courtesy of TrackWrestling.com
s Blaine senior wrestler Otto Shelton, second from r., celebrates his third place finish in the heavyweight division of the 1A Mat Classic state championship at the Tacoma Dome on February 23. Shelton went 3-1 in the tournament, winning the third-place round over Montesano’s Logan Roberts.
Photo courtesy Tom Hinz
5
it’s time to renovate
Homeowners renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. Renovations can increase the value of a property and make homes safer and more comfortable for their occupants. Improvements also can be made to stay current with the times or to give a home a new vibe.
Statista projects $510 billion will be spent on home improvements in 2024. The home improvement market is generating significant revenue. In fact, nearly a quarter of Americans opting to renovate their homes will spend an average of $10,000 on their projects. According to a Home Stars Renovation report, 8 percent of Canadian homeowners who have renovated have spent more than $20,000 on a home improvement project.
Kitchens and bathrooms of-
ten get the most attention when it comes to home improvement. However, every room and space in a home may need a renovation at some point, and the following are five signs it’s time to renovate.
1. Age
The National Association of Home Builders states that 50 percent of U.S. homes are over the age of 40. That means that age alone could dictate a need to renovate, particularly if some materials are original to the home. For example, asphalt roofs typically last 25 to 30 years, while window frames can last 20 to 50 years depending on how well they have been maintained.
2. Inconvenient layout
Some homeowners scratch their heads when faced with awkward floor plan layouts. While one may live with the inconve-
nience for some time, typically a floor plan that isn’t working for the homeowner is a major driver of renovations.
3. Outdated looks
A home can look dated even if it is a relatively recent build. That’s because trends change quickly. For example, dark, cherry cabinets that were popular just a little while ago have now been replaced by lighter color palettes. Homeowners whose homes do not match the looks emulated in design magazines may consider a change, particularly if they’re planning to sell soon.
4. Deterioration
Signs of water, storm or structural damage should be addressed as soon as possible. Any deterioration should be a strong indicator that it’s time to renovate.
5. Efficiency
Escalating utility bills could be indicative of an inefficient home.
Homeowners can conduct energy audits and then improve the areas where energy loss may be occurring, such as windows, doors,
The benefits of lighting up your landscape
Homeowners know there’s no shortage of ways to tweak a property. Some homeowners may lament that the work associated with home ownership is never done, but owning a house also provides endless opportunities to upgrade the spaces people call home.
siding, and insulation.
Homeowners can renovate their homes when they see fit, but various signs may warn that it’s time consider updating or remodeling a home.
Landscape lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years. That popularity is undoubtedly due to a number of variables, and each highlights a benefit of installing landscape lighting around a property.
• Affordability: Some may think of big budget projects like kitchen remodels or room additions when pondering home renovations. Such projects can have a dramatic impact on the look and feel of a home, but landscape lighting can be equally transformative at a fraction of the cost of larger undertakings. The home renovation experts at Angi.com estimate the average landscape lighting project costs around $4,000, making affordability a notable benefit of the project.
• Appearance: There’s no denying the aesthetic appeal of a welllit landscape at night. Landscape lighting can be utilized to draw attention to awe-inspiring components of a landscape, whether it’s natural features like gardens and foliage or manmade components like architectural features. Improved appearance can increase curb appeal, which is of(See Lighting, next page)
File photo
5
ten
•
•
ing
(See Lighting, previous page) (See
•
No origination or annual fee Lock in up to 3 fixed loans at current rates Rental property options
2-story house with 2,391 SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 576 SF attached garage, 862 SF patio, built in 1991, waterfront; marine view, .24 acres land.
Split-level house with 3,060 SF, 2,829 SF basement, 3 bedrooms, 5 baths, 624 SF attached garage, 980 SF deck, built in 2000; waterfront, marine view, .62 acres land.
2-story house with 3,760 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 672 SF attached garage, 400 SF deck, built in 2020; marine view, .40 acres land.
2-story condo with 3,097 SF, 3 bedrooms, 4 baths, 610 SF built-in garage, 302 SF patio, built in 2018, waterfront; marine view.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:
2-story duplex with 3,528 SF, 504 SF built in garage, 240 SF storage, built in 2001, .17 acres land.
2-story office with 2016 SF, built in 1986, remodel in 1987, .06 acres land. LAND ONLY:
Not Your Typical Broker
Linda Tomulty
Real Estate Broker Serving since 1984 425-343-4400 or ltomulty@gmail.com
Lighting ...
From page 9
homeowners consider a renovation’s return on investment before deciding to go forward with a project. Studies vary, but the National Association of Realtors indicates landscape lighting can recoup as much as 70 percent of homeowners’ investment in the project at resale. When viewed through the lens of ROI, the cost of installing landscape lighting is even less.
Landscape lighting adds notable aesthetic appeal to a home at a fraction of the cost of other renovation projects. The benefits such lighting provides make the project one every homeowner can consider.
Blaine 838 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine
Sandlewood Lane, Blaine
Sandlewood Lane, Blaine
Marine Drive, Point Roberts
9586 Sunrise Road, Blaine
6885 Holeman Avenue, Blaine
8362 Portal Way, Blaine
Lyle
• WayneLyle@nwhomes.net
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: RONALD WILLIAM SCHWEIGERT, Deceased. Probate No. 24-4-00987-37. AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Assigned 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 Clerk of this Court. 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 (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). 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 copy of Notice to Creditors filed: November 13, 2024.
Date probate opened: November 13, 2024
Date of first publication: February 27, 2025
Date creditor claim period closes: June 27, 2025
Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688 Lynden, WA 98264-0688
Tel. (360) 354-5021
Personal Representative: DOUGLAS JAY SCHWEIGERT
Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 24-4-00987-37.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: GLENN EDWARD PERSSON, Deceased. No. 25-4-00132-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery
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 5, 2025 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: February 13, 2025
Name of Administrator: NANCY DARNOLD
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 5, 2025
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Administrator: NANCY DARNOLD
named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated 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 Filing of Notice to Creditors: February 14, 2025 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: February 20, 2025
Name of Personal Representative: SETH T. BOWEN
Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262
Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229
Attorney for Personal Representative: SETH T. BOWEN
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Mary Ann Blythe, Deceased. NO. 254-00117-37. 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 13, 2025
Personal Representative: Nancy Blythe 3234 Northeast 98th Street Seattle, WA 98115
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. 25-4-00117-37
in Birch Bay, boasting an ideal location, comprehensive amenities, & affordability. Tranquil neighborhood offers clubhouse, dog park, BBQ area, laundry facility, & bathrooms w/showers. This park model is light & bright with stunning views of the bay. Spacious bedroom & carpeted loft. Jessica Bates 360-410-0900
include, engineered oak wood flooring with sound deadening underlayment, new cabinets, quartz countertops, sinks, faucets, hot water tank, light fixtures, appliances, dishwasher & double oven, day/ night blinds. It like new condition & lived in lightly. Great water views! Karen Timmer 360-410-0848
School ...
From page 3
somebody had to say something, and if nobody was willing to do it, then I had to.”
Madrid started a Change.org petition asking the school district to stop the proposed merger of the schools, collecting over 350 signatures as of press time. The district has seen increasingly smaller incoming first grade classes compared to outgoing high school senior classes, reflecting a larger, county-wide downturn in birthrates that contribute to a general enrollment decline across the district.
With fewer children in the primary school, the district argues that first and second graders should be moved into the elementary school, allowing the district to save significantly on utility and maintenance costs. In a letter explaining its reasoning, the district said it chose to move the primary school children into the elementary school, and not vice versa, because the elementary school has expanded special education services and a gymnasium and cafeteria, which are two of its larger and most critical structures. During a February 18 Supper with the Superintendent community meeting, Granger urged parents to continue to reach out to legislators in Olympia to improve funding for public schools.
“We need to put our energy towards Olympia,” Granger told the crowd of parents and staff in the primary school library. “We
OBITUARIES
Rev. Albert Marion Archer
January 3, 1937 – January 5, 2025
Rev. Albert Marion Archer, 88, passed away on January 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Albert is survived by his wife, Ruth; children, Jon (Linda), Janis, and Timothy (Michelle); six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Preceding Albert in death are parents, Gilmore and Mary Archer; brother, Harvey and sister Sherry.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025, 1 p.m. at Lighthouse Mission Ministries Chapel, 1312 F St., Bellingham, WA.
wouldn’t be having to make these decisions if the state was upholding the Constitution.”
Since the 2023-24 budget cycle, roughly 100 full-time
positions among teachers, paraeducators, bus drivers, maintenance workers, librarians and administrative staff have been cut.
BBIA ...
From page 2
“I think it’s incredibly tough to start your own police department from scratch,” Tanksley said. “It is possible, but I think the challenge would be for the residents because it would be something new.”
The 2008 Birch Bay incorporation feasibility study suggested that, if Birch Bay were to incorporate, its residents would need to contract with the sheriff’s office or city of Blaine to maintain a similar level of service.
“Those deputies would be assigned to Birch Bay officially as the Birch Bay Police Department,” Tanksley said.
The city of Birch Bay would pay the wages for law enforcement personnel, who would be added to the sheriff’s office current force.
At bare-bones, Birch Bay would need at least one lieutenant, one sergeant, one ID technician and five deputies, which would cost $1.2 million for personnel salaries and benefits without overtime calculated, Tanksley said. However, the city would likely need closer to 10 or 11 deputies, Tansksley said.
The national average for police officers per person is 2.5 to 3.5 officers per 1,000 people, but those averages are much lower on the west coast, Tanksley said. The WCSO average is about one officer per 1,000 people, Tanksley said, and Birch Bay, with a population of about 10,400 people, would need about 11 deputies.
For comparison, the city of Blaine has 15 officers for a population of 6,200.
If incorporated, Birch Bay’s city council or city manager would have
influence on the services the WCSO provides to Birch Bay, which could include an investigator, SWAT and canine services, Tanksley said.
The top 911 calls in Birch Bay from December 2022 to February 2025 were traffic incidents, follow-up investigations and to assist citizens, Tanksley said. Other top calls included agency assistance, watch-fors and domestic disputes.
In 2023, the WCSO received 3,000 calls for Birch Bay, which increased to about 3,400 calls in 2024. So far, in 2025, there have been over 455 calls for service, Tanskley said.
The average response time for 911 calls in Birch Bay is 13 minutes and 30 seconds, Tanksley said.
“It’s about the will of the people,” Tanksley said. “If Birch Bay did incorporate and you were interested, the sheriff’s office would certainly be at that table.”
s Parents, faculty and community members during the February 24 Blaine school board meeting where the board voted 5-0 to begin creating a reduced education plan for the 2025-26 school year.
Photo by Nolan Baker
s Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley speaks during the Birch Bay Incorporation Association meeting at North Bay Community Church on February 20.
Photo by Molly Ernst
sheriff’s repOrts
February 14, 8:37 a.m.: Assault arrest on W. Badger Road.
February 15, 8:04 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Portal Way.
February 15, 8:41 a.m.: Missing person cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
February 15, 11:23 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Ronald Drive.
February 15, 1:15 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Stetson Lane.
February 15, 7:51 p.m.: Hit and run on Harborview and Birch Bay Lynden roads.
February 16, 9:20 a.m.: Death investigation on W. 75th Street.
February 16, 12:05 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Stein Road.
February 16, 2:47 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Blaine Road.
February 16, 3:23 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Stein Road.
February 16, 9:08 p.m.: Suspicious person cold call on Bay Circle.
February 16, 11:05 p.m.:
Prowler on Stein Road.
February 17, 2:39 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Gulf Road.
February 17, 6:11 a.m.: Trespass cold call on Halibut Drive.
February 17, 9:16 a.m.: Death
investigation on H Street Road.
February 18, 7:54 a.m.: Burglary on Bay Road.
February 18, 8:50 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Harbor Drive.
pOLiCe repOrts
February 15, 2:43 p.m.: Sex offender registration on 11th Street.
February 16, 10:10 a.m.: Domestic – physical on Mary Avenue.
February 16, 7:15 p.m.: Burglary on Runge Avenue.
February 17, 12:13 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Boblett Street.
February 17, 6:06 a.m.: Prowler on Hughes Avenue.
February 17, 4:23 p.m.: Hit and run on Odell Road.
February 18, 7:16 a.m.: Senile subject on Harrison Avenue.
Coming up
Family Science Night: Thursday, February 27, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Primary School, 820 Boblett Street. An evening full of scientific experiments and demonstrations. Open to the public.
Let’s Talk About Water Adjudication: Thursday, February 27, 6–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. An informational session on the Adjudication process of WRIA 1, often called the Nooksack area, which includes land surrounding the Nooksack River system. The Department of Ecology (DOE) manages the state’s water supply to address the needs of people and the natural environment. Water availability is increasingly limited and the DOE is committed to finding long-term solutions to adapt to the future but needs to understand who uses water and where. Info: wcls.org.
ACROSS
1. Greek mythological figure
5. Small amount
8. Play a role
11. River in Georgia and Alabama
13. Water in the solid state
14. Ancient Greek sophist
15. Having a strong sharp smell or taste
16. Fleece
17. Writer/actress
Dunham
18. Behave in a way that belittles
20. Comedienne Gasteyer
21. Zoroastrian concept of holy fire
22. Conceits
25. Slowed down
30. Nourishment
31. Midway between east and southeast
32. Fights
33. Comedienne Tyler
38. Standing operating procedure
41. Locks
43. Old
45. Song sung to
one’s lover
47. Whale ship captain
49. Moved quickly on foot
50. Volcanic craters
55. Large musical instrument
56. Liquefied natural gas
57. Ethiopian town
59. Not closed
60. A team’s best pitcher
61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation
62. Disfigure
63. Prefix denoting “in a” 64. Sleep DOWN
1. S. American plant
2. Soul and calypso song
3. Fruit of the service tree
4. Continent 5. Albania’s capital 6. Poisonous plant 7. Argues 8. Assists 9. Town in Galilee
10. Russian leader 12. Promotional
materials
14. Wings 19. Not odd 23. Expression of creativity
24. Conceptualize 25. A digital tape recording of sound 26. Peyton’s little brother 27. Cost, insurance and freight (abbr.)
28. Difference in potential 29. Owner 34. I (German) 35. Chinese conception of poetry
36. The world of the dead
37. Sign language 39. Coincide 40. Religious observance 41. Confined condition (abbr.) 42. Polite interruption sound 44. Texas ballplayer 45. Type of sword 46. Abba __, Israeli politician
47. Basic unit of a chemical element
48. Native American people in California
February 18, 8:17 a.m.: Burglary on Bay Road.
February 18, 5:40 p.m.: Juvenile problem on 11th Street.
February 19, 5:10 p.m.: Prowler on Hughes Avenue.
February 20, 3:32 p.m.: Fraud on Peace Portal Drive.
February 20, 4:26 p.m.: Drugs on C Street.
February 20, 7:52 p.m.: Harassment on Blaine Avenue.
February 20, 10:33 p.m.: Overdose on Marine Drive.
February 21, 9:39 a.m.: Trespass on Semiahmoo Parkway.
51. Swiss river
52. Hebrew calendar month
53. Easily swindled person
54. One point south of southwest 58. Small island (British)
tides
February 27 - March 5 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Whatcom Farm Expo: Saturday, March 1, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., WECU expo building of the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, Lynden. Learn about all the resources available to you, from local organizations to businesses and community groups. Local speakers give presentations on topics related to all aspects of farming.Free. Hosted by Whatcom Conservation District and Whatcom County Public Works. Info: https://www.whatcomcd.org/whatcom-farm-expo.
Dahlias Workshop: Saturday, March 1, 9:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Dahlias are considered the premier cut flower. Easy to grow but there are some definite tips. Presentation includes experienced dahlia growers, demos and answering questions. Free tubers. Info: nwcore.org.
Arts and Jazz Fundraiser: Rescheduled to Saturday, March 1, 7 p.m., Blaine High School cafeteria. Family fun, art, music and theater performances, culinary sampling, live and silent auctions. Tickets at the door: $10 adults, $5 students/seniors, children under 5 free. All funds raised support scholarships and extracurricular experiences for students in the Blaine school district arts departments. Info: blainefinearts@gmail.com.
Hadestown Musical Performance: Thursday–Saturday, March 6–8 and 13–15, 7 p.m., Sunday March 9 and 16, 2 p.m., Blaine Performing Art Center. Blaine High School students perform . Tickets $12; staff, students, seniors, military $10.
Better Than Booktok: Thursday, March 6, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Every month the theme is going to be based on a book recommendation from Booktok. Bring in your own book and/or recommendations, that you think is better, similar, or the same theme as the book of the month. This month the book theme is A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas. In-person on virtually on Teams. Info: wcls.org.
Boating Safety Classes: March 10–13, April 7–10, May 5–8, June 9–12. Eight-hour course in two-hour sessions over four days. For anyone wishing to learn safe boating skills and qualify for a Boater Education Card, issued by the Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission. Cost: $15 plus separate downcast of e-book or $25 for printed book. Info and reservations: bliaux.com or email boatingsafetyWA@gmail.com. Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Bellingham and San Juan Islands Flotilla.
Art and Craft of Writing with Erica Bauermeister: Friday, March 14, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th Street, Bellingham. Gain insight into the writing process as Erica Bauermeister discusses the art and craft of writing. Free. For all experience levels or anyone interested in the craft of writing. Space is limited; registration is required at whatcomreads.org.
An Evening with Erica Bauermeister and Friends: Friday, March 14, 7–9 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial Street, Bellingham. Following her lecture, Whatcom Reads author, Erica Bauermeister will answer audience questions and sign books. Free. Tickets required at: mountbakertheatre.com/events-tickets/whatcom-reads-erica-bauermeister/. Info: whatcomreads.org.
A Conversation with Erica Bauermeister: Saturday, March 15, 11 a.m.–noon. Online. Join a lively virtual conversation between Whatcom Reads author, Erica Bauermeister, and Katie Bray, librarian with Bellingham Public Library. Registration required at: wcls. libcal.com/event/13457549. Info: whatcomreads.org.
Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival: Friday–Sunday, March 14–16. Guided birding field trips, artist reception, bird viewing stations, nature walks, and more. Info and full schedule: wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.
Comedy Night Dinner, Auction, Fundraiser: Saturday, March 29, 5 p.m., Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, 8720 Semiahmoo Parkway. Featuring comedian Kermet Apio, winner of the Great American Comedy Festival. Dinner, silent and live auctions. Tickets $75 at Semiahmoo.com/experiences. Proceeds benefit Blaine’s 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.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of February 17 to 23, 2.0 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 5.3 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 56°F on February 23, with a low of 37°F on February 17. Average high was 51°F and average low was 41°F.
The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2 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 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.
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.
Submissions to Coming
Shores Restaurant: Prime rib and a classic American experience
B y Z e N h ill
A full bar, pool table, jukebox, pull-tabs and a classic American menu all make up Shores Restaurant in Birch Bay.
Robert Grant has owned the restaurant nestled at 7848 Birch Bay Drive in the Sandcastle Resort since 2006. Originally from British Columbia, Grant was an educator who moved up the ranks from a teacher to a principal. His brother, William Grant, helped build some of the buildings along Birch Bay Drive, including the Shores Restaurant. Robert and William were part-
ners in many businesses, which included pet food, vitamins, electronics and land development.
“I didn’t have any specific food restaurant background,” Robert said. “But I know the foundation of any business is the people you bring in. You just try to make it work out.”
The restaurant has a full bar and traditional sit-down restaurant for families and casual diners to enjoy. The restaurant has live music during the warmer months and relies on its jukebox during the winter.
“Like most of Blaine and Birch Bay, it’s very seasonal,” Robert
said. “We’re heading more closely to increased business, and that’s been the case for all the years I’ve been here.”
Throughout the years, Robert has enjoyed the ability to engage with his neighbors through chats from across the “penny bar” that is topped with pennies.
“There’s lots of people that come in once a month or once a year, but I’m talking about the people who come in regularly,” Robert said. “You become more than just patrons.”
The cozy feeling of Shores is like that of the old TV show “Cheers” because strangers can
become friends just by sitting next to each other at the bar, Robert said.
“What I encourage us to do is make it welcoming,” Robert said. “It’s that friendly environment for people to drop in.”
Shores’ beverage menu includes liquor purchased from Birch Bay Liquor Store. Robert is dedicated to being flexible in what they serve at the bar.
“People have gone through so many changes in things that they enjoy, as far as a drink,” Robert said. “If we’ve got enough clients that are interested, of course we’ll bring in a new product.”
Robert has also made an effort to get high-quality ingredients from his suppliers so that he can produce dishes like a black angus prime rib, charbroiled burgers, sandwiches and seafood.
“We try to get higher-end stuff,” Robert said. “I want the top of the line because I’m not going to eat something down the line.”
Restaurant recommendation: Robert recommends readers try the prime rib and a drink of their choice from the full bar.
This article is part of a series in The Northern Light highlighting Blaine and Birch Bay restaurants.
CJ’s Beach House: Fresh seafood with a new fine dining room
B y Z e N h ill
The dining experience at CJ’s Beach House includes ordering from a dynamic menu and taking in the picturesque views of Birch Bay.
Owner Christine Niemann is from the Free State of Bavaria in southeast Germany. She moved to Vancouver, B.C. in the 1980s,
which is where she met and married Jack Niemann, a restaurateur who opened about 50 restaurants throughout his career.
The two came to Blaine and Birch Bay during the 2010s as they continued their journey of opening restaurants in Canada and the U.S. Christine has built on the legacy she and Jack built after he died in 2016.
The large restaurant at 7878 Birch Bay Drive has been a reliable place to eat in Birch Bay for 12 years, Christine said.
“The support of the community is wonderful,” Christine said.
“Business has been fantastic.”
The restaurant stays true to Jack’s roots. CJ’s features seasonings and secrets that Jack crafted to bring taste and quali -
ty to the menu.
Christine’s roots lie in her German origin. Her father owned an alpine hotel in Bavaria, where Christine grew up skiing, skating, and learning the basics of a hotel business.
She attended a hotel school near Salzburg, Austria, where she learned everything about the hotel business like the front desk, dining service and more.
She and her brother were supposed to take over the family hotel, but her father had to sell it to the former Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said Al Said, who made it private property.
“My father sold it because you couldn’t refuse the king of Oman,” Christine said.
Last month, CJ’s added a new dining room called CJ’s Iron Grill that offers a finer dining experience.
“I thought it would be nice for Birch Bay to have a nice dining area,” Christine said. “It’s a totally different menu.”
The Iron Grill has a menu that changes every four weeks, but right now it features dishes like calamari, lobster, lamb shank, steaks and more.
CJ’s main dining floor is where most of the community is used to getting fish and chips, burgers, ribs and everything in between.
“In the summertime we sell about 10,000 fish and chip pieces a month,” Christine said. “Every
year we do more business.”
The menu for CJ’s is changed every six months to avoid monotony, but the customer favorites always stick around.
“My goal is to always offer the highest quality and freshest food available,” Christine said.
Restaurant recommendation: Christine recommends readers try the lobster and shrimp mac and cheese or the Niemann’s real reuben on rye.
This article is part of a series in The Northern Light highlighting Blaine and Birch Bay restaurants.
s The Niemann's real reuben on rye from CJ's Beach House.
Photo courtesy of Christine Niemann
s CJ's Beach House owner Christine Niemann. Courtesy photo
s Shores bartender Anne Globensky serves customers at Shores Restaurant on February 21. The restaurant features a full bar, pull-tabs, a pool table and a jukebox for customers to enjoy.
Photo by Zen Hill
s A charbroiled burger from Shores Restaurant.
Photo courtesy Shores Restaurant
This Area is Booming!
The Northern Light is now mailed directly to 10,027 homes, 620 more than last year. Effective 2/13/25
More people live in Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo than anywhere else in Whatcom County outside of Bellingham.
The Northern Light difference:
• mailed to every household in Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo.
• largest audited newspaper circulation in the county
• 10,500 copies distributed every week
• 85% regularly read The Northern Light and 81% frequently purchase products/services from ads in the newspaper
