Trump’s tariffs go into effect for Canada, Mexico and China
As expected, President Donald Trump’s previously announced tariffs on Canada and Mexico went into effect at 12:01 a.m. EST on March 4, a move that will affect the cost of goods. One day later, the White House announced that a 30-day reprieve would be given to automakers for cars coming in through the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement (USMCA).
Both the Canadian and Mexican public have rallied behind their leaders’ resistance to the tariffs. Government liquor stores across the country have de-stocked U.S. booze, especially those coming from red states. The Ontario liquor market is huge, with annual retail sales typically exceeding $6-7 billion CAD. B.C.’s market is smaller but still represents annual sales of $3-4 billion CAD.
Apart from the now-exempt car manufacturers, the president has levied 25 percent tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico and additional 10 percent tariffs on China. He imposed a lower 10 percent tariff on Canadian energy at the same time.
Both Canada and Mexico have announced retaliatory tariffs or plans to do so shortly. Canada immediately imposed 25 percent tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. products and will expand that to cover another $125 billion in three weeks’ time. Mexico plans to announce its retaliatory measures on Sunday, March 9.
Speaking from Parliament Hill in Ottawa on March 4, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau referred to President Trump as Donald and said the U.S. move to impose tariffs “is a very dumb thing to do,” adding that it would hurt both American and Canadian families.
In announcing the tariffs on March 3, Trump cited the fentanyl crisis, trade imbalances and border issues as reasons for their imposition.
Trump also said the tariffs would incentivize Canada and Mexico to build car manufacturing plants in the U.S.
The stress placed on fentanyl by Trump
(See Tariffs, page 7)
Everyone safe during Blaine school lockout
Dive into local birding with Wings Over Water
The Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival is returning to the Blaine area for its 22nd year with a full slate of activities, a birding expo and keynote speaker from Friday, March 14 through Sunday, March 16.
Festival coordinator Debbie Harger said the festival is promoted nationally with Cornell University Lab of Ornithology and attracts people from across the U.S. and Canada.
“There are a lot of people who come year after year,” Harger said. “It’s exciting that people enjoy it so much.”
The festival will officially kick off with its opening dinner and featured artist reception at Blaine Senior Center, 763 G
Street, 6-9 p.m. March 14. Tickets cost $35.
The event will have a meet-and-greet with the festival’s featured artist, Forrest Chel, a Birch Bay artist whose wood burning work is inspired by nature. The evening will also have a catered dinner from G.O.A.T. Sandwiches, no-host wine and beer bar, silent auction and presentation from Amy Eberling, founder of the Salish Sea School in Anacortes.
On March 15, the main event open to the public will be a free, all-day birding expo at the Blaine Pavilion, 635 H Street, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The expo will have a vendor’s market, wildlife exhibits, youth activities and expert presentations. Also
(See Festival, page 13)
s The Blaine Police Department, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection
the Blaine school district’s main campus after it went into a lockout on February 28. Blaine police
Photo
No Two Persons
by Erica Bauermeister
Community events underway. Author visits Whatcom County March 13-15, 2025. whatcomreads.org
Photo by Chuck Kinzer / ckimageart.com
County sexual harassment update: HR policy review, request for independent review of apparent violations
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Whatcom County Council hired Matrix Consulting Group on February 25 to review the county’s human resource policies and procedures. This action comes nearly a year after a Cascade PBS investigation revealed that county officials had paid $225,000 to settle sexual harassment claims against former public works director Jon Hutchings in November 2023 without informing the council.
The 7-0 decision to hire the consulting firm for $76,500 follows a fiery resolution from the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, published on February 20, asking the council to seek an independent legal review of the apparent county charter and code violations related to the payout. The charter review commission unan-
imously approved the resolution during its February 27 meeting.
In the resolution, the 15-member commission brought up the importance of a separation of powers in branches of the county government. It asserted that the executive branch may have overstepped its power and denied the council a chance to check the executive branch by setting the sexual harassment payout to just below the $250,000 threshold for council notification.
“It is a fundamental legal standard to adhere to the principle of ‘out of abundance of caution’ to ensure that actions are transparent and fully accountable,” the resolution stated. “This would mean informing the council ahead of the settlement payout, with an explanation of the county prosecuting attorney’s office argument for not needing council approval.”
County charter review commisison meeting
The next Whatcom County Charter Review Commission meeting will be held 6-9 p.m. Thursday, March 13 on Zoom and at the Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. The commission will review the executive branch section of the Whatcom County Charter during the meeting. For more information, visit bit.ly/43oV2o0.
The commission also brought up that the decision on the sexual harassment payouts was made just (See County, page 13)
False firearm report cause of Blaine school district lockout
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G race M c c arthy
A lockout that lasted about an hour on Blaine school district’s main campus on the afternoon of February 28 appears to have been the result of an elementary school student report misidentifying a caulking gun.
Blaine Police Department (BPD) was dispatched at 12:58 p.m. to investigate a report of a subject with a firearm on campus, according to a BPD social media post after the incident. No other information was provided at the time. The school campus was already placed in a lockout by the time law enforcement arrived.
Blaine school district sent out an alert on Facebook at 1:14 p.m. that the campus was in “secure mode” and school officials were working with local law enforcement to investigate a student report of a security incident on campus. All students were safe, according to the district.
“Secure mode” means classes were still going on as usual inside, but all school district buildings were locked to outside visitors. It is different from a “lockdown,” which requires students and staff to lock classroom doors and shelter in place.
The school district said it would provide updates at least every 30 minutes and asked families to not come to campus.
The Northern Light observed heavily armed officers from BPD, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Border Patrol around the school district property. School district families and concerned onlookers gathered in small groups around the perimeter of the school district grounds while law enforcement cleared the campus.
Officers interviewed witnesses in Blaine Elementary School who “reported a man with a gun associated with a white truck.” No such subject was found, accord-
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ing to BPD, and the campus was released from lockout.
The district announced at 1:55 p.m. that the secure mode had been lifted and students would be released on time.
Shortly after campus reopened, BPD and school officials reviewed security footage that showed the student report had likely been of a maintenance employee holding a caulking gun.
“The employee, who was driving a white truck, was using a caulking gun to make a repair,” BPD stated. “We believe the student mistook the caulking gun for a firearm.”
“We would like to thank the Blaine school district for quickly putting the campus into lockdown,” BPD stated. “We are thankful the situation was resolved safely, and no students or staff were harmed.”
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.
Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor
Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com
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The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 38
Circulation: 11,000 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Mar. 13
Ads due: Mar. 7
Blaine Primary School hosts science night OpiniOn
s Blaine Primary School hosted a family science night that had over 700 people in attendance on February 27. Volunteer Chery Persse teaches a child to make a pinwheel, which was one of the 15 science stations at the event. Other projects and experiments provided education on static electricity, chemical reactions and density of liquids. “It was wonderful to see the students’ eyes light up as they understood the science behind the experiment or project,” Blaine STEAM specialist Terre Shapiro said. “There were many happy children engaged in science with their families. It was a successful night.”
The Editor:
The Trump Administration and “tech broligarchy” are dismantling our government, changing society, and risking our democracy. Firing the newest long-term employees in the name of cutting fraud to help reduce the federal deficit is damaging our civil service employees. Based on a May 2, 2024, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy report, the 2017 tax cuts drastically reduced the corporate tax rate from 35 to 21 percent, pushing us further into debt.
I am a retired federal employee, having proudly served 31 years with five agencies. Federal employees are public servants who serve and protect us every day. They work with our military at home and abroad to defend our country and provide care to our veterans. They protect our communities from violence, teach our children, deliver our mail, and safeguard the safety of our food and medicines. They help protect our air and water and national forests, national parks, and other public lands. They ensure essential functions are financed, that Social Security checks arrive on time, and that our borders and airports are secure. When disasters occur, they come to our rescue and help us recover.
The federal government employed about two million civilians, according to a December 2024 Congressional Research Service data. Since 1968, the federal workforce has decreased 2.88 percent, while private sector employment has increased over 140 percent. A significant portion of the federal budget goes out to private contractors like Elon Musk’s SpaceX and military contractors. SpaceX is currently in talks with the Federal Aviation Admin-
istration for a $2.4 billion contract that was originally awarded to Verizon and competes directly with Boeing’s aerospace division.
Cutting current federal employees does little to reduce the deficit and makes our government less efficient. We need to review ways to improve our federal agencies and reduce our deficit. However, mean-spirited, drastic cuts to federal employees, with no effort to look at the consequences, is no way to operate our government and puts our country’s security at risk. The American public and our democracy deserve better.
D. Brady Green
Blaine
The Editor:
This policy that The Northern Light has adopted of running letters from Bellingham and British Columbia slamming our president has me scratching my head.
I thought that The Northern Light was a Blaine newspaper. Quite a few people in Blaine voted for our current president. I don’t see the relevance of publishing hate mail from British Columbians about how lousy our president is.
And the stream of ultra-liberal letters from Bellingham is also getting old. Doesn’t Bellingham have plenty of newspapers where “hamsters” can publish their views?
Good luck figuring this out.
Raymond Cushing
Blaine
The Editor:
The past six weeks of President Trump’s second term have brought chaos, uncertainty, and an apparent realignment of our
international relations. We the United States are no longer the leader of the free world as seen by our long-time friends and allies.
Last Friday’s White House meeting with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy showed Trump’s disdain for Ukraine. Trump also said he trusts Russia’s dictator Vladimir Putin. Donald Trump wanted Ukraine’s minerals and Zelenskyy wanted security assurances from the U.S. Trump refused. Ukraine has stood up to Russia’s invasion and fought and bled the past three years. Thankfully European nations will continue their support. I stand with Ukraine. Canada and Mexico, our closest trading partners, will be hit with a 25 percent tariff this week unless Trump rescinds it. Both nations have increased their border security at Trump’s request, yet he still wants to punish them. Trump will be breaking the treaty he negotiated during his first term. Canada and Mexico will retaliate. All of us should expect to pay higher prices if this happens. I stand with Canada and Mexico.
As a citizen of the United States, I have always felt blessed. However, now I feel sad and ashamed that the most admirable aspects of my country are being destroyed in such a short time. We need to raise our voices to our elected officials against these horrible actions.
I love my country, right or wrong. When it’s right, keep it right. When it’s wrong, make it right.
Layne Boyce Birch Bay
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
BHS drama brings ‘Hadestown’ to Blaine
B y N ola N B aker
Opening night of Blaine High School Theater Arts Program’s production of “Hadestown: Teen Edition” is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the Performing Arts Center, kicking off two weeks of performances from Blaine’s talented young thespians.
“Hadestown” is a modern musical adaptation of two ancient Greek myths: Orpheus and Eurydice, and King Hades and Persephone. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, the production originally premiered off-Broadway in 2016 before making its Broadway debut in 2019, winning eight Tony Awards.
BHS drama teacher Olivia Theilemann said the script has been a big step up for her actors, and said she’s grateful to get the rights to such a modern play.
“The kids really rose to the occasion,” Theilemann said. “This show puts them on the same level of opportunity that larger schools in bigger areas get exposure to, so I think they’re excited about that.”
One of the biggest challenges has been the sheer amount of singing in this production.
“Music is woven through every moment,” Theilemann said.
Walker Hennig and Taryn Zaccheo play Orpheus and Eurydice, Autumn Scheib plays Hermes, and
Davian James and Helena Macarthur play Hades and Persephone. The trio of AnnaLisa Marshall, Keira Wydur and Danika Morecombe play The Fates.
“Hadestown” will feature a live ensemble band featuring students and faculty, including recently retired Blaine High School band director Bob Gray on the trombone.
Andy Marshall will direct the music, with assistance from Mike Dahl. Juliette Machado and Theilemann will direct choreography, with Mackenzie Cottnair as assistant student director.
Theilemann said the whole cast and crew are excited to once again fill the Performing Arts Center for the local community, and expose Blaine to the cutting edge of Broadway musicals.
“I thought that this was a great opportunity to do this really contemporary and challenging show that’s extremely popular on Broadway, but do it up in Blaine,” Thielemann said.
“Get some new titles out there and see if we can have any unique experiences for our audience.”
“Hadestown: Teen Edition” will continue its 7 p.m. shows this weekend and next, March 6-8 and March 13-15, with 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday March 9 and 16. Tickets are on sale now at bit.ly/3Xv1Nk6 for $12 general admission or $10 for students, seniors and military.
“From our first weeks in our new home in Birch Bay, ‘The Northern Light’ has been our ‘go to’ resource for community information.”
-Theresa Myers
2026 Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge to be Guinness World Record attempt
B y N ola N B aker
Birch Bay’s 43-year-old tradition of a New Year’s Day polar bear plunge is taking on a big goal for January 1, 2026: The frosty event will be an attempt to break the Guinness World Records mark for the largest polar bear dip.
The current world record was set in Mielno, Poland in 2015 when 1,799 people took a polar bear plunge into the Baltic Sea. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, BlaineBirch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2), and Bellingham-Whatcom County Tourism announced in a February 27 press release they hope to break that record come New Year’s Day 2026.
“This world record attempt will be an exciting opportunity to showcase the Birch Bay community, our beautiful shoreline, and all we have to offer to a myriad of visitors, both new and returning,” said Sacha Sanguinetti, event coordinator at the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, in a statement. “We expect this event, and the publicity it brings, to be an economic boost for the community for years to come.”
Sanguinetti told BBBPRD2 commissioners during their February 11 meeting that in order for the attempt to be accepted, all participants must be in the water at least waist deep for 60 continuous seconds. Participants also are not allowed to wear wetsuits although bathing suits and costumes are permitted.
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce paid Guinness World Records $38,500 to officially sanction the world record attempt, Sanguinetti told BBBPRD2 commissioners.
The most recent polar bear
NOTICE OF FLUSHING
The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.
During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820, or visit www.cityofblaine.com for weekly area updates.
Blaine Public Works.
plunge on January 1, 2025, saw an estimated 1,600 participants run headfirst into a frigid Birch Bay. The next attempt will need just over 200 more participants to break the record. Registration for the event is expected to open this summer, and participants are encouraged to register early “to secure their spot in history,” the press release stated.
March 10, 2025 5:30 PM – Town Hall Meeting 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
March 24, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
March 25, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting
April 1, 2025 9:00 AM – Public Works and Parks Advisory Board Meeting
April 14, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
April 22, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.
Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com
“In today’s world where I cannot go on my cellphone without seeing the name of the man some people still call ‘our president,’ I instead turn to sources like your wonderful little newspaper. Thank you for the work you do, for letting us know what our neighbors are thinking and for enlightening us about the restaurants in our area. We love your paper.” - Phyllis and Dave Ulrich
You can also contribute online at
This week’s supporters:
Theresa Myers
Fredric Lausier
Signe Kemp
Arthur Reber
Phyllis and Dave Ulrich
s The Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge on January 1, 2025.
Photo by Chuck Kinzer / ckimageart.com
s From l.; AnnaLisa Marshall, Keira Wydur and Danika Morecombe as The Fates in the Blaine High School Theater Arts Program production of “HadesTown: Teen Edition.” Photo by Jennifer Bogle
spOrts
Spring Sports Preview: Borderite baseball, softball prepare for the season with fresh faces and returning seniors
The spring sports season is here, and there are plenty of new faces coming to Blaine varsity sports, coaches and players included.
Baseball is headed into its second season helmed by skipper Hunter Anderson, and will look to replace the talents of nine departed seniors. The team has some serious bats this year, especially senior catcher Evan Yates who finished last season tied for the Northwest Conference (NWC) lead in doubles and triples.
Softball is now coached by Riley Miller, longtime assistant to –and daughter of – departed head coach Sean Miller. Blaine football head coach Andy Olson will take over assistant duties as the team reloads for another shot at a state championship berth.
This is part one of a two-part spring sports preview. Come back next week for previews of boys soccer, track and field, and golf.
Baseball
The Borderites had a solid campaign under first-year head coach Hunter Anderson, going 12-10, eventually losing in the district playoffs to Cedar Park Christian. This year, Blaine baseball is younger, hungrier and looking to build up the team’s culture after an encouraging year one.
The team lost nine seniors to graduation last season, including offensive leaders like first baseman Alejandro Moser-Hernandez and starting pitchers Kieran Markusen and Diego Gutierrez.
That means young players getting called up from the JV squad ready to make an impact, and upperclassmen with added responsibility to build a winning team, Anderson said.
“We are extremely young, which is truly exciting,” Anderson said. “It’s exciting because you get the unique opportunity to coach the same team twice, essentially. We’ll be losing two seniors [at the end of this year], but everybody else comes back. So building those practice habits and the culture is going to be a lot of fun.”
Likely returning upperclassmen include Yates, pitcher/third baseman Brady Dohner, pitcher/ catcher Jace Neal, and pitcher/ second baseman Kai Kerwin. Anderson said catcher would be a position of strength for this
year’s team, adding that Yates committed to play collegiate baseball at Wenatchee Valley Community College. Yates was a leader on offense last year, finishing the 2024 season ranked third in the NWC in slugging percentage (.556) and tied for the conference-lead with eight doubles and three triples.
“For any baseball team to be competitive, you have to have a good catcher, and we do, fortunately,” Anderson said of Yates.
“He’s a really good leader, a good person, and he’s a stud behind the plate for us. So our catcher position will be a strength.”
But the Borderites will still need to replace one of its biggest strengths from last season, its pitching staff. Pitching was led by Markusen, who had the most conference innings pitched and finished second in earned run average (ERA), strikeouts and wins, along with Gutierrez, who finished tied for third in wins.
Some young pitchers stood out in limited relief roles last season, including sophomore Josh Cochran, who pitched some of his best innings as a freshman last year against tough opponents like Cedar Park Christian and Lynden Christian, Anderson said.
“Another strength we’ll have – he came on late last year – is Josh Cochran,” Anderson said.
“As a freshman he pitched some high-quality games against some high-quality opponents … and did extremely well. So we’re looking forward to seeing what he does his sophomore year.”
Opening Day for the 2025 baseball season is set for 1 p.m. Saturday, March 15 at Pipeline Fields in Blaine, where the Borderites take on Coupeville. The Borderites then travel to Sultan High School for a double-header on Monday, March 17 with games at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Softball
Blaine softball is undergoing a coaching change this season, with former head coach Sean Miller stepping aside for his daughter and longtime assistant coach Riley Miller to take the reins. Blaine football head coach Andy Olson will take on assistant duties.
Miller coached last year’s graduating class of seniors since their days on the Blaine Middle School teams, and said this year will be a fresh start with some new and returning faces.
“It’s a big year for me because I lost my group that I’ve grown
up with as a coach,” Miller said. “It’ll be different, but I’m excited to gain those same types of relationships with kids that I maybe didn’t connect with that same way over the past years.”
Blaine softball finished last year with a stellar 15-8 record, and though the team looked poised for a state playoff berth, the season was cut short in the span of one double-header with losses to Lynden Christian and Nooksack Valley in the district playoffs.
The 2024 team was led by senior ace pitcher Emersyn Bakker, who led the NWC in ERA and strikeouts before committing to play collegiate softball at Edmonds Community College.
This year’s team will have a core group of senior talent ready to show out, Miller said, shouting out juniors who had stellar 2024 seasons and are looking to lead the team.
“We’re going to be pretty young,” Miller said. “We won’t have a ton of varsity experience
on the field. I’ll have four returning varsity starters, a freshman that’ll start on varsity and then some girls that have been on the bench for a few years. It won’t look like your stereotypical championship team, but they’ll run through a wall for you.”
Senior Shaylie Daniels moved positions this season from corner infielder/catcher to full-time catcher, shoring up one of the team’s most valuable positions. Daniels, a reigning All-NWC second-team selection, will look to lead the team on offense and at the backstop.
She finished last season with 25 RBI, five doubles, a triple and three home runs, ending the season with an astounding .516/.610/.774 slash line.
Senior Brie Smith was another name mentioned by Miller as someone looking to make an impact.
“[Smith] has the most insane work ethic I’ve ever seen in a child, and I think she’ll be a good
leader for us too,” Miller said. All told, this team will surely look like a different on-field product than last year’s, but Miller said this team has a solid core that can create a winning culture that lasts.
“It’s definitely a big puzzle. I’ve never had so many utility players, so I probably have three girls that I know where they’re going to play and then the rest figure it out as we go,” Miller said. “But they have a lot of strengths, and their willingness to help each other and their want to get better is another strength that I don’t see in a lot of high school kids. That makes me excited.”
Blaine softball’s first pitch of the 2025 season will be a double-header against Sultan High School at noon on Saturday, March 15. The Borderites’ first home game of the season won’t be until 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27 against Oak Harbor at Pipeline Fields.
s Senior catcher Evan Yates emerges from a cloud of dust after hitting a triple in a game during the 2024 season. Yates committed to play collegiate baseball next year at Wenatchee Valley Community College.
Photo by Nolan Baker
s Senior catcher Shaylie Daniels prepares for a pitch in a game during the 2024 season. Daniels was named to the 2024 All-NWC second team and will play catcher full-time. Photo by Nolan Baker
Tariffs ...
From page 1
has people north of the border scratching their heads. According to federal statistics, U.S. border agencies seized 21,889 pounds of fentanyl during the 2024 fiscal year. Of that, just 43 pounds was seized at the U.S./ Canada border, about 0.2 percent. Just over 21,000 pounds were impounded at the Mexican border. Since the end of the 2024 fiscal year, even less fentanyl has been seized at the Canadian border. The Canadian government also appointed a
fentanyl border czar last month in response to Trump’s agitation on the subject.
As far as the trade deficit goes, it’s true that Canada runs a slight advantage on trade vis-à-vis the U.S. While Trump has said that the U.S. is subsidizing Canada to the tune of $200 billion annually, no one seems to know where that figure originates. Including goods and services, the actual trade deficit is around $32 billion in Canada’s favor. If Canadian oil sales to the U.S. were excluded, the U.S. would have a trade surplus of $58 billion.
Stocks quickly slipped after the announcement. The S&P
500 has dropped from a high of 6,200 in February to 5,842. The Dow Jones opened at 42,518 on March 5, down from its 52-week high of 45,073. Nasdaq sank 2.6 percent. Investor Warren Buffett was quoted on March 2 saying that tariffs are “an act of war,” adding that “over time, they are a tax on goods. I mean, the Tooth Fairy doesn’t pay them.” Trump had previously provided Canada and Mexico one month to address drug trafficking and illegal immigration before enacting the tariffs, which were set to go into effect in early February. He still placed a 10 percent tariff on China during that time.
Active S eniors
The importance of wellness exams after
Seniors are a growing and increasingly prosperous demographic. As the senior population increases, a greater emphasis must be placed on keeping aging individuals healthy. Wellness checks are important at any age, but they bear even more significance as individuals grow older.
Age brings with it many things, including experience and wisdom. But age also brings an increased risk for health problems. Aging men and women are vulnerable to chronic conditions like heart disease, COPD, cancer, and arthritis. It’s noteworthy that many chronic health conditions fail to produce any symptoms until they have progressed to a point where treatment is difficult.
Annual wellness exams can help older adults take charge of their health and stay as healthy as possible. It’s possible for a person to preserve his or her health (and possibly life) through check-ups and easy tests. Here are some common screenings and health recommendations that come up in the prime of one’s life.
• Colorectal cancer screening: A colon cancer screening is recommended for everyone at age 45. Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and risk increases at age 45. Although people seldom look forward to a colonoscopy and the required prep, putting off this test due to a little discomfort may result in missing colon
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Financial Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
AECSPAD
cancer at its earliest stage when it is most treatable.
• Cholesterol screening: This simple blood test can help evaluate the risk for heart disease. High cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, making them narrower and less flexible, according to Sharecare, Inc.
• Mammogram: Most health organizations recommend annual mammogram screenings from age 40 until menopause. Then it may be possible to have a mammogram every other year for those who are at average risk. It is important for women to discuss mammogram frequency with their doctors, particularly if there is a family history of breast cancer.
• Diabetes: ChenMed says diabetes may be more common in older adults, so regular screenings for this illness can enable early diagnosis and management.
V Goertz, CFP
• Testicular cancer screening: This test generally is not recommended without symptoms. Some organizations suggest men with a family history or other risk factors consider performing self-examinations.
• Vaccination needs: Doctors can alert patients to recom
mended vaccinations during wellness exams. Seniors should receive an annual flu shot and updated Covid-19 vaccination as available. Pneumococcal vaccine can protect against pneumococcal disease that can lead to pneumonia, meningitis and bloodstream infections. Adults over 50 also should receive a vaccination for shingles, which can occur in older age in those who have previously experienced chickenpox.
There are additional advantages to routine health checkups. Doctors can inquire about fitness routines, stress, sleep, and diet to see if patients are within the guidelines for healthy living.
Older age may make a person wiser, but the risk for various health issues and certain diseases increases with age. Routine health check-ups can keep doctors and patients on the same page.
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Thu, March 6: Florentine Fish or Veggie Cutlet, Wild Rice Pilaf, California Blend, Coleslaw, Tropical Fruit Salad
Fri, March 7: Tuscan Kale & Sausage Soup, Rosemary Focaccia Bread, Fresh Green Salad, Orange Wedges
Mon, March 10: Bacon Broccoli Quiche or Broccoli Quiche, Roasted Potatoes, Garden Salad, Orange Juice, Berry Yogurt Parfait
Tue, March 11: Chicken Enchiladas or Vegan Cheese & Bean Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Mexicali Corn Salad, Pineapple
Wed, March 12: Salisbury Steak or Veggie Garden Patty, Mashed Potato & Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Garden Salad, Fresh Apple Slices
Thu, March 13: Baked Ziti w/ Vegetable Marinara, Italian Vegetables, Caesar Salad, Sliced Peaches
Fri, March 14: Chef Salad or Veggie Entrée Salad w/ Egg, Oatmeal Bread, Fresh Grapes
Mon, March 17: St. Patrick’s Day –Corned Beef, Cabbage & Carrots, Garden Salad, Irish Soda Bread, Green Fruited Jell-O
Tue, March 18: Three Bean Chili Stuffed or Vegan Chili, Baked Potato, Steamed Broccoli, Garden Salad, Applesauce
Wed, March 19: Birthday Lunch –Cranberry Mustard Pork Loin or Veggie Cutlet, Rice Pilaf, Broccoli Normandy, Kale Citrus Salad, Birthday Cake
Thu, March 20: Chicken Cordon Bleu or Veggie Chicken Cutlet, Roasted Yam,Brussel Sprouts, Pineapple Coleslaw, Raspberry Sherbet
Fri, March 21: Vegetable Beef & Barley Soup, Vegetable Barley Soup, Grilled Cheese on Whole Wheat, Garden Salad, Fresh Fruit Medley
Mon, March 24: Dill Salmon or Veggie Patty, Vegetable Rice Pilaf, Maple Glazed Carrots, Broccoli Apple Salad, Seven-Layer Bar
Tue, March 25: Sloppy Joe or Vegan Sloppy Joe, Whole Wheat Bun, Potato Wedges, Four-Bean Salad, Strawberry Cream Salad
Wed, March 26: Chicken & Dumplings or Vegetarian Dumplings, Mixed Vegetables, Spinach Salad, Orange-Pineapple Salad
Thu, March 27: British Banger & Mash or Veggie Sausage, Onion Gravy, Buttered Peas, Garden Salad, Apple Crisp
Fri, March 28: Chicken Apple Walnut Salad or Veggie Entrée Salad, Whole Wheat Roll, Fresh Banana
Mon, March 31: Mandarin Orange Chicken or Mandarin Orange Tofu, Brown Rice, Asian Vegetables, Asian Cabbage Slaw, Ice Cream
Subject to change. While quantities last.
Arts and Jazz Fundraiser
The Blaine Fine Arts Association held its 28th annual Arts and Jazz Fundraiser in the Blaine High School cafeteria on March 1. The event had live performances from drama, band and choir as well as nosh prepared by culinary students. Student artwork was also on display throughout the evening.
The fundraiser, which included silent and live auctions, raised money for the arts departments to support uniforms, art materials, field trips and other needs.
The fundraiser’s gross income was $16,000, said BFAA president Kim Shea.
Photos by Molly Ernst
Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee holds first meeting
B y G race M c c arthy
Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee discussed its priorities and how it will operate during its first meeting at Birch Bay Bible Church on February 27.
Roland Middleton, special projects manager at Whatcom County Public Works Department, ran the meeting before the seven-member committee unanimously appointed the chair to be Dave Wilbrecht, who has extensive local government experience including as Blaine city manager. Dann Mead Smith, who runs a public policy consulting company, was unanimously selected as vice chair.
Wilbrecht said near the beginning of the meeting that the idea about the committee started about two years ago, shortly after What-
Mailman and neighbors ward off dog attack in Blaine
B y Z e N h ill
U.S. Postal Service driver Dave Hamilton, 55, helped save a Blaine woman from a dog attack at 4th and Cherry streets while on his delivery route February 22.
Hamilton, a rural carrier for USPS who usually doesn’t work Saturdays, was helping as needed when he came across a commotion on 4th Street.
“I finished the route, and I was coming back to the post office,” Hamilton said. “When I got up to the scene, I realized a large breed dog was attacking a woman and the dog she was walking on a leash.”
Stopping his car and rushing out, Hamilton went to aid the woman who had injured her arm after falling during the attack.
“She was an elderly woman, and she didn’t have the strength against this enormous dog,” Hamilton said. “It was like a small bear.”
The aggressive dog, which was accompanied by a non-aggressive dog, had grabbed the smaller dog the woman was walking by the throat. Hamilton threw an empty mail tub at the attacking dog, causing it to release the smaller dog.
Hamilton then used an ice scraper to ward off the dog when it attacked a second time.
Fearing further attacks, Hamilton got the woman into the back of his USPS truck. When the dog returned for a third attack, neighbors and passersby came to Hamilton’s aid.
“It happened directly in front of my house,” Blaine resident Tamara Cantu said. “I watched my partner jump on the big dog and put it in a headlock, like he was wrestling it on the ground.”
With the combined efforts of Hamilton, Cantu’s boyfriend Derek, and three men from a landscaping company, the dogs were led away from the scene and later recovered by police, according to Hamilton and Cantu. Police assisted the woman after the attack.
The smaller dog that was attacked ultimately died from its injuries, Cantu said.
“It just sucks,” Cantu said. “The dogs are going to pay the price, a woman is traumatized, the mailman is traumatized, a dog lost his
life, his owners lost their fur baby, all because somebody wasn’t a very good dog owner.”
Despite being bitten four times by dogs himself throughout his career, Hamilton said this incident was one of the most shocking things he’s dealt with in over 18 years working for the USPS in Blaine.
“Dave is an amazing man and a great value to our company,” Hamilton’s supervisor Kenny Burger said.
Hamilton found a silver lining in the tragic event.
“Here in Blaine, when a neighbor needs help, you know there’s people that are going to rush to their side,” Hamilton said. “This was a team effort between the post office and the other people in the neighborhood.”
Blaine couple aims to spread love across the U.S. in 4.5-year journey
B y G race M c c arthy
A Blaine couple is inviting the public to join them as they take their first steps on a 4.5-year journey to spread peace and unity across the country. The journey, called Walking in Love, will embark from the Peace Arch monument in Blaine at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 8 before moving through the streets of downtown.
com County put two stop signs at Birch Bay Drive and Birch Point Road, near the Horizon development.
“I think there was a recognition at that time that there was a disconnect between what was happening here in Birch Bay and what was happening at the county, where a lot of decisions were being made affecting the community,” Wilbrecht said.
The meeting had a public comment where four people spoke about Birch Bay incorporation, the Jackson Road bridge replacement and how to make concerns known to the committee.
Committee members made clear their desire to meet with Whatcom County Planning and (See Birch Bay, page 13)
The pair, Beckey Hamm, 55, and Scott Hamm, 59, will travel to every state capitol, with their final destination set for Washington, D.C. in September 2029. They will spend nine days in each city where they will host a unity walk, time of worship, prayer and community project.
The Hamms decided to take the journey after Scott retired from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security last September. Originally, the couple had wanted to visit all the national parks, but they decided to do both the parks and capitols to bring more purpose to their travels. The journey is named after Beckey’s nonprofit, Walking in Love, in which she provides life coaching and caregiving support.
“As we started talking, we wanted to spread love throughout the nation and so we want to go see the capitols along with the national parks,” Beckey said.
Beckey said she hoped other
people would join their journey, especially those who could capture it through video and photos. Walking in Love will provide updates on the Beckey Hamm YouTube channel and the Walking in Love Facebook page.
Beckey said she decided to start the walk in Blaine, the only city that isn’t a capitol, in part, because it’s home to the Peace Arch.
“This is where America begins,” Beckey said. “We have the Peace Arch, and the Peace Arch is a sign of unity between Canada and America. I think we can take that sign of unity and take it throughout the United States.”
Walking in Love will start at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 8 from the
Peace Arch and proceed through downtown Blaine, passing Peace Portal Drive, Blaine City Hall, the Salishan neighborhood, Blaine Food Bank and ending at Peace Arch Historical State Park. The group will then hold an inclusive worship and prayer tent at the telescope shelter at Blaine Marine Park at 4:30 p.m. until dusk Friday, March 14.
Walking in Love will make its next stop in Denver March 22-30, followed by Olympia May 3-11. The pair will head to Salem, Oregon; Little Rock, Arkansas; Pierre, South Dakota; Bismarck, North Dakota and Helena, Montana from late spring to late summer.
s U.S. Postal Service carrier Dave Hamilton in front of a mail truck on February 27 in Blaine. Hamilton helped save a woman from a dog attack at 4th and Cherry streets. Photo courtesy of Kenny Burger
s Blaine residents Beckey and Scott Hamm will embark on a 4.5-year journey to spread love and unity at every U.S. capital city during their Walking in Love journey. Photo courtesy of Beckey Hamm
in Blaine available March 5. Excellent references required. $900/month. Fully furnished. Beautiful country setting. Single
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Barbara Brandt, Deceased. NO. 25-400133-37. 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
probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: February 20, 2025
Personal Representative: Cindy Maxwell PO Box 32510 Bellingham, WA 98228
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON, COUNTY OF WHATCOM
In re parentage:
Petitioner: NIKOLE J. TIERNEY
And Respondent: JERED G. LARSON No. 25-5-00007-37
Summons: Served by Publication (SM)
To: Jered G. Larson:
Petitioner has started a court case by filing a petition. The name of the Petition is: Petition to Decide Parentage. You must respond in writing if you want the court to consider your side.
Deadline! Your Response must be filed and served within 60 days of the date this Summons is published: February 20, 2025.
If you do not file and serve your Response or a Notice of Appearance by the deadline:
• No one has to notify you about other hearings in this case, and
• The court may approve the requests in the Petition without hearing your side (called a default judgment).
Follow these steps:
1. Read the Petition and any other documents that were filed at court with this Summons. Those documents explain what the other party is asking for.
2. Fill out a Response on this form: FL Parentage 302, Response to Petition to Decide Parentage
You can get the Response form and other forms you may need at:
• The Washington State Courts’ website: www.courts.wa.gov/forms
• Washington LawHelp: www.washingtonlawhelp.org, or • The Superior Court Clerk’s office or county law library (for a fee).
3. Serve (give) a copy of your Response to the person who filed this Summons at the address below, and to any other parties. You may use certified mail with return receipt requested. For more information on how to serve, read Superior Court Civil
Rule 5.
4. File your original Response with the court clerk at this address: Whatcom County Superior Court Clerk, 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 301, Bellingham, WA 98225
5. Lawyer not required: It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer, but you may file and serve your Response without one. Legal papers for this case will be accepted at: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Service address: 289 H Steet, Suite A Mailing address: PO Box 1258 Blaine, WA 98231
Note: You and the other party may agree to accept legal papers by email under Superior Court Civil Rule 5 and local court rules. This Summons is issued according to Rule 4.1 of the Superior Court Civil Rules of the state of Washington.
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. 25-4-00133-37
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: HARRY I. BOWEN,
Festival ...
From page 1
at the expo, Sardis Raptor Center will give live raptor presentations 10:30-11:30 a.m., 12:30-1 p.m. and 2:30-3 p.m.
The North Cascades Audubon Society will operate bird viewing stations from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 15. Maps with viewing station locations will be available at the Blaine Pavilion starting at 8:30 a.m. March 15.
A birding and wildlife cruise will take festival attendees to Boundary and Semiahmoo bays from the Semiahmoo Resort Plover dock, 12:30-2:30 p.m. March 15. Tickets cost $65 each and preregistration is required. Passengers must be 12 years or older.
A new event this year, wildlife photographer Gregory Green will host “Finding the Rhythm in Nature Photography Workshop” at the Semiahmoo Resort theater from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The workshop, which costs $40, will include a field portion on Semiahmoo Spit.
Rounding out the day, author and naturalist Lyanda Lynn Haupt will give a keynote presentation on human connection to the natural world at Blaine Senior Center at 5 p.m. March 15. Haupt is a two-time winner of the Washington State Book Award and created the educational programs at the Seattle Audubon Society. Her books include “Mozart’s Starling” and “Rooted: Life at the Crossroads
County ...
From page 3 days before the general election where Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu was seeking reelection. It also questioned the possible conflict of interest by the county prosecuting attorney being counsel to both the county executive and the county council.
In May 2024, the county council created an investigative subcommittee comprised of council members Todd Donovan, Barry Buchan-
Birch Bay ...
From page 10
Development Services to discuss how the Birch Bay urban growth area fits into the county’s comprehensive plan. The group said they were interested in learning more about the city of Blaine’s proposal to swap urban growth areas from east to west Blaine.
Middleton said he would provide an update on the Jackson Road bridge replacement project at an upcoming meeting. He said the bridge had been delayed because of Covid-19 and the 2021 flooding, later adding that the bridge project could be reprioritized if Whatcom County Public Works Department loses federal funding.
Whatcom County Parks and Recreation director Bennett Knox said that while his department doesn’t rely on federal funds, other departments potentially losing federal dollars could indirectly
OBITUARIES
Laura Arlene Cherney
October 29,1944-March 1,2025
Laura was a loving daughter, wife, mother and grandmother. Laura was born in Idaho and lived with her husband David Cherney for 51 years of marriage in Blaine, WA. She loved her family, friends and animals. She is survived by her husband David Cherney, of Blaine; daughter Penny Brouillard of Gauley Bridge, WV; grandchildren William Brouillard (Brittany) of Oak Hill, WV, Catlin Brouillard (Hunter) of Huntington, WV, and Rebecka Brouillard (Grace) of Roseburg, OR; great-granddaughter Madeline Brouillard of Oak Hill, WV; sisters Sybil (Dave) Pitton of Bellingham, WA, Sylvia Jeffers of Nyssa, OR; brother-inllaw William (Betty) Kincaid of Gauley Bridge, WV and several nieces and nephews. Laura was preceded in death by her parents and several brothers and sisters. She will be missed by many.
of Science, Nature, and Spirit.”
The presentation will be free, though donations are welcome.
“She’s got a great message about inspiring us, not just about birds, but about wildlife generally in our daily lives, about how to experience that right where we are,” Harger said.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, Friends of Birch Bay Library and Wild Whatcom will put on free youth activities at the bp Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive in Birch Bay State Park, on March 16. Activities will include a kid’s story time and hot chocolate from 10 a.m. to noon, and crafts and activities from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
an and Ben Elenbaas. In September, the trio released a report outlining a major breach in trust between county employees and leadership due to the payout. Employees reported that sexual harassment by Hutchings was “an open secret” and they believed county HR and sexual harassment training to be inadequate.
Matrix will review HR policies relating to sexual harassment, collect data from county employees, review sexual harassment and HR training guidelines, and issue a final report with recommendations
impact parks and recreation.
Knox said he wanted to have a conversation with the community about what would be realistic for Birch Bay Beach Park as significant funding is needed for the $5.4 million park. The county has $1 million set aside and doesn’t anticipate receiving a state grant from the Recreation and Conservation Office for it, Knox said.
On the committee, chamber director Danielle Gaughen represents the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, parks and recreation board member Wilbrecht represents Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, and fire commissioner Bruce Ansell represents North Whatcom Fire and Rescue. Other members include Doralee Booth, an active Birch Bay community member; Sheila Wood, a Birch Bay resident who works at the Lynden Chamber of Commerce; Stephen Nelson, a Birch Bay resident of five decades.
The advisory committee was
The Blaine Arts Council will also have artists’ work featuring local birds on display at its gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. The Alaska Packers Association museum on Semiahmoo Spit will also be open as part of the festival. The museum is located at 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway and will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 15 and 1-5 p.m. March 16.
The festival will also have guided field trips and nature walks across White Rock, B.C., Birch Bay, and Semiahmoo Spit that have sold out.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.
to the county.
Matrix estimated a four-month timeline for the project, meaning a final report would likely be issued this summer. The contract is set to end on August 31, 2025.
The next charter review commission meeting will be held 6-9 p.m. Thursday, March 13 on Zoom and at the Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. The commission will review the executive branch section of the Whatcom County Charter during the meeting. For more information, visit bit.ly/43oV2o0.
approved by Whatcom County Council in December 2024 to serve as a way for Birch Bay residents to provide better input to Whatcom County.
“The intention of the group wasn’t to be an advocate for individual property owner problems, to be a conduit to criticize the county or be in a position where we become adversarial with the county,” Wilbrecht said. “It’s really about trying to use our best capacity as a group of folks to have an understanding of what the county is doing and what that means to our community.”
The committee has tentatively scheduled its next meeting for 4 p.m. Thursday, March 24 at Birch Bay Bible Church. The group is still deciding when it will regularly meet.
Those interested in contacting the committee can do so by emailing bbcac@whatcomcounty.us. Meeting minutes and recordings will be available on the county’s website at bit.ly/3QmWVcX.
sheriff’s repOrts
February 22, 9:08 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Carson Road.
February 22, 10:38 a.m.: Drugs on East Street.
February 22, 1:57 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
February 22, 10:44 p.m.: Senile subject on Valley View Road.
February 23, 9:12 a.m.: Drugs cold call on Dahl Lane.
February 23, 10:06 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
February 23, 10:12 a.m.: Drugs cold call on East Street.
February 23, 11:08 a.m.: Traffic stop arrest on California Trail.
February 24, 3:00 p.m.: Trouble w/ subject on Birch Bay Square Street.
February 24, 6:01 p.m.: Civil problem on Beachcomber Drive.
February 25, 2:38 p.m.: Prowler on Birch Terrace Drive.
February 26, 2:55 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Peace Portal Drive.
February 26, 11:22 a.m.:
Sex crime no rape cold call on Arnie Road.
February 26, 2:57 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Birch Bay Square Street.
February 26, 3:58 p.m.: Domestic violence, burglary arrest on McGee Road.
February 27, 9:03 a.m.: Trouble with subject cold call on W.
Badger Road.
February 27, 9:29 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Portal Way.
February 27, 9:32 a.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Masterson Road.
February 28, 5:08 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Stadsvold Road.
February 28, 5:23 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Salish Road.
pOLiCe repOrts
February 22, 2:10 p.m.: Animal problem on Blaine Avenue.
February 23, 12:34 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Runge Avenue.
February 25, 6:41 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Marine Drive.
February 25, 9:33 a.m.: Prowler on Canvasback Loop.
February 25, 10:27 a.m.: Theft on Marine Drive.
February 25, 2:42 p.m.: Prowler on Birch Terrace Drive.
February 26, 10:28 a.m.: Surrender of weapons on H Street.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS
1. Cut a little bit off 5. State with confidence 11. River in NE Scotland 14. Not narrow 15. Lacking social polish 16. Amount of time 17. Frame 19. Automobile 20. Toadstools 21. High school dances 22. Utilize 23. Challenged 25. One-sided 27. Showing extreme greed 31. Potted plants 34. Everyone has one 35. Lake in Botswana 38. E.T. rode in one 39. Juniors’ parents 41. Small amount 42. Mother of Perseus 44. Ornamental box 45. Gov’t investigators 46. Uncertain 49. A cotton fabric
with a satiny finish
51. The vast grassy plains in S. America
55. Your consciousness of your own identity
56. Noted consumer advocate
60. Spanish sports club
61. Body part
62. Tractability 64. Woman (French) 65. Ready and willing to be taught 66. Muslim ruler title
67. Depressed 68. Gradually gave way
69. Clear-thinking DOWN
1. Brushed aside 2. Water sprite 3. Ones to look up to 4. Monetary units 5. A number everyone has 6. Marine invertebrate 7. One who takes you to court 8. Indicates outer
9. Parallelograms 10. Strains 11. Cross 12. A way to remove 13. Some pages are dog-__ 18. Ukraine city 24. A citizen of Denmark 26. Summer month (abbr.) 28. Hindu queens 29. Jewelry brand 30. Fictional rider of Rohan 31. Wet dirt 32. Russian city 33. Observed 36. Furious 37. Drivers’ licenses 39. Musical composition 40. Auction 43. They __ 45. Women 47. Inspire with love 48. Japanese ankle sock 49. Appears 50. Old World lizard 52. The leading performer 53. Type of protein 54. Pennsylvania town
Coming up
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.
Walking in Love: Saturday, March 8, 1 p.m., meet at the Peace Arch. The walk starts at the Peace Arch and will walk through the streets of Blaine. Walking in love is part of a 4-year mission to travel to every state capital spreading love, joy, peace and unity across the nation. Worship and prayer tent will be at Blaine Marine Park’s telescope shelter on Friday, March 14 at 4:30 p.m.
February 26, 11:33 a.m.: Theft on Marine Drive.
February 26, 11:42 a.m.: Drugs on H Street.
February 26, 2:58 p.m.: Theft on H Street.
February 26, 1:47 p.m.: Senile subject on H Street.
February 27, 3:06 p.m.: Theft on Marine Drive.
February 27, 8:51 p.m.: Theft on 10th Street.
February 28, 3:41 p.m.: Death investigation on Peace Portal Drive.
57. Art __: around 1920 58. __ Blyton, children’s author 59. Abnormal breathing 63. A place to sleep
ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
tides
March 6 - 12 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Raise Your Spiritual IQ: Sunday, March 9, 2 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Meeting every two weeks through June. Topic: On Sacred Ground. This discussion series is for anyone wanting to explore contemplations and spiritual exercises to open a window to your inner spiritual being. Info: SingHU@olypen.com.
Sip and Bingo: Sunday, March 8, 5 p.m., Larrabee Lager Company, 4151 Guide Meridian Road #10, Bellingham. Fun, family-friendly night of music bingo. Tickets: $25 and include one beverage, commemorative pint glass and prizes. All proceeds benefit the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center.
Second Saturday Downtown Art Walk: Saturday, March 8, 4–6:30 p.m., Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive and participating downtown businesses. Celebrating Wings Over Water. Refreshments from L&L Bakery. Free. Info: blaineartscouncil.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.
Live Music at Packers: Thursday, March 13, 6–8 p.m., Packers Kitchen + Bar, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Featuring Alex Britton. Info: Semiahmoo.com.
What’s Next: Resources as We Age: Friday, March 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Informative resource fair for older adults in our community. Free and open to all. Info: 360/733-4030 or whatcomcoa.org.
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.
Live Music at Packers: Friday, March 14, 6–8 p.m., Packers Kitchen + Bar, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Featuring Charlie Partin. Info: Semiahmoo.com.
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: bit.ly/3D7fJKp. 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.
Wings Over Water Festival Opening and Artist Reception: Friday, March 14, 6–9 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy a catered dinner and no-host wine and beer. Meet this year’s featured artist, Forrest Chel Art, plus silent auction. Tickets $35, space is limited. Preregistration recommended at: bit.ly/3F1ZgHM.
Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival: Saturday and Sunday, March 15 and 16, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Avenue, Bellingham. Exhibits, vendors, live performances and interactive workshops. All ages. Free. Info: alliedarts.org.
Kid’s Nest Box Building: Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m. till supplies run out, Blaine Community Pavilion, 635 8th Street. Kids build a bird box as part of Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival. No registration required. Sponsored by Pacific Building Center.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of February 24 to March 2, 0.8 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 6.1 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 59.1°F on February 27, with a low of 35.1°F on March 1. Average high was 55.9°F and average low was 39.6°F.
Community Volunteer Days: Saturday, March 15 and 29, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Skallman Dog Park, 1200 Yew Avenue. Brilliant Planet, a youth nonprofit, is partnering with Blaine’s public works department for volunteer opportunities for youth to engage with the community. Parents and grandparents welcome to help. Info: brilliantplanet.org.
Native Plant Sale: Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Pioneer Park, 2007 Cherry Street, Ferndale. Purchase native plants for your spring projects. Online pre orders available. Info: https://www. whatcomcd.org/native-plant-sale.
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.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to
This Area is Booming!
The Northern Light is now mailed directly to 10,027 homes, 620 more than last year.
Plus, total circulation is now 11,000 copies per week.
Effective 3/6/25
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
• NOW 11,000 copies distributed every week
• 85% regularly read The Northern Light and 81% frequently purchase products/services from ads in the newspaper
Place your message where it counts
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“A NOURISHING END” Hand-burned pyrography by Festival Featured Artist Forrest Chel Art. Meet Forrest Chel Friday, March 14 at the Festival Opening & March 15 at the Birding Expo on Saturday.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER Lyanda Lynn HauptSaturday, March 15 • 5 PM • Free Blaine Senior Center 763 G St., Blaine
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
WOW FESTIVAL OPENING DINNER & FEATURED ARTIST RECEPTION
BLAINE SENIOR CENTER • 763 G STREET • 6 PM Silent auction and inspiring presentation by Amy Eberling, Director and Founder of the Salish Sea School in Anacortes.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15 - ALL-DAY BIRDING EXPO 10 AM - 5 PM • BLAINE PAVILION - 635 8TH STREET - BLAINE Live Raptor Presentations • Art & Craft Vendors • Wildlife Exhibits • Bird Viewing Stations • Expert Wildlife Speakers • Birdtastic Kids’ Activities & MORE!
THREE-DAYS OF FUN ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY, MARCH 16
BIRDING BREAKFAST 9 AM
BLAINE COMMUNITY CENTER • 763 G STREET BLAINE: Chickadee Chatter From the ABC’s to the DEE-DEE-DEE’s
BIRCH BAY & BP HERON CENTER* • 7290 BIRCH BAY DR. Hot Beverages & Kid’s Story-time! - 10 AM - 12 PM • Family Activities & Crafts - 10:30 AM - 12 PM Birds & Beaks Family Bird Investigation - 1-2:30 PM *A Discover Pass or a $10 day pass is required for parking within the state park. A pass can be
at kiosks in the park. Stay Where the Birds Are! FESTIVAL LODGING SPECIALS: At the Bellingham Airport
