Blaine Police Department (BPD) officers arrested a Birch Bay resident for assault and robbery after he allegedly stole alcohol from the Rite Aid drugstore on Boblett Street about 8 p.m. October 17. An employee was transported to hospital due to their injuries.
According to BPD sergeant Tim Richardson, the employee tried to stop a man, later identified as David Shawn Brink, from stealing a bottle of alcohol. Brink allegedly punched the employee several times in the face, causing head and facial injuries resulting in a bloodied face.
Blaine police arrived within about a minute of receiving the call but Brink had already fled. Blaine officers sent Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) a description of the suspect and his vehicle, and WCSO deputies tentatively identified the man as Brink. WCSO sent bodycam footage of Brink, who was positively identified by employees and other witnesses as the suspect, according to BPD. A WCSO deputy subsequently located Brink’s van in Birch Bay and detained him until Blaine officers arrived.
According to BPD, Brink had blood on his hands, a jacket in his van that matched surveillance footage and he confessed to stealing the alcohol and assaulting the employee. Brink was booked into Whatcom County Jail for first-degree robbery, fourth-degree assault and third-degree theft, according to jail booking data. Bail has not yet been set and his preliminary appearance was 3 p.m. on October 18.
Construction on Blaine medical facility
City
The Port of Bellingham’s recent contracting practices have raised additional concerns about commissioner oversight and budget transparency, as two recent high-value contracts appear to have bypassed advance commissioner review and standard budget protocols. Neither the $99,435 contract with Maul Foster and Alongi, Inc. (MFA) nor the earlier $99,396 Conflux Associates agreement show
(See Port, page 13)
City of Blaine planning staff is in the early stages of creating a proposal to de-annex the Grandis Pond property and add 460 acres of urban growth area (UGA) southwest of Semiahmoo, among other UGA changes, in its comprehensive plan update.
“We’re at the very, very beginning of this whole thing,” Community Services Department director Alex Wenger said. “We put this out-of-the-box option on the table because we think there will be a significant decreased burden on taxpayers and it would preserve natural resources in east Blaine.”
Wenger said de-annexing Grandis Pond out of both the city and its UGA would likely require a supermajority vote needing a 60
percent approval by voters.
The city is also considering adding 124 acres of UGA near Harvey Road and is looking at rezoning an adjacent, 455-acre UGA for manufacturing use. The plan would remove 37 acres of unincorporated UGA near the mouth of Dakota Creek that isn’t suited for development and add a UGA reserve in two areas totaling nearly 300 acres southwest of Semiahmoo that wouldn’t be developed until years into the future.
In total, the city’s amount of UGA would decrease by five acres. Wenger said the city wasn’t considering increasing its number of UGAs because there is developable land within city limits where development will
Grandis, page 3)
Photo
Halloween events in Blaine, Birch Bay
Holiday Art Show
B y G race M c c arthy
There are arguably few places that naturally embrace fall as the Pacific Northwest. Ripe with orchards, U-pick pumpkins, fallen leaves and crisp apple cider, there’s no shortage of ways to plan the perfect fall day. Blaine and Birch Bay are no exception, with the communities leaning into annual traditions and embracing the mantra “the bigger the better” when celebrating Halloween.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of 11 events in north Whatcom County to turn this Halloween into a graveyard smash.
HomeFarm pumpkin patch
Through Sunday, October 27:
HomeFarm U-Pick and Events has free admission to its Birch Bay farm, where patrons can pick pumpkins, gourds and squash, navigate a free corn maze, meet the farm’s pigs and shop local products at the farm store. During the weekend, there are free tractor train rides (weather permitting), food vendors, face painting and hot cider. The farm’s last day of the season is Sunday, October 27.
HomeFarm is located at 8020 Kickerville Road in Birch Bay. The farm is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
(See Events, page 5)
Grandis ...
From page 1
be prioritized.
UGAs around a city are designated areas where growth is encouraged through higher density and intended to include enough land to accommodate the city’s long-term growth. They are created in collaboration between the city and county, ultimately receiving approval by the state.
The UGA changes are part of the city’s comprehensive plan update, the main planning document which will guide growth for the next 20 years. Both the city and Whatcom County are conducting decennial updates of their comprehensive plans that are due by December 31, 2025.
The proposed UGA swaps come after Blossom Management developer Ken Hertz sold Grandis Pond to east Blaine residents Kevin Keck and Rebeka Ruiz-Lembo for $10 million in December 2023. Grandis Pond is considered the largest area slated for housing development in Whatcom County with 440 acres that were planned for over 1,100 residential units abutting the city’s eastern limits.
Wenger told city council during its October 14 meeting that he was concerned the Grandis Pond housing project would not be developed as construction would need to start by July 13, 2025, when the land use entitlements expire, and construction plans haven’t been submitted to the city for approval. City council could extend the entitlements but the developers would need to demonstrate extraordinary circumstances for council to consider it.
Wenger said he had reached out to the couple three times since their purchase, only hearing back from them after the first query in February 2024.
Keck did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Keck’s LinkedIn account shows he had a career as a software engineer at several businesses including LinkedIn and the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, and his work now includes being owner of Grandis Pond Equity and being an angel investor.
The city annexed the area in 1996 for Grandis Pond, but the development stalled because of the expense of bringing utility infrastructure to the area.
Grandis Pond and 112 acres of adjacent land have forested wetlands, ponds and aquifer recharge areas, which would make road and infrastructure improvements costly, according to the city. The city is also concerned with long-term operation and maintenance costs.
“The area has been in the city for approximately 30 years, and we’ve been trying to develop it, but it’s very costly,” Wenger said.
City councilmembers Richard May and Sonia Hurt said they were in support of de-annexing Grandis Pond during the October 14 council meeting.
By de-annexing Grandis Pond, it would return the property to its rural designation which would protect the Blaine aquifer recharge area and other natural resources. If developed, Grandis Pond would have a much lower housing density under rural county zoning.
The city isn’t able to start diving into updating its comprehensive
plan until Blaine City Council approves a nonbinding resolution for growth numbers that would provide four levels of projected population and employment numbers over the next 20 years. The resolution is expected to go before council at its next meeting on Monday, October 28.
Right now, the city projects there could be a medium population growth of 2,774 people and employment growth of 1,092 people in the next 20 years.
Also, council will be asked to approve a resolution describing its public engagement efforts throughout the comprehensive plan update process. Currently, the city is planning to hold open houses and work sessions with the planning commission and council to discuss the comprehensive plan with the public.
“We took a look at where we could get the most bang for our buck in terms of industrial and housing land and pick up the fewest liabilities,” city manager Mike Harmon said of swapping the UGAs.
The 552 acres of Grandis Pond (upper
would be de-annexed as would the 37 acres near
(bottom left). The city of Blaine would add 124 acres of urban growth area
in
tentially rezone 455 acres of UGA directly west of that area. The UGA land lost from de-annexing Grandis Pond would be replaced near Semiahmoo as seen in the map below. Map courtesy of city of
ANNUAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF BLAINE!
The City of Blaine is excited to announce openings for dedicated community members to volunteer on our commissions, boards, and committees. This is your chance to make a difference and contribute to the vibrant future of our city.
Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee
Meeting Schedule: One Tuesday morning per month, approximately two hours.
Open Positions:
• Citizen At Large – Partial term ending December 31, 2025
• Large Hotel Representative – Full term ending December 31, 2028
• Blaine Chamber of Commerce Representative – Partial term ending December 31, 2027
Planning Commission
Meeting Schedule: Second Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM, approximately one and a half hours.
Open Positions: Three positions, full terms ending December 31, 2028
How to Apply:
Applications and Descriptions: Available at https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/567/Board-Commission-Applications.
First Review Deadline: Submit your application by 4:30 PM on Friday, November 1, 2024. Applications will be accepted until vacancies are filled.
Interviews: Anticipated to occur at one of the regular City Council meetings in November.
Oktoberfest Special
NWFR Interim Fire Commissioner
The NWFR Board of Fire Commissioners are looking to appoint an interim fire commissioner. The appointment will run until November 25, 2025. Candidates must be residents and registered voters of the district. (RCW 52.14.010; RCW 29A.24.075)
Those interested are encouraged to submit a letter of interest and a statement of qualifications.
Please submit your no later than Friday, November 8 to: jsand@nwfrs.com Board of Fire Commissioners in the subject line NWFR Board of Fire Commissioners PO Box 286, Lynden, WA 98264
@ (360) 318-9933.
s
right)
Dakota Creek
(UGA)
southeast Blaine and po-
Blaine
s The city of Blaine would add 460 acres of UGA to southwest of Semiahmoo and create nearly 300 acres of UGA reserve through two parcels also southwest of Semiahmoo. Photo by city of Blaine
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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Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com
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General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com
The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 20
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
A letter from The Northern Light publishers
Dear Readers of The Northern Light, As your community newspaper serving Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo, we’ve always believed that reliable local news should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we’ve maintained our commitment to free distribution and working hard to keep you in the loop about what is happening in our area for the past 29 years.
Did you know that The Northern Light goes to more homes by far than any other newspaper in Whatcom County? We print 10,500 copies every week; copies are delivered by the U.S. Mail to 9,850 homes while the rest go to retail and service locations.
The reality of publishing a weekly newspaper in today’s economy presents significant challenges. Last year alone, it cost $104,000 just to mail The Northern Light to an ever-increasing number of homes. This expense, our second highest cost, continues to rise at a rate that outpaces what we can reasonably charge our advertisers.
You might wonder why this matters to you.
Consider what The Northern Light brings to your doorstep: Comprehensive coverage of city council meetings; school board decisions and local development projects; timely updates about community events; practical advice on health, homecare, pets and more; and the stories that bind our community together. We’re usually the only journalists in the room during crucial governmental meetings, ensuring transparency and keeping you informed about decisions that directly affect your daily life.
Think of us as your community watchdog, your event calendar and your neighbor’s voice all rolled into one. We’re here when you need to know about changes in local ordinances, upcoming construction projects, new businesses in town or school achievements. We’re here to celebrate our community’s successes and to shed light on issues that need attention.
While we remain committed to free distribution, we could use your help. Those distributions and other costs keep climbing
Letters
faster than we can keep up with through advertising alone. We’re reaching out to you, our readers, to consider supporting your local newspaper with a contribution of any amount. Think of it as buying your neighbor a coffee – except in this case, you’re helping ensure everyone in our community stays informed and connected.
Your support, no matter the amount, will help keep The Northern Light arriving at every door in our community. At the end of the day, we’re not just delivering news – together we’re helping build a stronger, more connected community. Imagine if there was no weekly newspaper and you had to rely upon social media to get your news.
Please consider making a contribution today to help keep your community newspaper strong and independent for years to come.
Sincerely,
Patrick Grubb and Louise Mugar
Editor’s Note: Election letters in the October 31 issue will only be published online as it’s the last issue before the November 5 general election.
The Editor:
Well, here we go again. Another $70 million capital levy proposed by our scandal-plagued Blaine school district.
I think the last capital bond measure for the same amount failed just last February in part because the school district made no effort to justify such a huge amount of money, did not really tell us what they wanted to spend it on or provide any supportable evidence of how much everything on their wish list would cost. The voters thought that number was too high.
I also understand that no one investigated qualification under the multiple federal trillion-dollar infrastructure programs that made money available for some of the things the school district wants you to pay for a second time.
Between January and August, the district did not have a chief financial officer. It is no wonder they have presented no cost projections, no budget information – again – just another wish list sharing few details and little financial analysis in its mailer, handouts and website.
It won’t be hard for the district to avoid accountability to the voters with this lack of transparency.
A $14 million (20 percent) buffer for labor and materials escalation? Hard to believe we will not be paying for inefficiencies and absence of leadership.
And don’t forget that this identical massive
demand is trotted out again at a time of lower enrollment (30 staff cut in May) and at a time when they are not fully utilizing their existing facilities (e.g.: school cafeteria).
I will be voting “No” on this capital levy measure. Please join me in demanding that the school district make an effort to be transparent and accountable to us.
Jack H. Grant Blaine
The Editor:
The amount of dollars being spent on pleas both for and against the initiatives on the ballot is astonishing. That is to be expected with so much at stake here – the future direction of many of our policies. Initiative 2117 is an important one. We have ignored global warming for far too long and are late in addressing ways to combat it. Our emissions have ben increasing, not decreasing, despite the fact that we have made plenty of pledges to change our profligate ways.
This initiative (I-2117) not only would repeal the latest effort – the Climate Commitment Act – that has brought us $2 billion to spend on climate projects, but it also calls for stopping anything like this for the future.
This is incredibly short-sighted. Do not repeal this law supported by our community. Please vote “No” on I-2117.
Elsie
Heinrick
Bellingham
The Editor:
Voting “Yes” on Initiative 2066 to repeal strong energy efficient policies makes no sense. Over the last 20 years improvements
CiviC Meetings
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Meetings are second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
to building energy codes have reduced energy use of buildings by a whopping 30-40 percent across the U.S. Why take codes back to the 1980s? Energy efficiency makes economic sense and ensures houses and buildings are more comfortable, saves money and with less waste.
If you vote “Yes,” I-2066 will roll back progress. A “Yes” vote will allow builders to cut corners on energy efficiency because they can. This leaves homeowners with a lifetime of footing the bill if this initiative passes. If you vote “Yes,” I-2066 will take away local governments’ ability to modify energy building codes for their location. Repealing I-2066 will eliminate one of the ways available to them to meet their climate goals.
Builders have many choices to meet energy standards. They can install more efficient windows and insulation, and still use gas appliances. They already do have energy choices. There are no bans on natural gas in any laws in the state, nor are there any plans to do so.
A “Yes” vote for I-2066 is against good policy. Organizations who are asking you to vote “Yes” on I-2066 are misleading you and are trying to scare you into voting “Yes.”
For all these reasons, do not vote “Yes.” Do not vote for the repeal of energy efficiency progress. Vote “No” on I-2066.
Allison Roberts
Bellingham
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org.
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: Third Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.
BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee meets quarterly in-person and on Zoom. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.
From page 2
Pumpkin carving at Beach Cat Brewing
Thursday, October 24: Beach Cat Brewing will host a family-friendly pumpkin carving night for its first spooky event of the season at 6 p.m. Pumpkins cost $5 or $10, depending on size, and carving supplies will be provided. Beach Cat is located at 7876 Birch Bay Drive, suite 101, in Birch Bay.
Halloween costume contest at Beach Cat
Saturday, October 26: Beach Cat Brewing will host a Halloween costume contest throughout the day. Voting will occur on the brewery’s social media and the winner will be announced Saturday, November 2. The first place solo and group costume winners will receive $50 gift cards. Beach Cat is located at 7876 Birch
Bay Drive, suite 101, in Birch Bay, and is open from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday.
Trick-or-Treat on the Berm
Saturday, October 26: The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its annual Trick-or-Treat on the Berm event for those dressed in costumes to collect candy from community booths. Trick-ortreating will take place 3-5 p.m. along the berm, from the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express to Terrell Creek.
Before filling candy bags, trickor-treaters can stop by the Birch Bay library express where the Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) will hold a “nottoo-spooky” story time with lawn games 3-3:30 p.m. Also at the library, WCLS will hold a monster mashup homemade costume contest that’s open to all ages 3:30-5:15 p.m. The library is located at 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Rocktoberfest
Saturday, October 26: Border
SIGN ENFORCEMENT NOTICE
The City of Blaine will begin conducting A-frame sign enforcement in the downtown area starting Friday, November 1.
All unpermitted A-frame signs will be removed. A business owner may pick up removed signs from the CDS Department on the 3rd Floor of City Hall located at 435 Martin St., Suite 3000, Blaine, WA 98230.
See the City of Blaine website for more information www.cityofblaine.com.
Town Pizza is celebrating its 9th anniversary with Rocktoberfest, which will have a trunk-or-treat, costume contest, live music, youth activities, vendors and more. The event will be held 4-9 p.m. in the restaurant’s parking lot, 738 Peace Portal Drive.
BCT presents Halloween Graveyard Reader’s Theatre Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27: Blaine Community Theatre is holding several Halloween performances at Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive. Tickets cost $12, or $10 for students, seniors and veterans, and can be purchased at blainecommunitytheater.com or at the show.
“The Birds” and “Take Me Out to the Graveyard” will be performed at 3 p.m. October 26 and 7 p.m. October 27. “The Canterville Ghost” will be performed at 7 p.m. October 26, while “Frankenstein” and “Fugue in C Minor” will be at 3 p.m. October 27.
CITY OF BLAINE
October 28, 2024
5:15 PM – Study Session: Comp Plan Update
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting Public Hearing – Revenue Sources and Property Tax Public Hearing – 2025 Budget
November 11, 2024
City Offices Closed – Veterans Day
November 12, 2024
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
Public Hearing – 2025 Budget
November 14, 2024
9:30 AM – Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting
6:00 PM – Planning Commission
November 25, 2024
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.
Spookeasy Halloween pop-up bar at Gateway Taphouse
Wednesday, October 30 through Saturday, November 2: Gateway 1890 Taphouse and Grill is turning its Smuggler’s Tunnel speakeasy into a spookeasy with Halloween cocktails served by staff in costumes. The speakeasy is 21+ and doesn’t take reservations.
Gateway Taphouse is at 429 Peace Portal Drive. The spookeasy will be open 4-9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and 4-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Halloween at Blaine Public Library
Thursday, October 31: Stop by the Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street, for trick-or-treating, scavenger hunts, puzzles and trivia 3-8 p.m. on Halloween.
Lions Camp Horizon
Spooky Camp Carnival
Thursday, October 31: Lions Camp Horizon is hosting a spooky camp carnival for the public 4-7 p.m. The camp carni-
val will have games, prizes and trick-or-treating at Bay Horizon Park, 7506 Gemini Street in Blaine. The event is free, though donations are welcome.
Freeman Halloween Carnival
Thursday, October 31: The Freeman family is holding its 10th Halloween carnival, with this year’s theme being classic Halloween filled with werewolves, witches, ghosts and more. The event will be suitable for children of all ages. The carnival will run 4:30-8:30 p.m. at 608 C Street. Halloween/fall Trivia at The Vault
Thursday, October 31: The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro is inviting people to bring their most ghoulish costume for Halloween and fall trivia accompanied by a spooktacular costume contest and Halloween-themed drinks 7-9 p.m. While there is no cover, food or drinks must be purchased to attend. To RSVP, call 360/392-0955.
CITY OF BLAINE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing for the 2025 revenue sources and proposed Property Tax Levy is scheduled for Monday, October 28, 2024, at 6:00pm in the City Council Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000. City Council meeting agendas are published the Friday before the City Council meeting.
All interested individuals are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding the proposed property tax levy. Written comments should be sent to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Written communication must be received by 3:30pm on October 28, 2024, for it to be included in the record. Blaine City Hall is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled hearing.
For further information on the property tax levy or 2025 budget, please contact the Finance Department, 360-332-8311.
Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that there will be public hearings on the 2025 Preliminary Budget. The public hearings on the final 2025 budget are scheduled for Monday, October 28, 2024, and Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 6:00 pm in the City Council Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000. City Council meeting agendas are published the Friday before the City Council meeting. The draft preliminary budget will be available for review on October 28, 2024, on the City’s website.
All interested individuals are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding the proposed 2025 preliminary budget. Written comments should be sent to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Written communication must be received by 3:30pm on November 12, 2024, for it to be included in the record. Blaine City Hall is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled hearing.
For further information on the property tax levy or 2025 budget, please contact the Finance Department, 360-332-8311.
It’s getting late in the fall sports season, and postseason talk is beginning to bubble up.
Cross-country was scheduled to feature seven varsity runners in the Northwest Conference Championships at Civic Stadium on Wednesday, October 23 (after press time). Football has just two – possibly three depending on scheduling – regular season games remaining as it hangs on to a top-12 state ranking. Girls soccer and volleyball haven’t dominated this season, but still have a chance to make postseason runs in the upcoming weeks.
Football
Playing through torrential rain at Borderite Stadium on October 18, Blaine beat Friday Harbor in convincing fashion, 36-13, behind a stellar rushing attack and stifling defense that forced multiple turnovers.
Senior running back Jaiden Paez had a career-defining day, racking up four touchdowns and 316 rushing yards on 23 carries. With the rain coming down in buckets, the Borderites couldn’t get the deep passing game going, and instead relied on a suffocating running game, and incorporated some creative shovel passes to speedster wideout Kai Kerwin, who finished the day with four receptions for 104 yards.
Head coach Andy Olson raved about Paez and the breakout year he’s had at running back for the Borderites. The Friday Harbor performance – 316 yards – was the 15th most rushing yards in a single game in Whatcom County history, according to WhatcomPreps.com.
“He’s up there for the most improved player in the county this year,” Olson said of the se-
spOrts
nior running back. “We knew that Jaiden was going to be special, but he really bought into the idea this offseason of seeing how far his talent can take him.
Some guys just have that it factor of when they get hit, it almost springs them forward – it propels them. Jaiden’s got that ability, he’s not afraid of contact – in fact, he kind of seeks it out.”
No matter how talented a running back Paez has become, the five linemen in front of him deserve credit for those gaudy statlines that keep popping up week after week. Olson said his offensive line, which features se-
nior leaders Malloy Messenger, Jayden Winslow and Otto Shelton, refused a captaincy because they didn’t want to be separated –even ceremonially – from the rest of the unit.
“They look at it as they’re the team within the team,” Olson said. “They take a lot of pride in being prepared and performing at a high level. When we run the ball, they get giddy about that. As a lineman, that’s your dream
to go play smash mouth football and run downhill.”
That’s exactly what Blaine did on Friday, while the defense was able to bottle up Friday Harbor’s “Wing-T” offense, which features lots of backfield trickery and misdirection, for just two scores.
The Borderites’ next opponent, conference rival Mt. Baker, employ a similar offensive scheme, and Blaine will need another marquee performance from defensive ends Zi Yu and Blake Koreski to keep the Mountaineers at bay.
With the win, the Borderites (5-2, 0-2 NWC) beat five of five non-conference opponents –Renton, Cedar Park Christian, Chelan, Granite Falls and Friday Harbor – by a combined score of 199-72.
Despite the stellar 5-2 record, the Borderites are stuck in the bottom of the NWC standings with a winless conference record. The two teams directly ahead in the standings, Mt. Baker and Meridian, are the Borderites’ next two opponents.
A winning streak to end the conference schedule could keep Blaine atop the state rankings and firmly plant the team in the top-12 to qualify for the 1A state playoffs. According to the WIAA state rankings, Blaine is currently the 10-seed, meaning the team would qualify for the state playoffs if the season ended today. Blaine’s two losses on the season came against seventh-ranked Lynden Christian (4-3, 2-0 NWC) and first-ranked Nooksack Valley (6-1, 3-0 NWC).
Blaine is still searching for that elusive first conference win, and will have a chance on the road Friday, October 25 at 7 p.m., against Mt. Baker (4-3, 0-3 NWC). Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Girls soccer
It hasn’t been the end of the season the Borderites had hoped for, with a five-game losing streak heading into the final game of the regular season. The Borderites (411, 3-11 NWC) were close to up-
B y N ola N B aker
s From top; senior running back Jaiden Paez stretches
Photos by Nolan Baker
s Seniors Jaiden Paez and Logan Villarreal, c., celebrate after Villarreal intercepted a pass on October 18.
Photo by Nolan Baker (See Sports, page 7)
Sports ...
From page 6
-setting 3A Ferndale at home on October 22, but weren’t able to complete the second half comeback and fell 2-1.
Blaine nearly opened up the scoring with eight minutes remaining in the first half, when sophomore forward Nevaeh Zaddack’s shot hit the crossbar, easily beating the Ferndale goalkeeper but painfully rattling off the woodwork and out of bounds, keeping the game in a scoreless tie.
Minutes later, Ferndale would go ahead with a corner kick goal, rattling in a rebound past the outstretched arms of senior goalkeeper Larissa Pluschakov. The Blaine keeper had a stellar first half, stopping multiple Ferndale attacking chances with diving save after diving save, but couldn’t repel a point-blank shot just before halftime.
Ferndale added on another second half goal, and Blaine’s comeback stopped after a lone goal in the second half made it 2-1. Blaine has one game remaining on its regular season schedule, a home game against Bellingham on October 24 at 7:30 p.m. The game could impact playoff seeding, with the Borderites just above Nooksack Valley (2-14-1, 1-21-1 NWC) and Mt. Baker (1-13-1, 1-12-1 NWC) in the 1A standings.
The Borderites will earn an automatic bid into the five-team 1A District 1 Playoffs, and play at Borderite Stadium on either October 26 at 7 p.m. in a loser-out game (if the four- or five-seed), or on October 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Borderite Stadium (if the three-seed).
Volleyball
Blaine volleyball celebrated senior night on October 21 against Ferndale, but weren’t able to send the seniors home with a win in their last regular season game at home.
The game followed the same script for multiple tough Blaine losses this season, with the Borderites winning the first set in
close fashion, 25-23, then losing the next three, 25-15, 2515, 25-14.
Seniors Liesl Schutt, Kaitlyn Harrington, Olivia Price and Brie Smith played their final home games, with Harrington and Smith leading the team statistically – yet again. Harrington led the team with 18 digs along with eight kills, and Smith dished out a solid 19 assists on the night.
Juniors Carly Saunders and Hannah Phelps-McDonald contributed defensively with nine digs each, and sophomore Teia Dube had a team-high 14 kills along with eight digs and two blocks.
The Borderites (2-12, 1-11 NWC) sit above Mt. Baker (0-13, 0-12 NWC) in fourth place in 1A, and will likely face Mt. Baker in the first game of the five-team 1A District 1 Playoffs. The game will be a loser-out game, meaning the Borderites must win to continue on into the double-elimination portion of the tournament. The final two teams in the tournament advance to 1A state playoffs.
Blaine’s lone conference win of the season came against Mt. Baker on October 8, a 3-0 sweep of the Mountaineers that the Borderites will surely hope to reproduce on Saturday, November 2 at 1 p.m. at Meridian. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Cross-country
The Blaine cross-country team has seen consistent improvement throughout the season, a goal that head coach Roberto Aguilera set out at the beginning of the year.
The Borderites will have the ultimate chance to prove how much they’ve improved when the team travels to Civic Stadium in Bellingham for the NWC Championships at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23 (after press time).
Emmanuel Rios-Martinez, Tucker Green, Steven Phelps-Mcdonald, Verdaan Aujla, Sihaan Aujla, Ian Tuski and Jacob Troupe will compete in the boys 5,000-meter varsity race for a chance to qualify for state.
s From top; senior midfielder Juliana Zuzarte jostles a Ferndale defender on October 22. Junior forward Beatrice Dickson maneuvers through a crowd of Ferndale defenders during Blaine’s 2-1 loss on October 22.
Photos by Nolan Baker
Q&A with Blaine muralists
B y N ola N B aker
It’s been a few weeks since the OverAll Walls mural festival brought renowned artists to Blaine to beautify the city with stop-in-your-tracks murals from G Street Plaza to Blaine Elementary School during the last week of September. The Northern Light discussed the inspiration and motivation behind the murals with two artists, My Dog Sighs and Kaa Shaayí, to hear about their experience creating art in Blaine.
My Dog Sighs, a UK-based street artist whose work has been featured in media outlets like the Guardian, has work that can be found on the front façade of the Blaine Arts Council gallery building at 922 Peace Portal Drive, at Blaine Elementary School, and a hidden work is on the south side of Blaine Bouquets at 633 Peace Portal Drive.
Local artist Kaa Shaayí’s work can be found on the back side of the Blaine Arts Council gallery, where three separate works are displayed for public view in the alley. Houston-based muralist Emily Ding created a sandpiper mural that can be viewed at the G Street Plaza in downtown Blaine.
What were the inspirations behind your murals?
tion for the new public art. The general atmosphere was one of excitement about the added artwork in town.
MDS: It was an honor to be asked to come and paint. It’s a beautiful part of the world that I hadn’t explored before and everyone was open and excited to see the results of my work.
How long have you been working as a muralist? What other mediums have you worked in?
KS: I’ve been working on murals for the past couple of years, with projects in Ferndale, Bellingham and Redmond. However, my artist’s practice extends well beyond murals. I work in various mediums, including digital art for logos, canvas paintings, drum painting, paddle carving, mask carving and copper jewelry. My mural work is an extension of my border practice in formline art.
MDS: I’ve been painting on the street for over 20 years now. Spray paint is my preferred medium for murals, but anything I can make a mark with works for me.
How did you incorporate the local culture of Blaine and the Pacific Northwest into your recent work?
Kaa Shaayí: My mural in Blaine was inspired by my Tlingit heritage and the traditional formline design, which is the customary visual language of my ancestors. The mural features a hummingbird at its center, designed to brighten up the alley behind the Blaine Art Council’s gallery and provide a vibrant backdrop for photos. While this particular mural doesn’t directly incorporate Pacific Northwest wildlife beyond the hummingbird, much of my other work does integrate local fauna.
My Dog Sighs: I’m fascinated by eyes and their ability to connect with the viewer. I like to tell stories of places and people within the reflection. Each one tells a story.
Did you enjoy spending your time and making art in Blaine?
KS: I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Blaine. Prior to this project, my only experience with the town was attending the Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration, which I loved, especially the car show. While working on the mural, I had the opportunity to explore more of Blaine, patronizing local restaurants and stores. I was touched by the warm reception from passersby, who often stopped to chat and express their apprecia -
KS: While my recent work in Blaine was primarily focused on brightening the alley and creating an attractive photo opportunity, it reflects a broader cultural context. My style of formline design comes from my Tlingit heritage in Alaska, which, while distinct, shares much history with the Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest. This connection creates a dialogue between my Alaskan roots and the artistic traditions of the local area. By bringing this art form to Blaine, I hope to contribute to the artistic heritage of Northwest coast art that spans from Alaska to Washington.
MDS: If you look carefully into the eye reflection, you’ll be able to spot some Blaine landmarks and locals I met along the way. Where can people find out more about you and follow your work?
KS: People can find me on Instagram @kaashaayi or visit my website at kaashayee.com. Additionally, I’m excited to share that I recently joined the Blaine Arts Council as a new member and will be displaying my art in its gallery at 922 Peace Portal Drive in the coming months.
MDS: You can find me on all the socials @mydogsighs and via my website mydogsighs.co.uk
s My Dog Sighs. File photo s Kaa Shaayí. File photo
s My Dog Sighs added an eye to the side of Blaine Elementary School. Courtesy photo of Blaine school district
s My Dog Sighs paints an eye on the front of Blaine Arts Gallery.
s Kaa Shaayi painted a heart, hummingbird and flower on the back of Blaine Art Gallery at 922 Peace Portal Drive. Photo by Nolan Baker
s Emily Ding turned the side of Blaine Bouquets facing G Street Plaza into a sandpipers mural. Photo by Nolan Baker
Blaine Starbucks recognized for design
While Blaine Starbucks caught the attention of a few blogs for its iconic lighthouse design a couple of years ago, that recognition has recently circulated around Blaine with community members proud of the landmark.
Starbucks listed the franchise location, at 530 Peace Portal Drive, on its “22 Starbucks stores to visit in 2022” blog. The worldwide list included locations in Egypt, South Africa and Thailand.
The Blaine Starbucks was named number 15 on Let’s Eat Cake’s blog titled “The coolest Starbucks locations in the world.” The blog post, which was
published in June 2022 and updated a year later, highlighted 17 Starbucks that stood out from the ordinary storefront. The downtown Blaine location was listed among other Starbucks locations such as a 1920s movie theater in Rio de Janeiro, a storefront in front of a volcano in Costa Rica and a bank vault in Amsterdam.
Rebecca Swanner, a contestant on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, founded Let’s Eat Cake in 2016 and the blog has grown to cover Starbucks news, recipes, party ideas and more.
The notoriety didn’t stop there.
Tasting Table, a New York City-based digital media company, listed the lo-
cation in its September 2022 blog post “The Ultimate Bucket List of Unique Starbucks Locations Around The World.” While not a numerical list, the Blaine location was near the top of the blog for its lighthouse tower, reminiscent of the lighthouse used to guide boats on Semiahmoo Bay. Other Starbucks on the list included a Starbucks at Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, a castle in Prague and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Antigua, Guatemala.
The blog posts featuring the Blaine Starbucks can be read at the Starbucks website at bit. ly/404incX, letseatcake.com/coolest-starbucks-locations and Tasting Table at bit.ly/4ep98bB.
Pets & Pet Care
Preventing pets from wandering
Wandering is a common complaint among pet parents. The urge to wander is inherent to many animals. Cats, dogs and animals in the wild naturally wander to claim new territory, find greater comfort and even seek out mates. However, companion animals that wander can land themselves in hot water. Some may scuffle with feral animals, while others may be permanently lost or suffer severe injuries.
In 2012, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals surveyed 1,015 households that had cared for a dog or cat within the past five years. Fifteen percent of participants had lost a dog or cat in the past five years. Pet owners can employ various strategies to keep their pets safe at home.
Fencing
Physical fences can provide barriers from egress, but they aren’t foolproof. Some pets can get under or over fences, which means additional precautions may be needed. Pet owners
can try burying chicken wire under the ground at the base of the fence or install a tall or smooth-faced fence that cannot be jumped or scaled.
Wireless pet containment system
Wireless systems use sensors on pet collars that are triggered when pets breach the perimeter barrier set on the fences. Certain systems use an audible correction on the collar, while others may employ a static correction that is startling but not harmful.
Spaying and neutering
Curtail wandering to find a mate by having pets spayed and neutered. This will greatly reduce the urge to roam and also may cut down on other nuisance behaviors such as urine marking or baying. Generally, vets recommend desexing animals before they are able to breed, which also reduces overpopulation.
Designate a safe room
Pets may attempt to escape when they hear loud noises or become confused. This may
occur during a house party, when fireworks are going off or even during thunderstorms.
During storms or celebrations, keep a skittish pet in a dark, quiet room with comforting bedding and toys.
These strategies can reduce instances of pets wandering away from home.
s Daisy at the vet.
Photo by Ann Walter
s The Blaine Starbucks at 530 Peace Portal Drive. Photo by Louise Mugar
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: October 2, 2024 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: October 10, 2024
Name of Personal Representative: CINDY MAXWELL
Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262
Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law,
5531 Whitehorn Way
MLS #2258005 $725,000
This is a combined listing of this
5527 Whitehorn Way
MLS #2258064 $225,000
Beautiful 9500 square foot lot outside in an area
7806 Birch Bay Dr #711
model looks new and is really a mustsee, furniture at time of showing is to be included. Nice storage shed for tools, kayaks. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563
list of features. Nothing was overlooked in this custom masterpiece & the picture gallery details just a sample of extraordinary upgrades. The ultimate escape. Greg Flint 360-220-0551
What it means for Whatcom County to be governed by a charter
This general election, there are 27 candidates running for the Whatcom County Charter Commission. There will be 15 elected; three from each county district. Voters can only vote for those running in their district. The term of the commission is one year. In Washington state, there are seven counties that have adopted a “home rule charter,” including Whatcom County. A county charter allows a county to organize its government structure differently than the default structure prescribed by state law, offering more flexibility and local control. The counties with county charters are King, Pierce, Snohomish, Clallam, Whatcom, San Juan and Clark.
These counties operate under a governance structure determined by their voters rather than strictly following the guidelines laid out in state law for non-charter counties.
Here are the key differences between Whatcom County and the default structure for non-charter counties:
Whatcom County’s home rule charter allows for a county council with more flexibility in how it’s structured. The council consists of seven members elected by voters: five from districts and two at-large members. In non-charter counties, the county legislative body typically consists of three county commissioners, all elected at-large.
Whatcom County has a separately elected county executive who acts as the county’s chief executive
Adele Cameron
April 13, 1926 – October 1, 2024
Our dear Adele Cameron of Blaine passed away on Tuesday, October 1 after living for 98 years.
Adele was born on April 13, 1926 in Montpelier, OH to Ralph and Gertrude Cameron. She has a cousin, Meline Batten, who lives in Ontario, Canada, with whom she had kept in touch.
As a young woman, Adele worked as an administrative secretary for MICHCON, now called DTE Energy in Detroit. She also started her own marketing promotional company which she affectionately named Sparky Promotions after her cat.
Adele moved to Blaine in 1991, where she lived for 33 years. She was active in the Birch Bay business community and cultivated a wide circle of friends. Her neighbors and friends brought her flowers and food all the time. When she was 95, everyone came to her home to celebrate her birthday.
In spite of her beauty and outgoing ways, Adele never married, but she loved to go to dances. She also was a gourmet cook and an avid reader.
We will miss Adele but felt very privileged to have known her. No services have been planned.
officer, overseeing the administration of county government and executing the laws and policies set by the county council. Non-charter counties do not have a separate county executive. Instead, the three county commissioners handle both legislative and executive functions. Under the charter, Whatcom County can modify which officials are elected and which are appointed. For example, the charter allows the county council or the county executive to appoint certain department heads, whereas others remain elected positions like the sheriff, auditor and assessor. In non-charter counties, more officials, for example, the treasurer, prosecuting attorney, etc., are elected directly by voters, and the county commissioners appoint fewer department heads.
The home rule charter grants citizens the power to propose ordinances through the initiative process and
to repeal ordinances through referendum. This gives local residents more direct control over county legislation. Non-charter counties generally don’t offer this same level of direct legislative power to voters, unless provided by state law.
To propose changes in the county charter, the charter commission must approve an amendment by a supermajority, or 10 out of 15 votes. Citizens may also propose amendments by presenting a petition with the proposed changes that contains voter signatures totaling at least 15 percent of those voting in the last gubernatorial election. County council can also propose changes as long as five out of the seven council members have approved the changes. In all cases, the amendments must be presented to the county auditor a minimum of 90 days before the next general election.
evidence of commissioner discussion prior to their presentation for approval, despite port spokesperson Mike Hogan’s assertion in an email to The Northern Light that “Port commissioners have the opportunity to ask Port staff questions about agenda items in advance of and/or during commission meetings.”
The port’s handling of budget allocations for these contracts has also drawn scrutiny. While port economic development director Tyler Schroeder indicated that “lapse” in his department’s budget would cover the unplanned MFA study, no funding source was identified for the Conflux Associates contract before its approval. This raises questions about whether the port is following proper procedures in identifying funding sources before contract approval. These financial and oversight concerns compound existing questions about the port’s contracting practices. Officials have yet to produce convincing evidence of competitive activity for either contract, despite state law requiring documentation of
competition for personal services contracts between $50,000 and $200,000. Both contracts were priced just below the port’s $100,000 policy threshold that would trigger formal competitive bidding requirements. (The port did produce a “draft for internal review only” dated January 22, 2024, from a company called EnviroIssues for a “Public Support Engagement” campaign priced at about half the Conflux contract cost.)
ployment in Whatcom County.
During the October 15 meeting, commissioner Michael Shepard questioned how this study differs from previous analyses and its justification given current budget constraints.
Hogan commented on a story in The Northern Light (Port OKs another just under $100k, no-bid contract – October 16, 2024), saying that the MFA contract’s end date of December 31, 2024 “was not an error.” It had been described in the article as “an apparent bit of sloppiness.” Hogan stated that operating budget contracts can only run through December 31 of the current fiscal year, calling it “a budgeting and operating requirement.” In response, The Northern Light asked why, in that case, the Conflux Associates contract term extends to August 31, 2025. The port has not yet explained this discrepancy.
The MFA contract calls for a study of industrial lands and emPort ... From page 1
In a response to a public records request seeking documentation of the port’s request for an industrial study proposal and evidence of competitive evidence for the MFA contract, port public records manager Marlena Hicks told The Northern Light a response would be forthcoming on Thursday, October 24.
The pattern of contracts priced just under bidding thresholds, lack of advance commissioner review, unclear funding sources and absence of evidence demonstrating competitive bidding has raised concerns about transparency in the port’s contracting procedures. The Conflux Associates contract’s structure – initially proposed for a three-year term at $298,200 but cut to one year at $99,396 with annual renewals – has particularly drawn attention as a potential circumvention of bidding requirements. According to state law, ports are prohibited from “structuring” contracts to avoid formal bidding procedures.
B y P at G ru BB
sheriff’s repOrts
October 12, 7:51 a.m.: Domestic violence arrest on W. Badger Road.
October 13, 12:33 a.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 13, 8:47 a.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
October 13, 1:44 p.m.: Death investigation cold call on California Trail.
October 13, 4:46 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Blaine Road.
October 13, 6:02 p.m.: Shots on Creasey Road.
October 14, 9:45 p.m.: Mental health check cold call on Sehome Road.
October 15, 1:07 p.m.: Unlawful possession of firearm arrest on Bay Road.
October 15, 4:30 p.m.: Fondling arrest on Stein Road.
October 15, 8:16 p.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay Drive.
October 16, 8:09 a.m.: Warrant arrest on 2nd Street.
October 16, 4:38 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Henley Street.
October 16, 4:43 p.m.: DUI arrest on Drayton Harbor Road.
October 17, 8:24 a.m.: Hulk vehicle on Fleet Road.
October 17, 10:48 a.m.: Civil problem on Sunset Drive.
October 17, 3:38 p.m.: Hot rod on Masterson Road.
October 17, 3:51 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Henley Street.
October 17, 6:29 p.m.: Death
investigation on H Street Road.
October 17, 7:22 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 18, 9:18 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Cottonwood Court.
October 18, 2:49 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Lynden Road. October 18, 4:19 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Seashell Way.
pOLiCe repOrts
October 12, 9:39 a.m.: Fraud on F Street.
October 13, 3:06 a.m.: Drugs on H Street.
October 14, 10:14 a.m.: Drugs on Natures Path Way.
October 14, 12:38 p.m.: Trespass on H Street.
October 15, 2:43 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Boblett Street.
October 16, 8:56 a.m.: Trouble with subject on Martin Street.
October 16, 9:05 a.m.: Theft on F Street.
Coming up
Community Breakfast: Saturdays, 8–11 a.m., American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. All-you-can-eat pancakes $5, kids 4 and under get free pancakes. Other breakfast items available for purchase. Hosted by G.O.A.T. Sandwiches. Info: 360/296-4204. Portion of proceeds benefits the American Legion.
Birch Bay Chamber After-hours Networking: Thursday, October 24, 5–6:30 p.m., downstairs of the American Legion, 4580 Legion Drive. G.O.A.T Sandwiches will have food and beverages available for purchase. Info: birchbaychamber.com.
Semiahmoo Wine Dinner: Thursday, October 24, 6 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Four-course menu wine dinner featuring Sparkman Cellars. $110. Info and tickets: semiahmoo.com.
ACROSS
1. __ Spumante (Italian wine)
5. Highly impressed 11. Pronoun to identify something specific 12. Uttered in an impassioned way 16. Outfits 17. “Westworld” actor Harris 18. Stewed game casserole 19. Indignities inflicted on others 24. Blood type 25. Says beneath one’s breath 26. Taxis 27. Transmits genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm
28. NFL great Randy 29. Where college students live 30. Brief Yankees sensation Kevin 31. Condiment 33. -frutti 34. Polish city 38. Astronomy unit of distance
39. Romanian village 40. Bears first overall pick Williams
43. Irritated
44. Clothing for sale has them 45. One-time world power
49. When you anticipate arriving 50. Farm building 51. Organize thoughtfully 53. Detective 54. One who reduces 56. Nursemaids 58. Partner to “Pa” 59. World’s longest river 60. Commemorates 63. Compound 64. The Lannisters and Starks fought for one 65. Email function DOWN 1. Open-roofed entrance 2. Japanese religion
3. Dancer’s garments 4. Distributes 5. Yemeni port 6. Spanish doctors 7. It cools your house 8. Engine variant 9. Makes more manageable 10. Days (Spanish)
13. Milliliter 14. Spread out from 15. With two replaceable hydrogen atoms 20. Respectful title for a man 21. Equally 22. Scarlett’s home 23. Big Blue 27. Subway dwellers 29. One-tenth of a liter
30. Central European river 31. Distress signal 32. Expression of sympathy 33. Bar bill 34. Football equipment
35. Dance music
36. Russian river 37. Mary __, cosmetics
38. Gym class 40. Autos 41. Fourth and honorable name in ancient Rome
42. Defeats (abbr.) 44. A way to color 45. Planet 46. Form of humor 47. Taken without permission 48. Go over again 50. Auto parts
October 16, 12:01 p.m.: Fight on Mitchell Avenue.
October 17, 9:08 a.m.: Civil problem on Vista Terrace Drive.
October 17, 12:38 p.m.: Theft on Peace Portal Drive.
October 17, 8:02 p.m.: Strongarm robbery on Boblett Street.
October 18, 12:41 p.m.: Civil problem on Canvasback Road.
October 18, 3:11 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 18, 9:37 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident on Harborview Road.
manufacturer 51. Detective’s source
52. Home of the Flyers
54. Short official note
55. Emit coherent radiation
57. In the year of Our Lord 61. Atomic #18
62. Not from, but…
tides
October 24 - 30 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Peace Builder Awards and Fundraiser: Friday, October 25, 5:30 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham. Plated dinner, silent auction and honoring incredible community efforts to create and promote peace, and sharing our impact. Tickets: $100 at whatcomdrc.org/peace-builderawards. Benefits the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center.
Prescription Drug Take Back: Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library Express, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. A safe, free and convenient way to dispose of expired or unwanted household medication.
Not-Too-Spooky Story Time: Saturday, October 26, 3–3:30 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. A really fun, not-too-spooky story time. Afterwards, play some games on the lawn or head out and Trick or Treat along the Berm. Info: wcls.org.
Trick or Treat on the Berm: Saturday, October 26, 3–5 p.m., Birch Bay berm between the library property and Terrell Creek. Kids trick or treat at different treat stops along the berm. Interested in hosting a treat stop? visit birchbaychamber.com.
Monster Mashup Homemade Halloween Costume Contest: Saturday, October 26, 3:30–5:15 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library Express, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Create your own costume, bring your origin story – just a few sentences as to how you came to be or to life – and show us your signature move as you walk down the runway. This contest is open to all ages. Prizes will be awarded based on Best Story/Costume Combo, Spookiest Costume, Funniest Costume, Most Glamorous Costume, Best Group Costume and Best Monster Mash Up. Info: wcls.org.
Black Dahlia Presentation: Sunday, October 27, 5–7 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th Street, Bellingham. Local author Steve Hodel will give a presentation followed by a Q&A on his investigation into the Black Dahlia and other murders in which his father is suspected. RSVP required. villagebooks.com.
Halloween at the Library: Thursday, October 31, 3–8 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Stop in for fun activities and trick-or-treating. Info: wcls.org.
24th Annual Nordic Fest: Saturday, November 2, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Ferndale Events Center, 5715 Barrett Road, Ferndale. Scandinavian bakery, Nordic music and dancing, vendors with Nordic gifts and crafts, Norsk cafe, bunad parade. $5, under 12 free. Sponsored by the Daughters of Norway. Info: archismith001@comcast.net.
Sea to See Holiday Art Show: Saturday, November 2, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., CTK Church, 674 Peace Portal Drive. Kickstart your holiday shopping from talented local artists of various mediums. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.
Kombucha and Apple Cider Vinegar: Saturday, November 2, 11:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 H Street. Some drink it for health, some for flavor. If you have never tried it, now is your chance. Sampling different flavors, demonstrating how to make your own and sending you home with your own culture (SCOBY) to start brewing. Intro to raw apple cider vinegar and making your own flavored vinegars. Info: nwcore.org.
EmPOWER: How Pickleball is Equalizing and Transforming Women’s Lives: Saturday, November 2, 2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Join Dotti Berry for a presentation of her book. Info: wcls.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of October 14 to 20, 3.7 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 30.4 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 62.6°F on October 14 with a low of 40.2°F on October 17. Average high was 55.7 and average low was 46.8°F.
Open Book: A Festival for Readers: Sunday, November, 3, noon–5 p.m., Ferndale Events Center, 5715 Barrett Road, Ferndale. A book lover’s dream day with books, authors, book talks, readings, hands-on literary experiences and book swag. Mingle with fellow readers, writers and library fans. Presented in partnership with Village Books and Whatcom County Library Foundation. Free! No registration required. Schedule and updates: wcls.org/openbook.
Garden to Bed and Digging Dahlias: Wednesday, November 6, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610, 3rd Street. How to best create a healthy start for next year and minimize chores. Protecting your plants from winter and getting an early start on planting in the spring. Plus how to dig/divide your dahlias and/or protect them for “in the ground storage”. Info: nwcore.org. “The importance of Being Earnest” Performance: Friday and Saturday, November 8, 9, 15 and 16 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 10 and 17, 2 p.m., Blaine High School Black Box Theater (entrance behind Borderite Stadium). Blaine High School students perform the comedy. Tickets: $12, students and seniors $10. Light concessions.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
2024 Better Newspaper Contest Awards
We are pleased to report thatThe Northern Light newspaper and our special publications received a record-breaking 62 awards at theWashington Newspaper Publishers Association’s 2024 Better Newspaper Contest at the state conference in Olympia last week.The entries, judged by Arizona newspaper professionals, represent the best editorial, reporting and advertising published by Washington’s weekly newspapers in the past year. I am so proud of our outstanding editorial, design, and sales teams.They continue to excel at delivering real news and designing ads that work.We also appreciate the quality work submitted by contributors. Reporting fairly and accurately on local news and making sure the newspaper is read by Blaine and Birch Bay community members is what we do and we are pleased that the judges appreciated our efforts. We would also like to recognize you,our readers and advertisers for your support and engagement.Without you,we wouldn’t be here.Thank you.
News
News
And, the winners are:
Arts Feature or Story
FIRST PLACE Famed architect talks of his Blaine home Madisun Tobisch
Education Story THIRD PLACE
School staff cuts prompt student walkout Pat Grubb
News of the Weird SECOND PLACE
The Ents of Point Roberts? Pat Grubb
News of the Weird
Ruth Lauman, Gary Lee & Louise Mugar
THIRD PLACE Hey Siri ... Wait what the?!?! Pat Grubb
Photography
Photo Essay
FIRST PLACE
Northwest Tune-up
Jasmine Long, Ian Haupt, Doug De Visser & Pat Grubb
Portrait Photo
SECOND PLACE
Fireworks silhouette
Molly Ernst
Pictorial Photo
FIRST PLACE
Parting shot
Andrew Grubb
Photo Essay
SECOND PLACE
Blaine’s Old-Fashioned Fourth of July
Louise Mugar, Grace McCarthy & Doug De Visser
Photo Essay
THIRD PLACE
Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival
Ruth Lauman & BlaineBirch Bay Park & Recreation District 2
Special Sections
Lifestyle/Culture
Sections
FIRST PLACE
Mount Baker Experience
Winter 2023/24
Nolan Baker & Doug De Visser
Lifestyle/Culture Sections
SECOND PLACE
Pacific Coast Weddings 2024
Aly McGee & Doug De Visser
Special Section Covers
FIRST PLACE
Mount Baker Experience Spring 2024
Colin Wiseman, Doug De Visser & Nolan Baker
Special Section Covers
SECOND PLACE
Waterside 2024 Rick Lawler, Doug De Visser & Aly McGee
Special Section Covers
THIRD PLACE
Mount Baker Experience Winter 2023/24
Grant Gunderson, Doug De Visser & Nolan Baker
Topical, In-Paper Sections
THIRD PLACE
Active Seniors Grace McCarthy, Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Breaking News Story
SECOND PLACE
Blaine man arrested on suspicion of killing neighbor Nolan Baker
Health or Medical Story
FIRST PLACE
PeaceHealth palliative care Grace McCarthy Investigative Reporting
SECOND PLACE
Birch Bay Waterslides
Grace McCarthy
News Headline
THIRD PLACE
Hey Siri ... Wait what the?!?!
Pat Grubb
Breaking News Photo
SECOND PLACE
Maple tree crushes car during windstorm
Stephen Fowler
General News Photo
THIRD PLACE
Splash Days provides summer entertainment
Ian Haupt
Pictorial Photo
THIRD PLACE
Sunset brightens Semiahmoo Bay
Molly Ernst
Pat Grubb, Publisher
Advertising
Single Advertiser, Smaller than 1/2 Page
SECOND PLACE
Bargain Betty’s Fireworks
Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Branding Ad
FIRST PLACE
Coupeville Chamber of Commerce
Doug De Visser & Louise Mugar
Branding Ad
SECOND PLACE
Trippy Hippie Cannabis
Doug De Visser & Gary Lee
Branding Ad
THIRD PLACE
Windermere Real Estate,
Damian Pro
Doug De Visser & Gary Lee
Use of Small Space
FIRST PLACE
Old-Fashioned Fourth of July
Celebration
Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Use of Small Space
THIRD PLACE
Water Wisely Schedule
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Ad Campaign
FIRST PLACE
MD Med Spa & Wellness
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Ad Campaign
SECOND PLACE
Oysterfest
Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Ad Campaign
THIRD PLACE
Whole Pilates of Birch Bay
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Ads Featuring Animals
FIRST PLACE
Canine Divine Pet Grooming
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Ads Featuring Animals
SECOND PLACE
Whatcom Humane Society
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Ads Featuring Animals
THIRD PLACE
Pet Photo Contest
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Arts & Entertainment Ads
SECOND PLACE
Birch Bay Visitor Information
Center
Doug De Visser, Danielle Gaughen & Molly Ernst
Arts & Entertainment Ads
THIRD PLACE
Blaine Maritime Festival Week
Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
1/2 Page or Larger Ad
FIRST PLACE
Sahara Pizza
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
1/2 Page or Larger Ad
SECOND PLACE
7 Elements Physical Therapy
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
1/2 Page or Larger Ad
THIRD PLACE
Dank of America
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Smaller than 1/2 Page Ad
FIRST PLACE
VW’s Home & Garden
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Smaller than 1/2 Page Ad
SECOND PLACE
Vista Materials
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Smaller than 1/2
Page Ad
THIRD PLACE
Water Conservation
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Use of Clip Art
FIRST PLACE
Paso del Norte
Restaurant
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Use of Clip Art
SECOND PLACE
Black Forest Steak House
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Use of Clip Art
THIRD PLACE
Grace Lutheran Church
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Newspaper House Ad
FIRST PLACE
Did You Know Circulation
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Newspaper House Ad
SECOND PLACE
News & Lifestyle Publications
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Newspaper House Ad
THIRD PLACE
A Newspaper was Born
Circulation
Doug De Visser & Louise Mugar
Youth-Oriented Content
FIRST PLACE
Birch Bay Waterslides
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Youth-Oriented Content
SECOND PLACE
Athletic Hall of Fame
Doug De Visser & Molly Ernst
Youth-Oriented Content
THIRD PLACE
Summer Fun in the Park
Ruth Lauman & Molly Ernst
Ad of the Year
THIRD PLACE
Wings Over Water
Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Ads Celebrating Where You Live
FIRST PLACE
Point Roberts Chamber & Visitor Center
Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Single Advertiser, 1/2 Page or Larger
THIRD PLACE
Blaine by the Sea
Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Multiple-Advertiser Ad
FIRST PLACE
Advice from the Pros
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar & Molly Ernst
Romantic Ad
FIRST PLACE
Samson Estates Winery
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Romantic Ads
SECOND PLACE
Majestic Inn and Spa
Doug De Visser & Gary Lee
Full Page Ad
FIRST PLACE
Wings Over Water
Ruth Lauman & Louise Mugar
Nolan Baker
Louise Mugar Grace McCarthy Molly Ernst Aly McGee Gary Lee
