Don’t forget to turn back clocks Nov. 3
CAP Toy Store registration, donations start
B y G race M c c arthy
As the holidays fast approach, the Community Assistance Program (CAP) is preparing for its annual Community Toy Store, with registration and donations beginning Friday, November 1.
The toy store allows Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts families living on limited incomes to purchase new toys for their children and gift cards for teens at an 80 percent discount, 5 percent more than previous years to help families burdened by inflation. Shoppers will be giving back to the community as all proceeds from the toy store go to The Bridge Community Hope Center emergency fund, Loads of Love’s bimonthly free laundry services and Blaine Food Bank.
“It’s a way to help families in a dignified manner,” CAP volunteer Laura Vogee said. “It’s not a hand out, it’s a hand up.”
Registrations
Pre-registration for the toy store is required by Sunday, December 1 and walkins will not be accepted. The store will be open December 12-14 at Christian Way Community Church, next to Westside Pizza in the Blaine international shopping center.
To be eligible, families must live within the Blaine school district boundaries, though the children don’t need to attend Blaine schools. The families must also qualify for free and reduced lunch and cannot be receiving any other gift assistance. Families may still be eligible on a case-bycase basis if their income doesn’t meet the requirements. Vouchers are available for families needing additional assistance.
People can sign up for the program at blainecap.org or, if unable to register online, by calling 530/828-5195.
Once applications are approved, families will be contacted by phone or email for their allotted time to shop and then will receive a referral postcard in the mail at the beginning of December that must be brought to the toy store.
A shopper can purchase up to $15 in
(See Toy store, page 5)
bp hosts student day at Cherry Point refinery
Blaine City Council OKs legislative priorities
B y G race M c c arthy
While 42nd Legislative District state representatives won’t be decided until November, Blaine City Council is already making its request to lawmakers – whoever they may be – for next year’s legislative session.
During the October 28 city council meeting, council approved a list of 10 funding and policy priorities the city wants lawmakers to consider when they return to Olympia on January 13, including restoring Blaine Harbor, addressing train delays and focusing on affordable housing.
In its 2025 legislative agenda, the city is partnering with the Port of Bellingham to request funding to upgrade Blaine Harbor. This request comes as the port and city are working together to improve the wharf, deepen navigation channels and improve stormwater management systems, according to the legislative agenda.
The city is prioritizing funding for the Bell Road Grade Separation Project in addition to what the state has already provided. Money from the state and federal governments as well as BNSF only covers 30 percent of the design. The project, which
Munden retires after 25 years with BPD
B y G race M c c arthy
Blaine police lieutenant Michael Munden retired after serving 25 years in law enforcement for the city, the longest serving member of the current force, on October 30.
“[Munden] has risen up the ladder as officer to sergeant to lieutenant to interim chief,” mayor Mary Lou Steward said during a recognition of Munden at the October 28 city council meeting. “He filled them all with distinction and honor, and
really helped to keep our city safe.”
Munden graduated from the School of Police Staff and Command at Northwestern and started his career as a reserve police officer in Aguilar, Colorado in 1991. He then moved to his hometown of Raton, New Mexico with his wife and became an officer there in 1992.
Wanting to move out of New Mexico, the couple flipped a coin on moving to Maine or Washington. Shortly after, 29-year-old Munden found Blaine when
he was driving up the I-5 corridor picking up applications in 1999.
Munden created the police department’s former K-9 program, where he worked as a dog handler for 12 years. He also oversaw a reserve program, pushed to update radio equipment, reviewed policies and oversaw the administrative needs of the department. Munden’s contributions were recognized through his promotions, even -
(See Munden, page 15)
the city has been requesting funding on for years, would build an overpass above the Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection to avoid vehicles from being delayed from trains moving slowly through U.S. Homeland Security’s Vehicle and Cargo Inspection System.
The city is also asking the state to alleviate the city’s legal expenses incurred in the Nooksack River water adjudication.
As for policy priorities, first on the city’s legislative agenda is a request to focus on
(See Agenda, page 3)
Photo
City of Blaine nixes proposed ninja course, considers other park ideas
B y N ola N B aker
The city of Blaine declined to move forward and provide funding for a proposed outdoor ob stacle course despite Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) receiving a $40,000 grant to help with construction costs, citing budget constraints. Outdoor exercise equipment company Greenfields Outdoor
Fitness awarded the grant to BBBPRD2 in January to construct an obstacle course that resembles the courses from the hit T.V. show “American Ninja Warrior.”
ing back to Greenfields, BBBPRD2 director Heather Lindsay said the parks district is hoping to continue to collaborate with the city to create more recreation
City council OKs staff moving ahead on comprehensive plan update
Other city council news …
Public hearings
The city held two public hearings on the 2025 budget and a proposed property tax increase of one percent, though no one spoke at either. The city will hold another public hearing on the 2025 budget at its next meeting on Tuesday, November 12.
Plover haul bill
City council approved city staff enter an agreement with Marysville-based Associated Boat Transport for $4,123 to haul the Plover ferry to Bellingham to be repaired. The shipwright, Jeff Carson of Landings at Colony Wharf, conducted a preliminary assessment but needed a detailed repair evaluation at his shipyard. Council authorized the city to spend up to $20,000 on the repair and requested city staff come to council for approval if the repairs exceed that limit.
Building height recommendation
City planning staff briefly presented council with planning commission’s recommendation to increase the building heights on the west side of Peace Portal Drive in the downtown core by one story. Staff requested council set a meeting to discuss and potentially vote on the increase, which council set for its November 12 meeting.
City officials began looking into increasing the westward building heights from 36 to 48 feet, running south of F Street to north of Clark Street, after developers voiced current zoning didn’t provide a good return on investment for buildings on the west side.
From page 1
affordable housing. The city envisions this happening through removing regulations that raise construction costs and increasing funding to the Connection Housing and Infrastructure Program, which was created in 2021 to pay for utility improvements for affordable housing.
The city requests the state aligns the administration of the
B y G race M c c arthy
Blaine City Council approved several resolutions during its October 28 council meeting that will allow planning staff to dive into its decennial comprehensive plan update. The city’s comprehensive plan, its planning document for the next 20 years, is due December 31, 2025.
Council held a study session on the upcoming comprehensive plan update before its regular council meeting. Community Development Services director Alex Wenger went over the four projections for population and employment growth numbers.
City and county staff met about eight times this year to formulate the four projections. For population growth, the low growth was 2,513, medium growth was 2,774 and high growth was 4,186. For employment growth, low growth was 433, medium growth was 701 and high growth was 1,092.
The city recommended using the medium population growth projection of 2,774 and the high employment growth projection of 1,092. Wenger said medium population growth was the most reliable estimate and the city didn’t want to overestimate
federal Family and Medical Leave Act with the state Paid Family Medical Leave to run concurrently as required by state law. Additionally, the city is asking the state to provide additional resources and support for local governments implementing clean energy standards required by the Clean Energy Transformation Act in 2019.
Public records are a priority for the city, with a request sent in for the legislature to reduce legal and staff costs with public
its growth, which would leave current residents paying higher taxes for unneeded infrastructure. Wenger added the city wanted to have a high employment projection for the county to approve the industrial urban growth area in southeast Blaine that the city would like to add.
Councilmembers asked how difficult it would be to change the numbers in the future as the Washington State Growth Management Act allows for small changes to be made to the plan annually. Wenger responded that it would be difficult.
During council’s regular meeting, councilmember Mike Hill made a motion for the population projection to be 3,500, between the medium and high growth projections, and a high employment growth of 1,092.
Councilmember Richard May seconded Hill’s motion, saying the city has completed construction projections previously like the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility to accommodate growth past 20 years. Council approved the motion 5-1, with councilmember Sonia Hurt opposed.
Whatcom County Council will ultimately adopt the numbers in
records requests in a way that would maintain transparency. The city is also requesting funding for Blaine school district, state-shared revenues and the criminal justice system to implement the state’s controlled substance possession policy.
The city also endorses the Association of Washington Cities’ priorities of fiscal responsibility, public safety, behavioral health treatment capacity, housing supply and infrastructure investment.
City of Blaine releases informational videos
The city of Blaine recently released a series of videos on downtown zoning, tourism and the school district.
The videos were published on the city’s YouTube channel, City of Blaine, WA, and website in late summer. The videos are less than 10 minutes each.
The video on downtown zoning features mayor Mary Lou Steward, Community Development Services
director Alex Wenger and Blaine Bouquets owner Sarbie Bains. The school district video shows superintendent Christopher Granger and the Blaine Police Department, while the tourism video highlights downtown business owners.
According to the city website, the videos are meant to provide helpful and engaging information to show what Blaine offers and encourage community development.
its final comprehensive plan.
City council also approved Resolution 1955-24 approving city staff’s plans for including the public in the comprehensive plan update.
State law requires local governments to have public participation throughout the entire update process and the city can add more public participation than state standards.
The city’s plan puts a focus on open houses, media releases and informational videos. The plan would include public presentations nearly every month of 2025, five open houses from January through September, two city council study sessions in late spring, and a public hearing in September.
Planning commission unanimously recommended the plan during its October 10 meeting.
news READ LOCAL
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
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
For additional information please visit the district’s website @ www.nwfrs.net or contact Executive Assistant Jennie Sand @ (360) 318-9933.
s From l.; councilmembers Richard May, Sonia Hurt, mayor Mary Lou Steward, Rhyan Lopez, Mike Hill and Eric Lewis at the October 28 Blaine City Council meeting.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
s L&L Bakery co-owner Lili Adie in the city’s tourism video. Image courtesy of 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
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com
Creative Services
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com
Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com
Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com
General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com
The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXX, No 21
Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
OpiniOn
Election ballots due by 8 p.m. November 5
Ballots for the November general election are due by 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 5. The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office asks voters who haven’t received their ballots to immediately call its election division at 360/778-5102. People who want to register to vote or update their voter registration have until 8 p.m. on Election Day to
visit the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, housed in the Whatcom County Courthouse at 311 Grand Avenue in Bellingham. Ballots must be postmarked by November 5 and the auditor’s office encourages voters to return ballots by drop box during the week of the election. In addition to the Blaine library, ballots can be dropped off
Letters
at ballot boxes at the Birch Bay fire station and Custer Elementary School.
The auditor’s office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays to assist voters, with additional hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 2 and from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Election Day. Voters can see their ballot status at votewa.gov.
The Editor:
While reading The Northern Light community newspaper 1,000 miles away and enjoying it immensely every week on Thursdays, I noticed the letter in the opinion page from the publishers requesting readers to make a contribution to maintain a strong and independent newspaper for the community, as its name implies.
Even though we are only part-time residents in Semiahmoo, we always make an annual contribution to keep the paper solvent and available to the entire community.
Folks, their request for only $29 a year is a very small amount to keep it available to the entire community, this is only $0.08 per day, I say make it one dime every day and send $36.50 annually.
This paper is worth much more than that, it provides you with a multitude of valuable information such as local news, local sports, weather, tide tables, police
and sheriffs reports, civic and cultural calendars, local advertisements including real estate and a crossword puzzle to entertain you.
Where else could you get all that for a dime a day?
Please consider their request and make that annual contribution at the one dime a day rate, you’ll be happy you did, knowing that we all get quality community information.
John Kros Semiahmoo
The Editor:
We should have seen this coming when the Supreme Court passed Citizens United in 2010. The protection of the First Amendment, free speech, was extended to political supporters. Opinion was given economic value. Today we see the potential oligarchs of our country playing with our elections. The Washington Post and Los Angeles Times, owned by
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.
billionaires, withdrew support of their formerly supported candidates possibly due to fear of retaliation in the future. With endorsement histories of 50 and 30 years, these publications decided these past few weeks to stop their tradition. Fear had been planted across the nation for retribution. Will this retaliation include lawn signs and emails? Changes to the justice department and federal protections could be a social tragedy and affect citizens in Blaine as much as the rest of the nation. The allegiance of every citizen and business should be protected, not abused or controlled by fear.
Consider your vote carefully.
Donna Starr Blaine
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.
s Joseph Shay places a ballot in the official drop box at Blaine Public Library on October 24.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
Toy store ...
From page 1
toys per child and up to two gift cards for older children. The gifts must be purchased with cash and children aren’t allowed in the store.
Donations
Vogee said that by increasing the percentage off families receive from 75 to 80 percent, the nonprofit will need more donations to cover the extra amount that families are able to purchase. The toy store typically has about 120 guardians purchasing toys for about 350-400 children, Vogee said.
CAP is a volunteer-run nonprofit serving Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts resi-
dents with the toy drive, Thanksgiving baskets, winter coat drive, emergency fund and in other ways. Donors who want to support CAP’s toy store can shop online or in stores for gifts or provide monetary donations.
CAP also accepts donations by card at blainecap.org/community-toy-store. People can purchase gifts on CAP’s Amazon gift registry or on CAP’s wish list on the Launching Success Learning Store’s website.
For in-store shopping, CAP is suggesting $20-$50 for gifts such as Legos, sports equipment, books, craft and science kits and scooters. CAP recommends people purchase $25 gift cards for older children from stores such as Barnes and
NWFR commission accepting applicants
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) is accepting applications for a fire commissioner who would serve for the next year. Applications are due by 4 p.m. Friday, November 8.
The appointment would end November 25, 2025 as voters would decide on that commission seat during the November 2025 general election. The seat was previously held by Scott Fischer, who according to the fire district resigned for personal reasons. Fischer began his six-year term in January 2020 and was a retired Bellingham International Airport firefighter.
Applicants must live within the fire district and be registered voters in Whatcom County. NWFR is requesting candidates submit a letter of interest and statement of qualifications. The application needs to be emailed to jsand@nwfrs.com with “Board of Fire Commissioners” in the subject line or mailed to NWFR Board of Fire Commissioners, P.O. Box 286, Lynden, WA 98264. Two NWFR commissioners and the board secretary will interview qualified candidates. For more information, visit nwfrs. net or call NWFR executive assistant Jennie Sand at 360/318-9933.
Noble, Best Buy, Michaels and TJ Maxx. Toys should not be wrapped and a note with the retail price needs to be included. Collection boxes will be located in Blaine and Birch Bay starting November 1 through Friday, December 6. Collection
box locations include Blaine Public Library, Blaine Senior Center, Blaine fire station (toys only), Pacific Building Center (toys only), Birch Bay Village rec center, Latitude 49 mailroom, Semiahmoo Golf Club, Semiahmoo Marina, and the Inn at Semiahmoo. Monetary donations can be made at blainecap.org or checks can be made out to Community Assistance Program and mailed to 508 G Street, Blaine, WA with “Community Toy Store” in the memo line.
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.
Thank you for supporting local journalism.
This week’s supporters:
Joan & Mark Hottinger
Nancy House
Jonathan Klempner
Sacha Sanguinetti
Scot & Chris Vallejo
Amanda & Joshua Fost
Lyle Anderson
Janice Boykin
Rhianon Allen
Grant Davidson
James Hollaway
Judy & Terry Sullivan
Don Hunter
Daniel Brett
Patrish Jorgensen
Laurie Siemens
Shane Ross
John & Karin Koons
David & Sarah Ulis
Gordon & Dixie Reimer
Bob & Judy Ogden
Donald Muir
Laura Sullivan & John Davis
Ron Snyder & Cathy Taggett
Nadine Sheppard
Billie Burns & Christine Schumak
Nancy & John Braun
Neal Holleman
“Congrats! You guys deserve all your awards and recognition: local folk and others far and wide. Thank you for always being in my mailbox. And I love when I see the true name of the Blaine Public Pier! Yea for Jorgensen Pier.”
- Patrish Jorgensen
“Thanks for the news!”
- Donald Muir
“We love you! We subscribed for a year before we moved to Blaine in 2021. We look forward to the newspaper each week!”
- Nancy & John Braun
“I like your paper a lot!! Much better than the Bellingham Herald. You have great reporters for local news.”
- Neal Holleman
Cross-country
Blaine cross-country traveled to Civic Stadium in Bellingham to participate in the Northwest Conference (NWC) Championships, where seven varsity runners ran against the best of Whatcom County.
Despite solid performances from senior leaders and young freshmen alike, the Borderites weren’t able to hang with stalwart teams like Sehome, Anacortes and Bellingham, which rounded out the top-three. The Borderites finished 15th out of 15 teams with a combined team score of 414, but still posted sub-20 minute times from six out of seven of its athletes in the 5,000-meter race.
Freshman Emmanuel Rios-Martinez led the way for the Borderites with a time of 17:53.1, placing 65th in a field of 128 runners. Rios-Martinez was followed by Tucker Greene (18:29.3), Ste-
spOrts
Championships, football falls to Mt. Baker
ven Phelps-McDonald (18:54.3), Verdaan Aujla (19:37), Ian Tuski (19:44.2), Jacob Troupe (19:46.7) and Sihaan Aujla (20:32.8).
Football
The Borderites traveled to Deming to face Mt. Baker on Oc-
tober 25 with a chance to eke up the NWC standings with its first conference win of the season, but weren’t able to stop the Mountaineers’ stifling rushing attack, losing 49-12.
The Borderites (5-3, 0-3 NWC) couldn’t keep Mt. Baker (5-3, 1-3 NWC) from making big plays, giving up four touchdown rushes of more than 40 yards, and were forced to play from behind most of the game.
Member of the Month
Blaine Healing Arts
366 H Street, Blaine, WA 98230
360-603-4120 www.blainehealingarts.com info@blainehealingarts.com
Number of employees: Kari Hrutfiord, LMT and Laura Hedges, LMT.
How long in business: 14 years.
Description of the business: Massage Therapy.
How the business started: We met at Whatcom Community College in the massage therapy program and both had the same goal of starting our own massage business in Blaine. After graduating and getting our LMT licenses, in September of 2010 we rented a small space in the Loomis Hall Building on Martin Street and started business as Loomis Hall Massage Therapy. In March of 2014 we moved to our current location on H Street and changed our name to Blaine Healing Arts. Our business has grown into a productive and thriving massage therapy practice. It has been a wonderful journey.
Future goals: We look forward to continuing to serve our community. Thank you for all the support over the years. We love what we do! - Laura and Kari
Other services at our office: Affordable Acupuncture Clinic www.affordableacupunctureclinic.com, Serene Footfalls Reflexology www.serenefootfalls.com
Senior running back Jaiden Paez continued his stellar season with another solid performance; 23 rushing attempts for 119 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Colin Davis also got in on the rushing action with 13 rushing attempts for 57 yards.
Thomas Cox brought in three catches for 47 yards, Kai Kerwin caught three passes for 40 yards, Blake Koreski had two catches for nine yards, and Colby Shipp and Peyton Bouma each had one reception.
Blaine will face third-place Meridian (5-3, 1-2 NWC) on Thursday, October 31 at 6 p.m. at Borderite Stadium with a chance to cause absolute chaos in the final week of the regular season.
With a Blaine win against Meridian and a Mt. Baker loss to non-conference opponent Omak on Thursday (both games were switched from Friday to simultaneous Thursday kickoffs), all three teams would finish the season with one conference win, and a mini-playoff would be needed to determine who makes it to the state 1A playoff.
If the Borderites can pull off a Cinderella end of the regular season, string together wins and
make it to state, who’s to say they couldn’t go all the way?
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
Volleyball
Blaine volleyball snapped a fourgame losing skid with a tight, 3-2 win over Bellingham at home on October 23, getting a memorable senior night win.
The Borderites have made a habit out of winning its first set, then not being able to continue the momentum and ultimately losing the match. On senior night, the Borderites were able to put together a complete game, winning the first set 25-15, the third set 25-22 and the final, fifth set 15-12.
In the final home game of their Blaine careers, Kaitlyn Harrington tallied 16 kills, 21 digs and nine aces, Brie Smith had 34 assists and 13 digs, Olivia Price had six kills and three blocks. Those three, along with senior Liesl Schutt, were honored pre-game for their commitment to the volleyball team that saw a shakeup in coaching for the first time in years.
The win allowed Blaine (3-13, 2-12 NWC) to leapfrog 2A Bellingham in the NWC standings, and solidify Blaine’s spot as the fourseed when the District 1 1A playoffs begin on November 2.
After a 3-1 loss to Mt. Vernon on October 28, Blaine had one more regular season game on the road against Oak Harbor scheduled for Wednesday, October 30 at 7 p.m. (after press time) before facing last place Mt. Baker in the first round of the 1A playoffs on Saturday, November 2 at 1 p.m. at Meridian. In the one meeting between Blaine and Mt. Baker this season,
s Senior Ian Tuski, r., races in the Northwest Conference Championship at Civic Stadium on October 23. Tuski set a season best time of 19:44.2 in a field of 128 runners.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Birch Bay’s Trick-or-Treat on the Berm 2024
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce brought about 3,000 people dressed in costumes to its annual Trick-or-Treat on the
& Home Garden
Get creative with holiday decor
The end of the year is upon us and that often involves decorating a home in its holiday finest. According to the blog Today’s Homeowner, nearly 70 percent of U.S. residents plan to display outdoor holiday decorations. Among those choosing to decorate, 34 percent will do so before Thanksgiving.
Everyone has a different vision of a well-appointed holiday
home, but there’s always room to make things more unique and creative. These ideas can add a little extra to holiday displays.
Decorate other rooms
Who says holiday decorating is exclusive to living and dining areas? Think about decorating unexpected places, like swapping out everyday towels and shower curtains with something festive.
Swags of greenery wrapped in lights can be added to bed frames.
Coordinate the ornaments
Identify a color theme and then showcase it with ornaments. Think about matching the ornaments to the presents wrapped under the tree as well. Purchase white package paper and color or paint the paper to be the same hues as the ornaments on the tree boughs.
It’s hip to be square
While round wreaths are traditional, make your own wreaths in a different geometric shape by using wire or another material as the frame. Square wreaths may be unexpected, and you also can turn the square on its side for a diamond shape.
Add a spot of color
Certain holidays are known for their particular color palettes, such as red and green for Christmas. But you also can do something unexpected. Whether using a lighter shade of the same color family or adding an accent color like purple or blue, you can change things up in a creative way.
Make an unexpected bouquet
Swap flowers for pine cones, berries and greenery in unique vessels. For example, arrange your centerpiece in a tall fountain glass or even a cocktail shaker.
Try a different accent tree
Use a Styrofoam cone as the base of a tree for a centerpiece or sideboard. Attach poinsettia branches for a vibrant red tree, or stacked lemons or oranges filled with greenery for a fresh-smelling citrus creation.
Suspend belief
Instead of attaching a tree topper to the tallest bough, hang one
from the ceiling just above the tree to add even more whimsy. Mix and match
When it comes to a holiday table, mix and match table settings for an eclectic tableau.
Shift into neutral
Instead of a large holiday display in familiar colors, rely on neutral, wintry tones that will blend in with the home but add a festive touch. Natural wood, whites and creams, and muted greens can fill spaces.
Unique holiday decorations and schemes can be a great way to add new life to a home this December.
Carbon monoxide safety to know as the weather cools
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly if undetected. Carbon monoxide can be produced from heating, cooking, vehicle exhaust or generators.
Proper installation, testing and maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors is essential for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that more than 150 deaths are caused by carbon monoxide expo-
sure every year. Last year in Washington state, 788 carbon monoxide incidents were reported by fire and emergency medical services agencies and one reported death.
The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office offers the following safety tips:
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mount-
Safely decorate your home exterior this holiday season
A person doesn’t have to drive far or look too closely to be inspired by holiday decor come the month of December.
Enthusiastic celebrants go to great lengths to express their holiday spirit, and that typically includes decorating their home exteriors.
Home holiday decorations are a tradition in millions of households. Though the tradition helps make this special time of
year even more festive, decorating a home exterior for the holidays is not without certain safety risks. Homeowners must prioritize safety when decorating their home exteriors for the holidays. These tips can ensure the holiday season is as safe as it is special.
• Never decorate alone. The buddy system should be employed when decorating a (See Home, page 10)
ing of carbon monoxide devices.
• Install a combination of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Test carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month.
• Replace batteries in battery-operated detectors at least once a year.
• Replace carbon monoxide detectors every five to seven years per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• If your carbon monoxide detector alarms, immediately exit
the home and do not re-enter the premises. Once outside, call 911 or your local fire department.
• Never use generators inside homes, garages, or basements.
• If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
• If possible, install interconnected carbon monoxide alarms throughout the home.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at 360/596-3929.
Courtesy of the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office
RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES
Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts
UPPER END HOUSES: $800,000 & ABOVE:
2-story house with 3,768 sf, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 748 sf built-in garage, 516 sf patio, built in 2018, .18 acres land.
2-story house with 2,829 sf, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 440 sf attached garage, 663 sf attached garage, 324 sf deck, built in 2002, 3.84 acres land.
1-story house with 1,896 sf, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 286 sf carport, 848 sf deck, 512 sf patio, built in 1970, waterfront; marine view, .22 acres land.
1-story house with 1,928 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 631 sf deck, built in 1967, plus 1-story house with 1,188 sf, 750 sf basement, 1 bedroom, 2 baths, 962 sf built-in garage, 212 sf patio, built in 2014, 55 feet waterfront; marine view, .26 acres land.
1-story house with 1,580 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,076 sf deck, built in 1962, 70 feet waterfront; marine view, .75 acres land.
2-story house with 1,828 sf, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 440 sf carport, 136 sf deck, built in 1950, 50 feet waterfront; marine view, 06 acres land.
1-story house with 2,443 sf, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, attached 2-car garage, built in 2024; marine view, .21 acres land.
2-story house with 2,586 sf, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 743 sf built-in garage, 200 sf deck, 248 sf balcony, built in 2023; marine and territorial view, .32 acres land.
1-story house with 2,422 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 464 sf attached garage, 507 sf patios (2), built in 1981, remodeled, .37 acres land.
2-story house with 3,187 sf, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 730 sf built-in garages (2), 1,356 sf patio, built in 2007, waterfront; marine view. 22 acres land.
2-story house with 2,727 sf, 3 bedrooms, 4 baths, 1,272 sf detached garage (built in 2002), 624 sf attached garage, 960 sf patio, built in 1992, 2.19 acres land.
Condo with 1,595 sf, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 2013, waterfront; marine and territorial view.
Condo with 2,029 sf, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 2008, waterfront; marine and territorial view.
1-story house with 3,952 sf, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 1,290 sf patio, 1,212 sf attached garage, built in 1999, 104 feet waterfront; marine and territorial views, 1.13 acres land.
2-story house with 3,764 sf, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, built in 2024; marine and territorial views, .31 acres land.
1-story house with 1,746 sf, 1,650 basement, 1 bedroom, 2 baths, 470 sf built-in garage, 329 sf loft, 231 sf deck, built in 2011, 50 feet waterfront; marine and territorial view, .11 acres land.
1-story house with 2,750 sf, 576 sf basement, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 576 sf shop, 1,836 sf detached garage, 192 sf loft, 696 sf deck, built in 1984, 4.77 acres land.
LAND:
4.95 wooded acres land.
.16 acres residential lot.
31.57acres forest and open space land.
5340 Ocean Cove Lane, Blaine
9338 Delta Line Road, Blaine
5429 Tsawwassen Loop, Blaine
6889 Holeman Ave, Blaine
5537 Maple Way, Blaine
7419 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine
8103 Kayak Way, Blaine
5428 Lonicera Drive, Blaine
8237 Comox Road, Blaine
5585 Haida Way, Blaine
9596 Flambeau Road, Blaine
Unit B102, Marin
Condominium, 9535 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine.
Unit A303, Marin Condominium, 9525 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine
9017 Shearwater Road, Blaine
8458 Camas Drive, Blaine
6957 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine
3196 H Street Road, Blaine
3920 Holzheimer Trail Road, Blaine
297 Sweet Gum Drive, Blaine
Harbor Road, Blaine
Home ...
From page 9
home for the holidays. No fewer than two people should decorate a home. A second person can ensure a ladder remains steady while hanging lights and can help lift potentially heavy lawn decorations, thus reducing the risk of injury.
• Use the appropriate decorations and tools. The American Red Cross urges individuals to use only decorations designed for outdoor use when decorating their home
exteriors. Indoor lights should never be strung outdoors, even on small spaces. In addition, the Red Cross recommends homeowners who intend to use nails or hooks to hang decorations first confirm they are insulated, which can help to avoid electrocution and reduce fire risk.
• Plug decorations into the correct outlets. The energy experts at FirstEnergy note that outdoor lights and inflatable decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Older homes may not be equipped
with such outlets, particularly on their home exteriors. Replacing existing outlets with GFCIs is a quick and relatively inexpensive job that a professional electrician should be hired to handle before decorating for the holidays.
• Utilize a timer for exterior lights. Lights should not be kept on overnight, which can be costly and pose a safety hazard. Utilize a timer so lights come on at night and turn off around bedtime, if not earlier.
• Inspect decorations. Exterior string lights and other plug-in decorations should be inspected at the beginning of each season to ensure there are no frayed or cracked wires. Damaged wires pose a significant fire hazard, so any damaged strands should be discarded and replaced.
• Pick the right day to decorate. Consult the weather forecast prior to decorating the exterior of a home. Pick a day when efforts to decorate won’t be compromised by wind, rain, snow, or other inclement weather. If it’s already snowed, avoid decorating until the snow has melted, as there could be ice lingering beneath the snow. It’s also unsafe to work on a snow-covered roof. Decorate on a day with ample daylight and pause decorating if weather takes a sudden, unexpected turn for the worse.
It can be fun to decorate a home’s exterior for the holiday season. But homeowners must prioritize safety and take every step necessary to reduce their risk for accident or injury.
CLASSIFIEDS MARKETPLACE
Whatcom County Council roundup
B y N ola N B aker
The latest Whatcom County Council news … Council discusses recommended biennium budget
Whatcom County Council held a meeting on October 22, then held a special meeting discussing the county executive’s recommended 2025-2026 biennium budget on October 29.
In the October 29 special meeting, council discussed the executive’s proposed 2025-2026 biennium budget. The budget projected a revenue increase in the general fund, jail fund, emergency medical services, equipment and administrative services, while forecasting a reduction in the county road fund, flood control zone district and other funds.
The 122-page budget document recommended the county operate with a general fund
of $133.3 million by 2026. The general fund would have $139.8 million in expenditures, an increase from the current general fund expenditures of $136.2 million in 2024.
Council discussed in length what an expanded budget would look like for the superior, juvenile and district courts and administrations, which have seen an uptick in caseloads in recent years. The executive’s budget recommended an increase in revenues and expenditures for district and superior courts, and both the prosecutor’s and public defender’s offices.
County renews contract with BBWSD
Council renewed a five-year interlocal agreement with the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District in a 7-0 consent vote on October 22, continuing its longstanding partnership with the local water and sewer district to
collaborate with flood management, water treatment and storm water runoff infrastructure.
The county renewed its fiveyear contract with BBWSD for $0, with the county saying that contract fees are “more than offset” by the current cost of stormwater rates.
Discussion of Birch Bay UGA
During the council committee of the whole meeting on October 22, council discussed updating the population and employment projections for the Birch Bay urban growth area (UGA) and other areas around the county as part of its decennial update to the comprehensive plan, the long-range planning document for the county.
According to county data, the population of the Birch Bay UGA has more than doubled from 4,163 in 2000 to 8,685 in 2020, citing “adequate land supply, availability of public water
and sewer and the attractiveness of the area.” (County council changed the Birch Bay UGA’s zoning regulations to increase residential density after the area was growing slower than anticipated in the comprehensive plan.)
A county technical report estimated an average population growth of 105 people per year in the Birch Bay UGA from 2023 to 2045, with 450 new jobs during the same period.
According to county data, Birch Bay UGA had 3.8 percent of the county-wide population in 2023, but only 0.5 percent of the county-wide jobs.
Council discusses Lummi Island ferry rate increases
The council finance and administrative services committee discussed on October 22 how the county would implement increased ferry fees for the Lummi Island ferry, though no action was officially taken by council.
Ferry fees are set up to fund 55 percent of the adjusted total operating costs associated with the ferry, while county funds sub-
$33.2 million awarded for Pacific Highway port of entry construction and design
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced it had awarded a $33.2 million grant to a Native-owned small business for the design and construction of a significant upgrade and expansion of the Pacific Highway port of entry in Blaine. The grant was given to T1-RJS Joint Venture LLC, a North Bend, Oregon-based corporate collaboration between Tribal One, a Coquille Indian Tribe-owned firm, and RJS Construction, a wom-
an- and Native American-owned construction business. The grant was awarded through the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) Business Development program, which seeks to award competitive bids to companies from underserved and underrepresented communities.
The project will alter the traffic configuration to improve vehicle flow, add four vehicle inspection lanes bringing the capacity up to 10 total lanes, and add six enlarged bays for vehicle inspection, according to GSA.
The full-service, 24-hour land port of entry connects State Highway 543 in Blaine with the Pacific Highway in Surrey, B.C. One of the busiest U.S./Canada ports in the western U.S., the Pacific Highway port was last expanded in 1999, and while it is predominantly used for commercial vehicles, it has seen an increase in noncommercial vehicle traffic in recent years, according to GSA.
The $25 million of funding came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which earmarked a total of $3.4 billion for land
port of entry improvements by GSA, and an additional $8 million came from the Inflation Reduction Act.
A condition of the Inflation Reduction Act funding will be for the new lanes and canopies to be built with low-emission concrete and steel. The project’s material-related emissions will be reduced by an estimated 190 metric tons of carbon dioxide, according to GSA.
“You can’t have a big-league economy with little league infrastructure,” congressman Rick
Real Estate
sidize the remaining 45 percent of the operations, according to county documents. The county road fund currently provides that subsidy, but council was notified in October 2022 that fares would not be able to cover its share of the operating costs.
If fares aren’t increased, according to a staff memo, the ferry would be operating at a nearly $1 million deficit by 2029. Multiple fare increases over the course of several years need to cover the funding gap, and the increase began after an executive order went into effect in June 2024. The $1 increase in fares was the first in 12 years.
Of three policy options; reduce expenses, reduce the percentage of operating costs that fares must cover, or increase fare revenues, council seemed to gravitate towards option three recommended by the county executive office. Increasing fare revenues would increase rates 28 percent in 2025, nine percent in 2026 and then eight percent through 2034.
Larsen, lead Democrat for the transportation and infrastructure committee, said. “A more modern port of entry will also reduce congestion and wait times for travelers, improve public safety, and further promote cross-border trade and tourism in the United States and Canada.”
According to GSA, construction is expected to begin by July 2025, and “substantial completion” is expected by November 2026. For more information and updates, visit the GSA website at bit.ly/3YqMsSO.
B y N ola N B aker
Sports ...
From page 6
the Borderites put on its best performances, winning in straight sets, 25-20, 25-15, 26-24, on October 8.
With Blaine locked in as the four-seed in the tournament, the game against Mt. Baker is a win-orgo-home scenario.
If the Borderites have a game like it did against the Mountaineers earlier in the season, the team should move on to the double-elimination portion of the tournament and face first-place powerhouse Meridian later that same day at 5 p.m.
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
Girls soccer
Blaine soccer didn’t finish the season on the note it wanted, capping off the regular season with a six-game losing streak and a 6-0 loss to Bellingham at home on senior night.
Fortunately for the Borderites (4-12, 3-12 NWC), the team can still revive the season with a run in the District 1 1A playoffs that began on October 26 with Nooksack Valley beating Mt. Baker 2-1.
The Borderites were scheduled to play second-place Meridian (4-11-1, 3-11-1 NWC) on Wednesday, October 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Borderite Stadium. The double-elimination tournament allows the Borderites to continue even with a loss to Meridian, but the Borderites will have to win at least two games to advance to the District 1/2 Crossover Tournament to determine state tournament seeding.
Blaine seniors Larissa Pluschakov, London Fletcher, Juliana Zuzarte and Bailey Baas have been integral to this and previous year’s teams, and will surely hope to extend their high school careers for as long as possible with postseason wins.
With a win against Meridian, the Borderites would face the winner of the October 30 Lynden Christian/Nooksack Valley game, and will face the loser of that game if they lose to Meridian. The entire tournament will be played at Borderite Stadium, offering Blaine some much-needed home field advantage as they take on a Meridian team they lost 1-0 to on October 1.
Parks ...
From page 2 for children and adolescents, in east Blaine. Talks are in the very early days, and BBBPRD2 would need a recommendation from the city to begin work on new infrastructure, Lindsay said.
“We do have funds that we want to donate to the city and we would love to partner with the city on a park of some kind or multiple parks, we’re not quite sure,” Lindsay said. “We’re always in the process and looking towards the future of how we can partner with the city of Blaine to create more green space, more recreational areas for the citizens of Blaine.”
Lindsay said Blaine residents are always looking for more ways to recreate – especially more places to play pickleball – and that the ninja course was bookmarked as
OBITUARIES
Alice JoAn Newby
July 29, 1934 – October 5, 2024
Alice JoAn Newby went into the arms of her Savior and Heavenly Father on October 5. Born on July 29, 1934 in Bayard, NE to William and Ethel (Ferguson) Howard. She attended school in Scott’s Bluff County at the same schools her mother attended. After graduation from Parma High School she studied elementary education at Northwest Nazarene University and the College of Idaho. She then moved to California to teach, where she met and married her husband Robert G. Newby. Bob worked at the Glendale Water and Power Company, and they welcomed their daughter Noelle while there. Over the years they moved to Los Angeles, Burbank and Boulder City, NV. JoAn continued teaching until Bob’s retirement in 1998, when the family moved to Blaine, settling in Birch Bay. JoAn then began 23 years of employment at Stafholt as a dining room attendant.
JoAn had a subtle sense of humor, a ready and bright smile, much compassion, and a love of nature. She took up painting while living in Birch Bay using oils and acrylics. Her paintings are mostly of mountains, streams, forests, often including small animals, children or something “whimsical” hidden in the picture. Over the years she sold or gifted some of her work. She enjoyed time at the Blaine Senior Center; at Northwood Chapel where she was a member she did an in-depth Bible study on the love of God our Father based on the Lord’s prayer; and she was a loyal friend. She is pre-deceased by her parents; her two sisters, Janice and Ethel; and her husband Bob. She is survived by her daughter Noelle (Bellingham). She will be laid to rest beside her husband in Enterprise Cemetery.
Arrangements by Jerns Funeral Home. Please visit their Book of Memories and leave your condolences and memories for the family at jernsfh.com.
William Cargill Crossno
December 16, 1960 – October 17, 2024
William Cargill Crossno, 63, passed away unexpectedly on October 17, 2024. Even though he has passed from this world, his bigger than life personality and character will live on in the hearts of his community.
William shared himself and his expertise where ever he was and was sought out for his skills as a craftsman. His brilliant creations live on in homes across our town.
William is survived by his adoring wife, Tamara Olson and his children, Charlie Crossno and Jack Crossno, whom he loved so much. His amazing mind and ingenuity as well as his humor and generosity will be sorely missed by all that loved him .
A celebration of life will be held at The Christian Way Church in the IGA/Cost Cutter plaza, 1733 H Street #260, Blaine, WA on November 2, 2024 at 2 p.m. Please contact rubeeskye@gmail.com if you would like the livestream link.
infrastructure that would cater to teens and young adults, a demographic that normally isn’t served by standard playgrounds.
“There’s a strong need for that, there’s nothing really geared towards them,” Lindsay said. “We
hear about pickleball, we hear about making sure that any green space or new park equipment that comes in is accessible to those with disabilities. There’s not a blanket answer, I think there’s a lot of needs in the city of Blaine.”
sheriff’s repOrts
October 19, 9:31 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Morgan Drive.
October 19, 10:17 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Valley View Road.
October 20, 2:36 p.m.: Shots on Clamdigger Drive.
October 20, 6:23 p.m.: Theft cold call on Harborview Road.
October 21, 9:01 a.m.: Mental health check on Petticote Lane.
October 21, 10:24 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 22, 10:05 a.m.: Domestic physical cold call on Harborview Road.
October 22, 12:12 p.m.: Fight cold call on Custer School Road.
October 22, 2:52 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Delta Line Road.
October 22, 4:01 p.m.: Drugs on Pacific Highway.
October 22, 8:38 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Pacific Highway.
October 23, 10:20 a.m.: Harassment on Boblett Road.
October 23, 12:18 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Carstan Loop.
October 24, 3:10 a.m.: Prowler on Audra Lane.
October 24, 3:41 a.m.: Domestic physical on Harborview Road.
October 24, 9:07 a.m.: Domestic physical on Harborview Road.
October 24, 9:46 a.m.: Death
investigation on Harborview Road.
October 24, 10:41 a.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 24, 12:28 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Shintaffer Road.
October 24, 8:30 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 25, 11:32 a.m.: Theft cold call on East Street.
pOLiCe repOrts
October 20, 1:07 p.m.: Domestic physical on 8th Street.
October 20, 2:07 p.m.: Trespass on 10th Street.
October 20, 3:48 p.m.: Harassment on Ruby Street.
October 20, 10:30 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Shore Pine Place.
October 21, 10:07 a.m.: Theft on G Street.
October 21, 3:29 p.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.
October 21, 9:39 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Boblett Street.
October 22, 3:28 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on Mitchell Avenue.
October 23, 7:53 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Boblett Street.
October 24, 8:58 a.m.: Missing child on Boblett Street. October 24, 10:22 a.m.: Threat on 3rd Street.
October 24, 11:57 a.m.: Drugs on H Street.
October 24, 2:58 p.m.: Theft on Martin Street.
October 25, 9:07 p.m.: Vandalism on Harrison Avenue.
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.
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.
Spooky Camp Carnival: Thursday October 31, 4–7 p..m., Lions Camp Horizon, 7506 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Games, prizes, trick-or-treat stations. Everyone welcome.
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.
Holiday Bazaar: Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Bellingham Elks Lodge, 710 Samish Way, Bellingham. Handmade gifts, decorations, jewelry, local vendors, raffle, baked goods and more. Lunch available for $10. Hosted by the Bellingham Emblem Club.
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.
ACROSS
1. Absence of effort
5. Preserve a dead body 11. Gratitude 14. The act of coming together again 15. Simpler 18. Visionaries
19. Large, fish-eating bird 21. Indicates near 23. Former CIA agent and critic 24. Icelandic poems 28. Pop 29. “Hammer” is one 30. Senses of self-importance
32. Thyrotrophic hormone
33. Not around 35. Electronic data processing
36. Licenses and passports are two types
39. Snakelike fish
41. Air Force
42. Popular computers
44. Of a withered nature
46. Wings 47. Used in combination
49. Laid back 52. Jeweled headdress
56. In slow tempo 58. __ Falls
60. Assertions made again 62. Periods of history
63. Hyphen DOWN
1. Body part 2. Mimics 3. Expel large quantities rapidly 4. Sea eagle 5. A type of subdivision
6. Variety of Chinese
7. Mr. T’s name on “The A-Team” 8. Consumed 9. Chinese dynasty 10. NFL great Randy 12. Ireland 13. Palm trees with creeping roots
16. Fungal disease 17. Impressionable persons 20. Affirmative! (slang) 22. Instinctive part of the mind 25. “The First State” 26. A way to develop 27. Fraternities 29. Woman (French) 31. Sunscreen rating 34. Beer
36. Spiritual leader 37. Indigo bush
38. Burn with a hot liquid
40. Junior’s father 43. Ray-finned fishes
45. Morning 48. Line passing side to side through the center (abbr.)
50. Double curve 51. A small bundle of straw or hay 53. Got older 54. Crater on Mars 55. Humanities 57. Relating to
the ears 58. “To the __ degree…” 59. Residue of a burned product 61. It cools a home
tides
October 31 - November 6 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
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.
Mushroom Foraging 101: Sunday, November 3, 1–3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Led by Pam Borso of the Native Plant Society. Free. Info: 360/656-6416. 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.
Bulbs for Spring Flowers: Saturday, November 9, 9:30–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Time to order and plant those tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, daffodils and others. It’s easy to create naturalized plantings for specific flower beds. We will talk about forcing bulbs for an indoor display that will brighten your winter days. Info: nwcore.org.
Celebration of Light Services: Sunday, November 10, Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Street, Bellingham. Whatcom Hospice invites the community to attend a Celebration of Light service to honor and celebrate loved ones. Service for children, teens and families 1–2:30 p.m. with refreshments to follow. Service for adults 4:30–5:30 p.m. with refreshments and labyrinth walk to follow. Info: WhatcomHospiceGrief@ peacehealth.org.
Ongoing
Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Info:360/3326350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of October 21 to 27, 0.9 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 31.3 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 58.6°F on October 26 with a low of 37.4°F on October 25, Average high was 53.5°F and average low was 42.5°F.
The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/3668763. Volunteers welcome.
CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.
Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Munden ...
From page 1
tually becoming interim police chief this year when former chief Donnell Tanksley became sheriff.
“I’ve always had a strong sense of what’s right and what’s wrong,” Munden said. “I wanted to help people who are being victimized, and law enforcement was a great way to do that.”
Munden said the most important part of his law enforcement career was the positive impact he
was able to make on lives, whether that was helping a family break the cycle of domestic violence or helping someone get their life back on track.
“One of the things I’ve always tried to pass on to new officers is what may be another case in a day for you, may be a life-altering moment for other people,”
Munden said. “So take that compassion with you to every call because you don’t know what kind of impact you’re going to have on that person’s life.”
“Lieutenant Munden is well known and well respected
throughout law enforcement with every agency in the community,” chief Rodger Funk said during Munden’s recognition.
Sergeant Brent Greene will fill Munden’s shoes as lieutenant and officer Keith Olson will be promoted as sergeant.
In retirement, Munden said he and his wife plan on moving out of state to be closer to their grandchildren in Florida.
“I’d really like to thank the community,” Munden said. “It’s a great community and beautiful city. It’s been a privilege to stay here for as long as I have.”
s Mayor Mary Lou Steward, l., honored lieutenant Michael Munden during the October 28 Blaine City Council meeting.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
s Michael Munden early in his career with Blaine Police Department. Hired in 1999, Munden is the longest serving member of BPD. Photo courtesy of Blaine Police Department
