An independent investigation has exposed significant morale problems at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), stemming from a contentious 2023 election where many deputies and detectives supported a former undersheriff who lost the race, according to a report released to the public on November 4.
Whatcom County Undersheriff Steve Harris had been on paid administrative leave since August 30 after WCSO employees made multiple allegations against him. Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley reinstated Harris as undersheriff on November 1 and released a report regarding this on November 4.
The report was released after little information had been given on the investigation and The Northern Light had filed a public records request for the report.
The investigation, conducted by attorney Jeffery M. Wells, found “significant distrust” between Harris and certain WCSO employees, creating a work environment “where benign conduct and or changes in practices are viewed suspiciously.”
The report also stated “the distrust runs in both directions” with Harris questioning the motives of certain WCSO employees due to those employees’ perceived allegiances to previous WCSO leadership prior to the 2023 election.
The county hired Williams, Kastner & Gibbs, a Seattle-based law firm, to conduct an independent investigation after multiple allegations against Harris were filed by WCSO employees.
The report published 32 allegations of Harris fostering a hostile work environment, retaliation, discrimination, code of conduct violations, unprofessionalism and other concerns, according to the report. Some, but not all, allegations were determined to be unfounded by the investigation.
One recurring complaint lodged against
(See Undersheriff, page 2)
Windstorm leaves Birch Bay without power
November 2024 election results come in
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The November 2024 election was a landmark race with many races and measures on the ballot, with everything from the next president of the U.S. to who would serve as state representatives for the 42nd Legislative District.
So far, 66 percent of Whatcom County ballots have been counted, or 110,127 ballots, with an estimated 12,000 left to go, according to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. State-wide, 53 percent of Washington voters’ ballots have been counted, or
2,643,144 ballots, with another 798,865 ballots needing to be processed, according to the Washington State Secretary of State Elections Division.
The next count was scheduled to be tallied at 5 p.m. November 6. To view the latest Whatcom County tabulation, visit results. vote.wa.gov/results/20241105/whatcom. Federal
The AP called the 2024 presidential race after Wisconsin’s electoral votes were determined, naming former president Donald J. Trump the next president of the U.S. in the early hours of the morning Pacific
Port rejects tax increase amid revenue challenges
B y P at G ru BB
Port of Bellingham commissioners voted Tuesday night to reject a proposed one percent property tax increase for 2025, even as the agency faces significant revenue challenges from the loss of a major airline carrier and ongoing terminal rehabilitation work.
Commissioners Ken Bell and Bobby Briscoe voted against the tax increase, while commissioner Michael Shepard
supported it. The decision came during the public hearing for the Port’s 2025 draft budget, which projects operating revenues to decline to $26.4 million from $28.7 million in 2024.
The steepest revenue drop comes from Bellingham International Airport, where the departure of Southwest Airlines in early 2024 has led to a 35 percent reduction in aviation revenue, falling from $8.1 million to $6 million. Southwest previously accounted for 40
percent of passenger traffic at the airport.
The Marine Terminals division also faces a significant revenue decline, dropping from $4.7 million to $3.3 million due to ongoing rehabilitation work at the Bellingham Shipping Terminal. This temporary setback is part of a larger investment strategy, with $20.3 million budgeted for terminal improve
Time. As for Whatcom County’s support, current vice president and opponent Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz received 61 percent (66,243) of votes, while Trump and future vice president JD Vance received 36 percent (39,679) of the votes.
Incumbent U.S. senator Maria Cantwell (D) won re-election against Raul Garcia (R) having received 60 percent of the votes versus 40 percent for Garcia.
Incumbent Rick Larsen (D) will retain
(See Election, page 15)
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The Freemans’ 10th annual Halloween carnival
https://bit.ly/4hyRLqH.
Undersheriff ...
From page 1
Harris by multiple WCSO employees had to do with the elimination of “portal-to-portal” pay, a practice where WCSO detectives are compensated for their time commuting to and from work.
The practice was allowed under former WCSO Sheriff Bill Elfo and Undersheriff Doug Chadwick but was never an official policy with the sheriff’s office nor the sheriff’s guild, according to the report.
sheriff’s deputy guild and was upheld.
The report stated that the portal-to-portal pay topic was one of the most consistently raised issues during investigation. With the clarification in WCSO policy coming just weeks after Tanksley and Harris took new positions, “it appears to have set a negative tone in the agency early on.”
Harris reportedly told detectives they could return to patrol duties if they wanted portal-to-portal pay, as deputies receive compensation for their commute times, according to the report.
rank-and-file
distrust of the new WCSO leadership after Tanksley – who the report said described himself as an “outsider” after serving as chief of the Blaine Police Department – defeated Chadwick, who had worked for the office for about 30 years, in the November 2023 election for sheriff.
“As a result of his promotion, Undersheriff Harris rose through multiple levels of the WCSO hierarchy, essentially overnight, which raised questions about his ability to lead effectively without command staff experience,” the report stated.
Tanksley reached out to other local law enforcement agencies to inquire about portal-to-portal pay and was told it was not a practice within those agencies, according to the report. Tanksley was also told by the Whatcom County human resources department that the practice could be construed as an improper gift of public funds.
The report did not find that the decision to stop portal-to-portal pay by Harris was retaliatory in nature. According to the report, the decision was brought to the
Other allegations made against Harris included inappropriate workplace decorum, failure to follow the chain of command, use of expletives in the workplace, and telling employees that it was “bold” of them to support opposing sheriff candidate Doug Chadwick’s election campaign.
The report found that Harris’ conduct did not amount to unlawful retaliation, or discrimination, but that his conduct was often unprofessional, which Harris acknowledged.
Taken altogether, the allegations paint a clear picture of a
Until Tanksley released the report’s findings on November 4, WCSO had released very few details about the investigation.
“In addition to our WCSO values of integrity, excellence and teamwork – transparency is also paramount for our agency,” Tanksley wrote. “To that end, I have decided to publicly release the report. I am taking measures to address the concerns expressed. We are committed to fostering respect and open communication at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.”
Legal expenses are increasing in 2025, primarily due to labor negotiations. “Two labor contracts are expiring at the end of the year,” explained Mike Hogan, public affairs administrator. “Typically, we don’t have two contracts expiring at the same time, so this is unusual.”
This timing has led to an increase in the Human Resources legal bud-
get from $90,000 to $135,000.
Despite these challenges, some divisions show resilience.
The Marinas division projects a five percent revenue increase to $11.6 million, while the Real Estate division expects to maintain stable revenues at $7.7 million.
Looking ahead, the Port is investing in several major capital projects. Beyond the shipping terminal rehabilitation, a new rail spur project will begin design work with $750,000 budgeted for 2025, part of a $17.2 million total project cost.
Additionally, $3.5 million is earmarked for stormwater improvements at Fairhaven Marine Industrial Park.
The Port is working to control expenses in response to revenue challenges. The airport division is reducing expenses from $7.8 million to $7.2 million, while Marine Terminals is cutting from $3.3 million to $3.0 million.
Port staff will need to revise the budget to reflect the commissioners’ decision on property taxes before final adoption later this year.
s Witches, skeletons and scarecrows gave out candy to trick-or-treaters during the Freeman family’s 10th annual Halloween carnival on October 31. View more photos by visiting
Photo by Louise Mugar
‘Missing from Fire Trail Road’ highlights missing, murdered and Indigenous women
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A new documentary on the epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) as illustrated by the unsolved case of Mary Ellen Johnson-Davis’ disappearance on the Tulalip reservation has been released on streaming services.
“Missing From Fire Trail Road” follows the story of Johnson-Davis going missing from the Tulalip Indian Reservation north of Everett in December 2020. The 100-minute film depicts Johnson-Davis’ family
(See Film, page 5)
Peace Arch City Cafe
Celebrate Thanksgiving
s Director Deborah Parker, l., in the film
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.
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BHS Theater Arts to perform Oscar Wilde classic OpiniOn
B y N ola N B aker
The Blaine High School Theater Arts Program will hold opening night for its rendition of “The Importance of Being Earnest” at 7 p.m. Friday, November 8.
The play, based on the 1895 production by legendary British playwright Oscar Wilde, is a classic farcical comedy depicting the affairs of two young bachelors leading double lives – both going by the ironically assumed names of Ernest.
Riley Osburn and Walker Hennig will play the dual leads, with a cast of both first-timers and veteran drama students supporting them, BHS drama teacher Olivia Theilemann said.
Theilemann, who is directing the play, said after last year’s performances of the deadly serious “The Crucible” in the fall and the massive, musical production of “Mamma Mia!” in the spring, she wanted
to have something light and fun for her actors and crew to work with this year.
She also said she hopes moving the play into the smaller venue of the Black Box Theater will make it a more meaningful show for both the actors and the audience.
“I’d much rather have a nice, full, intimate space than have an echoey, emptier space,” Theilemann said. “It’s a great experience for the actors to be able to feel the energy of people so close to them. When you have audiences laughing, then that enhances the performance.”
Casting for the show began during the end of the last school year in June, allowing principal actors more time to learn lines. Theilemann purposefully did not abridge nor modernize the script from when it was written more than a century ago.
“It’s cool for them to be able to play with the elevated language, but it’s also very satirical,” Theilemann said. “It’s been a cool act-
ing challenge for them, especially because I think they only started to get the humor recently. As soon as the humor clicks, the satire clicks, then it’s full steam ahead.”
First rehearsals began on September 16, and dress rehearsals began just the past few weeks, Theilemann said.
“What’s pretty exciting is that we have kids that have done every show with me since I’ve been here, and then we have kids that are kind of just now stepping into it,” Theilemann said.
Theilemann said she’s happy to provide an artistic escape for the public, and to show off Blaine’s premiere young thespians.
“It’s getting dark at four o’clock, there’s lots of stuff going on,” Theilemann said. “Come out on your weekend and come see a play and have a good time.”
The play will also be held on November 9, 15 and 16 at 7 p.m., and feature Sunday matinees on November 10 and 16 at 2 p.m.
The Editor:
I am hoping this is something that interests you as I need some help. On October 22 I called the city about a house demolition happening behind me as I had seen on postings or permits. I spoke to [Director of Community Development Services] Alex [Wenger], who told me that they knew about the upcoming demolition, but a permit had not been pulled yet. I informed them it was in progress and at least two dump truck loads of contaminated debris had been hauled away.
The next morning a stop work order was issued for no permit or asbestos inspection. An asbestos abatement company came, I spoke to them briefly as I was/ am concerned about health issues. He said there was asbestos and mold. Mold being the main concern as the rain was helping
to control the asbestos.
He told me on October 23 that he was recommending tarping and fencing ASAP. Neither has been done. I have spoken or emailed the city every day since, dealing with Wenger or [city building official] Clay [Salzman].
My issue now is that nothing has been done. It still sits exposed and dangerously close to my property line. I spoke to Scott [Pratschner] at NW Clean Air Agency. He told me to keep my windows closed, stay indoors and take my shoes off before entering my home. We usually communicate daily too. I have been told that Labor and Industry, the city and NW Clean Air are involved. This is day 12 and nothing has been done except danger tape around the site.
I cannot express how much of an inconvenience this has been. I have friends
with COPD, a neighbor with lung cancer and some that have weakened immune systems. They were never warned. I worry when I let my dog out, I lose sleep at night worrying about it. It is so unfair that a neighbor is being allowed to expose us all. I want the demolition site taken care of now. Why should I and others have to wait almost two weeks to have this taken care of?
My next step will be to get legal advice. I am 70 and on a fixed income but will try to make something work.
Lyn Rogers Blaine
s Riley Osburn, l. and Walker Hennig rehearse for the Blaine High School Theater Arts Program’s rendition of “The Importance of Being Earnest,” premiering at the Black Box Theater on Friday, November 8 at 7 p.m.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Film ...
From page 3 and fellow tribal members investigating her case after it remained unsolved, highlighting how jurisdictional issues contribute to the high number of MMIW.
“I always wanted to go back and do a documentary on the epidemic. Let’s call it what it is. It’s an epidemic,” producer Sabrina Van Tassel said in a phone interview. “If you go into Indian country, it doesn’t matter which tribe. There is probably not one family who you will meet that’s not impacted by it.”
According to the National Institute of Justice, more than four out of five Indigenous women have experienced violence in their lifetime and 45 percent have experienced sexual violence. Additionally, the National Crime Information Center found there were 5,712 reports of missing Indigenous women and girls as of 2016.
Van Tassel has wanted to create a film bringing attention to MMIW since she first heard of the problem and learned about director Deborah Parker’s activism when Parker gave a speech to Congress in 2013.
“I was so outraged about everything I had learned,” Van Tassel said. “It was egregious to learn that some women were not treated equally and disappearing at an increasing pace.”
After Van Tassel wrapped up her 2020 documentary of “The State of Texas vs. Melissa,” which helped overturn Melissa Lucio’s death row sentence, she learned about Johnson-Davis when researching MMIW. The film was created over eight months on the Tulalip Indian Reservation and Lummi Nation.
“Missing From Fire Trail Road” is the Pickford’s selection for Native American Heritage Month, put on in partnership with CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival. The film will be shown in a sold-out show and discussion with Van Tas-
sel and Parker at the Pickford Film Center in Bellingham on Thursday, November 14.
“Missing from Fire Trail Road” is also available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play and Apple TV.
CITY OF BLAINE
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,
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The Blaine fall sports season is nearing its end.
While each team showed tremendous grit and improvement throughout the year, none were able to secure a coveted spot in the 1A state tournament brackets, despite some late drama and close chances.
Football played twice in one week, including a rare “Kansas Tie Breaker,” a three-team, overtime-only playoff to determine who goes to the 1A state tournament. Girls soccer made it one game away from a chance to play for a state playoff berth, cross-country posted some of its best times of the season at the 1A Districts in Deming, and volleyball defeated rival Mt. Baker in its first District playoff match.
Football
Blaine football kept its postseason hopes alive with a clutch 27-22 win over Northwest Conference (NWC) rival Meridian on October 31.
Meridian opened up the scoring with a second quarter touchdown, but Blaine was able to respond before halftime with a short shovel pass from quarterback Colin Davis to wideout Logan Villarreal.
Blaine would rely on its rushing attack in the second half, using breakout star running back Jaiden Paez to get the ball towards the goal line, and have Davis dive in for two touchdown runs to jump out to a two score lead.
Meridian responded, but Paez was able to basically put the game on ice with a backbreaking 43-yard rushing touchdown. Meridian would get one more touchdown on the board in the fourth quarter, and then get the ball back with little time remaining, threatening to steal a win and
end Blaine’s postseason chances.
On fourth down with time ticking away, Davis broke up a potential game-changing pass in the end zone, getting the ball back for the Borderites and securing a victory.
Paez again showed why he’s one of the county’s premiere rushers, amassing 237 yards and one touchdown on 32 rushing attempts.
The win thrust the Borderites into a rare tiebreaker scenario to determine which of three bottom-of-the-conference teams would emerge from the pile and make it to the postseason.
Blaine, Meridian and Mt. Baker were locked in a three-way tie for third place in the NWC, as the top three teams from the conference were set to go to the 1A state tournament later in the month.
Nooksack Valley and Lynden Christian had already secured their spots weeks prior, and look
to make deep runs in the playoffs.
A “Kansas Tie Breaker” was scheduled for November 4, meaning Blaine would first play Mt. Baker in an overtime format game, with the winner immediately taking on Meridian afterwards. The tie-breaker format meant that teams would observe overtime rules: the game clock turned off and each team starting
on offense at their opponent’s 25 yard line.
Blaine started with the ball, and the offense matriculated down the field for the opening touchdown of the game. After running back Jaiden Paez – as he’s done all year – set up the Borderites at the goal line with a solid rush, quarterback Colin Davis was able to dive across the line for the first
score, as Blaine converted the PAT to go up 7-0.
Mt. Baker got the ball back and quickly, mercilessly ran the ball into the end zone on two plays, allowing for a decision to either tie the game with a PAT and give the ball back to Blaine, or go for a two-point conversion and win the game right then and there.
After lining up in field goal formation, Mt. Baker took a timeout, reassessed, and decided to hand the ball of to its fullback for a successful two-point conversion, winning 8-7.
All told, the game lasted about 15 minutes, and a playoff bid at the end of one of the best seasons for Blaine Borderites football in recent memory was unceremoniously over. The Borderites (6-4, 1-4 NWC) will still play a final regular season game against 2A Bellingham (2-7, 1-6 NWC) on Thursday, November 7 at 6 p.m. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Girls Soccer
Not to be outdone by the football team in terms of late season heroics, the Blaine girls soccer team kept its postseason hopes alive with a dramatic penalty kick shootout victory over Meridian on October 30.
s Mt. Baker celebrates the game winning two-point conversion against Blaine on November 4 as Borderite defensive back Kai Kerwin jogs to the sideline.
Photo by Nolan Baker
(See Sports, page 13)
and Kaitlyn Ritter Von Trautmann embrace, surrounded by teammates after
kick against Meridian on October 30. Senior goalkeeper Larissa Plus-
Photos by Nolan Baker
Active S eniors
Social Security announces 2.5 percent benefit increase
Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for more than 72.5 million Americans will increase 2.5 percent in 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced on October 10. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $50 per month starting in January.
Over the last decade the cost-ofliving adjustment (COLA) increase has averaged about 2.6 percent. The COLA was 3.2 percent in 2024.
Nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5 percent COLA beginning in January 2025. Increased payments to nearly 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 31, 2024. (Note: Some people receive both Social Security benefits and SSI).
“Social Security benefits and SSI payments will increase in 2025, helping tens of millions of people keep up with expenses even
as inflation has started to cool,” said Martin O’Malley, SSA commissioner.
Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) is slated to increase to $176,100 from $168,600.
Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December.
This year, for the first time, Social Security beneficiaries will receive a newly designed and improved COLA notice that makes it easier for customers to find the information they need most. The simplified COLA notice is now only one page, uses plain and personalized language, and provides exact dates and dollar amounts of a person’s new benefit amount and any deductions.
Individuals who have a person-
al My Social Security account can view their COLA notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. People can set up text or email alerts when there is a new message – such as their COLA notice – waiting for them in My Social Security.
People will need to have a personal My Social Security account by November 20 to see their COLA notice online. To get started, visit ssa.gov/myaccount.
Information about Medicare changes for 2025 will be available at medicare.gov. For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, the 2025 benefit amount will be available via My Social Security’s message center starting in late November. Those who have not opted to receive messages online will receive their COLA notice by mail in December.
The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calcu-
Cardiovascular fitness how it’s connected to Alzheimer’s disease
Dementia is a general term for various brain disorders that can affect behavior, thinking and memory. Among the conditions that qualify as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, AD is an irreversible condition that destroys memory, thinking and the ability to carry out daily activities. Although initial AD symptoms may be mild, the disease worsens over time and eventually people with AD will need full-time care. Many people are interested in any ways they can reduce the severity of AD or stave off its progression. Cardiovascular fitness could be an important tool in that fight.
Cardiovascular activity may help lessen the impact of demen-
tia and AD in particular. According to a 2018 study published in the journal Neurology, a population-based sample of 1,462 Swedish women between the ages of 38 and 60 was examined in 1968, and then followed up with in various intervals until 2009. Researchers found that women who participated in high fitness regimens saw their age of dementia onset delayed by 9.5 years. Time to dementia onset was delayed by five years compared to medium fitness participants.
Another study from 2020 published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience looked at exercise for those who already have AD as a method of slowing the decline in activities of daily living (ADL).
The study found that ADL decline was slower among individ-
uals who engaged in an hour of aerobic exercise training twice a week compared to those in the non-active group. However, there was no effect on behavioral symptoms, depression or nutritional scores.
Aerobic exercise programs aimed at improving cardiovascu-
(See Seniors, page 10)
lated. The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. To read more, visit ssa.gov/cola. Courtesy of the Social Security Administration
A TRIBUTE TO OUR
104-year-old veteran honors U.S. flag at Birch Bay home every day
B y G race M c c arthy
World War II veteran John Finn, 104, doesn’t go a day without hanging the U.S. flag from his home in Birch Bay Village, weather permitting.
“The flag is a symbol of everything concerning the country that I live in and all it means to me,” Finn said.
Finn’s deep respect for the flag dates back to his days in the service in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he was assigned to the Cutter Mahoning, an ice breaker in New York, and later the FS268 in the South Pacific during World War II.
In 1942, Finn was drafted while working at Ford Motor Company’s plant in the Detroit suburbs, which manufactured Sherman tanks. After working on an ice breaking season in New York, the ship’s crew was reassigned to patrol boats, submarine chasers, landing craft used in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France and the South Pacific, where Finn headed to transport supplies.
Finn worked as a quartermaster and signalman on the FS-268, which had a crew of 22, plus guard dogs and even a monkey.
Finn helped navigate the boat with only a leadline and saved it twice: once on the first day, when it would have rammed into the dock if he hadn’t corrected its heading, and another time when it was headed into the bay.
Over 80 years later, images of
war still stick in Finn’s memory like the day they occurred. Such memories range from a kitchen fire that started when the crew was unloading torpedoes to constantly being asked to identify himself in the Panama Canal. He remembers Nina, a Filipino girl in a gunny sack who would trade fresh fruit for cigarettes, which was more valuable than money, and getting gold on a remote island in the Phil -
ippines. Finn said he still gets sea sick thinking of the South Pacific.
Finn said his ship was considered expendable and not protected in a convoy as other freight supply vessels, some of which were attacked.
The relief of going home has also never left Finn.
“I was looking forward to a new life,” Finn said.
After war, Finn stayed in touch
with the crew for a while, getting together in Michigan, before eventually losing touch over the years. With the help of the GI Bill, he attended the University of Michigan and work later moved him to Canada, where he met his wife, Barbara, in Vancouver. Avid boaters, the Finns looked for a place where they could moor their boat near Vancouver, land-
(See Veterans, next page)
American Legion Post 86 (Birch Bay) and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474 (Custer) are holding a Veterans Day tribute at the Veterans Memorial Park in Blaine at 11 a.m. Monday, November 11. The memorial park is outside of the Blaine police station, at 332 H Street. The ceremony speaker will be Lynden mayor Scott Korthuis.
s
stands
of his Birch Bay Village home where he displays the flag every day.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
(See Veterans, previous page)
“The flag is a symbol of everything concerning the country that I live in and all it means to me . ” ing on Birch Bay Village. Finn has since retired from sailing and golfing, but remains active in following politics and taking trips to
Palm Springs.
Still, at 104, Finn’s love for the flag has not faltered. He’s hung the flag every day since being on the FS-268 and said he sees it, in part, as a symbol for democracy.
One of the most notable flags Finn flew was a 48-star U.S. flag that he kept from his ship when it was given to the Philippine government. He saved the flag in a paper box in his garage and flew it a few years ago until it began disintegrating. John plans to give the flag to Sons of
8 ways to honor veterans
Millions of people have made considerable sacrifices to protect the freedoms of their fellow citizens. According to the Pew Research Center and data from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Census Bureau, there are currently more than 18 million living veterans in the United States. The 2021 Census counted 461,240 veterans in Canada, according to Veterans Affairs Canada.
The term “veteran” refers to a person who served in the active military, naval, air service, or space service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. In the U.S., there are actually five types of protected veterans, according to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Under VEVRAA, a veteran may be classified as a disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran, or Armed Forces service medal veteran.
Veterans deserve respect and admiration all year long, but also get their own holiday each November. Veterans Day celebrates veterans’ patriotism and willingness to sacrifice and serve. This Veterans Day, people can consider these eight unique ways to honor the veterans in their community.
1. Attend events. Organize or participate in local Veterans Day celebrations, such as parades and ceremonial events.
2. Get involved with veterans’ affairs. Support veterans by volunteering with organizations that assist them, such as the VA, local veteran’s groups, VA hospitals, or charities dedicated to veteran services.
3. Petition for veteran speakers. Reach out to schools, scout troops or other groups and arrange opportunities for veterans to share their stories and contributions. Learning about the sacrifices these men and women made can heighten appreciation for veterans.
4. Support the families of veterans. Reach out to veterans’ families, who also must make sacrifices and concessions. Anything from shopping, babysitting, doing chores, or making a meal can help the families of veterans.
5. Make a donation. If finances allow, make contributions to reputable charities that provide services for veterans like those that
the American Revolution, a national nonprofit that honored John for exemplary patriotism in July 2022.
Finn said he wished children were taught about the flag more in schools and would like to see it flown in more places. He tries to educate the new generation on the flag, such as a group of Safeway employees he taught how to fold the flag properly after watching them take it down.
“I’m a patriot and the flag means a lot to me,” Finn said.
offer mental health counseling or job placement services. If there isn’t a charity that fits with your vision, begin one.
6. Hire veterans to work. If you are a business owner or hiring manager, consider hiring veterans for open positions at your company. It can be challenging to re-enter the workforce after service, so make it known that your firm welcomes veterans.
7. Offer personal acknowledgements. Take the time to speak to veterans and thank them for their service. If possible, when dining out, ask the server if you can pay for the meal of a veteran who also is dining that day.
8. Don’t forget fallen veterans. Although Memorial Day is designed to honor those who lost their lives through military service, people still can honor the fallen veterans on Veterans Day by sharing stories or placing flags at veteran cemeteries.
Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11, marking an opportunity to express one’s gratitude and support for the scores of veterans who have served honorably.
This Veterans Day, Finn said he planned to relax and enjoy it.
“Hopefully people have some idea why we have Veterans Day and who it’s for,” Finn said. “I certainly appreciate the fact that veterans are recognized.”
Finn said the biggest lessons he learned from war were to be responsible and that war was disruptive.
“You were a hero, John,” Barbara said.
“We all were at the time,” he replied.
s John Finn holds a photo of his ship, the FS-268, along with photos of him during his service in World War II.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
s John Finn holds the 48-star U.S. flag that flew on his ship. Finn resurrected the flag a few years ago but stopped flying it after it became too worn.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
Active S eniors
Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454 Make your financial future a priority. We're just around the corner. > edwardjones.com
Make your financial future a priority. We're just around the corner. > edwardjones.com
Fri, Nov. 8: Pub Fish w/ Tartar Sauce or Veggie Nuggets, Potato Wedges, Coleslaw, Pineapple-Lime Jell-O Salad
Seniors
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
MKT-5894P-A AECSPAD
Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454 Make your financial future a priority. We're just around the corner. > edwardjones.com
MKT-5894P-A AECSPAD
8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454 Make your financial future a priority. We're just around the corner. > edwardjones.com MKT-5894P-A AECSPAD
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Financial Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230
lar fitness seem to have moderate effects on cognitive function among healthy older persons. But data from current randomized control trials are insufficient to show that these improvements are due exclusively to improved cardiovascular fitness. Still, incorporating cardiovascular exercise in all stages of life is important. Here are a few notable ways exercise could affect AD outcomes.
> edwardjones.com
MKT-5894P-A AECSPAD
• Improved blood flow: Regular cardiovascular exercise facilitates blood circulation to the brain. Better blood flow delivers adequate oxygen and nutrients to the brain, which is important for maintaining cognitive function.
• Risk factor reduction: Cardio helps manage several risk factors associated with AD, such as dia-
betes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. By lowering these risk factors, individuals may reduce their likelihood of developing forms of dementia.
• Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress: Physical activity can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, each of which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases. The American Brain Foundation says high levels of inflammation of the brain may accelerate brain aging and contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like AD, Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
• Improved sleep: Regular exercise can help promote more regular sleep patterns, which improves mood and cognitive health. Although cardiovascular exercise cannot prevent dementia, it may help delay its onset.
TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Jennifer Slattery
The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: November 7, 2024
Personal Representative: Bonnie Gregory 116 44th Street Bellingham, WA 98229
II.
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
PURSUANT TO REVISED CODE OF
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 24-4-00946-37
Sports ...
page 6
Just 12 minutes into the first half, senior captain Juliana Zuzarte gathered a perfectly placed pass, calmly slotting a ball past the Meridian goalkeeper to go up 1-0.
But the Borderites couldn’t hold the lead into halftime, as Meridian senior Sofie Brooks tied up the game on a wild corner kick goal that was at first blocked by Blaine senior goalkeeper Larissa Pluschakov, but the rebound was blasted into the back of the net.
The second half was a slog, with the Borderites narrowly missing out on offensive chances, but still hanging on to force an overtime period. After overtime came and went without a deciding goal, the game would be decided on penalty kicks.
Blaine missed its first three penalty kicks, but Meridian was only able to convert one of its first four attempts, with multiple shots painfully rattling off crossbars, keeping the Borderites alive.
Pluschakov was able to convert a penalty herself, an unusual feat for the senior goalkeeper, save the last attempt by Meridian, and then watch as sophomore forward Nevaeh Zaddack scored the game-winning penalty kick to give Blaine the victory.
The next game, however, wouldn’t have the same magic for the Borderites. In another penalty kick shootout, Lynden Christian won the 1A District Championship after holding the Borderites to a scoreless draw in regulation.
This shootout was not as kind to the Borderites, who missed its first three attempts while the Lyncs converted on all three of its attempts.
In the final attempt for the Borderites to make the 1A/2A District Crossover game for a chance to go to the state tournament, the Borderites lost 3-0 to Nooksack Valley on November 5. Nooksack Valley jumped out to a quick lead and didn’t let up, ending Blaine’s season.
The Borderites finished 5-14 with a 3-12 conference record.
Cross-country
Blaine cross-country finished off an encouraging season with the 1A District race at the Deming Log Show grounds on November 2.
Seven Blaine runners competed in the 5,000-meter race at the tricky Deming course, with three setting records on the day.
Verdaan Aujla set a personal record with a time of 18:26.5, as did Steven Phelps-McDonald with a time of 18:50.56, and Ian Tuski set a season-best time of 19:30.6.
Volleyball
Blaine volleyball started its 1A District tournament with a resounding win over Mt. Baker (0-17, 0-15 NWC) on November 2, defeating the Mountaineers in straight sets 25-13, 25-16, 25-22. The win marked the second time this season the Borderites defeated Mt. Baker in straight sets.
Sophomore Teia Dube earned a double-double with 15 kills and 12 digs, with senior Kaitlyn Harrington and junior Carly Saunders each recording seven kills. Senior Brie Smith led the team with 23 assists, and Harrington recorded three aces and 14 digs.
OBITUARIES
CELEBRATION OF LIVES
John Carl Liebert
August 16, 1941 – September 13, 2024
Carole
Jean Liebert
November 26, 1942 – June 14, 2024
John Liebert’s memorial service Friday, November 15 at 4 pm in the Blaine Performing Arts Center.
Celebration of Life for both John and Carole to follow. All are welcome to attend.
David Glen Bradley 1939 – 2024
David Glen Bradley (19392024) was a compassionate and creative gentleman, full of intellectual curiosity and wonder, who never stopped dreaming of the impossible. He was known for his endless array of larger than life, yet true stories, and was head over heels in love with his beautiful bride, Charlotte, for over 57 years, never tiring of telling her daily how much he loved her. He passed away peacefully on October 28, at their home in Custer, WA, at nearly 85 years old.
Born in Huntington (“by God”), WV, the only child of John and Emma Bradley, he grew up primarily in Oakland, CA, where he first met his bride. Loving father of Teri (Danny), Nate (Jenny), and Kelly (Brian), and doting grandfather of, Rianna (Johnny), Gabriela (Thibault), Nathan, Paige (Jacob), Bryce, Andrew, and great-grandfather of Elise. He was preceded to heaven by his parents, and granddaughters Sarah and Heather.
In 1989, after 50 years as an agnostic, he surprised the world by giving his life to Jesus, baptized in Lake Samish by Pastor Kim Ryan, and his son Nate. In recent years, he and Charlotte became devoted members of North County Christ the King in Lynden, where they enjoyed serving as greeters on Sunday mornings.
David was a man of many talents: An accomplished musician who was offered a job with the Lawrence Welk band, an athlete who worked out with Jack LaLanne, and a patriot who planted flags all around the city of Blaine (with his daughter Teri). A military veteran, he proudly served in the Army in Germany, continuing to exercise his skills as an electronic technician with the Navy and the US Government. He would go on to become a businessman, at both the Shanty Town and Crossroads Taverns, but is best remembered for his Gull station/convenience store in Blaine, with its wildly popular Chick’n Spuds.
He was a Little League coach (of his son’s team), and helped to raise money for the sport by establishing the American Legion Bingo game, where he was a beloved Bingo caller, and a supporter of the Blaine Athletic Association.
Perhaps his most unique accomplishment was as the 1979 US National Cannonball and Bellyflop Champion, coming in fourth in the world the following year!
It would be hard to find a more optimistic and encouraging soul than David, and for that reason he will be sorely missed by many. Rest in Peace, David, and may perpetual Light shine upon you.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 10 at 2 p.m. at North County Christ the King Church, 1816 18th St in Lynden. All are welcome.
Just hours later, in classic postseason, jamboree fashion, the Borderites faced a much tougher Meridian team (13-7, 10-5 NWC) that leads all 1A teams in the NWC. The Borderites didn’t score more than 15 points in a single set against the top-seeded Meridian, but still saw solid performances from Dube, Harrington and Smith.
In the final game of the tournament for the Blaine, the team put
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY
Life is a journey
Decide
up one of the best fights in a loss all season, losing in straight sets, but painfully close in each: 26-24, 2522, 25-20.
Seeing the fight the Borderites put up against tough opponents like Nooksack Valley late in the year, this team seems to be on an upward trajectory after the first full year of head coach KJ Assink’s tenure. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
sheriff’s repOrts
October 26, 4:06 a.m.: Domestic – physical on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 26, 11:33 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
October 26, 8:40 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Lynden Road.
October 27, 10:30 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Moonglow Place.
October 27, 3:33 p.m.: Domestic order violence on McGee Road.
October 27, 3:41 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Blaine Road.
October 27, 3:48 p.m.: Threat cold call on Bay Ridge Drive.
October 28, 11:14 a.m.: Death investigation cold call on Stein Road.
October 28, 11:44 a.m.: Harassment cold call on Birch Bay Square Street.
October 28, 12:21 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Harborview Road.
October 28, 4:18 p.m.: Domestic order violence on McGee Road.
October 28, 4:19 p.m.: Assault simple cold call on Custer
School Road.
October 29, 5:42 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Portal Way.
October 30, 7:20 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Harborview Road.
October 31, 10:51 a.m.: Bur-
glary cold call on Blaine Road. October 31, 9:42 p.m.: Burglary on Morgan Drive. November 1, 6:47 p.m.: Theft cold call on Eddie Lane.
Non-exhaustive reports by Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.
pOLiCe repOrts
October 26, 12:49 p.m.: Drugs on 2nd Street.
October 26, 2:07 p.m.: Party on H Street.
October 29, 3:24 p.m.: Surrender of weapons on H Street.
October 29, 1:36 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.
October 29, 9:07 p.m.: Domestic - physical on Cagey Road.
October 30, 9:28 a.m.: Overdose on Boblett Street.
October 30, 10:57 a.m.: Vandalism on 11th Street.
October 30, 11:25 a.m.: Harassment on F Street.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS
1. Schoolhouse tool
7. Martens
13. Slags
14. One who scrapes
16. Centiliter
17. White wine 19. Of I
20. Former Syracuse great Warrick
22. Relating to the ear
23. Sandwich shops
25. Victories
26. White (French)
28. Self-immolation by fire ritual
29. Genus of parrots
30. Unhappy
31. Talk incessantly
33. Type of Squad
34. Unit of perceived loudness
36. Violent seizure of property
38. Agave
40. Sound units
41. Removes from record
43. Partner to Mama
44. Mythological bird
45. Dash
47. Hair product
48. Two-year-old sheep
51. Signs a deal 53. Conifer
55. Autonomous republic in NW Russia
56. Wife of Muhammed
58. British Air Aces 59. Ears or ear-like appendages
60. Not caps 61. Deep-bodied sea dweller 64. Rural delivery 65. Feeling 67. Study of relations of organisms to one another 69. Room to argue 70. Question DOWN
1. Cream puff 2. Road open 3. Stressed syllable 4. Thailand’s former name 5. Cologne 6. Recounted 7. Garment of cloth 8. Airborne (abbr.) 9. Reproduced 10. Emits coherent
radiation 11. “Westworld” actor Harris 12. Smallest interval in Western music
13. Unstressed central vowel 15. Lives in 18. When you expect to get somewhere 21. Storage bags 24. One who covers with plastic 26. Cast out 27. Automobile 30. Repaired shoe 32. Belonging to the bottom layer 35. Possesses 37. Soda 38. Programs 39. In an unexpected way
42. A bag-like structure in a plant or animal
43. For each 46. Unbelief 47. Seized or impaled
49. Arrive on the scene
50. Especially happy
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.
“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.
Live Music at the Center: Friday, November 8, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Rock and country classics by Jaded Lovers. $5 suggested donation. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
October 30, 3:33 p.m.: Vandalism on 11th Street.
October 30, 3:34 p.m.: Missing child on Mitchell Avenue.
October 31, 5:53 a.m.: Prowler on Tananger Lane.
October 31, 10:24 a.m.: Theft on Mitchell Avenue.
October 31, 7:40 p.m.: Theft on H Street.
October 31, 8:01 p.m.: Domestic - physical on B Street.
November 1, 8:15 p.m.: Theft on H Street.
Non-exhaustive reports by Blaine Police Department
52. Classic western film
54. Split pulses
55. Frida __: Painter
57. Start again
59. Employee stock ownership plan
62. Young women’s association
63. Frozen water
66. “The First State” 68. Computers need one
ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
tides
November 7 - 13 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
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.
Art of Living Breathwork Exercise: Wednesday, November 13, 6–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn ancient wisdom and proven effective breath and meditation techniques including calming breathing techniques, guided meditation, benefits of SKY breath meditation, and chair yoga for creating mobility and energy. Presented by Bliss Zuzarte. Info and registration: wcls.org.
Let’s Build a Treasure Box; Thursday, November 14, 3–4 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Kids decorate a box perfect for storing trinkets and treasures you don’t want to lose. Info: wcls.org.
Son’s Choice Dance Party: Friday, November 15, 6:30–8 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. A dance for boys and their special guest(s) with music, drinks and treats. Free. Registration required at bbbparkandrec.org.
Intro to Garden Design 101: Saturday, November 16, 9:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Discussing how to look at your yard as if you were a landscape designer. Especially important for placement of food bearing trees, bushes, vines and vegetable gardens.In this presentation, we will talk about your overall yard including hardscape assessments, materials use and integration. Info: nwcore.org.
Blaine Middle School Holiday Market: Saturday, November 16, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Blaine Middle School cafeteria, 975 H Street. Featuring locally crafted wonders, sweet treats, candles, jewelry, toys, ornaments, apparel and much more! Music and raffle. The event supports the Blaine Middle School PTSO. Info: bmsptso98230@gmail.com.
Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, November 16, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Games begin at 12:30 p.m. Eight games $15. Concession stand snacks available. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.
Open Season Federal Benefits Health Fair: Saturday, November 16, 2–5:30 p.m., Bellingham Central Library, 210 Central Avenue, Bellingham. The Northwest Washington National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Association will have presentations at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. with open forums after brief presentations. Representatives available discuss their 2025 plans and answer questions and explain how changes in the coming year will affect benefits for current federal employees, NARFE members, retirees, and their spouses or survivors. Info: Call Merry, 360/202-8999.
Composting and the Bookworm Project: Wednesday, November 20, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. This workshop covers the basics of food waste recycling and how easy it is by managing worms, indoors and out. You will see huge benefits in your garden. Also featuring the Bookworm Bin Project from the Whatcom County Library System. Info: nwcore.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.
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 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of October 28 to November 3, 1.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-to-date precipitation is 32.6 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 52.7°F on October 28 with a low of 41.5 on November 2. Average high was 50°F and average low was 43.9°F.
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.
Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.
to Coming Up
2024
ELECTION RESULTS
Whatcom County results as of 11/05/2024 8:00 p.m.
State results as of 11/06/2024 1:06 p.m.
Source: Whatcom County Auditor’s Office (county races) and the Washington Secretary of State Elections Division (state races and measures).
H H H H
President (County Results)
Donald J. Trump
STATE INITIATIVES
Statewide Initiative Measure No. 2066
This measure would repeal or prohibit certain laws and regulations that discourage natural gas use and/or promote electrification, and require certain utilities and local governments to provide natural gas to eligible customers.
(1,288,228)
(1,227,068)
Statewide Initiative Measure No. 2109
Election ...
From page 1
his seat as U.S. Congress District 2 Representative, receiving 64.4 percent (171,764) of the voters against opponent Cody Hart (R), who received 35.4 percent (94,513).
State and Local Democrat incumbents so far are keeping their seats in state representative races.
cent and 47 percent of support, respectively.
As for secretary of state, incumbent Steve Hobbs (D) received 60 percent of statewide votes and Dale Whitaker (R) received 40 percent.
Mike Pellicciotti (D) shellacked Sharon Hanek (R) for state treasurer garnering 58 percent to 42 percent.
Incumbent Pat McCarthy (D) has retained the state auditor seat against Matt Hawkins (R) with 59 percent to 41 percent.
The next state attorney general will be Nick Brown (D), who led Pete Serrano (R) 56 percent to 44 percent.
Kamala Harris
36.4% (39,679) 60.7% (66,243)
U.S. Senate
Maria Cantwell (D) 59.7% (1,535,359)
Raul Garcia (R)
(1,027,840)
U.S. Representative
Cody Hart (R)
Rick Larsen (D) 64.4% (171,764) 35.4% (94,513)
Governor
Bob Ferguson (D)
(1,460,746)
Dave Reichert (R) Commissioner of Public Lands
(1,129,854)
Dave Upthegrove (D)
(1,340,182)
Jaime Herrera Beutler (R)
(1,183,628)
42nd Legislative District Rep. Pos. 1
Alicia Rule (D-Blaine)
55% (39,607)
Raymond Pelletti (R-Blaine)
45% (32,684)
42nd Legislative District Rep. Pos. 2
Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham) 53% (38,533)
Kamal Bhachu (R-Blaine)
47% (33,709)
This measure would repeal an excise tax imposed on the sale or exchange of certain long-term capital assets by individuals who have annual capital gains of over $250,000. This measure would decrease funding for K-12 education, higher education, school construction, early learning, and childcare.
Rejected
Statewide Initiative Measure No. 2117
This measure would prohibit state agencies from imposing any type of carbon tax credit trading, and repeal legislation establishing a cap and invest program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This measure would decrease funding for investments in transportation, clean air, renewable energy, conservation, and emissions-reduction.
Rejected
Statewide Initiative Measure No. 2124
This measure would provide that employees and selfemployed people must elect to keep coverage under RCW 50B.04 and could opt-out any time. It would also repeal a law governing an exemption for employees. This measure would decrease funding for Washington’s public insurance program providing long-term care benefits and services.
COUNTY INITIATIVES
Whatcom County Proposition 2024-22
The Whatcom County Council adopted Ordinance No. 2023-083 proposing amendments to Whatcom County Charter Section 4.30. If approved, this amendment would prohibit elected County officers from holding other elected public office during their terms of office.
In a Blaine face off, incumbent Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) was leading Raymond Pelletti (R-Blaine) 55 percent (39,607) to 45 percent (32,684) for the 42nd Legislative District Representative Position 1 seat.
Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham) is ahead of Kamal Bhachu (R-Blaine) 53 percent (38,533) to 47 percent (33,709).
In the Public Utility District No. 1 races, Eddy Ury was ahead of Jeremiah Goggins 59 percent (52,565) to 41 percent (36,132), and incumbent Atul Deshmane was gliding past Dan Johnson 57 percent (52,291) to 42 percent (38,520).
The Whatcom County Council charter review commission will have three candidates from each county council district conduct a decennial update to the county’s governing document. So far, the top three candidates for District 5 positions, which covers Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts, were Lindsey Graham Elenbaas at 16.1 percent (8,169), Jon Mutchler at 15.4 percent (7,846) and Rod Stump at 13.4 percent (6,804).
Blaine school district’s Proposition 2024-21, authorizing a $70 million, 20-year bond that would replace the current bond for capital improvements, was failing the 60-percent supermajority it needed to pass. The bond had only garnered 55 percent (5,410) in support while 45 percent (4,394) of voters rejected the measure. The bond, which was rejected in the February special election, would have replaced the 70-year-old Blaine Middle School, updated Pipeline Fields, and built an outdoor covering at Blaine Elementary School, among other projects.
Whatcom County Proposition 2024-22, which prohibited elected county officials from concurrently serving other public office positions, passed widely with 84.5 percent of voters in support and 15.5 against.
Washington attorney general Bob Ferguson (D) is on his way to becoming the next governor of Washington having received 56 percent (1,460,746) of statewide votes as Dave Reichert (R) fell short of the majority with 44 percent (1,129,854) of votes.
The insurance commissioner race has Patty Kuderer (D) ahead of Phil Fortunato (R) with a margin of 57 to 43 percentage.
Whatcom County voters were supporting Sal Mungia over Dave Larson for Supreme Court Justice Position 2 with 53 percent and 47 percent. Steve Gonzalez and Sheryl Gordon McCloud ran unopposed for the Washington State Supreme Court and Cecily Hazelrigg ran unopposed for Washington Court of Appeals for Division I.
State initiatives
Initiative measure No. 2066, the natural gas initiative, had a majority of support by the first ballot count. Statewide results showed 51.2 percent (1,288,228) of Washingtonians approved the measure, while 48.8 percent (1,227,068) did not. The measure would repeal or prohibit certain laws and regulations that discourage natural gas use and/or promote electrification and require certain utilities and local governments to provide natural gas to eligible customers. Initiative measure No. 2109, or the excise tax repeal, was failing by a large margin with only 37 percent (937,050) voters in support and 63.2 percent (1,610,148) against. The measure would have repealed an excise tax imposed on the sale or exchange of certain long-term capital assets by individuals who have annual capital gains of over $250,000. As a result, it would have decreased funding for K-12 education, higher education, school construction, early learning and childcare.
Blaine School District 503 - Prop 2024-21
This bond proposition authorizes the District to make improvements and additions to Blaine Primary, Middle and Elementary Schools, Pipeline Athletic Complex, Point Roberts Primary School, Birch Bay site, and other capital improvements; to issue $70,000,000 of general obligation bonds maturing within a maximum of 20 years, and to collect excess property taxes annually to repay the bonds
(Requires 60% Approval)
Denny Heck (D) has retained his seat as lieutenant governor as he received 57 percent (1,448,994) of votes in support, while challenger Dan Matthews (R) received 43 percent (1,108,180).
Superintendent of public instruction Chris Reykdal also kept his position against challenger David Olson, receiving 54 percent (1,207,823) versus Olson’s 46 percent (1,037,041) of the statewide votes by the first ballot count.
Dave Upthegrove (D) won the position of commissioner of public lands against Jaime Herrera Beutler (R) receiving 53 per-
Initiative measure No. 2117, the carbon tax measure, was also largely failing with only 38 percent (972,623) of support and 62 percent (1,566,065) against. The measure would have prohibited state agencies from imposing carbon tax credit trading and repealed legislation establishing a cap-and-invest program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This would have resulted in decreased funding for investments in transportation, clean air, renewable energy, conservation and emissions-reduction.
Initiative measure No. 2124, regarding the long-term health care program, was failing with 44.5 percent (1,119,728) in support and 55.5 percent (1,396,215) against. The measure would provide that employees and self-employed people must elect to keep coverage under RCW 50B.04 and could opt-out any time. It would also repeal a law governing an exemption for employees. This measure would decrease funding for Washington’s public insurance program providing long-term care benefits and services.
Blaine Arts Council brings in new art, holds art sale
Blaine Arts Council unveiled its November gallery show at 922 Peace Portal Drive during the First Friday Downtown Art Walk on November 1. Artists featured in November are Joseph Kinnebrew, Designs by Magz, Rock Morris and Helen Worley.
The arts council then held its Sea to See pop-up holiday art
show at the new CTK Church at 674 Peace Portal Drive on November 2. Shoppers roamed booths with woodworking, photography and crafts while listening to live music.
The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 12-5 p.m. Sunday.
s The Sea to See pop-up holiday art show on November 2. Photo by Ruth Lauman
s Sculptures by Joseph Kinnebrew in the Blaine Art Gallery. Photo courtesy of Blaine Arts Council
s The Sea to See pop-up holiday art show. Photo by Ruth Lauman
s Jewelry from Margaret Owens. Photo courtesy of Blaine Arts Council
s Paintings by Rock Morris at the gallery. Photo courtesy of Blaine Arts Council
s Photography by Helen Worley on display in the Blaine Art Gallery this month. Photo courtesy of Blaine Arts Council
