As we reflect on the year 2024, it is clear that our city has made significant strides across a variety of departments, demonstrating commitment to growth, efficiency and community engagement. This year, the City of Blaine has experienced many milestones, each contributing to the continued success and development of our community.
The City Clerk’s Office had a year of achievements, beginning with the successful recruitment and hiring of key personnel. Notably, we welcomed a new finance director and police chief to our team. Additionally, the clerk’s office processed a record number of public record requests, reviewing approximately 50,000 emails to maintain transparency and public trust.
This past year also marked a significant milestone for our electrical division, which is now fully staffed for the first time in several years. A fully staffed electrical utility is vital for the ongoing maintenance of our power grid and ensures the reliable delivery of electricity to Blaine residents. In addition, phase one of the city’s policy manual overhaul was completed, with phase two expected by mid-2025.
The finance and IT departments saw a year of significant change and progress. In July, we welcomed Jennifer Spidle, CPA, as the new finance director. One of the major initiatives of 2024 was the successful implementation of phase one of the city-wide transition to a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. This transition, which will consolidate three software programs into one, promises to significantly streamline financial processes by spring 2025.
The city also completed the 2022-23 financial audit with a clean audit opinion and we updated our purchasing policy
(See Blaine, page 2)
Boys basketball win cross-border clash
B y g race M c c art H y
(This is the second of a two-part Year in Review. January-June was published in the previous issue of The Northern Light.)
July
• The Washington State Department of Agriculture asked Blaine and Birch Bay residents to monitor and report sightings of the northern giant hornet, also known as ‘murder hornets,’ starting July 1.
• Thousands of people descended to downtown Blaine for Blaine’s Old-Fashioned Fourth of July.
• Blaine Arts Council held a soft opening for its new gallery at 922 Peace Portal Drive.
• Volunteers picked up 10,640 pounds of trash along the Birch Bay shoreline during the annual July 5 cleanup.
• The city of Blaine hired Jennifer Spidle as finance director.
• North Whatcom Fire and Rescue chief Jason Van der Veen said Birch Bay Station 63 needed to be replaced due to a slate of problems including structural concerns on the training tower, an outdated building layout and the cost of maintaining an aging building. The levy lid lift in the August primary
Birch Bay Budz among string of marijuana stores burglarized in ‘crash-and-grabs’
B y g race M c c art H y The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) is asking the public for information on three recent ‘crash-and-grab’ burglaries of marijuana dispensaries, one of which occurred in Birch Bay.
A black sedan with no license plates that Redmond Police Department verified as stolen backed into the front of Birch Bay Budz in Birch Bay Square just before 6 a.m. December
28, 2024, WCSO public information officer Amy Cloud wrote in an email to The Northern Light. The WCSO was unable to provide how much money was stolen or lost from damages. Four people, including the vehicle occupants, fled on foot after raiding the store.
“We welcome any information from others who may know anything about the theft or the suspects involved,” Cloud said. “Please phone 911 with your information.”
Two other marijuana dispensaries have
been targeted over the past couple of weeks. Dank of America’s location just north of Bellingham was burglarized in a similar incident on December 24, 2024, according to KIRO 7, and Between the Ferns in Deming was burglarized about 2:30 a.m. January 3, 2025, Cloud said.
In all cases, the suspects backed stolen vehicles into the businesses during the early
(See Burglary, page 2)
election would, in part, provide kick-starter funds for replacing the station.
• Blaine Harbor Music Festival brought a week of live music to Blaine with its music camp, free noon concerts, street fair and more.
• Kroger and Albertsons announced the store locations across the country it planned to sell if the two grocery giants merge, including six in Whatcom County.
• The latest Covid-19 variants “FLiRT” and LB.1 created a summer surge nationwide, though Covid-19 remained under control
(See Review, page 3)
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based on auditor recommendations. The city’s outdated phone system is being replaced with a modern voice over IP system, set to go live in January 2025. The Finance Department, in collaboration with other city departments, successfully created and presented the 2025 budget, which was adopted by Blaine City Council in November 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Finance Department is focused on the full implementation of the ERP system, further policy and procedure reviews, the completion of the utility program assistance audit, a comprehensive review of our utility rate structure, and the development of a new inventory system.
The past year was a year of transition and growth for the Blaine Police Department. Chief Funk took the helm in April, and several officers were promoted, including Brent Greene to lieutenant and Keith Olson to sergeant. Two new officers graduated from the academy and are now patrolling the community. The department also bid farewell to lieutenant Michael Munden, who retired after 25 years of service, including 12 years as a K9 officer.
Community engagement remained a top priority for the police department. Officers participated in various events, from school activities to local celebrations, and were actively involved in the Ragnar race and the Fourth of July festivities. A highlight of the year was a generous donation from an individual who purchased automated external defibrillators for every officer, a gift valued at approximately $28,000.
Several officers earned certi -
fications in crisis intervention, leadership, evidence handling and wellness programs. Officer Jeremiah Leland took significant steps in supporting the department’s officer wellness program, which received national attention due to his grant work. Our officers were recognized for their bravery and service with several awards, including Chief’s Commendations and Life Saving Medals.
Looking forward, the police department is working on improving efficiencies, exploring the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs accreditation process, and seeking alternative funding sources to enhance equipment and training. In 2025, we will continue to focus on training and leadership development while seeking new ways to improve the safety and effectiveness of our police operations.
The Community Development Services (CDS) Department welcomed new staff members, including Clay Salzman as building official and Mike Beck as senior planner. The department was busy facilitating major commercial construction projects such as Family Care Network, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Chain Lakes Express Car Wash, as well as overseeing the completion of 49 new homes. Residential development continued at a strong pace from 2023, helping to meet the growing demand for housing.
The CDS Department also achieved important long-range planning goals. It successfully concluded the Downtown Adhoc Advisory Committee and worked with city council to adopt a new parking relief program and reduced building height restrictions for downtown.
Work on the city’s comprehensive plan update also began, with the adoption of a public
Burglary ...
From page 1
morning hours and quickly stole items before fleeing on foot. The WCSO believes the suspects were then picked up in another vehicle that is likely also stolen.
Six people were shown backing into Between the Ferns in a stolen vehicle and then fleeing in a stolen red 2018 Hyundai Elantra. Several law enforcement agencies pursued the vehicle between Skagit County and King County at different times before the vehicle was lost north of Seattle in Shoreline.
participation plan and recommendations for preliminary growth numbers submitted to Whatcom County.
In addition, the CDS team collaborated with the Blaine Chamber of Commerce to run another successful year of Blaine by the Sea. Two new major events, the Bellingham Scottish Gathering and the Spring Block Party, were facilitated. The Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee funded the creation of a new mural at G Street Plaza, enhancing the city’s public spaces.
Lastly, Blaine Public Works Department achieved several key milestones in 2024, with a focus on infrastructure projects and community development.
The Downtown Revitalization project made great strides, which will improve Peace Portal Drive and the Martin Street parklet. These upgrades include sidewalk repairs, tree replacement and general aesthetic improvements. The project will move forward with bidding in early 2025, with construction set to begin later in the year.
The channelization of Boblett Street near its intersection with SR-543 has been a major undertaking, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. The channelization project will widen the roadway, replace sidewalks, improve storm drainage and install pedestrian safety features. Additionally, the city is upgrading electrical Circuit 17 and Circuit 11, enhancing the availability, reliability and safety of the city’s power grid.
The public works team also played a pivotal role in supporting residential development, particularly in the East Maple Ridge subdivision, ensuring that infrastructure improvements are aligned with the city’s growth and development goals.
s Birch Bay Budz after being burglarized on December 28, 2024.
Courtesy photo
Review ...
From page 1
in northwest Washington.
• The U.S. Coast Guard passed the historic Plover ferry’s final inspection that approved it to transport passengers.
• Whatcom County announced a 90-day hiring freeze due to dwindling federal funds and a leveling out of tax revenue.
• Governor Jay Inslee appointed Jennifer E. Slattery to the Whatcom County Superior Court bench to fill a fifth position created in the state legislature earlier in the year made to assist with a backlog of cases.
• Relay racers passed the starting line of the Ragnar Road Northwest Passage Race at Peace Arch Historical State Park in Blaine before making their way to the finish line on south Whidbey Island.
• The Whatcom County Library System hosted Pride in the Park to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community at Blaine Marine Park.
• The Port of Bellingham let go of Bellingham International Airport’s aviation director Kip Turner without notice, citing financial reasons. The separation came as Southwest Airlines was about to stop flights out of the airport.
• Vapester Smoke Shop opened its first U.S. location on Peace Portal Drive in Blaine.
• The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the now-shuttered Intalco, fining the company $5.25 million after years of alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act at its aluminum smelting facility in Ferndale.
• Whatcom County Council approved up to $150,000 to fund a Birch Bay incorporation feasibility study that will provide more data, including costs, associated with the urban growth area becoming its own city.
• The Nooksack Indian Tribe welcomed canoes landing in Birch Bay for a stop along the Paddle to Puyallup Canoe Journey.
• Blaine Arts Council hosted an “en blanc” evening fundraiser at Blaine Harbor Boating Center that was followed the next day with an art festival at Blaine Marine Park.
• Brilliant Planet, a new, local nonprofit dedicated to helping kids get into nature, hosted its first community meet-and-greet event at the Blaine Senior Center.
• Days before new rules on traveling into the U.S. with dogs were scheduled to be implemented, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) relaxed the requirements. The newly revised rules require dogs to appear healthy upon arrival, be at least six months old and possess a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner for identification. In addition, the dog must be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form.
• U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a letter to CDC director Mandy Cohen on July 30 requesting the new rules for traveling with dogs into the U.S. be delayed. The new rules were scheduled to start August 1. August
• Blaine Arts Council introduced a new monthly downtown art walk on August 1.
• The Washington State Department of Ecology answered questions on the upcoming Nooksack adjudication during an informational meeting at North Bay Community Church in Birch Bay.
• Birch Bay residents Drisana and John Horton opened Aloha Café in downtown Blaine. The café brought new options to downtown Blaine including mocha waffles and milk tea.
• The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce held its 41st Sand Sculpture Competition and 10th Rollback Weekend car show.
• The Blaine Chamber of Commerce had a lineup of nautical-themed activities at Blaine Harbor for Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival. Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 hosted Pirate Daze that included Blaine Community Theater’s “Pi-
rates of Penzance” water balloon performance.
• August primary ballots were turned in by 8 p.m. Election Day, with voters establishing which candidates would move on to the November general election.
• National Night Out, aimed to strengthen ties between law enforcement and the community, was held at Birch Bay Beach Park.
• Whatcom County and county medical examiner Dr. Allison Hunt were in legal discussions about ending Dr. Hunt’s contract following the receipt of a report by an outside attorney that found deficient practices in how the medical examiner’s office mishandled remains of two bodies in mid-May.
• Drayton Harbor Oyster Company opened a farm store and coffee corner at the front of its Blaine restaurant at 685 Peace Portal Drive.
• A 35-year-old Blaine man suspected of nine domestic violence offenses was arrested after a seven-hour standoff with law enforcement on Mitchell Avenue in Blaine.
• The Port of Bellingham unanimously approved spending nearly $100,000 on public relations to improve its public image after a year of public scrutiny.
• Blaine and Birch Bay residents had a rare sighting of the northern lights.
• Two former Blaine residents, Michael Amandeus Brooks and Kayla Lynn Brooks, suspected of being involved in a murder in Tennessee were extradited to Hamilton County after being arrested in east Blaine.
• A story from The Northern Light showed Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu appeared to violate the county charter by ignoring the advice of medical professionals during the 2021 hiring of former medical examiner Dr. Allison Hunt by not following the Northwest Washington Medical Society’s hiring recommendation as required by county code.
• A 20-year-old Bellingham man was charged with vehicular homicide following a crash on I-5 in Ferndale that killed motorcyclist Evan L. Hayes, 47 of Blaine, and injured four people, including the driver, during the early morning hours of August 16. The driver was suspected of being under the influence and was released from Whatcom County Jail the same day.
• The U.S. Coast Guard issued a no-sail order for the Plover ferry after a piece of the stern detached during training exercises, revealing rotting wood in the boat. The Plover was highly anticipated to start late season service following nearly two years of repairs and a contract dispute between Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM) and the city of Blaine that delayed
Whatcom Hospice brings back bereavement series to Blaine
Whatcom Hospice will provide support to Blaine area residents experiencing grief with a sixweek series called “A Journey to Hope and Healing.” The series will run 1-2:30 p.m. every Thursday from January 23 to February 27 at Blaine United Church of Christ, 815 4th Street. Whatcom Hospice bereavement
caregivers will co-lead a group of 10 people, providing them with education and support on grief. Pre-registration is required as the group is limited to 10 people. The six meetings will cover the physical, social, emotional and spiritual parts of grief, according to Whatcom Hospice. Whatcom Hospice began offer-
2024 operations.
• DHM executive director Richard Sturgill retired after nearly three decades of service to the Plover. Sturgill founded DHM and led efforts to restore the Plover in the ’90s.
• Blaine school board unanimously approved the adoption of the 2024-25 budget during the August 26 meeting.
• The Office of the Washington State Auditor gave the city of Blaine a clean audit for January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023.
ing the series in 2023 after seeing a need for north Whatcom County residents to receive support who may not want to travel to Bellingham or participate in Whatcom Hospice’s remote series.
To register or for more information, call 360/788-6690 or email whatcomhospicegrief@peacehealth.org.
• Peace Arch Education Foundation, a newly formed fundraising organization to support the Blaine school district, held its first community listening session before the school year started.
• Blaine police chief Rodger Funk presented officer Jordan Maphumulo and officer Bryan Beaulieu with a life-saving service award,
(See Review, page 6)
s The Plover ferry paraded along Peace Portal Drive during Blaine’s Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Festival. Photo by Louise Mugar
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
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Vol XXX, No 30
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y S H aron S H ew M ake , S enator
I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished in the past year.
The Way Station, a revolutionary new community health center, opened this fall, bringing much-needed health care to underserved populations. The Way Station’s focus on prevention and early treatment will keep our communities healthy and save taxpayers money.
Last year, we invested $3.46 million to build a Lummi Nation substance use treatment facility, where anyone can receive help overcoming addiction, and $2.35 million to build a Bellingham 23-hour crisis relief center. The opioid and mental health crises have touched every Washington community, and I am so thankful Whatcom County will soon have facilities to support our neighbors on their road to recovery.
Thanks to a $3 million state investment, we’re getting a new early learning
State senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham)
center in Laurel. The Whatcom Meridian Early Learning Center will provide our youngest learners the tools needed to thrive. It’s a step forward in our effort to expand the education and childcare services available in our district. These projects are your tax dollars at work, making our neighborhoods safer, happier and healthier.
I’m also looking forward to my work on the Senate committees for Environment, Energy and Technology; Agriculture and Natural Resources; and Transportation.
I’ve harbored a lifelong passion for energy, agricultural and environmental policy – teaching college courses on these subjects is my day job! I look forward to advocating for policies that help Washington build out its clean energy sector, foster a vibrant rural economy, build a safer transportation system, and ensure climate sustainability, restoration and preservation.
I’m excited to continue collaborating with all of you, the dedicated commu -
nity members, organizations and leaders who work so hard to bring investments and improvements to Whatcom County.
Blaine Arts Council
B y M argaret o wen S , B oard pre S ident
As 2024 draws to a close, the Blaine Arts Council and Blaine Art Gallery celebrate an incredible year of community connection, creativity and growth.
This year, we proudly opened the Blaine Art Gallery, located at 922 Peace Portal Drive, which quickly became a hub for art lovers and creatives alike. With rotating exhibits featuring local artists, it has brought fresh energy to Blaine and earned widespread acclaim.
2024 year in REVIEW
B y d ianne M arr SS M it H , pre S ident
In 2024, the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express Project saw a lot of progress and support. The Friends of the Birch Bay Library (FOBBL) had a busy year through generous donations, architectural work, community events, project conversations and new board members joining.
On January 3, 2024, the Friends re-
We also launched the First Friday Downtown Art Walk, an initiative to support local businesses and showcase the talents of our artistic community. This monthly event showcases Blaine as a lively and inspiring destination for residents and visitors. Look for more details, as we move to the second Saturday in January.
Our annual fundraiser, WAVE En Blanc & Art Festival, was a huge success, bringing together art, music and community spirit to support our mission. Thanks to your support, we’ve been able to provide resources
for local artists and youth, offering opportunities to create, learn and thrive.
Throughout the year, we hosted a variety of fun and educational events for all ages, enriching our town with workshops, gallery talks and art projects that celebrate the power of creativity.
Thank you to our donors, volunteers and supporters for making 2024 such a memorable year. With your help, we’re building a vibrant future for Blaine’s arts community and beyond.
Here’s to an even more inspiring 2025!
Friends of Birch Bay Library
ceived an anonymous gift for $100,000 followed by grants from Phillips 66 and the Eleanor and Henry Jansen Foundation. With our fundraisers and project neighborly grant, these donations added approximately $36,000 to the project fund. The Kite Festival was a magnificent event where we spun hundreds of cotton candy cones. Our campfire stories collaboration with Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 was a hit. Our 2nd
annual Love Your Library 5K Fun Run grew this year. Over 800 people played our giant monster operation game during Trick-or-Treat on the Berm. We closed our year with a little book and bake sale in December.
OAI Architects, along with the Whatcom County Library System, have been working on our library project since (See FOBBL, next page)
The Editor:
I’ve known Laura Vogee for many years; she pours her heart into any endeavor she undertakes. The Community Assistance Program Community Toy Store is no exception. The flak regarding “handout versus hand-up” gifting is baseless. All shoppers (129 families) apply for a voucher that is adjusted to the family’s needs … 80 percent of these are thrilled to pay a deep discount for the items they pick out for their kids. These shoppers are also given the option of a referral to other agencies who give handouts, but they prefer to shop at CAP’s toy store. They save sacrificially for weeks for this opportunity. If, for hardship, they cannot pay for their gifts, they are never denied
the blessing of giving new gifts to their children. The proceeds from the “hand-up” gifting goes toward other worthy community services ($3,500). Shoppers who realize this feel proud for the chance to also give back to their community in a small way.
Even the Grinch, in the end, recalculated his perspective and projected “peace and goodwill to all men” and all were blessed and thankful.
To all CAP volunteers, have a wonderful year.
Jan Westhoff Blaine
A note about this week’s newspaper
The U.S. Postal Service will be closed on Thursday, January 9 for a Day of Mourning to honor former president Jimmy Carter. The Northern Light is scheduled for delivery on Wednesday, January 8 and will return to a normal schedule of Thursday distributions for the January 16 issue.
s Senator Sharon Shewmake. File photo
2024 year in REVIEW
B y d r c H ri S top H er g ranger , S uperintendent
As the 2024 calendar year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve our incredible students, staff, families and the communities of Point Roberts, Birch Bay and Blaine. This year has been marked by growth, innovation and collaboration as we continue working together to make Blaine the best place in Washington for students to receive a well-rounded education and for staff to do their very best work. In 2024, we saw the successful creation of virtual learning options for our high school students. This has expanded opportunities for students to engage with their education in new and flexible ways, ensuring we meet the needs of
Blaine School District
each learner while remaining involved in the Blaine school district. Our students’ accomplishments outside of the classroom this year have been equally inspiring. From athletic success that showcased teamwork and sportsmanship to the outstanding achievements in fine arts, our students demonstrated hard work and Blaine pride to communities across the state. Engagement with our community has been a priority, and this year we had vital conversations around school funding and legislation. In 2024, we appreciated the community’s ongoing support on a replacement levy to sustain critical educational programs and operations. In addition, we will continue to work with all stakeholders in hopes of achieving the required 60 percent supermajority approval on a bond measure that, among other priorities, aims to provide an updated and
modernized Blaine Middle School facility. I encourage you to learn more about these initiatives by visiting our website at blainesd.org, and I invite you to connect with us at upcoming community events.
This year also brought continued success with our Wednesday late starts, an initiative introduced in the fall of 2023. These collaborative sessions provide our dedicated staff with intentional time to review data, refine strategies and align instructional practices to meet the needs of all students. I’m proud to say that we are already seeing the positive impact of this focused collaboration in our classrooms.
Looking ahead to 2025, I remain committed to listening, learning and leading in a way that reflects our shared values and priorities. I hope you will join me for Supper with the Superintendent, a monthly opportunity to share your thoughts,
ask questions and work together to move our district forward.
On behalf of our board of directors and the entire Blaine school district staff, thank you for your ongoing trust and partnership. Your support makes it possible for us to serve each student, each day with dedication and care. Together, we are creating a future where each student is college, career and citizenship ready – and we do it with pride in this incredible community we call home.
Washington State Parks announces 2025 free park days
Washington State Parks (WSP) has announced that the agency, along with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), will have several “pass-free” days in 2025 to enjoy without daily parking fees.
Upcoming free days include Monday, January 20 for Martin Luther King Junior Day; Sunday, March 9 for Billy Frank Junior’s birthday; Wednesday, March 19 for WSP’s 112th birthday and
Tuesday, April 22 for Earth Day.
On free days, visitors will not need a Discover Pass to park a vehicle at any Washington state park, or on lands managed by the DNR or WDFW.
WSP’s annual pass, the Discover Pass, is available for $30-35, or $10-11.50 for a one-day visit, depending on the point of purchase, according to a WSP press release. Funds generated through WSP fees go toward parks, DNR and WDFW conservation efforts.
School funding town hall
The Northern Light will cover the Fund Schools Now town hall in Blaine on January 7. An article on the town hall will be published on thenorthernlight. com before it is published in the January 16 print issue.
Parent advocacy group Fund Schools Now is hosting the town hall, which is expected to have state senator Sharon Shewmake
(D-Bellingham) and state representatives Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham). Also in attendance will be educators from Blaine, Ferndale and Mt. Baker school districts.
The meeting will address how a lack of state funding in education is leading to bad outcomes for students, staff and the community.
“I wish to express my appreciation for the comprehensive news coverage each week in The Northern Light. Your employees exemplify the highest professionalism and journalistic prowess in every aspect of the paper. Thank you for being available, interested, and vigilant. Blaine and The Northern Light are symbolic of the finest in Small-town USA. Thank you!”
- Kay Dee Powell
CITY OF BLAINE VACANCY
ANNOUNCEMENT
JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF BLAINE!
The City of Blaine is excited to announce openings for dedicated community members to volunteer on our commissions, boards, and committees. This is your chance to make a difference and contribute to the vibrant future of our city.
Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting Schedule:
One Wednesday morning per month, approximately two hours.
Open Positions: Citizen at Large – Partial term ending December 31, 2025 Citizen at Large – Partial term ending December 31, 2027
How to Apply: Applications and Descriptions: Available at https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/567/Board-Commission-Applications.
First Review Deadline: Submit your application by 4:30 PM on Friday, January 31, 2025. Applications will be accepted until vacancies are filled.
Interviews:
Anticipated to occur at one of the regular City Council meetings in February.
From previous page
April, with the big job of getting the conditional use permit from the county. In 2025, barring any issues, we should have a contractor, renovation work should begin and end with an open library express. Once again, our state appropriation deadline is looming, so we are hoping this process is complete soon.
We said ‘thank you’ to three longterm board members and welcomed three new board members this year. We have started preparing for the transitions that will take place for our organization once our project is complete.
As our project moves into its eight year, the FOBBL Board of Directors give thanks to our community for your encouragement, generous donations and the support you give us.
We look forward to seeing you in 2025.
s Dr. Christopher Granger. File photo
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY
and officer Travis Campbell with a chief’s commendation award during Blaine City Council.
• Blaine school district held its first day of school on August 28.
• The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosted Derby Day with activities such as the crab derby and rubber duck derby to end summer on August 31.
September
• Debbie Vance had her first day as Semiahmoo Resort executive chef. Vance previously was executive chef at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and executive chef at Hilton Knoxville.
• The Community Assistance Program began collecting coats for its annual winter coat drive.
• Whatcom County Superior Court ruled the ballot initiative to repeal the Healthy Children’s Fund, a voter-backed childcare and early development property tax, violated the state constitution and would not be on November ballots.
• It was announced bp Cherry Point would receive nearly $26.8 million to help the refinery produce sustainable aviation fuel for the first time.
• A story by The Northern Light showed the Port of Bellingham’s public relations contract that was authorized by port commissioners at their August 13 meeting appeared to skirt Washington laws requiring proof of competitive bidding.
• Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu announced he intended to appoint Dr. Aldo Fusaro as interim medical examiner while the county recruits a new examiner.
• Kelle Rankin-Sunter, founder of the nonprofit Blaine CORE, led efforts to turn Whatcom County Library System totes into Bookworm Bins as a fundraiser for Blaine Public Library.
• Joyce Vanderpol, the oldest real estate agent in Washington state and an active Blaine community member, died peacefully on September 8. She was 100.
• First responders, dignitaries, bikers and community members from the U.S. and Canada gathered at Peace Arch Park on the morning of September 11 in remembrance of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
• A petition asking the Port of Bellingham to bring a fuel pump to Blaine Harbor resurfaced conversations on fueling for boats moored in the harbor, which have relied on Semiahmoo Marina to power their boats for nearly a decade.
• Beach Cat Brewing hosted the first ‘Catoberfest,’ an Oktoberfest event at Blaine Marine Park to raise money for Blaine Food Bank.
• Whatcom Conservation District held its 12th annual Run with the Chums 5K race at bp Highlands. The race started Whatcom Water Week on the right foot for a celebration of local water resources.
• Family Care Network began construction on its Blaine medical facility during late summer. The clinic is expected to open fall 2025 if construction continues smoothly.
• The Port of Bellingham held a joint meeting with Blaine City Council at The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro. Port and city representatives as well as stakeholders discussed the Jorgensen Pier road and other infrastructure improvements, environmental cleanup in Blaine Harbor and ensuring the harbor was a working waterfront.
• Whatcom County Council’s investigative committee released its findings into how the county handled multiple sexual harassment complaints against former public works director Jon Hutchings. The committee recommended the county hire an outside consultant to continue the investigation and the county make code revisions for how it pays out harassment claims. It also showed employee distrust in county HR.
• OverAll Walls Mural Festival held its first festival in Blaine that brought well-known muralists from around the world: British artist My Dog Sighs, Houston-based artist Emily Ding and Ferndale artist Kaa Shaayi.
October
• People who wanted trusted traveler passes to cross the border began paying a higher application fee for most programs within the Trusted Traveler Programs, which increased for the first time in over 15 years on October 1.
• Blaine Oyster Fest and the Harbor Harvest Festival returned to downtown Blaine for a fall festival celebrating the local bounty.
• Blaine City Council appointed Eric Lewis to council. He’s a semi-retired electrician, member of Blaine Community Theater and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474.
• Blaine Public Works Department announced the Plover was on track to be ready by summer 2025. Repair estimates were fewer than $20,000 and the boat was scheduled to be transported to Bellingham.
• Blaine Senior Center board president Jim West and treasurer Christine Yung resigned after being voted out of their positions in September. Director Pete Nelson later resigned in November.
• The U.S. General Services Administration announced it had awarded a $33.2 million grant to a Native-owned small business for the Pacific Highway port of entry’s design and construction of a significant upgrade and expansion.
• North Whatcom Fire and Rescue commissioners began discussing the future of Station 62 in Semiahmoo, including relinquishing the property to the city of Blaine. The station hasn’t been staffed in decades and needs extensive renovations.
• Blaine Food Bank honored middle school student Liam Luc for raising $835 for the food bank at the 2023 Holiday Market with 3D-printed toys.
• City of Blaine planning staff announced it was in the early stages of creating a proposal to de-annex the Grandis Pond property and add 460 acres of urban growth
area (UGA) southwest of Semiahmoo, among other UGA changes, in its comprehensive plan update. This came as Grandis Pond’s land use entitlements are set to expire July 2025 following little progress on the property since it was sold in December 2023. Grandis Pond is considered the largest area slated for housing development in Whatcom County.
• bp Cherry Point invited Whatcom County high school students to the refinery to learn about job opportunities and hosted an open house for the public
• Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Trick-or-Treat on the Berm brought about 3,000 people dressed in costumes to collect candy from local organizations on the berm.
• Christ the King Community Church started holding service in its downtown Blaine location, 674 Peace Portal Drive.
• Blaine City Council approved a list of 10 funding and policy priorities the city wants lawmakers to consider when they return to Olympia, including restoring Blaine Harbor, addressing train delays and focusing on affordable housing.
• Blaine police lieutenant Michael Munden retired after serving 25 years in law enforcement for the city, the longest serving member of the current force.
• Witches, skeletons and scarecrows gave out candy to trickor-treaters during the Freeman family’s 10th annual Halloween carnival in Blaine.
November
• Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley reinstated undersheriff Steve Harris on November 1 after Harris was put on leave August 30. Tanksley released a report on the independent investigation that showed morale problems at the sheriff’s office.
• The November 5 election was a landmark election making Donald Trump the next president of the U.S. as well as determined local races such as state representatives for the 42nd Legislative District.
• The Blaine High School Theater Arts Program held opening night for its rendition of Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
• Dozens of people honored those who served in the military during a Veterans Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Blaine on November 11. VFW and American Legion organized the event.
• World War II veteran John Finn, 104, celebrated Veterans Day by hanging the U.S. flag from his home in Birch Bay Village, as he does every day.
• The Blaine Middle School Parent Teacher Student Organiza-
(See Review, page 8)
s Beach Cat Brewing co-owner Jake Gobeille, r., led the ‘Catoberfest’ costume contest at Blaine Marine Park on September 14, 2024.
Photo by Ruth Lauman
sports
Boys basketball halts losing skid, four wrestlers podium on Vashon
B y n olan B aker
The two-week holiday slow down in Borderite winter sports is over, and all five Blaine teams were back in action. The boys basketball team showed a strong home court performance against a Canadian opponent, winning 66-44 and snapping a six-game losing streak. Girls basketball fell to Squalicum in the first game back from break, and girls wrestling hosted the Borderite Blizzard on December 28, 2024.
Boys basketball
The Borderites started the season with a promising 2-0 start, defeating La Conner and Friday Harbor with solid defensive performances. Since that auspicious start, the Borderites lost its next six games, and started the Northwest Conference (NWC) schedule 0-5.
After returning from winter break, the Borderites narrowly lost to NWC foe Squalicum on January 3, losing 64-56 at home after a 21-point fourth quarter from the visiting Storm. Senior forward Abdul Kanagie led Blaine with 12 points, followed by senior guards Josiah Weeda and Beckum Bleazard, each with 11, and senior forward Landon Melton who added 10 points on the night.
The Borderites then faced off against Surrey Christian on January 6, getting out to an early lead in the first quarter that was never relinquished. Blaine won 66-44 and snapped a six-game winless streak, moving the team’s record to 3-6 just before the halfway point of the regular season.
Blaine significantly out-rebounded Surrey Christian, allowing its offense extra chances against an undersized Falcons team, and scored plenty of points at the free throw line.
The NWC playoffs allow for each team to qualify no matter its conference record. Blaine is currently at the bottom of the NWC table along with Nooksack Valley and Oak Harbor, and will have a chance to start collecting conference wins with games on the road against Mt. Baker on Wednesday, January 8 at 7:15 p.m. and Lynden Christian on Friday, January 10 at 7:15 p.m.
The Borderites could also make noise in the playoffs and earn a state bid, but the team would surely love to string some
regular season wins together as the second half of the season begins.
Stats provided by whatcompreps.com
Boys wrestling
Blaine boys wrestling had another strong performance at The Rock wrestling tournament on Vashon Island on December 29, 2024, with four wrestlers placing in the top three, and four more placing fourth in their respective weight class.
Cole Voigt won outright in the 120-pound division, scoring 28 team points after three wins by fall. Voigt won his quarterfinal match against Kyla Scheff of Vashon Island in 1:08, and defeated Granite Fall’s Nico Rial in just 30 seconds in the semifinal round.
Daniel Johner placed second in the 138-pound division, winning twice by fall and once by decision before losing to Gavin Compton of Mt. Baker in the final round. Blake Koreski placed second as well, winning by technical fall in the quarterfinal and by fall in the semifinal before losing to Elijah Veal from Sultan. Otto Shelton placed second in the heavyweight division, with wins over Hunter Mounts (Lake Stevens) and Blaine teammate Samuel Green in the semifinal round. Green finished fourth overall in the heavyweight division.
Boys wrestling will travel to Anacortes to face Ferndale and Sehome on Friday, January 10 at 6:45 p.m.
Girls wrestling
The Borderite girls wrestling team held the Blaine Blizzard tournament over winter break,
hosting 21 teams from around the state on December 28, 2024.
Abigail Martinez and Makenna Lausier each made it to the first place match in their respective weight classes, but neither were able to earn first place wins, finishing second.
Martinez defeated Macie Miller (Lynden) and Alycia Sandre (Anacortes) by fall before losing by fall to first place winner Michelle Venegas (Woodinville) after a long, 4:18 round.
Lausier cruised through her first two rounds, defeating opponents from Bellingham and Mt. Vernon in under 25 seconds before losing via technical fall after a nearly six-minute round against Isabelle Goedl of Sedro-Woolley.
The Borderites will travel to Kelso for a tournament on January 10 starting at 3:30 p.m.
IT WORKS!
“We’ve had quite a few customers mention our ad in The Northern Light. I personally talked with 4 people in one day who said they saw our ad. Best response we’ve had from print and radio advertising. I’m very happy with the results of this ad campaign in The Northern Light.”
Girls basketball
The Blaine girls basketball team stumbled out the gate after the winter break, losing 50-6 to NWC opponent Squalicum on January 3.
The Borderites are one of the youngest teams in the conference, with just one returning player from last year’s team, and just couldn’t get shots to fall all night. Three of Blaine’s six points came from the foul line, and the rest came from a three-pointer from sophomore guard Kate Koreski.
Despite the lopsided score card, the Borderites (2-6, 0-4 NWC) stayed tough and kept fighting throughout, and will look to bounce back against lastplace Oak Harbor on January 7 (after press time).
Stats provided by whatcompreps.com
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s Senior guard Jacob Dohner collects a rebound during Blaine’s 66-44 win over Surrey Christian on January 6. Photo by Nolan Baker
s Boys basketball head coach Chas Kok speaks to the team before the fourth quarter of Blaine’s 66-44 win over Surrey Chrisitian on January 6.
Photo by Nolan Baker
tion held its holiday market at the Blaine High School cafeteria.
• Confirmed cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, were increasing across the state, including in Whatcom County, where at least 37 people had fallen ill by mid-November.
• The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced a $67 million salmon habitat restoration project that will uncover parts of Cain Creek in downtown Blaine and result in the demolition of two Peace Portal Drive buildings. The project, which has a 2030 completion date, is in response to a court ordering WSDOT to restore salmon habitats across the state.
• Courts across Washington state resumed online operations after a computer breach took down vital online operations for two weeks.
• For the second time in 10 months, the Blaine school district’s proposed $70 million general obligation bond failed to reach the required 60 percent supermajority threshold, forcing the district to consider solutions to various aging infrastructure.
• The Blaine Food Bank appointed Lisa Dobbin as its new director following Sally Church’s retirement.
• Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 announced the future California Creek Estuary Park would more than double in size after state representative Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) helped the district secure a $185,000 state grant. The additional 31 acres would likely be the last land purchase for the park, now 55 acres.
• Whatcom County Health and Community Services began monitoring bird flu outbreaks after a backyard flock in Whatcom County tested positive for the disease.
• The Blaine Chamber of Commerce held its annual general meeting at North Bay Community Church.
• The Washington State Funeral and Cemetery Board unanimously exonerated Moles Farewell Tributes and Crematory from any wrongdoing in bodies that were found mishandled in mid-May as they were under jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Medical Examiner’s Office.
• Birch Bay Incorporation Association held its annual general meeting and elected new members of its steering committee.
• In a 4-3 vote, Blaine City Council approved increasing building heights by one story on the west side of Peace Portal Drive in the downtown core. The vote came after months of discussion in Blaine Planning Commission.
• Community Assistance Program and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue volunteers delivered Thanksgiving baskets to Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts residents.
December
• Holiday Harbor Lights rang in the holiday season with Christmas tree lighting, pictures with Santa, train and horse carriage rides. The Pacific Arts Association held a luminary walk and night market for the first time.
• Whatcom County Council approved the Birch Bay Advisory Committee on December 3 to create an official group for Birch Bay
residents to bring their input to the county.
• The Community Assistance Program’s Blaine/Birch Bay Community Toy Store served 322 children from 125 families. North Whatcom County residents donated more than 1,500 toys and 95 gift cards.
• A carjacking that involved a machete near the Peace Arch border crossing in Blaine led to a nearly 40-mile pursuit on southbound I-5 ending near the Bow Hill rest area.
• U.S./Canada border traffic from Taylor Swift’s final three concerts of her “Eras” world tour in Vancouver, B.C. backed up traffic through downtown Blaine. The weekend of the concert had a daily average of just over 36,000 travelers, a roughly 180 percent increase from the same weekend in 2023.
• A Skagit County man who was severely injured on the Hairpin slide at Birch Bay Waterslides in August 2023 named Whatcom County, Safe Slide Restoration and Kingworks Consulting Engineers as new defendants in his lawsuit against Birch Bay Waterslides. This came as Birch Bay Waterslides announced it was going through various changes, including new management, and planned to reopen summer 2025.
• The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office returned in-person visits at Whatcom County Jail for the first time in nearly three years. Visits had stopped due to faulty jail elevators that caused safety concerns.
• The Blaine school board voted to extend superintendent Chris Granger’s contract for an additional year, through June 30, 2028, after a 3-2 vote.
• Mayor Mary Lou Steward recognized Sally and Bill Church for their dedication to the Blaine Food Bank, bringing the public to a standing ovation several times.
The recognition followed Sally Church’s retirement as food bank director in November.
• Interim medical examiner Dr. Aldo Fusaro had his first day as the permanent medical examiner after Whatcom County Council unanimously confirmed him to the position.
• U.S. House Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) hosted a town hall in Ferndale.
• Old-fashioned Christmas caroling returned for its 23rd season at the Semiahmoo Resort after taking a hiatus during the pandemic.
• The city of Blaine invited the public to weigh in on two design concepts for a future Blaine Marine Park that included a pump track, pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts and restrooms.
• The long-awaited Cascade HighSpeed Rail project received $49.7 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin planning efforts. The highspeed train, still years away, would run up to 250 mph between the Pacific Northwest’s major cities.
• State and federal agriculture officials declared the ‘murder hornet,’ officially known as the northern giant hornet, eradicated in the U.S. after three years passed without finding any evidence of the invasive species.
• Birch Bay counted down to 2025 on New Year’s Eve by lighting flares along the Birch Bay shoreline during the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Ring of Fire and Hope.
2024 year in REVIEW
B y a licia r ule , repre S entative
In a few weeks, I’ll be heading back to Olympia to work on your behalf. The 2025 legislative session will be longer, lasting 105 days from January 13 to April 27.
In 2024, my efforts focused on public safety, affordability, housing and reproductive health, with key investments to support our community’s most vulnerable.
Keeping people safe remains my top priority. I co-founded a public safety caucus and supported a citizens-backed initiative that restores police pursuit rights for a broader range of crimes. This change is crucial for neighborhood safety. Additionally, I championed legislation to update our state’s police pursuits law and secured $23.5 million for the Whatcom County 23-Hour Relief Center. This
2024 year in REVIEW
B y J oe t i MM on S , repre S entative
As your state representative, I try to work in a bipartisan way to bring needed resources to the residents of Whatcom County. Legislation I sponsored in 2024 brought some important successes for our region, work that I intend to build upon in 2025.
House Bill 1992 increased the number of judges on the Whatcom County Superior Court from four to five. This will improve public safety by providing our county with additional resources to tackle a backlog in court cases, and this bill also gives Whatcom County the tools to prepare for the Washington State Department
2024 year in REVIEW
B
y c
eline M auger , activity coordinator
The past year has been an exciting year for Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, and we are deeply grateful for the support of our community.
We started 2024 with a 68 percent approval vote to renew our funding, a testament to the strong partnership we share with you. This support has fueled our growth and will allow us to further expand our offerings in remarkable ways.
In 2024, we enhanced our fitness offerings with over 40 hours of classes each week at both the Blaine Pavilion and Birch Bay Activity Center, giving more people the opportunity to stay active. Our summer camps engaged over 400 youth in all-day programming and our after-school enrichment program is exceeding expectations at
State representative Alicia Rule (D-Blaine)
funding will support behavioral health services, permanent supportive housing and re-entry programs, reducing reliance on incarceration while fostering safer communities.
Affordability is also a pressing issue. I worked to extend a tax break for food producers, which will help keep grocery prices lower for families across Washington. This tax break, lasting until 2035, will benefit workers in agriculture, dairy, seafood and wine industries, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly global marketplace.
Housing stability is critical to the well-being of families. I helped secure $1.6 million for the Department of Children, Youth and Families to establish a pilot home visiting program, and I worked to pass laws streamlining housing development and renter protections. In addition,
$250,000 was allocated for the Family Shelter Initiative, increasing support for families experiencing homelessness.
In 2024, I introduced legislation to protect reproductive health rights, including assisted reproductive services and contraceptive access. This is in response to recent changes in other states that threatened these rights.
Looking ahead to the 2025 legislative session, my committee assignments include serving as vice chair of the Health Care and Wellness Committee and serving on the Capital Budget and Education committees. My priorities will include expanding school funding, investing in services and projects for Whatcom County, and helping our neighbors lead healthy, stable and secure lives.
I hope to see you in Olympia this legislative session.
State representative Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham)
of Ecology’s water rights adjudication process in the Nooksack watershed so that the process can be as efficient and transparent as possible.
House Bill 2020 created a public infrastructure assistance program within the state’s emergency management division. I sponsored this bill as part of the response to devastating flooding that Whatcom County experienced in 2021. This new program will make our state more resilient to natural disasters by helping local communities rebuild after severe weather events.
House Bill 1985 provided a 3 percent cost-of-living increase, up to $110 per month, to our dedicated, retired public servants who
are on the state’s public employees’ retirement system (PERS1) and teachers’ retirement system (TRS1). All of us deserve to age with dignity, especially our retired public servants and educators who have given so much to our state. I am proud that all three of these bills received bipartisan support and were signed into law by the governor. It is my honor to represent the 42nd Legislative District in Olympia, and advocating for Whatcom County residents is a privilege and responsibility that I don’t take lightly. Please reach out to my office anytime if you have questions, comments or concerns in the new year. I look forward to hearing from you.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2
the Blaine school campus. Our arts and crafts thrived with offerings like pottery, drawing and wreath-making classes, and we ventured outdoors for low tide photography, hiking and mushroom foraging. These activities provided our community new ways to explore and connect with the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Our community events were a huge success, including Splash Day, family dances and our first-ever adult prom. These events fostered social interaction and enjoyment within our community.
Additionally, we recently acquired 30 more acres for the California Creek Estuary Park, bringing the total number of acres to approximately 60. We also began managing the Blaine Pavilion, making it available for our community to reserve this great venue for gatherings, celebra-
s Adult prom on February 10, 2024.
tions and special occasions. Thanks to your support, we have increased our team to ensure the continued growth and success of our programs. We are committed to continue serving you in the years ahead, and we look forward to more opportunities to connect, learn and stay active in 2025.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!
Photo courtesy of BBBPRD2
Keep a careful watch on diabetes during winter
B y d r . S and H ya g elou
Diabetes is not only a physical condition. It is a 24/7 challenge to maintain mental well-being. Constant vigilance and decision-making are central in the lives of people with diabetes. The mental burnout associated with the management of diabetes is called diabetes distress.
People with diabetes face additional challenges in the cold, dark days of winter, with an increased risk of illness, potentially leading to diabetes complications.
Winter is called “flu season” which is synonymous with colds, coughs and especially the flu. Annual flu shots reduce the risk
of serious complications. When diabetics catch the flu, their bodies release more stress hormones, which complicates blood sugar management. Flu can lead to dehydration, which impacts glucose levels. Drink more water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
If you have a family member or friend with diabetes, check in with them to ask how they are doing. This is important if the weather prevents them from getting out for physical activity and socializing. Knowing that someone cares helps ward off the winter blues.
Cold weather can spike blood sugar in several ways, so check levels more often to identify fluctuations and adjust your insulin accordingly. Warm your hands before you test to make testing more comfortable. Stay as warm as possible and cozy up in a blanket after physical activity, whether outdoors or indoors.
Protect your insulin from freezing. Never leave it in a car or exposed to extremely low temperatures. Frozen insulin becomes ineffective, even after it thaws.
If you use an insulin pump and/ or a continuous glucose monitor, remember to keep them protect-
ed. Be mindful of their placement to prevent freezing or damage from extreme cold.
Do you have an emergency diabetes care kit? One of the first items to include is a document, in a waterproof pouch, that contains your medical information:
• Conditions you have
• Medications you are taking, including dosages
• Emergency contacts of family and friends
• Your doctors’ names and contacts
• Details about glucose monitors and insulin pumps you use
• Known allergies to medications or other allergies
• Syringes for your insulin injections
• Insulin
• Glucose meter
• Spare batteries
• Alcohol wipes to sterilize injection site
• Glucose tablets or gel, hard candy or honey to increase glucose levels quickly
• Other medications you take
• Water
This pre-emergency planning might sound daunting. Talk to your healthcare provider, who can help you determine what other items you should add to your kit based on your type of diabetes.
The health risks of radon exposure
A silent foe may be lurking in homes and buildings, and it can cause a number of negative health effects. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says can build up in the air of homes and buildings. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services warns that radon is responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths each year in the United States.
Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can be inhaled and become trapped in the lungs. Over time, the radioactive energy in these particles can damage lung tissue. Although everyone is exposed to radon in some amount during his or her lifetime, some populations are at a higher risk of exposure to elevated radon levels as well as the more adverse health effects from that exposure.
Researchers and medical experts say that radon poses no serious threat at normal levels encountered in the environment. However, exposure to elevated levels of radon can adversely affect the lungs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates the main health implication to increased radon exposure is lung cancer. Additional lung diseases that can develop due to radon exposure include emphysema, chronic interstitial pneumonia and pulmonary fibrosis.
Although smoking is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer, radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, says
the EPA. People who smoke and are exposed to elevated levels of radon are doubly affected.
Many factors can affect the risk of radon-related lung cancer as a result of exposure. They include age at time of exposure, duration of exposure, concentration of radon, cigarette smoking, climate and time of year, and the degree
to which radon particles attach to dust particles.
Radon is a risk to lung health for those exposed to high levels and for long durations of time. A simple radon test can determine the level of radon in a building, and there are radon mitigation strategies that can reduce radon levels to keep people healthier.
Cold weather typically comes with dry air, which can dry your skin out because of the higher use of indoor and car heaters. Check your skin and feet every day, so you notice problems early and get them treated promptly.
Ask family and friends to join you in indoor activities when the weather is too severe to get outside. Yoga? Dancing? Climbing up and down the stairs? If you’re reading or watching a movie, set a timer for every 15 minutes as a reminder to get up and walk around a bit – simple strategies like that can help with blood sugar management.
The complex interplay between mental well-being and diabetes is increasingly acknowledged in the medical community. With the high numbers of diabetes and prediabetes cases in the U.S., everyone should learn as much as they can about the disease. This knowledge will
allow families and individuals to support each other in efforts to live healthier lives.
As winter unfolds, prioritize your well-being in joyful anticipation of spring. It will be here before we know it.
Sandhya M. Gelou, MD is in private practice in Bellingham and volunteers with the Mount Baker Foundation Kidney Health Awareness initiative.
Diabetes prevention
Whatcom Family YMCA offers a Diabetes Prevention Program for people over 18 years old who have been diagnosed with prediabetes. To join the program, contact Tara Marshall at 360/3545000 or via email at tmarshall@whatcomymca.org.
s Dr. Sandhya Gelou. File photo
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: EVAN LOUIS HAYES, Deceased. No. 24-4-01053-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge LEE GROCHMAL.
The Person named below has been appointed as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors:
December 19, 2024, with Clerk of Court
Date of First Publication: December 19, 2024
Name of Administrator: Natasha Ulani Hayes
Attorney for Personal Representative: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339
Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227
P: (360) 639-3393
E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com
DATED: December 9, 2024
True North Legal Services, PLLC
Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339
Attorney for Administrator: Natasha Ulani Hayes
Published in The Northern Light December 19, 2024, January 2, 2025, & January 9, 2025.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Kirk Smith, Deceased. NO. 23-4-00063-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030)JUDGE: Jennifer Slattery
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Rosemarie Melly Miller aka Rosemarie Walther Miller, Deceased. NO. 24-4-01098-37. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030. JUDGE: Jennifer Slattery
The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed.
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 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’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 notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2)(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 11.42.050 and 11.42.060.
This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: December 19, 2024
The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington on December 11, 2024, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct.
Notice Agent: Iris Kingston PO Box 127 Bellingham, WA 98227
Attorney for notice agent: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Court of notice agent’s Declaration and Oath: Superior Court of Whatcom County Cause Number: 24-4-01098-37.
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: December 19, 2024
Personal Representative: Cynthia Topp 1315 Halleck Street Bellingham, WA 98225
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. 23-4-00063-37.
Superior Court of Washington For Whatcom County No. 24-2-01973-37 JACK WONG, an individual; and DARRYL CHEN, an individual, Plaintiffs, vs. PENG XIE, an individual, Defendant. The State of Washington to PENG XIE: You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 2nd day of January 2025, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, answer the complaint of the plaintiffs, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorneys for plaintiffs JACK WONG and DARRYL CHEN, at their office below stated; and in case of your failure to do so, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court. This is a quiet title action relating to real property situated at 1390 4th Street, Blaine, Washington 98230. Payton C. Tompkins, WSBA No. 61724 Ellis, Li & McKinstry PLLC 1700 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1810 Seattle, WA 98101 Attorney for Plaintiff
Estate
the DOE webpage no less than 15 days before the meetings. The scoping period will close on March 3rd, 2025.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: BARNEY PATTON SCHNEIDER, Deceased. No. 24-4-01150-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise
2024 year in REVIEW
B y M argaret
o wen S , ceo
This year, OverAll Walls proudly produced Blaine’s first OverAll Walls Mural Festival in September, bringing world-class art to our small seaside town. With immense gratitude to our talented artists and generous supporters, Blaine is transforming into a vibrant canvas of creativity.
We were honored to host My Dog Sighs (UK), Emily Ding (Houston), and Kaa Shaayi (Ferndale). My Dog Sighs gifted us three incredible murals: his mesmerizing “Eyes” on the Blaine Art Gallery and Blaine Elementary School, and the poignant “Quiet Little Voices” below street level on the Blaine Bouquets wall – with delightful 3D water droplets down on the left.
Emily Ding brought her magic to the G Street Plaza/Bella Boutique and Consignment wall with a breathtaking sandpiper mural, celebrating Blaine’s natural beauty.
OverAll Walls Mural Festival
Kaa Shaayi added a striking tribal design to the back of the Blaine Art Gallery, honoring cultural heritage and artistry.
A heartfelt thank you to the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee, the city of Blaine and The Northern Light publication for their unwavering support, and to all our sponsors and volunteers who helped bring this vision to life. See all of our supporters at overallwalls. com/2024-overall-walls-thanks.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re ex-
cited to add even more murals to Blaine’s cityscape and schools, inspiring creativity and community pride. Our five-year goal will have Amtrak reopen its Blaine station, giving travelers many reasons to disembark and discover the beauty that is our wonderful city. Mark your calendars for next year’s festival, August 27-September 3, and consider supporting or volunteering by emailing margaret@overallwalls.com.
Here’s to another year of color, connection and creativity in Blaine!
2024 year in REVIEW Blaine Public Library
B y J onat H an J ako B itz , B ranc H
M anager
The Blaine Public Library was full of great events and activities in 2024. Here are but a few highlights: In April, we honored Joyce Vanderpol for her generous donation of the small meeting room pod. In July, Blaine served as the host location for WCLS’ Pride in the Park event, which was a day of family fun at Marine Park. In September, Whatcom Grooves returned to the Blaine library. It was a night of fabulous music in a picturesque setting, as the Jerry Steinhilber Trio played beneath the library arch.
2024 year in REVIEW
B y l ee c onnor S , executive director
The Bridge Community Hope Center in Birch Bay is comprised of three ministries: the food bank, the clothing boutique and the Grace Core Chaplaincy. Each operates under the 501c3 of the Bridge Community Hope Center, in existence since 2014, and is completely dependent upon the support and donations of the local community. This year, the Bridge Food Bank has served the community of Birch Bay in giving out food to approximately 250-350 people every Friday, an average of 50-75 families per week. This year alone, the Bridge Food Bank has given out over 100,000 pounds of food. The Bridge Food Bank works with Miracle Food Network, Christ the
Thanks to a partnership between Blaine CORE (Community Organization for Resources and Education) and Friends of Blaine Library, the Bookworm Bin project was a great success this year. The project takes old library storage bins and finds a second life for them as compost worm bins. And best of all, all proceeds benefit the library! Over the past year, WCLS’ collection has grown in many ways beyond what people traditionally think of as part of a traditional library: adding more Wi-Fi hotspots, lots of new puzzles and board games, light therapy lamps, ukuleles and soon-to-be-added animatronic companion pet cats.
Who knows what 2025 will bring!
The current Blaine library building is over 36 years old, yet we are still looking for new and innovative ways to add services and improve the patron experience. We have lots of plans for improvements in the coming year to make the collection more browsable and to provide increased seating and tables. However, the stark reality is that the age and size of our building limits us greatly, and we are still in need of a larger facility to meet the needs of our community. We appreciate the community’s support and input as we continue to craft the vision for a new Blaine library facility.
The Bridge Community Hope Center
King organic farm, the Lighthouse Mission, Community Assistance Program, the Blaine Food Bank, The Market at Birch Bay and local people donating.
The boutique has served the community by providing quality, gently used clothing for people of all ages and in all seasons of the year. The boutique offers its clothing at very affordable prices and has monthly sales that coincide with local events and seasons. The boutique also offers a voucher system for those in great need, obtained through the Grace Core Chaplaincy. This year, approximately 1,200 pounds of free clothing has been given out.
The Grace Core chaplains have increased to 15 trained and certified members who operate within Whatcom County, helping people who are experiencing loss, trauma, addiction, mental
Kevin Patrick Bianchi
May 5, 1973 – October 20, 2024
Kevin Patrick Bianchi was born in Mount Vernon, WA on May 5, 1973 and chosen, through adoption, by Stan and Sue Bianchi to be their second son. He was raised in Blaine and attended Blaine schools, graduating high school in 1991. Kevin was a scrawny, tiny baby who fought ear infections, asthma, and allergies in his early years. By 8th grade he cooly resembled Michael Jackson and grew from a teenage boy to a larger-than-life big man with a great big heart. Those who knew him growing up in Blaine remember a sweet boy—a kind and caring kid who lost his mother, Sue Bianchi, to cancer in 1993 forever changing the path that would be his very short life.
After graduation, Kevin worked in the food and beverage industry – working at the Olive Garden in Bellingham for many years where he met many of his closest and dearest lifelong friends. Kevin worked hard – leaving a legacy of love and lives intertwined; touched by his ability to encourage, serve, and inspire. His friends recall that Kevin had a way of jumping right into the middle of things and lightening the mood when things were tough. He was happy always with a great attitude and was someone you wanted on your team.
Kevin also attended the Art Institute of Vancouver where he pursued his love of drawing. He was a talented artist and was obsessed with superheroes. As he got older, he would draw the characters he’d housed in his imagination. While his characters were otherworldly, they were also relatable. They were passionate, complex, larger than life, and soulful. They were representations of his inner hero. Kevin’s superpower was his passion, kindness, and love for others. He was all heart. People who took the time to get to know Kevin found an immediate connection with him and often a lifelong friend.
When Kevin met Monica in 2004 he gained more love and family than he could have ever imagined, and Monica gained immense love because Kevin loved Monica as much as anyone could love another. They were married in 2010, eventually moving to Victoria, B.C. to be closer to care for Monica’s parents and Kevin worked for the provincial B.C. government.
Kevin learned he had pancreatic cancer in October 2023. It was a difficult battle and only made bearable by the love and support of his incredible warrior wife, Monica. Kevin passed away in the early morning hours of October 20, 2024 surrounded by family and friends. In the months leading up to his passing, Kevin was fortunate to spend time with dozens of dear friends and family from around the globe. It would be impractical to mention all of them, it was this amazing entourage of visitors who sustained Kevin – supported Monica – and was a testament to the love and caring Kevin had for the people in his life.
Kevin was greeted at the gates of heaven by his mother Sue and his papa Pat. He is survived by the incredible Punni family who accepted and loved him as a son; his fiercely loyal brothers Mike (Laurie) and Scott (Jo); step-brother CJ (Katherine); and his most devoted and loving father, Stan (Kathy).
Cancer sucks and Kevin would be honest and tell you this, but he would also remind you, “The best place to be is here and the best time is now – be excellent to each other.”
health issues, domestic violence, suicide, homelessness and more.
The Grace Core chaplains also help connecting people with other services.
Some highlights this year have been the increased presence and impact in Birch Bay through the renovating of the interior and painting of the outside of the Bridge building at 7620 Birch Bay Drive, the fundraiser for a new industrial fridge, and a successful ladies tea fundraiser held at the Christian Way Community Church in September.
Our goals for 2025 are to increase our volunteers and have the boutique open more hours. As the community of Birch Bay grows, the needs increase and so will the Bridge’s services. Join us in people helping people. To volunteer or sign up for food, go to thebridgehope.com.
Donations can be made in Kevin’s name to the Blaine Food Bank, 500 C Street, Blaine, WA 98230.
B y k ate r ice , progra M S peciali S t
The Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District’s mission is to reduce stormwater impacts, enhance water quality, and improve and protect habitat. In 2024, BBWARM staff and collaborators made substantial progress in achieving these goals.
In Birch Bay, drainage and water quality problems exist where the infrastructure is undersized,
failing or nonexistent. Our program builds stormwater capital improvement projects to address these issues. In 2024, we completed a project on Holeman Avenue to reduce roadway flooding. This area is particularly sensitive due to the steep bluff along the shoreline, where flooding could lead to erosion and property damage. To remedy this, an undersized pipe was replaced with a larger one, new storm drains were installed (See BBWARM, page 15)
s Houston-based artist Emily Ding paints sandpipers on a wall facing G Street Plaza during the first OverAll Walls Mural Festival.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
sheriff’s reports
December 19, 11:51 a.m.: Theft cold call on Cowichan Road.
December 20, 11:10 a.m.: Threat cold call on Arnie Road.
December 20, 11:50 a.m.: Theft cold call on Francis Lane.
December 20, 12:42 p.m.: Theft cold call on Surf Place.
December 20, 5:13 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Sunrise Road.
December 21, 9:52 p.m.: Overdose on Alderson Road.
December 22, 8:46 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
December 23, 12:54 p.m.: Assault simple on W. Badger Road.
December 23, 5:30 p.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Bruce Road.
December 24, 5:00 a.m.: Prowler on Morrison Avenue.
December 26, 10:43 a.m.: Sex offender registration on C Street.
December 26, 3:48 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
December 27, 11:12 a.m.: Runaway cold call on Leeside Drive.
December 27, 7:56 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Harborview Road.
December 28, 5:58 a.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay Square Street.
December 28, 6:18 a.m.: Burglary on Holeman Avenue.
December 28, 9:26 a.m.: Death investigation on Harborview Road.
December 28, 4:12 p.m.: Theft cold call on E. Shoreview Road.
December 28, 5:47 p.m.: Theft cold call on Morrison Avenue.
December 29, 1:24 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Nakat Way.
poLiCe reports
December 28, 10:04 a.m.: Death investigation on Harborview Road.
December 29, 1:53 p.m.: Civil problem on G Street.
December 28, 3:13 p.m.: Burglary on 8th Street.
December 29, 8:18 a.m.:
Death investigation on Semiahmoo Parkway.
December 29, 11:24 p.m.: Hot rod on Boblett Street.
December 30, 8:26 a.m.: Burglary on Peace Portal Drive.
December 30, 12:05 p.m.: Missing person on H Street.
CrossWord
44. Prohibit
ACROSS
1. Hand (Spanish)
5. Siskel and __, critics
10. Seaman
12. Chemical weapon
14. One who eliminates
16. They precede C 18. Baseball stat
19. Americans’ “uncle” 20. Cassia tree
22. Surround 23. Crisp and Pebbles are two
25. A sudden very loud sound
26. Affirmative
27. Disadvantage
28. Corpuscle count (abbr.)
30. OJ trial judge
31. New York art district
33. Become more bleak
35. Upstate NY city
37. Clarified butters
38. One who witnesses
40. Condemn
41. __ juris
42. Natural
45. Swiss river
48. Greek war god
50. 5 iron
52. New Zealand mountain parrot
53. Scandinavian surname
55. Follows sigma
56. Doctor of Education
57. Spanish be 58. One that feeds on bugs
63. Tooth issue
65. Get into 66. Lumps of clay
67. Overly studious student DOWN
1. Variety of Chinese
2. Boxing’s GOAT
3. Japanese classical theater
4. Prayer 5. Inspire with love 6. Ballplayers’ accessory 7. Retailer payment system
8. More raw 9. Atomic #81 10. Fencing sword
11. Hostilities 13. Sea dweller 15. Resinlike substance secreted by certain insects 17. Businessmen 18. Rest here please (abbr.) 21. Loud devices 23. Make a soft murmuring sound 24. One point west of due south 27. Trout 29. Type of grass 32. South American plant 34. Letter of the Greek alphabet 35. Not secure 36. Traveler 39. Sweet potato 40. Period after sunrise and before sunset 43. Some are choppy 44. Asian country 46. Genus of mosquitoes 47. Cool! 49. Shrill, wailing sound 51. A baglike structure in a plant or animal
Coming up
12th Annual Cherry Point Science Forum: Threats to the Salish Sea: Saturday, January 11, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., on Zoom. Speakers to present on a range of topics centered on pending threats to the Salish Sea with some highlights of direct impacts at Cherry Point. Registration required at re-sources.org/event/2025-cherry-point-science-forum/. This event is free and open to the public.
Pruning 101: Saturday, January 11, 10 a.m–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Now is a great time to start deciding how you will prune your trees because you can see the structure and where you have overgrowth. Take advantage of our sunny winter days and brush up on those pruning skills. Discussing tools, why prune, decisions necessary (learning to understand growth habits of trees/ bushes). We will also present on overgrown trees and how to get them back in shape. Bring your questions. Free. Info: nwcore.org.
December 31, 1:40 p.m.: Death investigation on Marine Drive.
December 31, 4:47 p.m.: Death investigation on Pintail Loop.
January 1, 12:08 a.m.: Fireworks on E Street.
January 1, 9:27 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Marine Drive.
January 2, 12:03 a.m.: Juvenile problem on 6th Street. January 2, 1:38 p.m.: Threat on Peace Portal Drive.
January 3, 7:05 a.m.: Threat on Alder Street.
54. Within 59. Unhappy 60. Decorate a cake with frosting 61. Videocassette recorder 62. Largest English dictionary (abbr.) 64. It cools a home
tides
January 9 - 15 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Second Saturday: Saturday, January 11, 4–6:30 p.m., Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. Featuring work from Blaine High School HomeConnections students, Karen Taylor, Helen Worley, Jess Ferrier and Judy Newland. Special storytime with Barbara Davis-Pyles from 1–3 p.m. for primary and elementary students. Plus view works displayed at participating Blaine businesses. Free. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.
Garden Design 101: Thursdays, January 16, 23 and 30, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Discuss how to look at your yard as if you were a landscape designer. Important for placement of fruit bearing trees, bushes and vines. Considerations for placement of vegetable gardens. We will talk about your overall yard including hardscape assessments, materials use, integration with your home and/or views, sunlight observations, air flow and other major landscaping decisions. Free. Info on each session at nwcore.org.
Books and Bites: Friday, January 17, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. January title: The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.
Family Movie Night: Friday, January 17, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing a family-friendly movie. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Collage and Conversation: Saturday, January 18, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Get hands-on practice working on a small collage project to take home. Sam Walling leads and will share some of the tips and techniques he’s learned and some common and uncommon tools he uses. Get creative and make use of materials that would otherwise go into a recycling bin or landfill. Info: wcls.org.
Fairy Garden Workshop Series: Saturday, January 18 and February 15, 2–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Create a fairy house, craft accessories and fairy pot. Ages 8+. $2025 per person. Info and registration: bbbparkandrec.org.
Bellingham Winter Wedding Show: Sunday, January 19, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Connect with over 30 of Western Washington’s top wedding vendors. Tickets: $12 at mountbakertheatre.com.
Supper with the Superintendent: Tuesday, January 21, 6 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. The community is invited to a questions and answer meeting with Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger. Light meal provided. Info: blainesd.org.
Winter Soil, Extending the Growing Season: Wednesday, January 22, 3–5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. What effect has winter had on your garden soil? What plants are able to be harvested during the winter? Moving on to simple hoop house construction to get a jump on the growing season (see Jan. 25 for Seed Sprouting as an accessory class). Free. Info: nwcore.org.
“A Journey of Hope and Healing”: Thursdays, January 23–February 27, 1–2:30 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 815 4th Street. Six-week grief series, co-led by two Whatcom Hospice bereavement caregivers, covers many dimensions of grief, including the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual. Limited to 10 participants. Questions and registration: 360/788-6690 email 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.
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 December 30 to January 5, 0.9 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 precipitation was 42.3 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 45.1°F on December 30, with a low of 36.3°F on December 31. Average high was 43.2°F and average low was 37.4°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.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to
2024 year in REVIEW
B y e rin c ara M pot , account S receiva B le
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District (BBWSD) was awarded its 22nd Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
“It takes diligent employees to receive this type of award, and our employees are committed to our mission and are proud to serve our community,” said Dan Eisses, general manager. “They are our best asset.”
Operational highlights include
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District
a federal-mandated survey of water lines for lead. The district has completed the required inventory and is pleased to announce no lead service lines have been identified within the district’s water system.
The district had several staffing updates this year. BBWSD celebrated commissioner Don Montfort’s 30 years of public service. The district welcomed operations manager Mike Kim in January with 14 years’ water and sewer experience. Operator Chris Palka joined the Sewer Department in March with a fisheries and aquaculture degree. Operator Chris Bork transferred from the Water Department to Sewer
Department. Carson Cothren, with two years’ experience in water distribution, started in October.
Eisses is retiring, staying on parttime to ensure a smooth transition in management and to work on special projects. The board of commissioners offered the general manager position to Sandi McMillan, finance director for 11 years.
Capital projects included a water main replacement on Holeman Ave., water supply enhancements including design for a new Point Whitehorn reservoir, replacing fire hydrants for ease of operation, and supervisory control and data acquisition system upgrades. BB-
2024 year in REVIEW Pacific Arts Association
B y M arla t u S ki , pre S ident e M eritu S
This past year was our 24th year as a nonprofit organization, and it was our 23rd year providing a high-quality July concert series as well as a summer music camp for kids from Whatcom County and, this year, as far as Pennsylvania.
In 2024 we again offered our Cinco de Jazz night, featuring traditional jazz and swing dancing, while sharing the stage with the choral and band kids from Blaine. We also had a traditional jazz float in the Fourth of July parade. Many of you made it to our Blaine Harbor Music Festival concerts in July, our big band night at Barnstar Events and our student performances. We can’t thank the Blaine community enough for how you support this endeavor by enjoying the concerts, housing our faculty, giving hours of help during the festival week, and donating to keep the Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Camp happening.
We want to express special appreciation for a member of the board who retired her position this year. Christy Callender put years of hard work into fundraising, event planning, organization and administration to make the festival possible over the years. She – along with
page 13
and the ditch was restored. BBWARM had another successful year of community engagement, connecting with hundreds of residents at events like the 5th of July Beach Cleanup and Run with the Chums 5K Fun Run. For the third consecutive year, BBWARM supported homeowners in converting lawns to native plant gardens for free through the Neighborhood Native Landscaping Program. Nine Birch Bay property owners participated, installing over 1,300 plants and 300 cubic yards of mulch on their properties. Native landscaping fosters biodiversity and wildlife habitat and reduces stormwater impacts. Add your name to the program interest list for next year at whatcomcounty.us/NNLP.
the many board members who have gone before her – has made the kind of contribution that helps Blaine shine as a thriving community. Many, many thanks to you, Christy!
As we go into the new year, we want to note that we now have many new board members. We have fresh ideas and energy, which you may have noted at what we hope was our first annual Blaine Night Market during the Holiday Harbor Lights Festival. We are excited to see what happens next as we step into the new year.
Learn more and find where you can donate at blaineharbormusicfestival.org.
These programs are funded by a service charge paid by owners of developed properties in the BBWARM district. While rates have remained the same since BBWARM’s inception in 2009, operating and capital costs have risen dramatically. In response to growing needs, BBWARM conducted a comprehensive rate study in 2024 with multiple opportunities for public input. Whatcom County Council approved the new rate structure in June 2024 and the new fees will appear on property tax statements next year. Thank you for supporting these valuable programs.
For more information on BBWARM programs, or to sign up for our quarterly e-newsletter, please visit our website at bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org or contact the Whatcom County Stormwater Division at 360/778-6230 or waterresources@co.whatcom.wa.us
WSD continues to reduce nutrients in wastewater effluent with process control improvements.
“We are extremely pleased with the numerous capital and major maintenance projects we completed this year,” Kim said. “These investments are necessary to maintain reliability and resiliency in district infrastructure while also increasing efficiency and scalability.”
Discover the magic of the historic Mount Baker Theatre & connect with over 30 of Western Washington’s TOP WEDDING VENDORS
s Majid Khaliq plays the violin during Blaine Harbor Music Festival’s evening concert on G Street Plaza. Khaliq, who graduated from The Juilliard School, was a faculty member at the camp organized by the Pacific Arts Association. Photo by Ruth Lauman
