In a special meeting on March 31, the Blaine school board accepted the resignation letter of superintendent Christopher Granger, who will serve his last day for the district on June 30.
Granger was offered the position as Sultan school district superintendent on March 6, and will start his new position on July 1. Granger was a finalist for at least one other superintendent position, interviewing at the Ellensburg school district in February 2024.
With Granger’s departure now finalized via a 26-word resignation letter, the board voted to hire Northwest Leadership Associates to lead the search for a new superintendent. The hiring firm specializes in superintendent searches, and primarily focuses on consulting with school districts in the Pacific Northwest, according to its website.
The school district did not announce the appointment of an interim superintendent, citing ongoing contract negotiations with Northwest Leadership Associates.
A contract between Granger and the Sultan school district was finalized on March 20, paying an annual salary of $230,000 for three school years. That represents a slight pay bump for the departing superintendent, who earned a base salary of $215,979 for the 2024-25 school year.
Granger will visit the Sultan school district on Friday, April 11 for community meetings, and will continue to visit the district as he transitions to his new job, according to a press release from the Sultan school district.
Since starting as Blaine’s superintendent in 2019, Granger has received several contract extensions from the board.
Granger oversaw a particularly tumultuous time in the school district’s history, guiding the district through the Covid-19 pandemic that included a transition to and from in-person classes, and a deep contraction of public education funding affecting districts across the state.
Through his six-year tenure, the Blaine school district underwent three consecutive budget cuts, drastically reducing the number of staff. Over three years, the school dis-
Blaine Sasquatch marks the start of spring
‘Liberation Day’ arrives with global tariffs
President Donald Trump unveiled his sweeping global tariff policy at the White House on April 2.
Trump announced worldwide tariffs of 10 percent on everything coming into the country alongside 25 percent on foreign made cars that go into effect at 12:01 a.m. April 3. The president also announced “reciprocal” tariffs for U.S. trading partners including a 34 percent tariff on China. Vietnam will be hit with a 46 percent tariff, while India and Japan will receive 26 and 24 percent tariffs, respectively.
Significantly, neither Canada nor Mexico were included on a chart that Trump displayed at the news conference nor on a detailed list given out to attendees, according to media reports.
The Trump administration has called the
event both “Liberation Day” and “Make America Wealthy Again.”
Trump cited economic independence, bringing jobs and factories back to the U.S. and paying down national debt as reasons for the tariffs.
“We have to take care of our people, and we’re going to take care of our people first,” Trump said during the news conference. “Today, we’re standing up for the American worker and we’re finally putting America first.”
Trump’s announcement is the latest in a roller coaster of tariff announcements the president has made since taking office on January 20. Prior to April 2, he had already enacted a 20 percent tariff on Chinese imports and imposed tariffs of 25 percent on aluminum and steel.
This is a developing story.
s The sasquatch statue in front of the Blaine Visitor Information Center, 546 Peace Portal Drive, has signaled the start of spring as it was spotted dressed as the Easter Bunny on April 1.
Photo by Nolan Baker
EASTER BRUNCH
Protests emerge after ICE detains local farmworker activist
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Alfredo Juarez Zeferino, a farmworker activist and union organizer, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 25 in Sedro-Woolley. He is currently being held in the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma.
Zeferino, known as “Lelo,” was detained on his way to work, according to Community 2 Community Development (C2C), a food justice organization with which Zeferino worked closely. He was detained along with a group of other farmworkers.
Protests emerged quickly at the ICE facilities in Ferndale on March 25 and then Tacoma on March 27. Crowds gathered outside the Tacoma ICE facility to demand the release of both Zeferino and Lewelyn Dixon, a University of Washington lab technician who was detained despite holding a green card. Another protest was held at the Mt. Vernon courthouse on March 29.
The 25-year-old, originally from Mexico, immigrated to the U.S. when he was a child and later became a prominent farmworker and immigrant rights advocate in northwest Washington.
Zeferino championed heat protections for Washington farmworkers, was a founding member of Familias Unidas por la Justicia, served on the now dissolved Bellingham Immigration Advisory Board, and was awarded the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center’s Youth Peacemaker Award in 2023.
Zeferino’s family sued the city of Bellingham, alleging racial bias after the Bellingham Police Department arrested Zeferino when he was 15 and turned him over to ICE. The racial bias suit was settled in federal court for $100,000 in 2021.
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Liz Darrow, participatory democracy program coordinator at C2C, said the organization believes Zeferino was targeted by ICE because of his work as a labor organizer and activist.
David Yost, a spokesperson for ICE, said the agency was acting on a judicial order issued in 2018 to deport Zeferino to Mexico.
“Alfredo Juarez-Ceferino [sic], 25, is a citizen of Mexico ordered removed to his home country by an immigration judge March 27, 2018.
March 25 and is now being held in a detention facility in Tacoma.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted a joint federal law enforcement arrest of Juarez in Sedro Woolley, Washington, March 25, where he refused to comply with lawful commands to exit the vehicle he was occupying at the time of the arrest. Juarez will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings,” Yost wrote in an emailed statement to The Northern Light.
Darrow said Zeferino would have known if there were issues with his immigration status for seven years while he lived and worked in the area, appearing publicly and working with local farmworker unions frequently.
“He’s been in this community the whole time. He’s been doing the same work here the whole time,” Darrow said. “There’s really no reason for him to not know if he had any outstanding issues.”
Darrow said ICE was monitoring Zeferino at his home leading up to his detainment.
C2C is working closely with U.S.
Senator Patty Murray and Congressman Rick Larsen to pressure the Trump administration to tamp down on immigration enforcement in Washington and across the country, Darrow said.
“In arrests across the country, the Trump Administration and ICE have claimed that they are going after ‘the worst of the worst’ – but there is no indication that Alfredo Juarez Zeferino and the other people detained today represent the worst of the worst,” Larsen wrote in a March 25 statement. “Immigrating to the United States is legal. Union organizing is legal.”
A legal defense fund has been set up for Zeferino with a goal of $50,000. Darrow said the fund is about halfway to the goal, but said his case is one of countless that deserve to be fought in court.
“Once we’ve done everything we can do for Lelo, there are of course other workers,” Darrow said. “We do encourage people to continue to help if they have capacity because we know that every single day there are more people who are being detained. Beyond a legal defense fund, there’s other funding that’s going to be needed to keep families together if they’re losing their main wage earner in their household.”
Donations to Zeferino’s legal defense fund can be made at foodjustice.org/donate-1. A court date has not been set for Zeferino, according to C2C.
Multiple federal law enforcement agencies detained 37 workers at Mt. Baker Roofing in Bellingham during the morning of April 2.
Federal agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) executed a federal search warrant at the roofing company headquarters at 928 Thomas Road, “based on an ongoing investigation into the unlawful employment of aliens without legal work authorization in violation of federal law,” ac-
cording to a statement from ICE spokesperson David Yost. “As a result of the operation, 37 aliens who had fraudulently represented their immigration status and submitted fraudulent documents and/or information to seek employment were administratively arrested,” Yost wrote. This comes after labor activist Alfredo “Lelo” Juarez Zeferino, along with several other farmworkers, was detained by ICE on March 25, sparking protests. He is being held in the privately-run Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma awaiting trial for a 2018 deportation order, according to Yost.
s Alfredo “Lelo” Juarez Zeferino, 25, is a farmworker activist and labor organizer based in Skagit and Whatcom counties. Zeferino was detained by ICE on
Photo courtesy Sattva Photo
Surrey man arrested at Peace Arch for allegedly providing U.S. goods to Pakistan nuclear program
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U.S. officials have arrested a 67-year-old Surrey, B.C. man who allegedly spent 16 years providing restricted U.S. goods and technology to Pakistan’s nuclear weapons program.
Mohammad Jawaid Aziz, a Canadian and Pakistani citizen, was arrested while attempting to travel from B.C. into Washington state at the Peace Arch border crossing on March 21. Federal prosecutors in the U.S. District Court Western District of Washington say Aziz used his Canadian company, Diversified Technology Services, to obtain banned U.S. goods for groups working with Pakistan’s nuclear, missile and drone programs. The procurement network allegedly occurred from 2003 through March 2019.
Aziz is also known as Jawaid Aziz Siddiqui and Jay Siddiqui, according to prosecutors.
The U.S. Department of Commerce Entity List, a trade restriction list that identifies individuals and entities considered to be adversaries to U.S. national security or foreign policy, includes prohibited Pakistani organizations connected with the country’s military and weapons complex. The restrictions have been in place since Pakistan tested its first nuclear explosive in 1998, according to the indictment. Pakistan is one of nine countries known to possess nuclear weapons. According to the indictment, Aziz often paid U.S. companies
for goods and then received reimbursement payments from restricted Pakistani organizations. Aziz and two unnamed co-conspirators occasionally shipped goods through a Singapore company to conceal where the goods were sent, according to court records.
“In their correspondence and communications with U.S. companies, the defendants and their co-conspirators would sometimes falsely portray that the buyer and end user of the goods was one of their front companies or another shell entity, thereby concealing that the true end user was an organization in Pakistan identified on the Entity List,” the indictment read.
In January 2019, an undercover U.S. agent posing as an employee of a U.S. company that Aziz was doing business with said a shipment was delayed because it was being held by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The agent told Aziz the confiscation notice mentioned “smuggling and export contrary to law.” Court records show Aziz asked for the items to be released to the U.S. company.
“They have a commercial application,” Aziz advised the agent, according to court records. “They have cancelled the order now due this [sic] delay. Please keep the items with you once released. We may find another customer.”
Federal prosecutors are charging Aziz with conspiracy to violate the Export Con -
trol Reform Act, International Emergency Economic Powers Act and Export Control Reform Act.
Aziz is expected to be extradited to Minnesota.
Aziz’s attorney Cooper Offenbecher did not respond to a request for comment.
Following Aziz’s arrest, the Department of Justice announced on April 1 that U.S. prosecutors in New York laid charges on two Iranian citizens, Hossein Akbari, 63, and Reza Amidi, 62, and an Iranian company, Rah Roshd Company, for allegedly procuring U.S. technology for Iranian drone manufacturing.
Jack and Ruth Lauman are cherished members of the Blaine-Birch Bay communities,
creative
and dedication
the Blaine-Birch Bay communities. Alongside Rudy, their beloved black Labrador, the Laumans have established themselves with professional excellence and community engagement for over 31 years.
Jack Lauman specializes in computer consulting, providing tailored solutions to those seeking to optimize their systems. Jack also dedicates significant time to genealogy research, unearthing family histories and uncovering connections that offer friends and family a richer sense of their heritage.
Ruth Lauman channels her creativity and strategic thinking into her professional roles. Since 1995, Ruth has been designing print and digital ads for The Northern Light, where her thoughtful and impactful award-winning designs bring ideas to life. Additionally, Ruth manages social media for the City of Blaine and Blaine Chamber’s tourism website, Blaine by the Sea. Through skillful storytelling and an eye for engaging content, she has elevated Blaine’s online presence, drawing attention to Blaine’s vibrant maritime culture, natural seaside beauty, positioning Blaine as a must-visit destination for travelers.
Ruth showcases her talent and passion for the region by actively pursuing art and photography. Through her work, she vividly captures the essence of life in Blaine, Semiahmoo, and Birch Bay. Currently, her art/photography is on display at The Vault Wine Bar and the Blaine Art Gallery, offering viewers a glimpse into the area’s beauty through her artistic lens.
From page 1
trict was forced to cut the full-time equivalent of roughly 145 staff positions.
The district also announced during the special meeting it will enter into an agreement with director of finance Keith Yaich – who is resigning from the position on April 21– to serve as a financial consultant as the district searches for a replacement.
Yaich was hired in the summer of 2024 to replace former finance director Amber Porter. He had previously worked as chief financial officer for the Bennett school district in Colorado.
peaceful cross-border rally to celebrate and affirm our enduring friendship with Canada.
are welcome to join. Bring flags and positive messages of support.
s Blaine school district superintendent Chris Granger. File photo
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.
Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
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The Northern Light
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Vol XXX, No 42
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Birch Bay discusses future development planning OpiniOn
s The Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee held its second meeting at Birch Bay Bible Community Church on March
County Planning and Development Services director Mark Personius, second from l., and Whatcom County
planner
l., answered the committee’s questions on the upcoming update to the county comprehensive plan, a long-range planning document that is due at the end of 2025. The committee’s next meeting will have a county public works presentation on the Jackson Road Bridge Replacement Project at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 24 at the church, 4460 Bay Road.
Letters
The Editor:
My family attended the Family Science Night that Blaine Primary School hosted on February 27. What I saw made me want to do something … anything, to help support the future of the Blaine school district.
What I saw that night were so many teachers (current and past), giving their time to help kids learn. I saw parent volunteers and Blaine High School students getting kids excited about the magic of science and how it appears in everyday things. Most importantly, I saw so many families who made the effort to get out and participate in this evening of learning. After a full day of school and activities, these kids were excited to learn, see their friends and share their school with their families. I saw community. I saw camaraderie. I saw effort. Effort to support. Effort to courage. Effort to teach. I saw so much good! I want my kids to thrive in the Blaine school district. I want my kids to form life-long friendships with their class -
mates and come back to visit their teachers. I believe in the public school system and that as a community we can support our students and teachers to develop the future leaders and sustainability of Blaine. But it is heartbreaking and discouraging to read about all of the budget and resource cuts that are happening and what effect this has had and will have on the kids and remaining teachers and staff.
It’s time to be proactive about looking for funding (and providing community support) for the Blaine school district. I refuse to believe that the only solution is to continue to make cuts to the detriment of our children, their learning environments and the welfare of our teachers.
If you feel like me, then I urge you to use your voice, write to the state legislature and email the school board to let them know how their decisions affect your children and the community.
It takes a village, and it’s time to come together – because this communi -
CiviC Meetings
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
ty, these teachers, and our children are worth fighting for.
Traci Bowe
Blaine
The Editor:
I would like to invite my friends and neighbors who receive most of their information about what’s happening in the world from programs on Fox News or other right wing sources to please realize that these are now functioning as state-run media and your information is being censored and whitewashed.
Please be brave enough to avail yourself of other legitimate news sources. If you can’t bring yourself to listen to “mainstream media,” you can trust international news sources like NHK offering world news in
(See Letters, next page)
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: Third Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.
BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee meets quarterly in-person and on Zoom. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.
27. Whatcom
senior
Matt Aamot,
Photo by Grace McCarthy
Multiple rallies scheduled at Peace Arch
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A slate of rallies is set at the Peace Arch to support Canadian-American relations on April 5-6 and April 12.
Birch Bay resident Bob Edwardsen and Vancouver resident Susan Stern will hold a peaceful demonstration from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 5. The gathering is intended to support the two countries’ mutual alliance and object to the Trump administration’s imposition of tariffs and threats to Canadian sovereignty. Public officials on both sides of the border from the local to federal level have been invited.
“The treatment of Canadians, and the economic and sovereign threats offended me to the core,” Edwardsen said. “I thought something needed to be done to try to inspire some constructive action to work toward reconciliation.”
Washington State Parks, U.S. Border Patrol and CBP have been notified, Edwardsen said. He invited anyone who would like to volunteer to email him at
Letters ...
From previous page
English from the Japanese perspective, or the BBC news from England, or news from Germany or even Canada. Canada has reason to be angry at our sudden betrayal of them, but their coverage of our government’s attack on them is quite accurate.
If you think everything is fine, I implore you to open up to a wider variety of news sources so you can learn what’s really going on. I realize our president has bragged that he loves the “poorly educated” and we know why. You don’t have to continue to be one of them.
Bonnie Marie Birch Bay
The Editor:
When I taught elementary school (I am now retired), one of my favorite pieces of advice for my students was this: I suggested they always have with them, as adults, three items: a Leatherman-style tool, a length of rope for securing things, and a copy of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. I provided them with small copies of the latter. My fourth and fifth graders knew about freedom of speech, freedom to assemble and freedom of the press, as well as their future responsibilities as voters.
Donald Trump is unraveling these very rights. His actions are unconstitutional and illegal. It is unfathomable that anyone in this country, regardless of political affiliation, is willing to cede these rights … I don’t think that was the plan encompassed by the word “great.”
My confidence in the checks and balances system, as well as my expectation that elected officials follow the rule of law and defend the Constitution has been strong, until this moment. I have also never been fearful of my own
bobedwardsen@gmail.com.
Indivisible Bellingham, a grassroots organization promoting non-violent civic engagement, and Canadian citizens have jointly organized a “Peace, Love and a Handshake” rally under the Peace Arch from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, April 6 and Saturday, April 12. The rally is intended to be a peaceful celebration of friendship between the two countries, with flags and signs conveying positive messages welcome.
The “Peace, Love and a Handshake” group has held rallies on March 22 and March 29, each growing in size, with the most recent one gathering over 100 people.
Organizer Haidee Landry, of B.C., said her first Peace Arch demonstration began in midMarch, when she was going to the park to discuss organizing rallies with American friends. She walked around the Peace Arch with a Canadian flag held high on her hockey stick and was joined by her American friends. “I started to become concerned for my American friends during the
government, but that is changing. Fear-mongering is a longknown tactic for those who seek to subjugate their citizens. Finally, I had been proud to be an American. I hope to one day continue to be. During a recent day trip to Canada, I spoke with a number of Canadians, all of whom were watching Donald Trump’s actions with disbelief. I consistently heard this phrase, “This is so sad.”
It is one thing to impose tariffs, alienate our allies and withdraw from climate agreements. These are policy decisions.
However, it is quite another to begin to infringe on citizen’s Constitutional rights.
Since Congress is doing nothing except watch, cowed and fearful, as our democracy is dismantled, it is time for citizens to act. Please join one of our Hands Off events on Saturday, April 5 in the region regardless of your political affiliation. It is about your Constitutional rights.
Keitlyn Watson Blaine
first week of the new administration,” Landry said. “I saw groups of people were being ‘othered.’ There’s a lot of division … I contacted my friends to say that our American neighbors could be in trouble and how to support them.”
The “Peace, Love and a Handshake” rally has invited a number of public officials to participate.
Each rally includes a handshake ceremony between Canadians and Americans that Landry said can be an emotional experience. Some people need a hug more than a handshake, Landry said, adding that she’s held men as they’ve wept.
“Americans are thankful that Canadians aren’t mad at them,” Landry said. “We’re able to distinguish the difference between the government and the American people.”
Landry said rallies will be planned after April 12, but dates haven’t been set.
“Things are changing quickly and we don’t know if we’ll have the freedom to do what we’re doing,” she said.
Point Roberts mailbox store closes
Point Roberts mailbox store Point To Point Parcel has announced that it is closing effective Sunday, April 19, with the last packages accepted on Friday, April 11.
Co-owner and manager Beth Calder said, “It was definitely a business decision to close. I wanted to end with dignity and grace. There was lots of blood and sweat shed building the business up for the last 24 years but we can’t make it with all the tariffs that are killing businesses. All
NOTICE OF FLUSHING
The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system.
The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.
During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820, or visit www.cityofblaine.com for weekly area updates. Blaine Public Works.
the parcel places across the border are struggling. It’s really sad that the government is doing this to all the small businesses. We’ve had lots of support from our customers, but it’s time to close.” At one point, the business employed 11 people but dwindled down to three full-time and one part-timer. The family-owned and run business opened in 2001.
s Point Roberts mailbox store Point to Point Parcel cited tariffs as the reason for its closure. The store will close April 19. Photo by Louise Mugar
spOrts
Baseball, softball on losing skid, Paez named First Team All-State
Before getting into the week of action that was Blaine spring sports, a couple fall sports stars earned recognition for their stellar seasons on the gridiron.
Jaiden Paez, Blaine’s dominant running back that led the Borderites to one of its best seasons in recent memory, was honored by the Washington State Football Coaches Association as a First Team All-State selection at running back.
Paez had one of the best single seasons of any Blaine running back, amassing 1,815 rushing yards on 213 carries, scoring a whopping 23 rushing touchdowns, along with 115 receiving yards on 10 receptions, according to WhatcomPreps.com.
In other Blaine football news, Logan Villarreal, the senior doit-all player who performed at wide receiver, defensive back and kicker for the Borderites last season, committed to play collegiate football at Pacific Lutheran University.
Baseball
Blaine baseball was stymied on offense facing Lynden ace pitcher Matthew Carroll, who struck out 12 Borderites and only allowed a single hit en route to a complete game shutout on April 1. With that 4-0 loss to Lynden, the Borderites dropped to 3-3 on the season, and are still searching for its first Northwest Conference win.
After starting the season off with a hot 3-0 start, defeating its first three opponents – Orcas Island, Coupeville and Mt. Vernon Christian – by a combined score of 35-3, the Borderites haven’t had the same offensive success in conference play.
In the last three games, Blaine has scored only one run, but were still able to keep games close, allowing just four runs in each of the three losses.
Senior catcher Evan Yates has had as good of a start to the season as the Borderites could hope for, with the backstop producing as one of the best sluggers in the conference. As of March 30,
Yates was top three in batting average (.600), on-base percentage (.667), slugging percentage (.600) and hits (9).
He was the only Borderite to get a hit off Lynden’s Carroll on April 1, a ground ball single followed by a stolen base, and produced Blaine’s only run with a RBI against Meridian on March 28. Yates will surely need to keep producing to give Blaine a chance at a deep playoff run this season.
Despite the losses, the Borderites’ pitching staff has looked solid to start the year, with sophomore Josh Cochran pitching a full seven innings against Meridian, striking out seven, and Connor Brown giving up just three
earned runs over six innings against Lynden.
The Borderites will look to get back in the win column and earn its first conference win of the season on Thursday, April 3 at 4:30 p.m., hosting Lynden Christian at Pipeline Field. The Borderites play at home again on Monday, April 7 at 4:30 p.m. against Nooksack Valley.
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Softball
After starting the season with as hot of bats as possible, Blaine softball has cooled down, dropping a pair of losses in back-toback days against Ferndale and Oak Harbor.
Blaine won its first two games of the season by a combined score of 42-7, defeating Orcas Island and Bellingham with ease. In the two games since, the Borderites haven’t been able to keep runners from scoring, losing 15-5 to Ferndale on March 26, then 13-3 against Oak Harbor on March 27.
That offensive explosion at the start of the season earned Blaine batters some of the highest statistical rankings in the conference as of March 30, with Shaylie Daniels, Mesa Puls, Kaelin Blakely and Courtney Roff all ranked in the top-10 in the conference in batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage. Against conference rival Fern-
dale, Blaine wasn’t able to fend off the Golden Eagle’s big fifth inning, allowing a grand slam to change the Borderites’ 5-3 lead to a 7-3 deficit. Ferndale went on to score six runs in the sixth inning, handing Blaine it’s first loss of the season.
Against Oak Harbor, the Blaine defense struggled to find its footing, committing six errors en route to allowing 14 runs. Puls was tagged with her first loss as a pitcher after starting the year 2-0, and now holds a solid 2-1 record as one of the Borderites’ main pitchers.
Blaine softball sits at 2-2 on the
(Continued on next page)
s Blaine senior Evan Yates hangs his head after popping out in the seventh inning, as Lynden pitcher Matthew Carroll celebrates during Blaine’s 4-0 loss on April 1. Yates leads the Northwest Conference with a .600 batting average, according to WhatcomPreps.com.
Photo by Nolan Baker
s Blaine first baseman Landon Brown misses a dropped third strike throw from Evan Yates during Blaine’s 4-0 loss to Lynden on April 1.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Scenes from Blaine baseball’s 4-0 loss to Lynden
(Continued from previous page)
young season, and now begins a stretch of nine straight NWC matchups. The Borderites will host Squalicum at Pipeline Field on Thursday, April 3 at 4:30 p.m. before a weeklong spring break. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Track and Field
The Blaine track and field team competed at the Bedlington Invitational at Lynden Christian on March 28, with the boys team earning seventh place and the girls team earning eighth in the nine-team meet.
On the boys side, the sprinters had a solid performance, with senior Beckum Bleazard finishing tied for second in the 100-meter finals with a time of 11.78. Junior Dylan Johnson was just a hundredth of a second behind, placing fourth with a time of 11.79. Johnson and Bleazard also performed well in the 200-meter final, this time with Johnson earning the best time for a Borderite at 23.89, good for third, and Bleazard earning fourth with a time of 24.11.
Josiah Weeda earned first place in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 16.00, and earned second place in the 300-meter hurdles
with a time of 42.71, just .06 seconds from first place. Blaine’s sprinters combined for another solid performance in the 4x100 relay, winning third with a time of 45.20 from senior Colby Shipp, senior Jaiden Paez, Bleazard and Johnson at the anchor.
The boys team, despite dominating in the sprints, couldn’t gain points in the long distance races and field events, and topped out at 50 points on the day.
On the girls side, senior sprinter Juliana Zuzarte earned seventh place in the 100-meter final with a time of 13.79. Sophomore Livia Weeda represented Blaine in the 200-meter final, earning 12th place with a time of 30.24. Senior Brietta Sandell had a fifth place finish in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 18.06.
The highest placement for the girls track and field team came from Sophomore Teia Dube, who earned first place in the high jump with a 5’2” jump, the only girl to break the five-foot barrier at the meet.
Blaine will host its first home meet of the season on Wednesday, April 2 (after press time), hosting multiple Northwest Conference schools. Times and placements provided by Athletic.net
s Clockwise from top left: Blaine pitcher Aaron Garza throws in relief in the sixth inning of Blaine’s 4-0 loss to Lynden on April 1. Blaine catcher Evan Yates prepares for an at bat against Lynden on April 1. Pitcher Connor Brown can’t throw out a runner after a Lynden bunt on April 1. Photos by Nolan Baker
Active S eniors
How to grow your wealth during retirement
Personal finances and retirement are inextricably linked. Retirement planning services and advocates emphasize the significance of building a sizable nest egg for the days when professionals are no longer working, but many now also note the importance of building that nest egg after retiring.
The need to build wealth even after retiring reflects a trend that has seen people spend more time in retirement over the last half century than in the decades prior. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, men could expect to spend just under 13 years in retirement and women 16.6 years in retirement in 1970. By 2020, the expected retirement length had reached 18.6 years for men and 21.3 years for women. That means modern professionals will spend a half decade more in retirement than people did in 1970. Those extra five years require more money for living expenses, which is why it can be so important for modern professionals to consider various ways to grow their wealth even after they call it a career.
• Avoid early withdrawals. Withdrawals from a 401(k) are taxed like regular income because such accounts are built up with pre-tax contributions. But there are ways to minimize your tax burden, and thus save money, when withdrawing from a 401(k). Avoiding early withdrawals, which are those taken before age 591⁄2, is one easy way to avoid a higher tax burden. Early withdrawals can trigger a 10
percent tax on top of the income taxes account holders will have to pay. By avoiding early withdrawals, retirees are building wealth by lowering their tax burden.
• Take the required minimum distribution when you must. Another way to avoid a tax burden that can diminish your wealth in retirement is to take your required minimum distribution (RMD) when you need to. The Internal Revenue Service reports that account owners who fail to withdraw the full amount of the RMD by the due date are subject to a 25 percent excise tax on the amount not withdrawn (the tax burden is 10 percent if timely corrected within two years). The IRS notes account owners must take their first RMD for the year in which they turn 73.
• Explore new ways to invest. The increase in expected retirement length underscores the fact that many retirees may need to abandon conventional wisdom related to retirement and risk. Though it’s still best for retirees to avoid particularly risky investments, they might need to accept a degree of risk that retirees did not have to take on decades ago. Simply put, longer retirements may require longer engagements
with risk. Retirees can work with a financial advisor and conduct their own research to identify vehicles to grow their wealth without making themselves and their nest eggs highly vulnerable to market fluctuations.
• Embrace new income opportunities. Retirees may have more potential income streams than they realize. For example, passive income can be an effective way for retirees to earn money without going to great lengths. Retirees who travel for months each year and/or those who live in colder climates
but spend winter in warmer locales can generate passive income by renting out their properties when they’re not at home. Retired professionals with decades of experience in their fields also can explore consulting or teaching opportunities that won’t require substantial time commitments but can still bring in money.
With expected retirement lengths on the rise, retirees are encouraged to find ways to grow their nest eggs so they can enjoy retirement to the fullest.
April SeniorBlaineCenter
Lunch Menu
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Fri, April 4: Country Chicken Salad Wrap or Veggie Wrap, Garden Salad, 7 Layer Bar
Mon, April 7: Denver Omelet or Mushroom & Pepper Omelet, Breakfast Potatoes, Wheat Roll, Garden Salad, Fruit & Yogurt Parfait
Tue, April 8: Beef Tacos or Vegan Tacos, Lettuce & Tomato, Spanish Rice, Salsa & Sour Cream, Fresh Pineapple
Wed, April 9: Chicken Bruschetta or Veggie Cutlet, Pesto Pasta, French Cut Green Beans, Caesar Salad, Orange Cream Salad
Thu, April 10: Salmon Burger or Veggie Burger w/ Tartar Sauce on Whole Wheat Bun, Potato Wedges, Coleslaw, Chocolate Chip Cookie
Fri, April 11: Asian Chicken Salad or Grilled Tofu Asian Salad, Vegetable Spring Rolls, Fresh Grapes
Mon, April 14: Rueben Style Chicken or Veggie Cutlet, Roasted Yam, Normandy Blend, Kale Citrus Salad, Vanilla Ice Cream
Tue, April 15: Sweet & Sour Meatballs or Vegan Meatballs, Brown Rice, Broccoli, Asian Salad, Mandarin Oranges
Wed, April 16: Birthday Lunch –Hawaiian Braised Pork or Veggie Cutlet,Tropical Rice, Roasted Carrots, Spinach Salad, Birthday Cake
Fri, April 18: Easter Lunch – Roasted Turkey, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Garden Salad, Pistachio Salad
Mon, April 21: Spaghetti w/ Sausage Marinara or Vegetable Marinara, Italian Vegetables, Garlic Bread, Caesar Salad, Peaches
Tue, April 22: Beef Shepherd’s Pie or Vegan Shepherd’s Pie, Roasted Zucchini, Spinach Salad, Fresh Fruit, Apple Crisp
Wed, April 23: Savory Roasted Chicken or Veggie Cutlet, Garlic Red Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Garden Salad, Fruited Jell-O
Thu, April 24: Chinese BBQ Pork or Chinese BBQ Tofu, Vegetable Fried Rice, Veggie Egg Roll, Tropical Fruit Salad
Fri, April 25: Shrimp Salad or Veggie Entrée Salad, Oatmeal Bread, Fresh Orange Slices
Mon, April 28: German Brat or Vegan Brat, German Potato Salad, Red Cabbage, Cucumber & Onion Salad, Spiced Apples
Tue, April 29: Chicken Fajitas or Vegan Fajitas, Pinto Beans, Roasted Corn Salad, Coconut Cream Pudding
Wed, April 30: Beef Burgundy or Vegetarian Burgundy, Brown Rice, Honey Glazed Carrots, Garden Salad, Ambrosia
Market swings making you uneasy?
Market swings making you uneasy?
Market swings making you uneasy?
Call to schedule a one-on-one.
Market swings making you uneasy?
Market swings making you uneasy?
Market swings making you uneasy?
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Market swings making you uneasy? Call
Financial Advisor
Call to schedule a one-on-one.
Terrell V Goertz, CFP , ChFC , CLU
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Call to schedule a one-on-one.
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
Financial Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
Call to schedule a one-on-one. > edwardjones.com
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®
Financial Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
Call to schedule a one-on-one. > edwardjones.com
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Financial
Financial Advisor 8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
Market swings making you uneasy? Call to schedule a one-on-one. > edwardjones.com
> edwardjones.com
8115 Birch Bay Square St, Suite 118 Blaine, WA 98230 360-738-3454
Call to schedule a one-on-one. > edwardjones.com
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
> edwardjones.com
MKT-5894Q-A AECSPAD
> edwardjones.com
Washington Democrats divided on school funding plans
There are big differences between the Senate and House on special ed funding and cuts to grant programs. Both rely on budget moves to push off $400M in spending.
B y J erry c or N field
/ W ashi NG to N s tate s ta N dard
Funding of Washington’s public schools is one of the tougher wrinkles House and Senate budget writers must iron out in the weeks ahead.
Democrat-drafted proposals in the two chambers are demonstrably different in how much is spent on special education, what grant programs are cut and when state funds are distributed to school districts.
And it’s unclear what Democrats will do if new taxes they are counting on for billions of dollars for education are not approved.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal noted that the share of the operating budget going to public schools would be about the same in the Senate plan, while in the House proposal it would continue to shrink.“We’re trying to figure out how much of each budget relies on the revenue,” he added.
The current budget, which runs through June 30, spends roughly $31.2 billion of the general fund – the cache of state tax dollars used to fund day-to-day operations – on public schools. That works out to roughly 43 percent, down from the high-water mark of over 50 percent in 2019.
The Senate is proposing a twoyear $78.5 billion budget, of which $34.3 billion of the general fund – 43.7 percent – would go to public schools. The House drew up a $77.8 billion plan, of which $33.2 billion, or 43 percent, is penciled in for education.
The Senate approved its operating budget on March 29 with only Democratic support. The House was expected to vote on its package. Once passed, authors
two budgets is funding of special education in the state’s 295 public school districts.
The Senate plan contains a $1 billion increase in the next biennium compared to $188.9 million in the House. The state distributes an amount of money for each student enrolled in a school, plus additional dollars for each special education student under a formula known as the multiplier.
What is in the Senate budget intends to cover the cost of lifting a cap on state funding for special education programs, covering these services for those up to age 22, and increasing the multiplier to drive more dollars to districts. Most of the House dollars cover expenses from a higher multiplier.
Another financial challenge for school districts is the surge in prices for materials, supplies and general operating costs, in-
no increased funding.
But the House wants to increase Local Effort Assistance funding by $200 per student in 2026 and $300 per student in 2027. That adds up to an added $217 million for property-poor districts, funding they can use for programs and activities not funded by the state.
There is a catch. Those additional dollars are tied to a proposed House bill to raise the cap on annual property tax collections. The legislation has yet to be voted on.
The Senate made no changes in the Local Effort Assistance funding formula.
Big cuts
One of the single largest reductions in each budget concerns nearly three dozen academic enrichment and technical education programs paid for with grants.
The House logs $138 million
instruction in aerospace and advanced manufacturing to civics education and science and technology fields, according to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Both budgets count on saving roughly $75 million by funding enrollment in the Transition to Kindergarten program at its current level and not paying for expanded enrollment as planned.
The program, created two years ago, provides children under 5 years old with additional help in preparing for kindergarten. It’s been popular and enrollment has been projected to grow.
And each budget is targeting the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction for cuts.
The Senate wants Reykdal to shave $4.3 million in administrative costs, plus another $3 million collectively from an array of statewide programs.
programs are unscathed.
Making the numbers work State funds are paid out monthly to school districts through what’s known as apportionment. Both chambers employ a similar gimmick with this process to reduce spending in the next budget and balance out their ledgers.
The House adjusts the percentage of monthly payouts to be lower in the months before July, when new fiscal years begin, and higher in August. By doing so, Democrats shift $396.7 million of spending out of the 2025-27 budget cycle and into the next one.
The Senate moves $386.2 million of apportionment spending into the next budget.
“It’s a math game,” Reykdal said, adding there would likely be a reserve established in case a district ran into an urgent cash flow problem.
No debate here
There’s money in both budgets to bump up what the state provides districts for teachers, administrators and staff.
For a certificated instructor, the minimum allocation statewide will rise from $78,209 to $80,164 in the next fiscal year and $82,248 in the second year of the biennium. It will be $59,000 for staff and $122,000 for administrators in the biennium. Most districts use locally generated tax dollars to pay teachers, office workers, principals and superintendents above those levels.
And both budgets fully fund bonuses for teachers who earn certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Former Governor Jay Inslee proposed pausing the bonuses entirely to save $151 million in the next budget and Governor Bob Ferguson has endorsed
s The Washington state Capitol building in Olympia.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
CLASSIFIEDS MARKETPLACE
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: EARL WILLIAM KALE, JR., Deceased. No. 254-00264-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Lee Grochmal
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 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 probated 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 the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: March 12, 2025 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: March 20, 2025
Name of Administrator: DANIEL KALE
Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262
Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Marlene L. Josephson, Deceased. NO. 25-4-00255-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal
The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the 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: March 20, 2025
Personal Representative: Teresa Kay Josephson PO Box 568 Sumas, WA 98295
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
GET CASH for your real estate or small business seller note! Trade future payments for immediate funds! Visit www.foothillsfinancial.biz, call (425) 522-8663 or email Mark to start the process at mark@foothillsfinancial.biz.
Attention landowners and loggers: Wanted maple burls & logs. I’m looking for large diameter maple burl logs and quilted maple logs. Erick Brush, 209-496-1553, brushhardwoods@gmail.com
Telephone: (360) 325-2550
Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com
DATED March 12, 2025
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Administrator DANIEL KALE
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: SCOTT PETER JENKINS, Deceased. No. 25-4-00265-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Evan P. Jones.
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 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 probated 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 the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors
March 12, 2025 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: March 20, 2025
Name of Administrator: DAVID JENKINS
Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262
Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229
Telephone: (360) 325-2550
Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com
DATED March 12, 2025
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S.
STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Administrator: DAVID JENKINS
Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 25-4-00255-37.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of John Michael Hampton, Deceased. NO. 25-4-00254-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olsen
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: March 20, 2025
Personal Representative: Elizabeth Hampton 504 16th 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. 25-4-00254-37.
202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com
DATED March 18, 2025 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Administrator BRUCE BARTNICK
Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED March 24, 2025 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S.
D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator JESSICA DODGE
T1-RJS Joint Venture, LLC, Paul Richardson, 1618 Rudkin Rd Union Gap, WA 98901-4030, is seeking coverage under the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Construction Stormwater NPDES and State Waste Discharge General Permit. The proposed project, Pacific Highway Land Port
Road Rules: You can legally drive that RV. But should you?
B y d ou G d ahl
Question: I was in the right lane of a two-lanes-in-each-direction road. A RV came up in the left lane and swung slightly right – wheels still in the left lane, but wide-mounted mirrors extending into my lane. The RV’s mirror passed over my driver’s side mirror by a few inches. If I’d been in a taller vehicle they would have clipped. It seems the driver wasn’t aware of the size of their vehicle. Is there any license requirement or training for driving bussized vehicles?
Answer: Imagine you’ve hired a contractor to build you a brand-new house. On the day of completion, the contractor hands you the keys and says, “I did the absolute bare minimum to meet code requirements. Enjoy your new house.” That doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence, does it? I have a similar lack of confidence in RV drivers who rely only on their experience driving the family minivan in preparation for operating a 45-foot motorhome. When my kids were young we had an oft-repeated phrase in our home: just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. I’ve since realized that this is a good mantra for adults, too (myself included). Yes, you can legally drive a three-million dollar bus conversion (assum -
Celebration of life
Kathleen Montfort
1942 – 2024
Join us to celebrate and remember Katy Montfort on Sunday, April 13, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., at the Cannery Lodge at Semiahmoo Park, 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine. Welcoming comments will begin around 11:30 a.m. followed by sharing favorite stories and memories of Katy.
Pulled pork sliders provided. Feel free to bring a side dish or dessert to share. For questions, please contact Kristina at 503/956-6976 or klkinyon@gmail.com.
ing you have money to burn) with just your standard issue driver license and no practice, but should you?
Washington’s commercial driver license (CDL) law applies to drivers operating vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or actual weight, of at least 26,001 pounds. That could be a single vehicle, like a motorhome, or a combination that includes a trailer of at least 10,000 pounds. But there’s an exception. If you’re “operating a recreational vehicle for noncommercial purposes” you don’t need a CDL. Conceivably then, if you had a family band that traveled to gigs in a big enough RV you’d need a CDL, but you wouldn’t need one to visit the Grand Canyon.
That’s not how it works in every state though. A few states don’t make an exception for noncommercial driving, and some have noncommercial special licenses for driving large vehicles (typically over 26,000 pounds). I get that an RV driver wouldn’t want to go through commercial driving training, but I think it makes sense to have an RV endorsement, and the training to go with it, to drive big RVs.
But special endorsements wouldn’t solve the lack-oftraining problem for most RV owners, because most RVs ar-
Blaine book review: “The Road to Roswell”
B y J o N atha N J ako B itz
“The Road to Roswell,” by Connie Willis is a delightful romp of a sci-fi romance novel set in the American southwest.
Francie, our story’s protagonist, has traveled to Roswell, New Mexico to be the maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding. Of course, Francie’s true intention in attending is to talk her best friend out of her ill-matched nuptials, something that’s become a bit of a recurring pattern in their friendship. However, her plan to rescue her friend from making a huge mistake is derailed when she is kidnapped by an extraterrestrial and taken on a road trip across the southwest. Humorous hijinks, adventure and a slow-burn romance ensue.
Throughout “Road to Roswell,” Willis pokes fun at various alien conspiracy theories and the conspiracists who believe them, while also crafting a captivating ad-
venture story of alien friendship – think of a cross between “ET” and “Close Encounters.” Francie nicknames her non-communicative alien abductor as “Indy,” so named because of the alien’s whiplike tentacle appendages.
As the pair ventures out on their journey, they quickly accumulate a colorful collection of travel companions as each new “close encounter” necessitates yet another abduction to keep Indy secret and safe. Francie and her new companions work together to unravel the mystery behind why Indy came to earth and what exactly Indy is trying to accomplish here.
Willis’ story satirizes the lore of space alien mythology and other conspiracy theories while also simultaneously telling an endearing tale of first contact. This is a fine line to walk, but Willis accomplishes it with aplomb.
“The Road to Roswell” should appeal to readers of romance, sci-
en’t over 26,000 pounds. You can even find 40-foot motorhomes that barely squeeze under the limit. The solution, then, is individuals making a commitment to get the training they need to become skilled and safe drivers of whatever size vehicle they operate.
Sure, training can be expensive. But the first time you scrape the side of your RV across the bollards at the gas station you’ll spend more on repairs than you would have in an RV driving class. Plus, if you’re driving a vehicle that’s five times the size and weight of a family car, you have a moral obligation, if not a legal one, to be qualified to operate it.
That’s what it comes down to. Are we the kinds of drivers that have absolutely bare minimum skills to legally drive, or do we strive to be excellent drivers? There are a lot of things in life that involve risk but require minimal to no proof of skill; cliff diving, rock climbing, storm chasing, base jumping, parenting. I wouldn’t settle for the bare minimum when engaging in any of those (especially parenting). A driver license isn’t proof that you’re a good driver. It’s just a starting point.
Doug Dahl is a Blaine resident, manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.
fi, tales of first-contact, or anyone looking for a fun read. Visit wcls. org to find “The Road to Roswell” and other similarly themed stories.
“The Road to Roswell” is the April selection for the Books and Bites book group. Join Books and Bites at 1 p.m. Friday, April 18 at Blaine Public Library for a time of community and lively conversation.
Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of the Blaine Library.
s Blaine Public Library branch manager Jonathan Jakobitz. Courtesy photo
sheriff’s repOrts
March 22, 9:11 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
March 22, 11:11 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Bay Road.
March 22, 11:17 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
March 22, 7:09 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Bay Road.
March 22, 7:53 p.m.: Death investigation on W. Badger Road.
March 23, 2:53 p.m.: Fireworks on Drayton Harbor Road.
March 24, 7:06 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
March 25: Six sex offender registrations on Loomis Trail Road, Selder Road, Boone Road, Sunburst Drive, Bayvue Road and Alder Street.
March 25, 12:12 p.m.: Death investigation on California Trail.
March 25, 7:41 p.m.: Hot rod on Birch Bay Drive.
March 25, 9:28 p.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
March 26, 7:31 a.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Birch Bay Drive.
March 26, 11:13 a.m.: Shots on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
March 26, 2:06 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Harborview Road.
March 26, 3:53 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Square Street.
March 27, 8:15 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
March 27, 9:22 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Blaine Road.
March 27, 1:58 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on California Trail.
March 28, 5:12 a.m.: Overdose on Mayfair Place.
March 28, 1:14 p.m.: Shots on Odell Road.
March 28, 5:34 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Main Street.
March 28, 6:45 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Boblett Road.
pOLiCe repOrts
March 22, 1:25 a.m.: Overdose on Kingsley Avenue.
March 22, 12:12 p.m.: Trespass on Ludwick Avenue.
March 24, 9:38 a.m.: Civil problem on H Street.
March 24, 11:28 a.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on H Street.
March 24, 5:45 p.m.: Hit and run on G Street.
March 25, 7:45 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Mitchell Avenue.
March 25, 2:11 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on H Street.
March 26, 10:56 a.m.: Theft on H Street.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS 1. Narrow piece of wood 5. African desert 11. Waxy covering on birds’ beaks 12. Sour 16. Infrequent 17. Former AL MVP Vaughn 18. Policemen wear one 19. Out of the question 24. Used to chop 25. Symptoms 26. Not moving 27. Folk singer DiFranco 28. Comedian Armisen
29. Quantitative fact 30. Incline from vertical 31. Scottish musician 33. Rooney and Kate are two 34. Positioned 38. A very short time 39. Tropical American shrubs 40. Yemen capital 43. Spanish municipality
44. Medical professionals
45. Fibrous material
49. Confined condition (abbr.)
50. Without covering
51. “Mad Men” honcho Don 53. Hockey position
54. Taste property
56. Fertile spots in a desert
58. They precede C 59. “Requiem for a Dream” actor Jared 60. Try a criminal case 63. Liberal rights organization 64. Spoke 65. Insect repellent DOWN 1. Unshaven facial hair
2. More thin 3. Show up 4. Seethed 5. Ancient Greek city
6. Poisonous plant 7. Hello 8. College sports official 9. Monetary unit of Russia
10. Wings 13. Take too much of a substance 14. A citizen of Uganda 15. Most appealing 20. Atomic #18 21. Global investment bank (abbr.) 22. Jewish calendar month 23. Popular sandwich 27. Swiss river 29. Incorrect letters 30. Popular entree 31. Foot (Latin) 32. A driver’s license is one form 33. Extinct flightless bird 34. Appetizer 35. After battles 36. It neutralizes alkalis
37. Beverage container
38. Partner to “Pa” 40. Gray American rail 41. Salt of acetic acid 42. Canadian province 44. Dish made with lentils
Coming up
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Whatcom County Home and Lifestyle Show: Friday and Sunday, April 4–6, Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front Street, Lynden. View over 250 exhibitors for home improvement information and inspiration. Seminars, PNWBA BBQ competition, Lego Masters building class, reptile show and food trucks. Free. Info: biawc.com/home-show-2025. Sponsored by the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County.
Live Music at The Vault: Friday, April 4, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Saltwater Cowboys. Info: thevaultwine.com.
March 26, 11:56 a.m.: Harassment on H Street.
March 26, 3:46 p.m.: Theft on Alder Street.
March 27, 7:20 a.m.: Theft on Peace Portal Drive.
March 27, 5:32 p.m.: Missing child on 8th Street.
March 27, 6:17 p.m.: Fraud on Madison Avenue.
March 28, 7:54 a.m.: Animal problem on Harvey Road.
March 28, 11:10 a.m.: Harassment on 4th Street.
March 28, 11:41 p.m.: Threat on Adelia Street.
45. Narrative poem of popular origin
46. For each one
47. Come to terms
48. Test
50. More dishonorable 51. Unit of loudness
52. The Ocean State 54. Monetary unit in Mexico 55. Lying down 57. Thus
61. Where LA is located 62. Western State
THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
tides
April 3 - 9 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Severe and Summer Pruning: Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Focusing on overgrown fruit trees. Using a combination of pruning techniques that quickly gets your trees in shape. Requiring some follow-up care (summer pruning) during the year to maintain the initial work done. Followed by an actual hands-on severe pruning a few blocks from the library. Free. Info@nwcore.org.
Solidarity with Canada Rally: Saturday, April 5, noon–4 p.m., Peace Arch State Park, 123 2nd Street. Peaceful demonstration to affirm “the people’s” respect, historical mutual alliance and interests with our Canadian friends. Local, regional, state/provincial and national officials invited. Discover Pass required for parking.
Bellingham Scottish Gathering Volunteer Meeting: Saturday, April 5, 3–5 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Be involved in one of Whatcom County’s best loved events coming to Blaine on June 7. Volunteers needed with all kinds of skills, including clerical, set up and tear down, clean up, parking, first aid and runners for various events. Info: heather@scottishdancesociety.org.
Peace, Love and a Handshake: Sunday, April 6, noon to 2 pm, Peace Arch State Park, 123 2nd Street. Americans and Canadians come together in peace, love, and support of one another. Flags and messages of solidarity are welcome. Discover Pass required for parking. Info: mobilize.us/indivisible/event/768078/.
Boating Safety Classes: April 7–10, May 5–8, June 9–12. Eighthour course in two-hour sessions over four days. For anyone wishing to learn safe boating skills and qualify for a Boater Education Card, issued by the Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission. Cost: $15 plus separate downcast of e-book or $25 for printed book. Info and reservations: bliaux.com or email boatingsafetyWA@gmail.com. Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Bellingham and San Juan Islands Flotilla.
Sing Along Storytime: Wednesday, April 9, 10:30–11 a.m. and 11:15–11:45 a.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Kids ages 2-6 enjoy a special storytime full of music and delight featuring celebrated children’s musician “Star Tom” McCurry. Info: wcls.org. Life Line Screening: Wednesday, April 9, 10:50 a.m.–noon, American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. Offering preventative health screenings for carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, atrial fibrillation and peripheral arterial disease. Info and appointments: lifelinescreening.com.
Live Music at Packers: Thursday, April 10, 6–8 p.m., Packers Kitchen + Bar, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Featuring Michael David. Info: Semiahmoo.com.
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, April 10, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Live Music at The Vault: Friday, April 11, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Anisa Caprina. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Composting and Worms: Saturday, April 12, 9:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Don’t throw organic matter in the garbage, learn the basics of food waste recycling and how easy it is by managing worms, indoors and out. Free. Info: nwcore.org. Peace, Love and a Handshake: Saturday, April 12, noon to 2 pm, Peace Arch State Park, 123 2nd Street. Americans and Canadians come together in peace, love, and support of one another. Flags and messages of solidarity are welcome. Discover Pass required for parking. Info: mobilize.us/indivisible/event/768078/.
Let’s Upcycle for Earth Day: Saturday, April 12, 2–3 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Creative crafting from odds and ends. What can you make with an assortment of stuff? Come to the library to explore. We’re cleaning out our closet for materials galore. Feel free to bring any extra supplies you have lying around! Info: wcls.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of March 23 to 30, 2 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 12.8 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 67.3°F on March 25, with a low of 35.8°F on March 30. Average high was 60.1°F and average low was 44.9°F.
Second Saturday Downtown Art Walk: Saturday, April 12, 4–6:30 p.m., Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive and participating downtown businesses. Enjoy the April fine art exhibition at the gallery and at local businesses. Refreshments. Free. Info: blaineartscouncil.org
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, April 17, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.
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 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Blaine’s pearl of a restaurant: Drayton Harbor Oyster Company
Drayton Harbor Oyster Company (DHO) is both a restaurant and an oyster farm that is a staple of Blaine.
“It has become a destination,” co-owner Steve Seymour said. “We’ve always really strived to connect with our customers.”
The restaurant opened in 2015,
but the farm has been Steve’s since 1980. Steve co-owns the business with his son Mark Seymour, who focuses more on farming oysters than serving them at the restaurant.
DHO expanded to 685 Peace Portal Drive in 2018 after being a small shop next to the current location of Monty’s Just a Bite.
The restaurant has a historic,
unique character that creates a cozy feeling as diners look out the windows toward Drayton Harbor.
“When I go out, I’m looking for that vibe that this place has and not many places capture that,” Steve said. “The venue is unique.”
The food has put the restaurant on the map. It serves oysters raw, grilled and fried, fish and chips,
shrimp, grilled romaine salad and more.
“It’s a pretty simple menu,” Steve said. “It gives us the advantage of keeping everything really fresh.”
The staff is also focusing on its local diners as the number of Canadian customers declines due to U.S./Canadian tensions.
“I feel like we’re connecting to
more frequent customers,” assistant manager Kirsten Van Vliet said. “It’s been great for our community.”
Restaurant recommendation: Steve recommends readers try the grilled Draytons while Kirsten recommends the Drayton taco. This article is part of a series in The Northern Light highlighting Blaine and Birch Bay restaurants.
s Jaxon Kortlever and Megan Deporter stand in front of Drayton Harbor Oyster Company on March 17.
Photo by Zen Hill
s The bacon blue cult Drayton grilled oyster served by Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, 685 Peace Portal Drive. Photo courtesy of Steve Seymour
Effective 3/6/25
More people live in Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo than anywhere else in Whatcom County outside of Bellingham.
The Northern Light difference:
• mailed to every household in Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo.
• largest audited newspaper circulation in the county
• NOW 11,000 copies distributed every week
• 85% regularly read The Northern Light and 81% frequently purchase products/services from ads in the newspaper
