The Blaine Seaside Bash featuring Oysterfest will ring in fall with a day full of shopping, games, live music and oyster shucking on Saturday, October 11 in downtown Blaine.
Event organizers Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 and the city of Blaine will hold the bash from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Peace Portal Drive and H Street, while Drayton Harbor Oyster Company will put on Oysterfest at its restaurant, 685 Peace Portal Drive, and the neighboring H Street Plaza from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“It’s celebrating the things that make Blaine unique,” said Olea Mills, event coordinator at Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. “We have this gorgeous harbor here that supplies delicious seafood. We’re hoping to highlight local businesses and bring everyone together.”
The bash will kick off at 10 a.m. with live music and a street fair with dozens of vendors. An area with free crafts and games will be set up for children, and there will be two beer gardens for adults in the Border Town Pizza parking lot and at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company.
Contests will provide entertainment throughout the day at a stage in the center of H Street and Peace Portal Drive. The first competitions of the day will be a dog and owner look-a-like contest at 11:30 a.m., cutest baby contest at noon and a seagull call contest at 12:30 p.m. The afternoon will focus on oyster-themed contests, starting with an amateur oyster shucking competition at 1 p.m., followed by an industry professional oyster shucking competition at 2:15 p.m. and a shucking toss at 3 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to wear orange for a community photo at 2 p.m. by the stage.
Oysterfest will have oyster art for children, a silent auction, trivia and
(See Festival, page 6)
Revitalization rolls out in downtown Blaine
Blaine City Council starts budget discussions
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Blaine City Council, which is ramping up 2026 budget discussions, is expected to discuss most of the city’s fund proposals during its Monday, October 13 meeting.
The funds that will be discussed include capital projects, utilities, special revenue and debt service. City council discussed the city’s proposal for the 2026 general fund, which pays for the city’s everyday expenses, during its September 22 meeting.
Blaine finance director Jennifer Spidle said the city’s 2026 budget proposal is similar to its 2025 budget, with each funding only the essentials the city needs to operate.
“It’s just what we need to continue to operate,” Spidle said. “There’s no fluff in the budget.”
Following the next council meeting, the governing body will hold two public hearings related to the budget during its meetings on Monday, October 27 and Monday, November 10. The first hearing topic, on October 27, will
Whatcom County Council increases its involvement in tort and damage claims
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Whatcom County Council recently approved county code amendments on tort and damage claims in an effort to close a legal loophole that kept the legislative body from knowing about a $225,000 sexual harassment payout made to a county employee in 2022.
Council’s unanimous vote during its October 7 meeting followed a public
hearing on the amendments that drew one person in support.
The most significant change to the county code is the establishment of a risk management working group and the addition of a county council member to that group.
The working group will be comprised of the county executive, director of finance, prosecuting attorney, county risk manager and chair of county council’s
finance committee or a designated council member. The group will oversee risk management for the county and have a legal framework for notifying county government about legal payouts.
The issue of legal payouts came to the forefront when Cascade PBS released a report in April 2024 detailing a six-figure payout that former public works director
be on the city’s 2026 revenue sources and proposed property tax levy, which is a one percent increase allowed by the state that brought in about $15,000 this year. A hearing on the 2026 preliminary budget will be held on both October 27 and November 10.
City council will have its next regularly scheduled meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, October 13 in Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street.
For more information on the public hearings, visit the city’s website at bit. ly/42vkBSZ.
Photo
Seaside Bash
Dog & Owner Lookalike Contest
Cutest Baby Contest
Seagull Call Contest
Amateur Oyster Shucking Competition
COMMUNITY PHOTO - Wear orange!
Industry Professional Oyster
Shucking Competition
Shuck Chuck (Shucking Toss) Live Music
This Fall, get your vehicle transpor ted with a purpose.
Lee Bowe Company is proud to be partnering with the Blaine Public Schools Foundation, an organization dedicated to suppor ting our community ’s students and teachers For every transpor t you book with us this season, we'll donate a por tion of the proceeds to the foundation. When you choose LBC, you're not just getting reliable auto transpor t; you're helping to build a stronger, brighter future for our youth
Sincerely,
Harvest Festival to follow theme “Sowing and Sewing to Freedom”
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Christ Episcopal Church will host its Harvest Festival featuring the theme “Sowing and Sewing to Freedom” that pays tribute to the experience of Black slaves and their journey through the Underground Railroad. The event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, October 11 at the church, 382 Boblett Street in Blaine.
The festival theme came to life after church members visited the Philipsburg Manor, a former plantation in New York, and received seeds harvested from the garden. Church members brought back the scarlet runner beans and planted them in their Blaine garden to be the festival’s highlighted crop.
Attendees will get to learn about the seeds and other produce growing in the garden before getting to take some home. In addition
to focusing on crops, the festival will have an Early Americana quilt display featuring textile replicating Underground Railroad codes. Lynden quilter Billie Watts has spent the past year recreating quilts that contained hidden messages guiding slaves to free-
dom during the Underground Railroad. The church will offer an interactive experience with handmade footsteps guiding attendees through the display.
The Harvest Festival will also have educational activities in the church’s garden, music and food.
County ...
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Jon Hutchings received after a county employee made a sexual harassment claim against him. County council found out about the payment the way everyone else did: by reading the news. Hutchings resigned in October 2022 and the payment was made the following year. The payment was just under the $250,000 threshold for notifying county council and was instead handled through the Washington Counties Risk Pool (WCRP), a group that protects local county governments from onerous lawsuits. Since the WCRP made the settlement payment, it was considered a “third-party” claim, and council was not notified.
As the legislative branch of county government, Whatcom County Council is supposed to oversee the majority of the county’s finances. The previous version of county code 3.05 established that council delegate all authority to settle tort claims to the Whatcom County prosecut-
ing attorney.
Former county executive Pete Kremen issued an executive order in 2000 to establish a risk management working group, but the order was never officially added to county code. The new amendment to the code will require the group meet, at minimum, twice per year, and could include additional designees from all arms of county government.
In the 18 months since the Cascade PBS article was released, county government has faced pressure from both constituents and its own workforce to overhaul its HR and financial oversight policies.
A letter signed by dozens of county employees addressed to council in May 2024 stated that the county’s handling of sexual harassment in the workplace, and the matter in which Hutchings was paid without public knowledge, eroded trust in their employers and government.
A September report released by Matrix Consulting group, which the county hired to investigate its internal HR procedures and poll county employees, echoed simi-
lar sentiments.
According to the report, 63 percent of respondents said they were dissatisfied with how HR handled complaints, 65 percent said they were dissatisfied with outcomes and thoroughness of HR investigations, and 57 percent were uncomfortable reporting issues to HR.
“Only 43 percent felt comfortable reporting issues without fear of retaliation, with 26 percent explicitly fearful and 31 percent unsure,” the report stated. “Retaliation concerns are more pronounced among non-supervisory staff, temporary staff, and specific demographic groups.”
The next action will be designating a county council member to the working group. The councilmember named would likely be Todd Donovan, chair of the council finance committee. Council tabled a discussion to officially designate a council member.
“This is a stripped-down version [of the tort code amendment], just getting at the [matter of] we get notified and we have a seat at the table when there are risk pool decisions,” Donovan said.
s Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street. Courtesy photo
s Lynden quilter Billie Watts holds a quilt square she replicated from quilts used during the Underground Railroad.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.
Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
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Editorial Intern Madelyn Jones prpintern@pointrobertspress.com
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Contributors In This Issue Bennett Blaustein, Julie Hanft, Jonathan Jakobitz, Erin Kelly, Dean Ridings
The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230
Tel: 360/332-1777
Vol XXXI, No 17
Circulation: 11,000 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Oct. 16
Ads due: Oct. 10
Op-Ed: Local newspapers keep communities strong OpiniOn
mobile apps and email newsletters. What hasn’t changed are the standards. Accuracy, ethics and accountability still guide the work. That combination of modern delivery and traditional integrity is why people continue to turn to their local paper.
The same trust strengthens the local economy. Research shows consumers act on newspaper ads more than on ads delivered by TV, radio or digital platforms. People see local business advertising as part of the same reliable package as the news. For a small business competing with national chains and online platforms, no other channel delivers the same impact. When residents trust the paper, they trust the businesses that support it.
Strong communities don’t just happen. They rely on connection – residents knowing what’s going on, businesses reaching the customers who keep them open, and citizens having the facts to make good decisions. Local newspapers provide that connection in ways no other source can.
In today’s fractured media environment, trust is the rarest commodity. Confidence in “the media” is low. Only 18 percent of Americans say they trust news on social media platforms, and fewer than one in four trust cable networks. But nearly twothirds say they trust their local newspaper – more than double the confidence placed in most other outlets.
In an era when anyone can post anything online, that clarity makes newspapers stand apart.
Newspapers provide the facts that keep civic life running: city budgets, school board debates and local elections that rarely make national headlines but matter most to daily life. They also highlight the stories that make a community feel connected: high school sports, neighborhood events, new restaurants and profiles of people who make a difference.
Your local newspapers have evolved to meet readers where they are – on websites,
The Editor:
I am currently the president of the Blaine School Board, representing District 3. I am aware of what it takes to be an effective school board member. I am writing to endorse Bob Feaster, who is running to represent District 3 on our school board.
I have known Bob for the past two years through school district-related business. Bob is a practical and rational thinker. He is a long-time educator who is committed to public education in general and to the Blaine School District in particular.
Bob has been engaged in supporting the Blaine school district in many ways, including working in our district for over seven years, volunteering to feed students, and serving on the board of the Peace Arch Education Foundation.
Bob understands school systems and the role of school board members. He is a team member who will work well with other board members. He understands how to help lead the school district with his understanding of vision, direction setting, and education policy. Bob has the skills to be an effective and positive school board member and will serve us well.
I encourage our community to vote
The absence of a local paper leaves a mark. Voter turnout declines. Fewer residents attend public meetings. Government oversight weakens and borrowing costs rise. Small businesses lose their most effective way to reach local customers. Without a trusted source tying things together, misinformation and partisan spin spread faster, fueling confusion and division.
The opposite is true when newspapers are strong. Residents are better informed,
more engaged and more connected to each other. Businesses grow because they can reach customers in a trusted environment. Communities share a common set of facts that helps debate happen on the issues –not on whether the information is real. But this role depends on support. Subscriptions, advertising and community engagement make it possible for newspapers to continue earning the trust that communities depend on. A strong local newspaper doesn’t solve every challenge a town faces, but it makes civic life, local culture and the local economy all work better. Healthy communities are stronger when their local newspaper is strong. Supporting the paper is one of the most direct ways residents and businesses can invest in their own future.
National Newspaper Week is October 5 through Saturday, October 11.
America’s Newspapers is a national trade association representing nearly 1,700 members across the country. Its mission is to educate the public about the value of newspapers, protect the First Amendment, advocate for newspapers’ interests at the federal and state levels, and provide resources to help newspapers grow audience and revenue.
Letters
for Bob Feaster for the school board on November 4.
Cliff Freeman
Blaine
The Editor:
I met Blaine city council member Eric Lewis at the Salishan neighborhood picnic. I heard that he listens to everyone equally, good and bad.
I also checked out the other candidate running for the same seat, Jiggy Sorrell, an enthusiastic man who just moved here, but received $1,000 in campaign money from the developer of the most contentious project of the past decade, the very project that got people protesting in the first place. I just don’t feel comfortable about that. Voting Lewis.
Alex Abundis
Blaine
The Editor:
I am writing to support Bob Feaster for the Blaine school district board of directors, District 3.
Bob has a deep resume of experience to run for the School Board including 35 years in public education. Feaster has
been a school psychologist, special education director and assistant superintendent as well as a university instructor teaching graduate courses in psychology and education. He was also a high school football official for 20 years, as stated in The Northern Light newspaper.
His deep understanding of what it takes to serve the needs of the students, as well as the school district, will be beneficial to the entire Blaine school district. The board of directors has a great deal of responsibility to oversee the priorities of the district in the best way possible. I believe Bob’s background will serve those responsibilities well by bringing his strong leadership skills to the district. Bob Feaster will not be “learning on the job!”
I have had the opportunity to sit down with Bob and I came away impressed by his level of straightforwardness in his approach to the needs of a district and its students. Bob is a realist. He understands that proper management of the district’s (See Letters, next page)
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
s Dean Ridings. Courtesy photo
Cartoon courtesy of America’s Newspapers
Letters ...
From previous page
assets, in terms of both finances and personnel resources, will be vital. Bob will not be new to these issues, as he comes ready to use his experience to help get the job done.
Bob has also committed to represent District 3’s interests, which includes a significant portion of the Birch Bay community, in a fair and inclusive way. He is committed to the principle that the purchase of land in the Birch Bay community for a future elementary school is something that the Blaine school district needs to be committed to and believes can be achieved in the near future. Funds for this purpose have been set aside for several years and it is time to put them to good use.
Vote for Bob Feaster, Blaine school board, District 3.
Pat Jerns Blaine
The Editor:
In The Northern Light article about the Blaine Comprehensive Plan (“City of Blaine presents comprehensive plan update,” by Grace McCarthy), it is noted that “the open house marked the city’s first official step of public engagement in the planning process, which the city planners have been working on for over a year.”
The Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) requires “early, continuous, and inclusive public participation throughout the planning process.” Not at the end. This fact invalidates the Blaine Comprehensive Plan for violation of the cornerstone of GMA – public participation. It must be abandoned and started over.
Jay Taber Blaine
The Editor:
As a former president of the Blaine School Board, I have had the privilege of knowing many individuals dedicated to improving education for our community. It is from this perspective that I write to express my strong support for Bob Feaster as a candidate for the Blaine School Board. Bob’s impressive 35 years of experience in public education uniquely qualify him to serve our
district. His career as a school psychologist, special education director, and assistant superintendent reflects not only a deep understanding of the educational system but also a commitment to addressing the needs of all students – from those who are highly capable and college-bound to those struggling with social, emotional, or economic challenges.
In addition to his professional expertise, Bob has demonstrated a profound commitment to community service. His volunteer work with organizations such as the Community Assistance Program, Wildbird Charity, and the Peace Arch Education Foundation shows that he understands the importance of community support in creating strong schools.
Public education is the heart of our community. It’s where children of diverse backgrounds come together to learn, grow, and prepare for their future. Bob recognizes this and has the time, energy, and passion to ensure that every child in our district has the opportunity to succeed. He values listening to diverse voices and working collaboratively, qualities that are essential for effective school board leadership.
As someone who has navigated the complex responsibilities of serving on the Blaine School Board, I know firsthand that it requires dedication, thoughtful decision-making, and a genuine desire to support students, families, and educators. Bob embodies all of these qualities.
I urge our community to vote for Bob Feaster. His knowledge, experience, and commitment will help guide Blaine schools toward a future where every student is prepared for success in school and beyond.
Don Leu
Former president, Blaine School Board
Blaine
The Editor:
The city is asking the citizens to vote in favor of de-annexing a portion of east Blaine. The de-annexation is necessary to enable the city to annex a portion of west Blaine.
On August 7, 2025 council member Richard May wrote a letter extolling the virtues of de-annexing a portion of east
Blaine and annexing west Blaine. He stated that there would be high-density housing near Semiahmoo whether the property was under the control of the city or not. Therefore, the land needs to be annexed.
Mr. May stated, “If west of Semiahmoo becomes a part of Blaine, then we can protect the wooded character of current Semiahmoo by ensuring wildlife corridors and ample landscape buffers,” as justification for the de-annexation/annexation. The area in question is zoned RPR (residential planned recreation) which has no provisions in the zoning code for protection of wooded areas, buffers, or wildlife corridors. The city can put such requirements in the PUD proposed by the developer. But will the city hold the developer to a higher standard than is required by the zoning codes?
Doubtful.
Case in point, on August 1,
(See Letters, page 13)
Madelyn Jones joins The Northern Light as fall intern
The Northern Light is excited to welcome Madelyn Jones to its newsroom this fall.
Madelyn grew up in Mill Creek, Washington and moved to Bellingham to attend Western Washington University in 2021. She has previously served as a reporter and editor for Western’s student newspaper, The Front. She will graduate from Western’s journalism department spring of 2026.
When she’s not reporting, she enjoys reading, listening to music and hanging out with her cats.
THINK local SHOP local
BE local
CITY OF BLAINE ANNUAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee
Public Works and Park Advisory Board
Civil Service Commission
How to Apply:
• Applications and Descriptions: Available at https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/567/Board-Commission-Applications.
• First Review Deadline: Submit your application by 4:30 PM on Friday, November 7, 2025. Applications will be accepted until vacancies are filled.
• Interviews: Anticipated to occur at the 2nd regular City Council meeting in November, or the 1st regular City Council meeting in December.
October 13, 2025 4:00 PM – 2026 Budget Discussion 5:30 PM – Study Session: Town Hall
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
October 27, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting Public Hearing – 2026 Property Tax and Revenue Sources Public Hearing – 2026 Budget
October 28, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting
November 4, 2025 9:00 AM – Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting
November 10, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting Public Hearing – 2026 Budget
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.
Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com
s Madelyn Jones Courtesy photo
Tsunami siren test set for Thursday, October 16
B y M a D ely N J o N es
Get ready to drop, cover and hold at 10:16 a.m. on Thursday, October 16 for International ShakeOut Day, one of the largest earthquake drills in the world that will be accompanied by a tsunami siren test.
State officials urge residents of Blaine and Birch Bay not to call 911.
The ShakeOut, which occurs on the third Thursday of October each year, is a worldwide event for people to practice their earthquake and tsunami preparedness. Over 100 tsunami sirens will be tested throughout the state during Washington’s 14th year participating in the event, officially called the Great Washington ShakeOut.
The ShakeOut is the only time of year when the sirens will be tested using the actual wail sound that plays during a tsunami warning, followed by a message clarifying it is just a drill. The standard tests, which occur at noon on the first Monday of
every month, use the Westminster chimes to indicate a test.
Many Washington residents participate each year, with more than 1 million people having already registered for this year’s event, according to the Washington Emergency Management Division.
“This is a great reminder that Washington is both earthquake and tsunami country,” said Elyssa Tappero, tsunami program coordinator for the Washington Emergency Management Division.
Tappero emphasized the importance of preparedness and said participating in events such as this one is a great way to protect yourself in an emergency situation.
The siren test will be accompanied by an emergency alert system test on the radio and TV, however the wireless emergency alert text system will not be tested. Those with the free MyShake earthquake early warning app will also receive an alert.
To register for the Great Washington ShakeOut, visit.shakeout. org/washington.
Man sentenced for breaking into Custer home, threatening to kill ex-girlfriend
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A man who pleaded guilty to breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s Custer home and threatening to kill her has been sentenced to six years in prison.
Scott James Alderson, 59, pleaded guilty to two counts of felony harassment, felony stalking, second-degree assault and second-degree burglary, all with domestic violence enhancements, on September 16 in Whatcom County Superior Court. Judge Jennifer Slattery sentenced Alderson to six years in prison and 1.5 years of community custody.
Alderson’s charges stem from his arrest on October 31, 2022, when he broke into an ex-girlfriend’s home in the 2500 block of Birch Bay-Lynden Road in Custer.
The following information is provided by the affidavit of probable cause filed in superior court.
Alderson had sent her texts on October 31, 2022, threatening to
show up to the woman’s house and kill her. He later arrived at her home, gaining entry through an unlocked front door.
The woman grabbed a handgun for self-defense, but Alderson knocked her down, pushing the gun out of her hands and tried grabbing her cell phone.
The woman briefly retrieved the gun, but Alderson forced it out of her hands and pointed it at her while she was on the ground.
Alderson then tossed the gun on the bed and held the woman down, resulting in bloody cuts and scrapes on her body.
The woman’s roommate heard her scream for help and rushed to the room with a hatchet. Alderson tried taking the hatchet, but the roommate used its dull side to strike him. Alderson tried punching the roommate before leaving the home.
Later that evening, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Bellingham Police Depart-
ment officers detained Alderson, who admitted to assaulting the woman and her roommate, though he denied pointing a gun at her. He said he was trying to delete texts from her phone.
Alderson was booked into Whatcom County Jail for first-degree burglary and assault in the first and fourth degrees. He was released the next day on a $55,000 appearance bond.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic or sexual violence, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) 24-hour hotline is available at 360/715-1563 or 877/715-1563.
Brigid Collins Family Support Center, a Bellingham-based nonprofit working to end child abuse, can be reached at 360/734-4616 and brigidcollins.org.
Lummi Victims of Crime has a 24-hour helpline at 360/312-2015. The National Domestic Violence Helpline operates a chat line at thehotline.org/help.
Small earthquake recorded near Lynden
Scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey are requesting anyone who felt a small earthquake that occurred just north of Lynden on October 5 report it to the government agency.
The 2.5-magnitude earthquake hit northeast of the intersection of
E. Badger and Guide Meridian roads about 7:25 p.m. October 5, according to the USGS. The earthquake hit at a depth of about 10.2 miles.
So far, eight people responded that they felt the quake, five of whom were in Lynden and the other three in Canada. Lynden area res-
idents reported a level three intensity on the 1-10 Modified Mercalli Intensity scale, meaning hanging objects may have swung and the vibration felt like a truck passing.
For more information or to report observing the earthquake, visit the USGS website at bit.ly/3KzfETb.
League of Women Voters publishes candidate interviews
2025 Induction Class:
2005 Boys Golf Team • Jacquie Robbins
Stan Bianchi • Phillip Claymore
Joan (Auld) Clair • Kristina (Francis) Thayer
Jack Bulger • Sherry (Hackman) Andersen
Tyler Swinburnson • Ryan Wallen
Blaine High School Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Saturday, October 11 • 1 pm
Blaine Performing Arts Center
Special recognition during halftime of the October 10 football game
Election season is in full swing as candidates and voters alike prepare for November 4 general election ballots to be mailed on Wednesday, October 15. With the election countdown ticking away, organizations around the county are holding forums to hear from candidates on their most pressing
issues, including the League of Women Voters (LWV) of Bellingham-Whatcom County.
The League of Women Voters recently published recordings of interviews with general election candidates on its website. The interviews include Blaine City Council, Blaine school board, Port of Bellingham and Whatcom County Council candidates.
Variety of Hay, Straw & All Animal Feeds
360-354-8311 910 H Street Road, Lynden WA 98264
New Hours: Tuesday 1-6 Thursday 9-6 Saturday 9-4:30
The LWV is a national, nonpartisan organization focused on improving government participation across the public, regardless of gender. To view the recordings, visit the local LWV chapter’s website at bit.ly/4nDX36P.
Festival ...
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corn hole.
Food tickets for Oysterfest may be purchased at the event for seafood specialties that include a seafood boil, oyster bake, seafood tacos and chowder. The Blaine High School volleyball team will also cook hot dogs on H Street Plaza as a fundraiser.
The city’s Downtown Revitalization Project will be closed on Peace Portal Drive north of H Street, but Mills said plenty of street parking will be available near the festival.
“It’s about getting together and having fun as a community,” Mills said. “We’re hoping to highlight good spirits, good community involvement and all of the fun things we can do together.”
s Blaine’s All Hazards Alert Broadcast (AHAB) tsunami siren is located at the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility in Blaine Harbor.
Photo by Madelyn Jones
spOrts
Volleyball, girls soccer bounce back with wins over Mt. Baker
Last week was a tough one for Borderites sports overall, with all of football, girls soccer and volleyball being shut out prior to returning to school on Monday morning. But momentum seems to be shifting back in Blaine’s favor, with both volleyball and girls soccer defeating Mt. Baker on Tuesday night.
Volleyball
The Blaine volleyball team didn’t start October the way it wanted, losing in straight sets on the road against Lynden on October 1.
The first place Lions (9-0, 8-0 NWC) didn’t allow the Borderites to score more than 10 points in a single set, winning in dominating fashion: 25-9, 25-10, 25-7.
Despite the lopsided score, Blaine still saw great performances from its veteran players, with junior Teia Dube finishing with three kills and 10 digs, and senior Paige Dominick leading the team with 11 digs.
After the weekend, the Borderites returned home to host last place Mt. Baker (0-7) in what was a great opportunity for a bounceback win after two straight losses on the road in the previous week.
The Borderites seized the opportunity and won the first set without looking back, eventually winning 3-1.
The win brought the Borderites to a respectable 4-6 regular season record, with a 3-5 record against conference opponents. Blaine is defeating the teams it should be on paper, beating last-place Mt. Baker once, and the lowest-ranked 3A team Sedro-Woolley twice, along with a win over lowest-ranked 2A team Lakewood.
With a day off in between Northwest Conference battles, the Borderites were scheduled to face Burlington-Edison on the road on at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 9. The Borderites then continue their road trip on Tuesday, October 14 to play Anacortes at 7 p.m.
The next Blaine home volleyball game won’t be until Thursday, October 16, when the Borderites host undefeated Sehome (8-0) at 7 p.m.
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
Girls Soccer
Blaine girls soccer celebrated Senior Night before its October 7 game against Mt. Baker at Borderite Stadium, honoring a group of seniors that have dedicated countless hours to their team.
Seniors Merissa Delgado, Brietta Sandell, Beatrice Dickson, Avery Larsen, Sorjan Leischner, Madilyn Musto, Jade-Lana Butler-Barros, Abigail Gonzalez and Taryn Zaccheo were all honored on the public address just before kickoff.
The celebration continued on the pitch, with the Borderites defeating 1A Northwest Conference rivals Mt. Baker, 3-0.
Just minutes into the game, Blaine’s defense committed a foul that awarded a penalty kick to the Mountaineers. But the gift to Mt.
Baker was squandered, with the kick sailing over the crossbar.
Blaine responded with a constant attack in the midfield that pressured Mt. Baker’s midfielders and defenders to make a mistake.
That moment finally came late in the first half, when a ball popped out of a scrum in the penalty box, falling to junior forward Nevaeh Zaddack. Zaddack knew exactly what to do, dropping an excellent shot over the defense and past the outstretched hand of Mt. Baker’s goalkeeper, giving Blaine a 1-0 lead before halftime.
The Borderites continued to pour on the offense in the second half, with a pair of goals from junior midfielder/defender Kate Koreski.
The win put the Borderites at 5-6 with a 3-6 conference record. Blaine is currently the second-highest ranked 1A team in the conference, which will come into play for postseason tournament seeding.
Blaine’s next game was scheduled on the road against Burlington-Edison at 6 p.m. Thursday, October 9 (after press time).
Blaine’s next home game will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 11 against Sehome.
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Football
The Borderites couldn’t get on the scoreboard against a tough Lynden Christian team, and Blaine ended up losing its first Northwest Conference matchup of the season, 41-0, on October 3.
Lynden Christian (5-0, 1-0 NWC) showed why it’s the top dog in the 1A Northwest Conference, with multiple upperclassmen giving great statistical performances and a suffocating defense.
The Borderites started aggressive, trying to kickstart a potential upset with a long drive on offense, but the drive stalled when Blaine wasn’t able to convert a fourth down.
After the opening drive chewed up the majority of the first quarter clock, the Lyncs responded with four touchdowns in the second quarter. Entering halftime, the Borderites were faced with a tough, 28-0 deficit.
The Lyncs were able to score another two touchdowns in the third quarter before letting off the gas in the fourth quarter.
It will take at least another
week for the Borderites to earn their first conference win of the season and turn around a twogame losing streak.
After defeating Chelan at home on September 19, the Blaine offense has been shut down by Granite Falls and Lynden Christian the past two weeks, scoring just one touchdown in two games.
The Borderites defense played a ton of snaps against Lynden Christian, and junior linebacker Peyton Bouma led the team with seven tackles and a pass defended.
Blaine, now at 1-4 with a 0-1 NWC record, must begin the task of turning its season around against a procession of tough conference opponents. The Borderites will face Nooksack Valley (2-3, 0-1 NWC) at home 7 p.m. Friday, October 10, which may give them a chance to get back in the win column.
Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
B y N ola N B aker
s Blaine junior goalkeeper Marcella Bring watches a penalty kick sail over the crossbar during the opening minutes of Blaine’s 3-0 home win over Mt. Baker on October 7.
Photo by Nolan Baker
s Blaine junior outside hitter Teia Dube, second from r., flies up to spike a ball in the second set of Blaine’s 3-1 home win over Mt. Baker on October 7.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Scenes from around Blaine and Birch Bay ...
Blaine Public School Foundation to hold online auction benefitting students
Blaine Public School Foundation (BPSF) will hold its first online auction from Saturday, October 11 to Sunday, October 19.
The auction will be one of the first fundraising campaigns for the nonprofit looking to support Blaine school district’s roughly 2,000 students.
The auction will feature dozens of items donated from businesses from around Blaine and Whatcom County. Auction items include a Kona Splice Hybrid bicycle from Birch Bay Bike Shop, free movie tickets and an annual membership to the Pick-
ford Film Center, a Borderites merchandise basket from Hill’s Chevron, and kayak rentals from Bellingham’s Community Boating Center.
All items can be viewed at the auction link at bit.ly/3VVeZO7.
Funds raised from the weeklong auction will support field trips and on-campus enrichment opportunities, according to BPSF founder Traci Bowe.
The auction will also be linked to the foundation’s “Be a Hero” campaign, which help specific grades and schools reach their funding goals. Such educational opportunities include an on-campus pumpkin patch field trip for kindergarteners, a field trip to Mt. Baker Theater for second and third graders, and a “Bookworm’s Dream” basket for middle school students.
BPSF will have a booth at the
Bash on Saturday, October 11 in downtown Blaine. For more information on BPSF and the auction, visit blaineschoolsfoundation.org.
Seaside
B y N ola N B aker
s Blaine school board candidates took questions at a Fund Schools Now forum on October 7 at Blaine Community/Senior Center. From l., candidates Chelsey Belarmino (District 5), Bob Feaster (District 3), Jim Shaver (District 3) and Ryan Swinburnson (District 4).
Photo by Molly Ernst
s Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 held its fall festival on October 4 at the Birch Bay Activity Center. The festival celebrated the new season with live music, games and vendors. The parks department is now gearing up for the Blaine Seaside Bash featuring Oysterfest, on Saturday, October 11 in downtown Blaine. Photo courtesy of BBBPRD2
s The Port of Bellingham’s Disco Duck has made an appearance at Jorgensen Pier in Blaine Harbor, as seen on October 8. Blaine is the latest home for the duck, which is moved to a new port property four times per year. Bellingham artist Wayne Kangas made Disco Duck from an espresso machine manufacturer’s discarded metal. For more information on Disco Duck, visit the port’s website at bit.ly/46SiYBz. Photo by Ruth Lauman
s Kaa Shaayí Kéet’aakw, a Tlingit artist and Ferndale resident, has finished his 19-by-26foot mural at Kevin’s Car Wash, 388 Martin Street in downtown Blaine. The mural, titled “Righteous IndigeNation,” depicts overcoming personal challenges and is intended to spread a message of hope.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Blaine Chiropractic and Massage expands
B y M a D ely N J o N es
Blaine Chiropractic and Massage has welcomed a new practitioner, Dr. Samantha Ford, who specializes in decompression and muscle work.
Ford started at the practice in July with 17 years of chiropractic experience. She previously worked at Live Well Chiropractic in Pampa, Texas and studied at Texas Chiropractic College in Pasadena, Texas. She said she was drawn to the field because of her dad, who has been a chiropractor for over 40 years.
“I was looking to go more into the medical field, and then sophomore year in college I decided I wanted to go the more natural route of everything, so I switched gears and applied to Texas Chiro-
practic College,” Ford said.
Ford uses techniques such as trigger point therapy, flexion distraction and myofascial release to rehabilitate the body and manage pain. She describes her treatment approach as individualized to each patient’s needs.
“It helps that I have a wide tool belt of techniques I can use,” she said. “If there’s something [patients’] prefer, odds are I can do it, and I prefer to do what works best for them.”
Ford recommended people visit a chiropractor if they experience pain or discomfort for more than three days, especially if it’s not made better by stretching or applying heat or ice to the area.
“If it’s still lingering on, you should probably come in, from headaches to neck pain, back
pain, or tingling down arms or legs,” she said.
The practice offers chiropractic exams and adjustments, cold laser therapy, massage therapy, nutritional supplementation and health habit consults.
Meghan Andruscavage co-owns the practice with her husband, Dr. Christopher Andruscavage, who is part of the chiropractic team. In an email to The Northern Light, Andruscavage wrote that adding a provider to the chiropractic team has been a goal of the business. They hope to expand their availability for massage therapy in the future.
Ford currently has same-week and sometimes same-day availability for new patients. To learn more about the practice at 245 H Street or book an appointment, visit blainechiropractic.com.
Blaine Family Medicine brings on two new providers
Family Care Network’s Blaine Family Medicine (BFM) welcomed two new providers to its staff in September.
Dr. Zafir Khan and Dr. Roma Nagin have joined four providers who practiced at Birch Bay Family Medicine and moved with their patients to the Blaine clinic when it opened on June 16.
Zafir Khan
Zafir Khan, MD, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Merced and went on to attend the Ross University School of Medicine in (See Providers, page 10)
s Dr. Samantha Ford has joined Blaine Chiropractic and Massage as the newest member of the chiropractic team. Photo by Madelyn Jones
s Zafir Khan, MD.
Photo courtesy of Family Care Network
s Roma Nagin, MD. Photo courtesy of Family Care Network
The basics of breast cancer for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is a formidable disease that affects millions of individuals each year. Data from the World Health Organization indicates 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, when it was the most common form of the disease in 157 of 185 countries across the globe.
The impact of breast cancer goes beyond those diagnosed with the disease, affecting friends, family members, professional colleagues, and others. That far-reaching impact means everyone has a vested interest in learning about breast cancer.
What is breast cancer?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control. The breast is made up of three main parts known as the lobules, ducts and connective tissue, and which type of breast cancer a person has depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer.
Is there a typical breast cancer?
No two individuals diagnosed with breast cancer will have the same experience after being diag-
nosed. However, the CDC notes that most breast cancers begin in the ducts or lobules. The ducts are tubes that carry milk to the nipple and the lobules are the glands that produce milk.
What are some common risk factors for breast cancer?
The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. notes gender is the foremost risk factor for breast cancer, as the WHO reports that 99 percent of breast cancers occur in women. Additional risk factors for breast cancer include age, with two out of three women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer being older than 55, and race, as the disease affects more Caucasian women than women of other races.
The NBCF also notes that women who have dense breast tissue may be at greater risk for breast cancer because such tissue can make it harder to detect lumps.
What causes breast cancer?
The NBCF notes that most women who have breast cancer will never be able to identify an exact cause behind their disease.
Common risk factors like gender and age are beyond women’s
Did you know?
A 2024 report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer indicated 71 percent of new cases of breast cancer across the globe were diagnosed in individuals age 50 and older.
Though age is a known risk factor for various types of cancer, it’s important that women recognize a significant percentage of breast cancer diagnoses in many parts of the world are made in women younger than 50. For example, nearly one in five of breast cancer diagnoses in both North America (18 percent) and Europe (19 percent) are made in women younger than 50, while almost half of all breast cancers in
control, but there are some controllable risk factors that can be avoided. The WHO notes that overconsumption of alcohol and tobacco use are two such factors.
How important is early detection?
The American Cancer Society reports that the five-year surviv-
Africa (47 percent) are diagnosed in women who have not yet reached their 15th birthdays.
Though such figures are affected by a number of variables, including the accessibility of screening procedures like mammograms, they speak to the reality that breast cancer can affect women at any age, a notion that underscores the significance of screening and the need to support efforts to make it more accessible in every corner of the globe.
al rate for breast cancers discovered in the localized stage is 99 percent. That underscores the significance of early detection.
The NBCF notes monthly breast self-exams and routine clinical exams increase the likelihood of early detection. Women are urged to speak with their physicians regarding how frequently they should be tested, as recommendations vary depending on each individual and their respective family histories.
The basics of breast cancer provide insight into the disease and what women can do to reduce their risk of developing it.
From page 9
Bridgetown, Barbados. He completed a family medicine residency at AdventHealth in Winter Park, Florida and is board certified in family medicine.
Khan values building trusting and compassionate relationships with patients. He believes in the importance of listening to a patient’s goals and working with them to create a treatment plan that meets their goals.
When he isn’t working, Khan enjoys spending time with loved ones and taking part in outdoor activities, including rock climbing, snowboarding and triathlons.
Roma Nagin
Roma Nagin, MD, grew up in Surrey, B.C. and earned her bach-
elor’s degree at the University of British Columbia. She earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Bridgetown, Barbados and completed her family medicine residency at AdventHealth in Winter Park, Florida. She is board certified in family medicine.
Nagin centers her care around listening to patients and ensuring they are involved in making decisions on their health. She understands the importance of building trust with patients and is passionate about making sure they reach their health goals.
When she’s not working, Nagin enjoys being outside with her family, whether that’s rock climbing, snowboarding or kayaking. Both providers are accepting new patients. To book an appointment, call 360/371-5855.
s Blaine Family Medicine, 861 Grant Ave, is a full-service clinic with lab work. The clinic opened June 16. Photos by Madelyn Jones File photo
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Blaine book review: “Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone”
B y J o N atha N J ako B itz
“Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone” by Benjamin Stevenson is a darkly humorous thriller.
Ernest Cunningham is the story’s aptly named and self-described “reliable narrator.” He presents himself as an earnest, forthright and upfront narrator – on page two he tells you everything to expect in the novel, right down to the page number for each murder.
However, like a magician stringing you along, the story isn’t always as it seems. Twists and turns abound as the narrative unwinds, slowly revealing how everyone on Ernest’s
Letters ...
From previous page 5
2023, a group of Blaine citizens appeared before a hearing examiner to testify against Tract D proposal in Sea Smoke. The hearing examiner’s determination dated August 13 was a compromise between the two party’s interests. On September 15, Blaine City Council overturned the hearing examiner in favor of the developer and allowed the developer to proceed.
This is only one example of the city not standing with its citizens. The likelihood of the citizens of Blaine having a voice that is heard by the city is remote.
The developer of the west Blaine area has shown his concern for buffers and wildlife at Sea Smoke. Sea Smoke is zoned RPR, has been clear cut, many of the five-foot backyards are fenced, or asphalted, or rock.
The developer’s idea of a buffer is clearly seen by driving west on
branch of his family tree is a killer.
A great deal of the fun comes from Stevenson’s clever conceit for the novel’s narrator. Ernest is an author himself, though of ‘books about how to write books’ rather than fiction. As such, he knows the rules of good storytelling, particularly the cardinal rules of mystery novels. Ernest leans on these conventions, frequently reminding the reader of them, and then choosing to follow or subvert them as his story demands.
Like many classic mysteries, “Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone” relies heavily on its remote and secluded setting: an Australian ski resort
Semiahmoo Parkway and looking south. According to the city’s map, Blaine is already in control of the tree buffer area along Semiahmoo Drive. Therefore, why annex?
Deborah Alexander Blaine
The Editor: I attended the City of Blaine’s information session last Tuesday and came away with two impressions: Blaine is prioritizing its own interests, and history may be repeating itself.
I currently serve on the Birch Bay Advisory Committee (BBCAC) and was Blaine’s city manager from 2013 to 2018. The BBCAC, formed by Whatcom County last winter, advises on issues affecting Birch Bay. We have consistently raised concerns about Blaine’s proposal to annex nearly 1,000 acres of Birch Point Urban Growth Area (UGA) land. We are not anti-development; we are concerned about impacts. Traffic is already challenging for
soon to be beset by a blizzard. This is the backdrop for the Cunningham family reunion, which just so happens to coincide with the release of Ernest’s brother from prison. Did I mention that Ernest testified against his brother in a murder trial, putting him in prison in the first place?
Shortly after their arrival, a dead body is discovered near the resort, and foul play is quickly assumed. The Cunninghams, a family name infamous to the police, soon come under suspicion.
Throughout it all, Stevenson crafts an engaging story that keeps the reader guessing and grinning as Ernest leads – and
Birch Bay and Semiahmoo residents, with backups on Harborview, Bell, Peace Portal, and Birch Bay-Lynden roads. Thousands of new car trips from large-scale development would overwhelm the limited road network unless major expansions are made. Stormwater is another major issue: paving and roofs increase runoff, which ultimately flows into Birch Bay. At the meeting, these concerns were brushed aside, leaving residents with the impression our voices don’t matter.
We’ve seen this before. In 1996 Blaine annexed East Blaine, where development stalled for years due to the high costs of utility infrastructure. Only after state funding helped cover those costs did East Maple Ridge move forward, while Grandis Pond remained unbuilt because utilities were financially unfeasible. I wonder if Birch Point faces the same fate.
The proposed swap will carry enormous utility, road, and stormwater costs – costs that will ultimately be passed to home-
Poetry corner: “A song” by Julie Hanft
B y J ulie h a N ft
Our love story takes on a new form, No longer bound by Earth’s time, Still part of the same life and rhythm.
The memory of our touch remains our constant companion, Playing in the quiet chambers of our hearts.
Grief is not my monster, it is part of our continued love story.
The essence of you is still alive, you live alongside me.
There is a quiet hand of yours, where you slip your Unseen hand inside mine.
You will never be truly gone.
Grief is not my monster.
You talk to me and it’s not imaginary –
It is real – it is love.
I’m not moving on after loss, but I’m moving with you.
You sit across from me in your chair, your laughter is heard Throughout this house.
I must remember that grief
came to me, Because love came first.
I still live with you, I built this room for my heart,
It’s a wound that sometimes hurts so badly.
But there is no other place I’d rather be, Then here with you.
Grief is not my monster. Through the struggle, I honor all the steps we’ve taken.
Today your body has been spread across the ocean, For me to always see, and you’re free.
That together was our peace to always be.
This grief I feel is just your shadow.
Every day I look around and I see you everywhere.
It’s true you said you would never leave me alone.
For your loss has rearranged my world.
Together, we will travel in our dreams,
As I ride on your wings.
I will never lose the pain, for it
misleads – them through the narrative.
“Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone” should appeal to readers of mysteries, thrillers and anyone looking for a quirky, fun read. Visit wcls.org to find the book and other similarly themed stories.
“Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone” is the October selection for the Books and Bites book group. Join Books and Bites at 1 p.m. Friday, October 17 at Blaine Public Library for a time of community and lively conversation. For more information, visit bit.ly/3KHid5q.
Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of Blaine Public Library. s
owners through sale price, utility rates, and taxes. Pumping sewer to the treatment plant at Marine Park and back to the Birch Point outfall will be energy-intensive and expensive. Blaine is also expected to include affordable housing, but can those units realistically absorb the cost burden? Is development feasible? If density is the answer, that means even more cars and impervious surfaces.
If approved, Blaine’s UGA swap will directly affect Birch Bay, yet decisions will rest with Blaine’s council. The message is clear: Blaine first, Birch Bay second. The city gains tax base – while our community bears the impacts.
Dave Wilbrecht Birch Bay
The Editor: Ray Leone has been a resident and active member of the
Salishan Neighborhood Association for many years.
Maybe you don’t know, but Ray is a retired registered nurse.
Not everybody is competent and capable enough to be a nurse. You need: Compassion, understanding, love, dedication, patience, respect for human dignity, and communication. Those are some of the qualifications of a good nurse. I could quote many more, I could go on and on about the attributes of a good nurse. Ray has all of those attributes. It is a guarantee that Ray would bring all of those attributes to the Blaine City Council.
For people who don’t know him, I trust him, I believe in him. He will be there for us, he will represent us. Ray is our man.
Jocelyne Harsch Blaine
is mine to keep.
You loved that this is a poet’s house,
And with your death, I whisper these words, I love you, with every breath.
Grief is not my monster.
Julie Hanft is a best-selling author and poet who lives in Birch Bay. She dedicated this poem to her late husband, Eric.
Jonathan Jakobitz.
Courtesy photo
s Julie Hanft.
File photo
sheriff’s repOrts
September 27, 2:51 a.m.: Welfare check on Kickerville Road.
September 27, 3:05 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
September 27, 3:40 p.m.: Theft cold call on Sage Street.
September 27, 8:16 p.m.: Security check on Morgan Drive.
September 27, 10:46 p.m.: Suspicious person on Richmond Crescent.
September 28, 10:31 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Harborview Road.
September 28, 12:28 p.m.: Welfare check cold call on Pheasant Drive.
September 28, 2:17 p.m.: Welfare check on Delta Line Road.
September 28, 4:22 p.m.: Civil problem on Henley Street.
September 28, 4:39 p.m.: Trespass on Portal Way.
September 28, 6:48 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on H Street Road.
September 29, 5:08 a.m.: Missing person cold call on
Loft Lane.
September 29, 8:46 a.m.: Suspicious person cold call on Morrison Avenue.
September 29, 10:57 a.m.:
Domestic violence cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
September 29, 8:12 p.m.: Civil standby on Carstan Loop.
September 29, 8:20 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Haynie Road.
September 30, 8:58 a.m.: Sex offender registration on Sea Breeze Court.
September 30, 9:08 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Selder Road.
September 30, 9:15 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Terrace Place.
September 30, 9:44 a.m.:
Welfare check on Kayak Way.
September 30, 10:14 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
September 30, 2:02 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
October 1, 12:32 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS 1. Martial arts in China 6. The butt of jokes 12. Nevertheless 16. Sportscaster Michaels 17. A firm believer 18. Atomic #18 19. One’s bestie
20. Of I 21. Hamburger accessory 22. Thus 23. Partner to Pa 24. Scottish tax 26. Cuts away 28. Require 30. Government lawyer 31. Own (Scottish)
32. Body cavity 34. Brew 35. Young woman (French) 37. Platforms 39. Pair of points in mathematics
40. Attack suddenly 41. Aviators
43. Make perfect 44. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)
45. Neither 47. The center of a city
48. Sacrifice hit in baseball
50. Singer Redding 52. Dragged forcibly 54. Puncture with a knife
56. Belonging to me
57. Expresses surprise
59. Haul
60. The Golden State
61. Biblical Sumerian city
62. Integrated circuit
63. Opposed to certain principles
66. Sodium 67. Qualities
70. Walk
71. It awaits us all DOWN 1. Ate quickly 2. Peyton Manning’s alma mater 3. Moves through water 4. Run away from 5. Utah resident 6. Natural objects 7. Children’s game 8. Obligation to prove 9. Ancient Greek building for perfor-
mances 10. Soldier 11. Decorated 12. Catches 13. Russell __, author 14. Speak indistinctly 15. Students get them 25. Japanese warrior 26. Dessert 27. Doleful 29. Most cushy 31. Moon crater 33. Small evergreen Arabian tree
36. Something fugitives are “on” 38. 007’s creator 39. Paintings on hinged panels 41. Type of bomb 42. Japanese classical theater 43. U.S. gov’t department 46. Flightless bird 47. One who cuts wood or stone 49. Buttock and thigh together 51. A way to gather 53. Body part 54. Argentinian city
October 1, 1:07 p.m.: Trespass cold call on California Trail.
October 1, 2:00 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
October 1, 2:23 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Valley View Road.
October 1, 5:36 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Birch Bay Drive.
October 2, 12:01 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Harborview Road.
October 2, 9:32 a.m.: Hit and run cold call on Harborview Road.
October 2, 2:39 p.m.: Welfare check on Morgan Drive.
October 2, 6:00 p.m.: Welfare check on West Road.
October 2, 5:59 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
October 2, 9:24 p.m.: Welfare check on Harborview Road.
October 3, 8:39 a.m.: Disorderly conduct cold call on Clamdigger Drive.
October 3, 6:15 p.m.: Civil problem on Arnie Road.
For a complete list of WCSO reports, visit whatcomcounty.us/2120/Activity-Reports.
55. Undergarments
58. Jai __, sport 60. Container for shipping 64. Type of screen 65. Get free of 68. Indicates position 69. Business department
tides
October 9 - 15 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Coming up
Winter Coat Distribution: Friday, October 10, 9 a.m.–noon; Wednesday, October 8, 5–7 p.m.; Saturday, October 11, 10 a.m.–noon, at the CAP Center, 508 G Street. Free winter coats, hats, gloves, and socks for all ages. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program, blainecap.org. Home Farm Pumpkin Patch: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. through October 31, Home Farm, 8020 Kickerville Road. Enjoy a pumpkin patch, farm store, kid friendly corn maze, or visit the pigs. Weekends feature concessions, face painting and tractor train rides. Info: homefarm.farm
Live Music at The Vault: Friday, October 10, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Tea Seas Trio. Info: thevaultwine.com.
VW’s Fall Festival: Saturday, October 11, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., VW’s Home and Garden, 8210 Portal Way. Featuring food, flowers and fun for the whole family, along with kids’ activities, sales and refreshments. Info: vwhomeandgarden.com.
Seaside Bash Featuring Oysterfest: Saturday, October 11, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., downtown Blaine. Enjoy live music, street fair, chainsaw wood carving contest, activities for all ages and more. Wear orange for a community photo at 2 p.m. See ad on Page 2 for full schedule. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Birch Bay Witches and Warlocks Fall Paddle: Saturday, October 11, 10 a.m., Birch Bay beach across from Beach Cat Brewing. Wear a witch or warlock costume and bring your own board, kayak or floating device, plus safety gear and life jacket. This is an at-will event, participate at your own risk.
“Hang Together” Art Exhibition and Fundraiser: Saturday, October 11, 4–7 p.m., Blind Bird Studio Art Lab and Gallery, 264 H Street, suite B. Shawna Morris and Kevin Hoover showcase their individual artworks plus refreshments, live music and raffle with proceeds benefitting the Blaine Fine Arts Association.
Author Talk: Thursday, October 16, 6 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Fall and Winter Hiking with Craig Romano. Come run, hike, and walk the amazing array of trails within the Metro Vancouver Regional District with award winning guidebook author, Craig Romano. Info: wcls.org.
Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, October 16, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro. 277 G Street. General knowledge trivia with Alan. Info: thevaultwine.com. Books and Bites: Friday, October 17, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. October title: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson. Info: wcls.org.
Blaine Candidates Forum: Friday, October 17, 6 p.m., Blaine Community and Senior Center, 763 G Street. Meet and greet candidates for Blaine City Council and Port Commission. Info: info@blainechamber.com.
Backstage @ the Border: Friday, October 17, 7–9 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street. Featuring The Quartertones play music from the Holy Land. $10 at the door, no one is turned away. Proceeds benefit Loads of Love. Info: backstageattheborder.com.
Live Music at The Vault: Friday, October 17, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: The Problem Jazz Collective. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Movie Night: Friday, October 17, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Enjoy a free, indoor family-friendly Halloween movie. Bring a chair. Free popcorn. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Pumpkin Carving Party: Saturday, October 18, 2–4 p.m., North Whatcom Fire and Rescue station, 9408 Odell Street. Pumpkins provided plus coloring contest, photo booth, popcorn. Open to all.
DSHS Mobile Office at the Library: Thursday, October 23, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. DSHS staff on hand to provide crucial services in environments that may not have DSHS brick-and-mortar offices nearby, and to be agile in meeting the needs of people who could benefit from their programs. Info: wcls.org.
Community Dinner: Thursday, October 23, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy community and connections over dinner. Free, donations accepted. Info: call or text 360/656-6416.
Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, October 23, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro. 277 G Street. General knowledge trivia with Alan. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Veronica North Performance: Thursday, October 23, 7:30 p.m., The Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly Street, Bellingham. Point Roberts native and BHS Alumna performs poetic lyricism weaved into indie-pop/folk melodies. Tickets: wildbuffalo.net.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of September 29 to October 5, 0.5 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 18.4 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 75.8°F on October 2 with a low of 46.2°F on October 5. Average high was 69.6°F and average low was 52.1°F.
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:360/332-6350 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.
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.
Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $6 per meal ($10 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
New online learning program offered to Point Roberts students
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Point Roberts Primary School, which offers in-person education only through second grade, will now offer a new program that lets local children continue their schooling in the community through eighth grade – avoiding daily border crossings.
The Blaine school district has approved extending to Point Roberts the Blaine HomeConnection (BHC), a hybrid homeschool/ public school program for K–8 students.
District officials visited the Point Roberts Primary School at the end of August and determined the program was feasible. BHC combines home-based instruction with school support. Families collaborate with certifi-
cated teachers to develop individualized written student learning plans. Students remain enrolled in the Blaine school district, earn credits, and have access to the same resources as other district students. With a parent present, they may also use the Point Roberts Primary School during school hours. Teachers will check in weekly with families to monitor progress. Two students have already enrolled, with more expected in the coming years.
Tennessee Briand, one of the parents who advocated for bringing the program to Point Roberts, said, “This is going to be great for the Point. It will bring educational options to many families and could draw more families to settle here.”
Families can learn more at blainesd.org/o/homeconnection.
Border Monument 0 in Point Roberts
B y B e NN ett
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Monument Park in Point Roberts holds an obelisk that marks the beginning of the 5,525-mile U.S./Canada border along the 49th parallel.
Most visitors and local residents to the U.S. exclave believe that the obelisk, erected in 1861, is the first location of the border between the two countries.
It’s easy to believe this since it is listed as Monument 1 for official records with the International Border Commission. There are also no other border markers quite the same as the obelisk with its pedestal marking the longitude and latitude and the engravings of the survey team and commissioners who helped establish the border.
What most people do not know is there had been another obelisk on the border that came before
Monument 1. Although much smaller than Monument 1, the first real marker to separate Canada and the U.S. on land was Monument 0. The smaller Monument 0 obelisk sat at the high-water mark just at the base of the cliff in Monument Park. The existence of Monument 0 was recorded in the 1937 International Border survey and was described as such:
“The special concrete monument with bronze post is shown in figure 5, page 116. There is but one monument of this kind. Monument 0 (zero) at the high-water mark on the west shore of Point Roberts.
“The monument is of reinforced monolithic concrete, constructed to withstand wave action and the battering of driftwood brought in by the tide. It is in the form of a concrete pier 3 feet square and 7 feet, 11 inches in height, set 4 feet, 3 inches in the ground on hard glacial clay.
“In the center of the top of the pier is a 2-inch manganese-bronze post projecting 7 inches above the concrete. On the east face of this
Your Business
post is cast in raised letters the inscription ‘INT. BDRY.’ on the north face ‘CANADA,’ on the south face ‘U. S.,’ and on the west face is inscribed ‘0’ (zero), the designating number of the monument.”
The original marker was removed in 1968 when the border commission added additional survey markers and made repairs along the 49th parallel. In its place is now a concrete slab with a metal disc marking the spot for Monument 0.
Anyone who looks hard enough on the beach can find the location of Monument 0 just right of the storm drain that comes down from the Canadian side of the border.
The Whatcom County Parks and Recreation oversees Monument Park at 25 Marine Drive. The 6.9-acre park has 0.3 miles of trail that include views of the Strait of Georgia. The park is open from 8 a.m. to dusk.
For more information on park operations, contact parks and recreation at 360/778-5850 or parks@ co.whatcom.wa.us.
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s Monument 0 on the Canada/U.S. border at Monument Park in Point Roberts.
Photo by Bennett Blaustein
s Blaine school board met for its monthly meeting at Point Roberts Primary School on September 22.
Photo by Pat Grubb
s Monument 1 in Point Roberts.
Photo by Bennett Blaustein
We’re Open!
Downtown Blaine is open for business! Phase 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Project begins Monday, September 29. During construction, the following downtown businesses will remain open and have public access:
• Starbucks Coffee (entrance off F St.)
• Bordertown Mexican Grill (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Blaine Welcome Center (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Inn on the Harbor (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Hill’s Chevron & Gift Shop (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Aloha Cafe (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Ttowa Sushi (access through back parking lot)
• CTK Church (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Black Forest Steak House (enter off G St.)
• Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Inn at the Harbor (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Monte’s Just A Bite (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Blaine Bouquets (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Bella Boutique Consignment (pedestrian walkway off H or G St.)
