The Northern Light: February 12-18, 2026 by Point Roberts Press

Blaine City Council discusses signage upgrades, flower baskets

Blaine City Council discussed preparations for the FIFA World Cup, signage upgrades to promote tourism, the fate of the downtown flower baskets and local grant funding during its regular council meeting on February 9.

Downtown business owners express concern over city’s FIFA preparations

During the city’s monthly town hall before the regular council meeting, business owners expressed concern over the city’s ability to attract I-5 travelers during the summer tourism season. This conversation came just as paint dried on the city’s downtown revitalization project, which limited businesses during six months of construction during the second half of 2025.

Looming over the discussion was the FIFA World Cup, which will send throngs of international soccer fans pouring into Vancouver and Seattle for games starting June 13, and Blaine business owners are hoping to siphon off a few travelers between the two soccer cities.

Mark Seymour, co-owner of Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, pointed to Taylor Swift’s 2024 concerts in Vancouver that backed up traffic from the Peace Arch border crossing into downtown Blaine for hours.

Despite the countless cars idling along Peace Portal Drive, Seymour said it was not good for businesses.

“If you talk to any of us downtown, we’re not going to rave about business being phenomenal during that time period,” Seymour said. “It was a huge hindrance, and now we’re looking at FIFA coming up.”

Seymour urged the city to hold a public meeting to discuss signage upgrades, the city collaborating with other government agencies to mitigate traffic impacts and create possible detours around the downtown core, and consulting with businesses prior to World Cup kick-off.

“Bottom line is, I think all of us business owners are in favor of having a discussion around this, and we have got great ideas,

(See City, page 2)

$1.8

million

BP Cherry Point celebrates the Seahawks

Blaine

Blaine school district is assembling a Community Facility Advisory Committee that will recommend to the school board whether it should go out for a bond, which would fund major capital facility improvements like an upgraded middle school.

Blaine Superintendent Dan Chaplik said the district was accepting applicants to the committee composed of parents,

county grant

staff and community members. An application form is expected to be available on the district’s website, blainesd.org, by the end of the week.

“These schools are the community’s,” Chaplik said. “We will work hard to listen, interpret and understand the thoughts of the overall community and come up with a recommendation to the board that encompasses not only the district’s needs, but is also a reflection of what the com-

jump starts Birch Bay Beach Park construction

B y G race M c c arthy

Birch Bay residents are one step closer to having a waterfront park that will bring what some community members consider a long-awaited public asset: public restrooms.

The latest development is thanks to a county-funded grant that Birch Bay Beach Park received to the tune of $1.8 million on January 1. The money comes from the

Whatcom County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), which recommended late last year the grant go to Whatcom County Parks and Recreation’s development of the park.

The funding boost is one of the largest developments for the waterfront park since 2014, when the county acquired its 4.1-acre parcel at 7930 Birch Bay Drive.

The park is planned to have six gender-neutral bathrooms, which the Birch

Bay Chamber of Commerce and community members have long advocated for, especially as the bay attracts thousands of people during the Fourth of July and new year celebrations.

Preliminary renderings also show 124 parking stalls that will increase parking in central Birch Bay. There will also be picnic tables, an open field, walking paths and ki-

Park, page 3)

munity feels like they can and are willing to support.”

The committee is expected to make a recommendation to the school board by June 30, Chaplik said. If the board decides to pursue a bond, it would then direct staff to set an election date, with this November being the earliest option.

As part of the discussions, the commit-

too,” Seymour said. “Nobody’s getting out of those vehicles to purchase anything in our town, so it probably requires a detour.”

City Manager Mike Harmon said the city is continuing to work closely with state and local governments for assistance on FIFA and other summer crowds.

Council to hold public meeting on signage upgrades

Councilmember Sarbie Bains introduced the discussion on

tourism signage and wayfinding during the January 26 council meeting. Bains, who owns Blaine Bouquets flower shop at 633 Peace Portal Drive, said the three existing wooden signs welcoming travelers into Blaine need improvement.

Bains recommended to city staff during the February 9 meeting that the signs be repainted to improve their visibility.

“The other option would be, is there any additional signage that we can add under our gateway signs so that people going into our country … can visibly see the community of

Blaine and what the community has to offer?” she asked.

Councilmembers expressed support for improving signage and looking into what improvements can be made to both wayfinding signage along I-5 and the trio of wooden “Blaine Washington/The Peace Arch City” welcome signs near city limits.

“It seems like the community has requested a discussion on this as well,” Mayor Mary Lou Steward said, suggesting a study session in the next meeting. “This would give time for the business community to make proposals, council to figure out proposals and staff to figure out whether any of these would be reasonable at a study session.”

Council voted unanimously to schedule a study session for signage upgrades on Feb. 23, prior to the regular city council meeting.

Council vote on flower baskets stalls out

After a year’s absence from the streets of downtown Blaine, council discussed bringing back the hanging flower baskets along Peace Portal Drive and the downtown side streets.

Council discontinued the program in 2024 due to the rising costs of the baskets and its impact on the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee (BTAC) budget. City staff explored cheaper beautification projects involving smaller hanging baskets, and recently presented council with a $9,504 contract with Pacific Growers for 218 hanging baskets priced at $40 per basket. The quote from Pacific Growers was far cheaper than two other proposals from Van Wingerden and Vander Giessen Nursery, which each quoted $100 or more per basket at prices totalling around $24,000.

The hanging flower baskets are not perennials, and would need to be repurchased every year if approved by council, according to Public Works Program Manager Manroop Kaur.

Council discussed ways to lower costs, ultimately leading to a roll call vote to place baskets only along Peace Portal Drive, roughly two-thirds of what was originally planned. That roll call vote failed to pass with a 3-3 tie (Councilmember Jiggy Sorrell had an excused absence).

After a vote to reduce the scope of the project failed, Councilmember Don Enos motioned to approve the full budget for the flower baskets, but received no second.

WTA grant to fund new crosswalks

Council discussed a $140,000 grant from Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) for multimodal transportation awarded to the city of Blaine, which will go toward creating five high-visibility pedestrian crossings near

Blaine schools.

WTA’s Transit Access Fund provides grants to local and tribal governments for infrastructure projects within a quarter-mile of a WTA bus stop. Grant-funded projects in Ferndale, Lynden and Bellingham are underway, according to WTA.

The five rapid-flashing beacons will be on H Street at the intersections of 6th, 8th and 10th streets; the intersection of D and 8th streets, and on the intersection of Boblett Street and Mitchell Avenue.

The grant will also fund 161 feet of sidewalk improvements along Peace Portal Drive between Clark and Boblett streets.

The WTA board approved the grant on February 5, and funding comes from the state Climate Commitment Act.

s Blaine Councilmember Sarbie Bains prompted discussion on improving signage during the Blaine City Council meeting on February 9. A study session on the topic is scheduled for Monday, February 23.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s A city of Blaine sign at the Marine Drive roundabout on Peace Portal Drive on February 10.

Photo by Nolan Baker

Reykdal makes pitch for spending income tax collections on education

B y a spe N F ord , W a s tate s ta N dard

Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal is calling for the state to use revenue from a newly proposed income tax to pay for public schools and higher education.

He laid out his vision for spending the money on February 5. His proposals come two days after lead Democrats in the House and Senate unveiled legislation that would levy a 9.9 percent tax on personal income over $1 million.

Estimates indicate the tax will

raise around $3.5 billion a year.

Reykdal is calling for over $1.6 billion of new annual spending for education and $1.4 billion in cuts to property taxes – a key source of revenue for schools. Under his proposal, around $350 million in estimated income tax revenue would be left over each year, he said.

Reykdal said he wants to see the income tax approved, even if lawmakers don’t embrace his spending ideas.

“It would make enormous progress for the state,” Reykdal said.

Washington does not currently tax personal salaries or wages.

The income tax bill remains a work in progress. Even assuming lawmakers approve the tax, it will likely face a lawsuit and be put on the ballot for voters to decide. And it’s not expected to generate payments until 2029.

Below is a breakdown of some of the spending Reykdal is advocating for.

K-12 education

The biggest chunk of Reykdal’s proposal, an estimated $861 million annually, would go to funding and expanding basic K-12 education. This includes about $306 million for special education. Cur-

s A design for Blaine Middle School’s renovation project that was part of the district’s

bond proposal, which didn’t meet the 60 percent supermajority threshold needed to pass during the November 2024 election. Image by Zervas Architects / courtesy of Blaine school district

Bond ...

From page 1

tee will review facility improvements that the November 2024 and February 2024 bond proposals had set out to cover, including a $29 million upgrade to Blaine Middle School and $8.4 million upgrade to Pipeline Fields. The bond also would have cov-

ered a $3.1 million roof above the tennis courts and $8 million in miscellaneous improvements, such as primary and elementary school upgrades and work to the future Birch Bay school.

Chaplik said he didn’t want to speculate on how much inflation may have increased the capital project cost estimates since 2024.

“That’s an ongoing challenge, not just for school districts, but

for our citizens as well,” Chaplik said of the inflation. “That’s why we want to be very thoughtful and responsible on behalf of our community and taxpayers to make sure this is something people can get behind and feel good about. Whatever we do will be the community’s facility for years to come.”

Bond supermajority challenges Getting a bond to pass will be

ed parking, public restrooms, and improved amenities will make the shoreline more visitor-friendly and make it easier for everyone to enjoy the bay responsibly and sustainably.”

LTAC’s $1.8 million is in addition to nearly $972,000 from the parks special revenue fund and a $500,000 grant the parks department received last year from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. The available funding now covers $3.27 million, or about 77 percent of the project’s first phase that’s estimated to cost $4.25 million.

rently, special education is funded at around $2 billion a year.

“We are racing towards a constitutional crisis again in basic ed,” Reykdal said.

It’s not the first time Reykdal has made such a warning, suggesting the state could fall out of compliance with a state Supreme Court mandate to ensure ample funding for basic education.

“This is a lack of investment issue,” he added.

Reykdal wants to increase overall education funding to help cover inflationary costs and to expand services, including $150 million

a hurdle for the district. The last bond requests the district put before voters in November 2024 and February 2024 garnered about 55 percent of support each – just short of the needed 60 percent supermajority. In addition, 40 percent of district voters in the previous November general election must participate in the bond election.

Following the November 2024 election, conversations increased around the state about whether a 60 percent supermajority was too high of a bond voting requirement, as Blaine wasn’t the only cash-strapped district that struggled to meet the threshold. Former superintendent Christopher Granger had said 12 out of 14 school district bond measures missed the supermajority mark in November 2024, according to previous reporting in The Northern Light

In January of 2025, Senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) was among state lawmakers to propose Senate Bill 5186 and Senate Resolution 8200, which would amend the state Constitution to lower the passing requirement to 55 percent for school bonds.

Both the bill and resolution

The project has already undergone cost-saving measures. Last year, the $4.25 million for phase one was whittled from $5.25 million, primarily through engineering work that included changing the custom restrooms to become a prefabricated facility. Community funding could bring back enhanced design elements like custom restrooms, Knox said.

Knox said the department is focused on completing the first phase and does not have cost estimates for the entire park, which was anticipated to total $4.4 million in 2016.

for providing access to universal school meals. He’s also looking to direct $147 million from the income tax to a bucket in the state budget that covers school materials, supplies and operating costs. Substitute teachers, transportation and bilingual programs are among the other areas where he’s looking to funnel some of the cash.

Higher education Reykdal stressed the importance of supporting young people pursuing college and other postsecondary degrees. The cost of higher educa(See State, page 9)

were reintroduced during the first day of the Washington Legislative Session on January 12, but Shewmake said she didn’t anticipate the pieces of legislation would pass during this year’s short session. The bill and resolution weren’t moving, she said, and remained in the Senate Rules Committee as of February 11. Shewmake said the change to the state Constitution needs a supermajority in the Senate and the House of Representatives to move forward, but it has reached an impasse without Republican support, despite compromises Democrats proposed.

“I think we’ll be continuing to have these conversations and talking with Republicans on why they should support it,” Shewmake said in an interview from the Senate floor. “I’m really worried about school funding. My top priority is education funding from pre-K to higher education.”

As for Blaine, Chaplik said his goal as superintendent was to better engage Blaine residents in conversations surrounding a bond.

“We want to listen and understand what they are thinking,” he said. “The schools belong to the community.”

From page 1

osk with a bike rack and drinking fountain.

Danielle Gaughen, executive director of the Birch Bay Cham-

ber of Commerce, wrote in an email to The Northern Light that the new funding represented a significant milestone.

“Birch Bay Beach Park is more than just a park – it’s an investment in the community’s future,” Gaughen wrote. “Expand-

Bennett Knox, director of Whatcom County Parks and Recreation, wrote in an email to The Northern Light that the funding would be enough to get the project through its first phase of a bare-bones construction. But to enhance the park’s design, Knox said the parks department is asking the community to help fill the $980,000 needed to reach the park’s $4.25 million goal.

“We do expect to continue to seek additional funds in partnership with the Birch Bay community so that we can provide the best final product,” Knox said.

Over the years, Gaughen has kept a binder full of county meeting notes where the park was mentioned. The $1.8 million LTAC grant represents years of advocacy from the chamber and other dedicated community members, she said.

“Seeing real momentum now is incredibly exciting,” Gaughen said. “The chamber will continue to champion this project and help make connections for Whatcom County parks as they work to secure any additional funding needed to complete the beach park Birch Bay has been waiting for.”

$70 million

s The rendering of the future Birch Bay Beach Park that was submitted with Whatcom County Parks and Recreation's grant application to the state. The site plan may change through the design process. Image courtesy of Bennett Knox / Whatcom County Parks and Recreation

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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Contributors In This Issue

Doug Dahl Gale Fiege Aspen Ford / WA State Standard

Local birding: the northern shoveler OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

As I read complaints posted on a neighborhood social media platform alleging that The Northern Light weekly newspaper shows bias toward Blaine city officials, I have grown increasingly concerned that its journalistic integrity appears to be unfairly characterized. Disagreement with coverage is healthy and expected in a civic community, but claims of bias should be grounded in specific, verifiable examples rather than dissatisfaction with outcomes or editorial judgment.

In contentious local matters, particularly those involving environmental or public records issues, some accusations may arise from heightened risk interpretation rather than confirmed facts. Strong language and repeated assertions online can create an impression of certainty that the available evidence does not support.

A simple safeguard can help readers navigate these disputes. Not every warning sign is proof. Not every interpretation is evidence. And not every procedural disagreement signals misconduct. Readers who follow extended post threads should also review primary documents and seek independent verification before drawing conclusions.

I value having a local paper that covers city government and community issues, and I appreciate the work involved in doing so. I also look forward to seeing the paper continue to serve the community well under its new ownership.

Steven Colson

Birch Bay

The Editor:

I write in response to Sharman Burnam’s letter. I honor your choice to support Donald Trump. It is certainly your right and

privilege. Since you offered few specifics about Trump’s “real results,” allow me to offer some more.

Trump campaigned to deport “the worst of the worst” illegals. However, only five percent arrested have had violent criminal convictions, according to the Cato Institute. Meanwhile, 170 American citizens were improperly detained in 2025; others, including Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were recently shot under possibly criminal pretenses. Trump and his minions have blamed the victims.

He also campaigned on taking revenge against his political enemies, and to do that he needed a compliant FBI and Department of Justice to do his bidding, breaking their long tradition of independence.

Trump claims he is a man of faith, so he might remember Matthew 5:43-46 about loving his enemies. His Big Beautiful Bill slashed SNAP and food assistance funds for the poor and hungry to give tax breaks to billionaires. You might urge him to reread Matthew 25:31-46 about feeding the poor.

Article 1, Section 9 of the Constitution grants the House of Representatives the sole authority to issue revenue and other bills. Trump has repeatedly withheld congressionally approved funds or diverted them to other purposes. He has thereby violated his Oath of Office to “preserve, protect and defend” the Constitution.

Trump has alienated our allies with quixotic tariffs and threatens U.S. support for NATO, the primary architecture of American security since WWII. Many European countries, and Canada, are now reaching out to China, our supposed enemy, and boycotting American-made products.

Trump ordered the purge of watchdogs in the government and gutted the Depart-

Vol XXXI, No 34

Circulation: 11,000 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Town halls typically at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday meeting each month. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee: Typically the last Thursday of each month, 6 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Updated meeting info: bit.ly/3QmWVcX.

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 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 6 p.m. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

The northern shoveler (Spatula clypeata) dabbling duck is easily recognized by its shovel-shaped bill. Males in breeding plumage are colorful with their white chest, green head and light blue on their wings. Females, as in this photo, are mottled brown. Look for shovelers in shallow ponds in local fields during the winter.

ment of Justice’s Public Integrity Section. I agree our history shows widespread government pay-to-play corruption almost from the beginning, and many allege Trump is following that tradition, not the reforms he has promised.

Finally, words don’t matter, actions do. Watch what Trump does, not what he says.

Bob Schober Blaine

The Editor:

It was with unexpected shock that I actually read a supportive letter regarding President Trump.

I agree 100 percent with Sharman Burnam of Birch Bay regarding the positive changes President Trump has brought to our country.

I rarely, or never, see a supportive article about President Trump in the Seattle Times, which I read every day, or The Northern Light, which seems to support my belief that there isn’t fair and balanced treatment of him, or conservative views, in Washington state.

I hope that this will change, which will better serve the people.

Christine Gerhardt

Semiahmoo

The Editor:

Reading the article about the de-annexation and the paper noting that the proposal received 64 percent of voter support is somewhat misleading. While there were 1,310 votes in support of the measure, that

(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.

Port of Bellingham: First and third Tuesday, 4 p.m., Port of Bellingham Harbor Center, 1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. 146, in Bellingham and via Zoom. Info: portofbellingham.com.

Photo by Nancy K. Crowell / La Conner Community News

total is actually only 25 percent of all registered voters in Blaine. With 2,000 votes cast in all, the proposal is about 40 percent of the registered voters in Blaine. While we don’t know what or how those who didn’t vote felt about the proposal, how the paper presents the argument to de-annex failed to look at that full picture.

Why did so many people choose not to vote? Wouldn’t the paper be curious to pursue that fact? On the part of non-voters, was it ‘Why bother?’ Or, ‘I don’t care,’ or what? Why did the paper just ignore the fact that 60 percent didn’t vote?

It’s my hope that with the new publisher that The Northern Light will actually shed light on the incomplete and inaccurate offerings of the city management that continue to appear within its pages, and not add to that.

Treat the city like you do the Port of Bellingham and the border. Put it under a microscope. It’s time for this paper to actually shed some light for our community for it to live up to its name.

Ray Leone Blaine

The Editor:

With all due respect to Sharman Burnam’s efforts at communication, I still have issues with Mr. Trump. Grocery prices have not gone down, likewise with many other products. High prices are due to the tariffs on imported products, which the American people are paying. Importers simply add the tariff quotient to the price of their product. Why else are American food banks finding it so difficult to provide for their clients?

Our 200-year-old fraternal relationship with Canada has been destroyed. This is evident by the significant loss of business in Blaine and to its tax base. Mr. Trump has also reintroduced the concept of imperialism from the 1800s: Greenland, Venezuela, Mexico and Cuba. He has successfully destabilized the balance of NATO, the WHO, and our own Department of Health and Human Services. He has cut off U.S. food supplies to third world nations. We are no longer a shining beacon to the rest of the world.

I concede that there is a need for ICE but cannot support the aggressive manner in which it carries out its mission.

Mr. Trump did not “overwhelmingly,” as Ms. Burnam put it, win the election. Only 65 percent of qualified voters went to the polls, and he won 50 percent to Harris’ 48 percent. This is not exactly a “mandate of the people” as he claims as only 32.5 percent of qualified voters supported him.

Quite frankly, Trump lacks the gravitas necessary of a president and I cannot follow a leader like he is.

Richard Mollette Custer

The Editor:

In 1620, the immigrant white Christian Pilgrims came to the lands of the Wampanoag in search of religious freedom. The native people had already called this territory home for up to 10,000 years. Within 50 years of their landing, the Pilgrim’s offspring had broken a treaty, killed over 3,000 native people, stolen their land and made slaves of many of the survivors.

Now let’s look at what Trump’s immigrant ICE policies have brought on Americans and the U.S. Constitution. Threatening anyone who disagrees with him, attacks by ICE in cities and states that disagree with him, the murder and harassment of Black and brown men, women and children, and the murder of protesting white citizens by ICE. All under direct orders of the White House. All this by a man who is a convicted felon and never punished for his crimes. Trump once said he could shoot someone in the middle of Fifth Avenue and wouldn’t lose any voters. Well, he has reached his goal, except it happened in Minneapolis.

Trump and Vance are moldable pawns for Steven Miller and his white nationalist Project 2025.

The project’s goal is to create chaos, which Trump is an expert at doing. While we’re all distracted, they’re stealing the government and turning America away from democracy and into a white theocracy. Regardless of your race, your constitutionally guaranteed civil rights will be gone, your hard-won rights as a woman will be gone, our working relationships with countries other than fascist-led countries will be gone, and our neighbors throughout North and South America will be targeted for domination. Is this the country and the world you want for your family? Please, read Project 2025 and then answer that question.

Time is against us, and voting in November has never been more critical. Don’t let Trump, the Congress and the Supreme Courtiers steal your Democracy. We really are in the same pickle as the Wampanoag 400 years ago.

Cathy Taggett Blaine

The Editor:

“To hell with letting go of the pain” It echoes in my soul’s deep core, It’s like a reluctant whisper, furious roar, Against the urge to let go.

I’ve been told that time heals, A soothing sting, but the pain clings, It’s a living thing. Letting go, not me! To surrender to just memories, To embrace the empty. This pain is sharp, It tells me all that has been lost, A whole lot of love, No matter the cost.

I find that clinging, It has a strength untold, A refusal to let this story unfold, Putting it away. No, this pain is held close, It will stay.

CITY OF BLAINE MAINTENANCE WORKER

SUMMER SEASONAL – TEMPORARY

$20 per hour – No Benefits

Applications are being accepted for multiple seasonal maintenance workers with the City’s Public Works Department. This is a temporary position that will last up to five months. The seasonal maintenance worker position requires a high level of personal integrity while providing fast, friendly and effective customer service.

Duties for these positions may include but are not limited to: performing routine tasks such as weed-eating, raking, mowing, shoveling and other means of mechanical vegetation control; litter pick-up; pothole patching, pavement striping; building and other public facility repair and maintenance; traffic control in a work zone of a city right of way; cleaning and painting of fire hydrants and/or roadway curbs; trail repair and maintenance; performing other assigned duties of an equally complex nature.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa?

Up to two positions to start immediately, the remainder to start between April and June. The position is open until filled.

To hell with letting go of the pain. For I desperately ache, The echoes of the past remain, A bittersweet reminder, A rawness to my crying like rain. With these tears, Are the whispered fears. So, let the pain linger, A constant burning flame, A symbol of acceptance, Of your cherished name. For I will embrace the sorrow, A truer version, One of a kind, To hell with letting go of the pain. Julie Hanft

Blaine

CITY

February 12, 2026 4:30 PM – Study Session: Planning Commission 6:00 PM – Planning Commission Meeting

February 16, 2026 Offices Closed –Presidents Day

February 23, 2026 1:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.

the

Manager, Assistant General Manager, Board of Directors and other committees. For job description,

summary and to apply, visit Prothman at www.prothman.com. Questions: 206-368-0050. BBVCC is an EOE. Apply by 3/1/26. (First review, open until filled.)

Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com

spOrts

Wrestling sends crowd to state, bowling places top 10 in WA

B y N ola N B aker

It was an eventful week for Borderite winter sports, with boys wrestling earning a district title and girls bowling claiming 10th place at the state tournament in Tukwila on Tuesday.

Boys wrestling

Blaine boys wrestling earned the District 1 1A championship on Saturday, February 7, with seven wrestlers earning first place in their respective weight classes. Blaine scored 276 team points, blowing out runners-up Mt. Baker, which scored 198.

Of the 20 wrestlers who participated in the district tournament for Blaine, 17 qualified for the state tournament, with one alternate bringing the total to 18 wrestlers headed to the Tacoma Dome for Mat Classic XXXVII.

Noxx Briner, Chris Zamudio, Cole Voigt, Sam Saia, Matt Campion, Rys Milligan and Sam Green all earned first place. Head Coach Tom Hinz called the success across the board for the Borderites “an exceptional accomplishment.”

“They’re all driven young men that have come together and worked really hard throughout the season,” Hinz said. “They’ve really grown and from the beginning of the season to right now have improved so much.”

With a team so deep and with talent ranging from 106-pounders to 285-pound heavyweights, Hinz credited his coaching staff for being able to assist each and every wrestler, no matter the style of play and weight class. He specifically mentioned assistant coach Mike Magnussen, who won state championships while wrestling lightweight at Blaine, for help coaching lightweight wrestlers.

“Me and Mikey are just two great friends that do great coaching, but we’re able to coach two different styles,” Hinz said before mentioning a host of other assistant coaches and volunteers who helped the Borderites sustain their success.

“It’s the strength of our community. It’s the support of our community,” Hinz said. “We’re really well supported in our community financially and our guys know it. We get to travel a lot and go to tough tournaments. We’ve been all over the place this year and seen everybody around the state. That really helps when we get to districts because we’ve been around and we’ve grown and put in the hard work.”

The preliminary rounds of the boys 1A state tournament begin at 8 a.m. Friday, February 20 at the Tacoma Dome. The boys 1A finals will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, February 21.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at wiaa.com/tickets with two-day passes available for $39 ($26 for students, seniors and military) and single-day tickets for $23 ($16 for students, seniors and military).

Results provided by trackwrestling.com

Girls wrestling

Blaine girls wrestling is sending six athletes to the state tournament on Friday, February 20

at the Tacoma Dome, along with four alternates hoping for an opportunity to compete as well.

Kiera O’Reilly, Lyah Sandell, Gurnoor Gill, Sophia Ferrell, Ella Jo Klander and Jasmine Delo-Santos all earned top-two finishes in their divisions and bids in the tournament. Nevaeh Taylor, Taylor Estes, Tallyn Zayn Bleak and Leah Salinas will go to Tacoma as alternates, and could get on the mat with a chance at a state championship if another wrestler of the same weight class drops out.

At the District 1 1B/2B/1A tournament on February 7 at Squalicum, the Borderites finished in third place with 139 team points and four wrestlers made it to their respective first-place matches.

With the Mat Classic up next, Head Coach Damon Higgins said he wants the team to focus on being grateful for the opportunity ahead of them, understand the stress and pressures of wrestling, and to be fully present by the time they get on the mat. As Higgins is quick to point out, that can be a tall order for high school athletes.

“Being grateful for something isn’t, ‘Oh look at me, lucky me,’” Higgins said. “It’s, ‘I know that if I work hard, continue my training and dedicate myself to the sport I’ve put myself in a better situation to succeed.’”

The stress of a massive tournament in a daunting environment such as the Tacoma Dome is not lost on Higgins, who said he focuses on how his wrestlers respond to those big moments.

“We’ve talked about acknowledging the stress, acknowledging the pressure, and instead of ruminating on it, say, ‘It’s there, what do I do? How do I prepare?’” Higgins said. “And we trust in our training, we go back to our fundamentals. We concentrate on the things that have gotten us here.”

It’s a strong message, and one that Higgins said he’s been able to communicate to a relatively young team thanks to the help of his two captains: seniors Keira O’Reilly and Leah Salinas. The pair have had stellar senior seasons, and will both have a chance

to see the mat, with O’Reilly qualified for state and Salinas in as an alternate.

“They’re present. That’s what I’ve asked of them, to be present on the mat,” Higgins said.

“They’re still students. They have classwork and relationships and parents and the stress of everything else. But once you step on the mat, you have to be present, 100 percent ready to go.”

Preliminary rounds of the girls

1B/2B/1A Mat Classic XXXVII begin at 8 a.m. Friday, February 20. The final round will begin 8 a.m. Saturday, February 21.

Tickets for the event are at wiaa. com/tickets with two-day passes available for $39 ($26 for students, seniors and military) and single-day tickets for $23 ($16 for students, seniors and military).

Results provided by trackwrestling.com

Girls bowling

It’s been a whirlwind two weeks for Blaine girls bowling. A come-from-behind victory to win the District 1 2A/1A champion-

ship on January 28 in Ferndale preceded a seven-athlete group earning its way to the 2A/1A state championships on February 10 in Tukwila.

The Borderites finished the season as district champions, 1A academic state champions for the team’s success in the lanes and in the classroom, and 10th overall in the 12-team state finals.

Ainslee Ellis, Mackenzie Schreiner, Danika Morecombe, Thora Engen and Nevaeh Zaddack each placed in the top-75 in a field of 105 athletes, and Della Cochran and Olivia Carlson-Vega earned spots as alternates.

It was Blaine’s second consecutive state appearance and second consecutive district championship.

Head Coach Matt McAuley said this team has a tight culture and camaraderie built over years of playing together.

“There’s a great team feel. They want to be around each other and spending time with each other,” McAuley said. “They’re friends off the lanes as well. They talk to

each other. They hang out with each other. That friend aspect of the team is important.”

Seniors Engen, Schreiner and Ellis bowled their final match for the Borderites at the state tournament, and McAuley said the emotions ran high during those final frames.

“It was bittersweet,” McAuley said. “It was great seeing them get to bowl at state, but knowing that was their last match they’d be bowling for Blaine was hard because our whole team is going to miss them.”

McAuley said this year’s team was unique because of its depth of talent, close-knit culture, and the camaraderie of teammates who have competed side by side, season after season, welcoming new players with open arms.

“We have people who can step up and bowl really well,” McAuley said. “It was just a great team, and they each cheered each other on so well, and really lifted each other up.”

s From top; Blaine girls bowling celebrates winning the District 1A championships on January 28. The team finished 10th in the 1A/2A state championships on February 10. Blaine boys wrestling celebrates winning the District 1 1A championship on February 7. Blaine boys and girls wrestling teams combined will send over 20 wrestlers to the state championships in Tacoma on February 20.

Photos courtesy of Blaine Athletics

Health & Wellness

Symptoms of common heart conditions

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death around the world, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Globally, CVDs were responsible for around 19 million deaths in 2022. In the U.S., heart disease affects around 128 million adults. Learning to recognize symptoms of potential heart conditions can ensure people know when to take action that may prevent further problems down the road.

Heart conditions can present in many ways, and symptoms of various conditions can overlap. This general guide, based on data from the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic, serves as a warning and not a diagnosis. Those with any sudden, severe or “not right” symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention.

• Coronary artery disease: CAD can result in chest pain (angina), often with exertion. Shortness of breath, fatigue and pain that may radiate to the arm, jaw, neck or back are possible.

Did you know?

The hormone cortisol can affect individuals’ vulnerability to heart disease.

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, (URMC) cortisol is released as part of the human body’s natural response to stress. Though cortisol is not inherently harmful, the URMC reports that studies have suggested high levels of cortisol resulting from long-term

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack): A heart attack can produce different symptoms in men and women, so it’s best to treat any out-of-the-ordinary signs with caution. Intense chest pressure or squeezing; pain spreading to arms, jaw, back or stomach; shortness of breath; nausea; cold sweats, lightheadedness; fatigue; or back pain merit medical attention.

• Heart failure: Those experiencing heart failure may have persistent shortness of breath; swelling in legs, feet or abdomen; rapid weight gain from fluid retention; fatigue; and difficulty lying flat due to breathing trouble.

• Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat): Irregular heartbeat can lead to palpitations or fluttering of the heart; dizziness or fainting; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; and fatigue.

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib): AFib is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that starts in the heart’s upper chambers. It can cause fast heartbeat; fatigue; shortness of breath; dizziness;

stress can increase blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar and blood pressure. Such increases elevate individuals’ risk for heart disease. Various studies have found that acute stress can have a positive impact, providing motivation to accomplish goals and overcome daily challenges. However, individuals with chronic stress are urged to speak with their physicians so they can avoid the adverse outcomes, including heart disease, that can develop when individuals have high levels of cortisol related to long-term stress.

and chest discomfort.

Heart conditions can lead to a variety of symptoms, many of which will overlap. For a thorough diagnosis, it is best to first see a primary care physician, who may then refer patients to a cardiologist.

Roma Nagin,

Zafir Khan,

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Judith C. Jansen, Deceased. NO. 264-00051-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets.

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: February 5, 2026

Administrator:

Andrew S. Lee Flat B, 11th Floor, Glenealy Building 7 Gleanealy Central, Hong Kong

Attorney for Administrator: GENISSA M. RICHARDSON, WSBA #56339 and address for mailing or service:

True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934

Bellingham, WA 98227

Court of probate proceedings:

Whatcom County Superior Court and cause number: Cause No. 26-4-00036-37

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: January 29, 2026

Personal Representative: Richard Jansen 2273 Gardiner Drive Ferndale, WA 98248

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. 26-4-00051-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Janet Starkenburg, Deceased. NO. 26-4-00056-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal

Date of First Publication: February 5, 2026

Personal Representative: Jackie Schoonover 863 Saint Andrews Way Bellingham, WA 98229

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. 26-4-00056-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHNNY DEAN BALL (AKA JOHN BALL), Deceased. No. 26-4-00067-37.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery

The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise 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: January 26, 2026 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: February 5, 2026

Name of Administrator:

JENNIFER COTA

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 January 26, 2026

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S.

STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY

IN Re: THE ESTATE OF BRUCE STUART PFEIFFER AND DONNA PATRICIA PFEIFFER, Deceased. NO. 25-4-0094737. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.070)

The co-Personal Representatives named below have been appointed and have qualified as co-Personal Representatives 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 (a) serving on or mailing to the co-Personal Representatives or the co-Personal Representatives’ attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and (b) filing of the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced.

The claim must be presented with in the later of: (1) thirty (30) days after the co-Personal Representatives have served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four (4) months after the date of the first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented with in 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 non-probate assets.

DATE OF FILING WITH CLERK OF COURT: 01/21/2026

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: 01/29/2026

co-Personal Representatives: Katherine E. Pfeiffer and Jeffrey B. Pfeiffer

Address for Service: 113 W. Chestnut St. Bellingham, WA 98225 Attorney For Katherine E. Pfeiffer as co-Personal Representative: Mark D. Nusz, WSBA #50905 COURT OF PROBATE PROCEEDING AND CAUSE NUMBER: WHATCOM COUNTY SUPERIOR

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: JAMES E. HICKS, Deceased. No. 264-00066-37. Probate NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Assigned Judge: Evan P. Jones

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 Clerk of this Court. 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 (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). 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.

1. Date probate opened: January 23, 2026

2. Date Notice to Creditors filed: January 23, 2026

3. Date of first publication: February 5, 2026

4. Date Creditor Claim Period Closes: June 5, 2026

Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688 Lynden, WA 98264-0688 Tel. (360) 354-5021

Personal Representative: KRISTY KAY MECK NOTICE TO CREDITORS

From page 3

tion is the largest barrier, he said. He proposed $760 million to fund two years of college tuition or other technical or trade programs.

“Despite historic investments in financial aid for very low-income people, that’s not the bulk of folks who seek this support,” he said.

Dual credits

The proposal also calls for $57 million to fund college-level courses that high school students enroll in. Over a million Washingtonians have some college credit, but no degree. This funding would advance the state closer to its goal of 70 percent of adults ages 22 to 44 having a postsecondary credential.

Property tax

Reykdal proposed cutting $1.4 billion in property taxes a year for the first $300,000 of home ownership. As is, property taxes fund public schools, but Reykdal sees the income tax proposal as an opportunity to trade out funding mechanisms and save money for working-class families.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

Love.

Lee Bowe Company

He said there’s time to work out where money from the income tax would go, but urged the state to “do something radically different” and “invest in a way that has never ever been done.”

Washington State Standard is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Washington State Standard maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Bill Lucia for questions: info@washingtonstatestandard.com.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: ANNETTE H. LYON, Deceased. No. 254-00837-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery. The Person named below has been appointed as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: February 12, 2026, with the Clerk of Court

Date of First Publication: February 12, 2026

Name of Administrator: Irene Abbott

Attorney for Administrator: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Address for Mailing or Service: True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227

P: (360) 639-3393

E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com

DATED: February 6, 2026

True North Legal Services, PLLC

Attorney for Administrator:

Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of John Hartman Hodge, Deceased. NO. 26-4-00070-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

Date of First Publication: February 12, 2026

Personal Representative: Carol B. Hodge 8 Place des Allées 33490 Verdelais, France

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. 26-4-00070-37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: PATRICIA ANN DAVIS, Deceased. No. 26-4-00092-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery. The Person named below has been appointed as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: February 12, 2026, with the Clerk of Court

Date of First Publication: February 12, 2026

Name of Administrator: Donald Joseph McDowell III

Attorney for Administrator:

Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Address for Mailing or Service:

True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227

P: (360) 639-3393

E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com

DATED: February 6, 2026

True North Legal Services, PLLC

Attorney for Administrator:

Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Gail Ann (Gibbons) Shriner

November 10, 1943 – February 4, 2026

Gail Ann (Gibbons) Shriner was born in Colorado on November 10, 1943. Her father was a serviceman, and she and her mother moved to San Francisco, CA until her father came home from the war. After discharge, Gail’s father took a post as a prison guard, and Gail was one of the children housed on Alcatraz Island in family housing.

The family moved to Del Rio, TX and Gail spent her elementary school years in Texas, moving to Kettle Falls, WA in 1957. There she met Dennis Shriner and they married on June 30, 1962. They lived in Washington State and raised their two daughters in Vancouver and Spokane. Gail’s parents and brother lived in Blaine and Ferndale from 1962.

Gail began volunteering at the Museum of Native American Culture in Spokane in 1986, and continued to volunteer, both at museums and even as a talk radio host in Massachusetts. Dennis and Gail relocated to Ghana, Africa in 1991 and spent four years as ex-pats, during which time they made many life-long friends. They bought their house in Birch Bay in 2003, moving permanently in 2005. The Birch Bay Bible Community Church became an extended family for them, and Gail volunteered at the church and other local organizations.

Gail was predeceased by her parents Glen and Virginia Gibbons, brother Gary Gibbons, and daughter Lisa Marie Shenk. She is survived by her husband Dennis Shriner and daughter Jodi Andersson, and grandchildren.

There will be a memorial service for Gail at on Monday, February 16, 1 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: NICOLE-HELENE JONES, Deceased. No. 25-4-0126337. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030

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 notice was not provided under RCW Chapters 11.40 or 11.42, the creditor must present the claim within twenty-four months after the decedent’s date of death. 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 non probate assets.

Notice of First Publication: Jan. 29, 2026

Personal Representative: Jacqueline Flaget, Presented by: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Casie Rodenberger, WSBA #54348 Attorney

sheriff’s repOrts

January 27, 10:36 a.m.: Welfare check on Holeman Avenue.

January 27, 11:11 a.m.: Civil problem cold call on E. Shoreview Road.

January 27, 11:39 a.m.: Theft cold call on Valley View Road.

January 27, 1:23 p.m.: Assist agency on Stein Road.

January 27, 2:00 p.m.: Threat on Birch Bay Drive.

January 27, 2:14 p.m.: Warrant arrest on 2nd Street.

January 27, 2:59 p.m.: Civil problem on Henley Street.

January 28, 8:08 a.m.: Extra patrol on Birch Bay Drive.

January 28, 11:41 a.m.: Assist citizen on Birch Bay Drive.

January 28, 12:20 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

January 28, 3:47 p.m.: DUI arrest on Legion Drive.

January 28, 4:00 p.m.: Civil problem on Portal Way.

January 28, 9:01 p.m.: Mental health check on Pipeline Road.

January 29, 2:23 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on

Sunset Drive.

January 29, 5:03 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Harborview Road.

January 29, 5:13 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Anderson Road.

January 29, 7:56 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Cody Road.

January 30, 3:37 a.m.: Death investigation on Yvonne Way.

January 30, 7:32 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Fir Tree Lane.

January 30, 3:28 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Valley View Road.

January 30, 4:51 p.m.: Assist agency on Nakat Way.

January 30, 6:52 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident blocking on Helweg Road.

January 30, 11:01 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

January 31, 12:22 a.m.: Vandalism on D Street.

January 31, 7:25 a.m.: Civil problem on Blaine Road.

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Breezed through 5. Consumer protection agency

8. Criminal syndicate

11. Moves back from

13. Satisfaction

14. Feel concern or interest

15. Monetary units

16. Congressman (abbr.)

17. Israeli city

18. Restaurants

20. 2,000 lbs.

21. Grandmother

22. North, South and Central

25. In an early way

30. Foes

31. Social networking platform

32. Early term for basketball player

33. Another name for sesame plant

38. Disallow

41. Provide greater detail

43. Inaccessible

45. Evoke emotions

47. Ancient kingdom

near Dead Sea

49. Celtic punk rockers

50. A fencing sword

55. Actor Idris

56. Affirmative (slang)

57. Afflicted in mind or body

59. One point north of northeast 60. Born of 61. Social media hand gesture

62. Hong Kong food stall __ pai dong

63. Opposite of beginning 64. Email function DOWN 1. Sign language 2. Fashionable 3. Borough in Helsinki

4. Inability to hear 5. More quickly 6. An idea accepted as a demonstrable truth

7. Shrewdly 8. Rooney and Kate

are two 9. Mediterranean port 10. Benedictine monk 12. Midway between south and southeast 14. Town in Galilee 19. Satisfy 23. Mice genus 24. Brass instrument 25. Chest muscle (slang) 26. Transmits genetic information from DNA 27. Records electric currents generated by the brain

28. Woman (French) 29. Short route aircraft

34. Pitching statistic 35. Pointed end of a pen

36. Popular sports league

37. Body part 39. Inoffensive 40. Yellowish cotton cloth 41. Feline

January 31, 5:49 p.m.: Welfare check on Burk Road.

January 31, 8:38 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Highland Drive.

February 1, 9:43 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Creasey Road.

February 1, 9:49 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Creasey Road.

February 1, 10:15 a.m.: Forgery cold call on Henley Street.

February 1, 9:08 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Birch Bay Drive.

February 2, 9:49 a.m.: Death investigation on Yvonne Way.

February 2, 11:50 a.m.: Hit and run cold call on Sunrise Road.

February 2, 6:21 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Terrace Lane.

February 2, 9:05 p.m.: Drugs on Birch Terrace Lane.

February 2, 9:44 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Giles Road.

For a complete list of WCSO reports, visit whatcomcounty.us/2120/Activity-Reports.

42. Does not tell the truth

44. Seduced

45. Spiritual leader

46. Abba __, Israeli politician

47. Repair

48. Olive genus

51. Swiss river

52. Prejudice

53. C. European river

54. Keep under control

58. Father

THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

tides

February 12-18 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Coming up

Garden Design 101: Thursdays beginning February 12, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. Expanded four-class series discussing how to look at a yard with the eyes of a landscape designer. Presentation will cover hardscape assessments, materials, integration with homes and/or views, sunlight observations, air flow and other major landscaping decisions. Guest instructor, Cheryl Niles from WSU Extension, will join. Info: nwcore.org.

‘80s Dance Party: Saturday, February 14, 7:30–9 p.m., Blaine Pavilion, 635 8th Street. A Valentine’s Day dance party where attendees are invited to dress in ’80s style with big hair and dance the night away. 18+ and $20/person. Childcare available. Tickets available at eventbrite.com or at the door. Info: call/text 360/6566416. Sponsored by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Community Dinner: Thursday, February 19, 5:30–7 p.m., Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy dinner, community and connections. Free. Donations accepted. Info: call/text 360/656-6416. Books and Bites: Friday, February 20, 1 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. February title: “Lovers in Auschwitz” by Keren Blankfeld. Info: wcls.org.

Blaine Community Theater “Closer to Home”: Friday and Saturday, February 20-21 and 27-28, 7 p.m., and Sunday, February 22 and March 1, 2 p.m., Blaine High School black box theater (enter behind Borderite Stadium). Written by local playwright Laura Williams French. Tickets: adults $18, seniors/veterans/students $15 and children $12 available at blainecommunitytheater.com or at the door.

Backstage @ the Border presents The Masked Bandits: Saturday, February 21, 7–9 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street. Featuring Kelley Porter, Susan Thomson, Peter Smith with special guest April Thomson. Join in singing some favorite songs, enjoying homemade goodies and coffee. Raffles with quilts. All money raised will go to Loads of Love Laundry Program. $10 suggested donation at the door (no one is turned away). Info: backstageattheborder.com.

Genealogy Workshop: Monday, February 23, 2–5 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Free. Info: 425/345-2979. Blaine Senior Center Book Club: Thursday, February 26, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. February title: “Cold Victory” by Karl Marlantes. Info: wcls.org. Ongoing

Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Monday, 9 a.m.–noon; Wednesday, 5–7 p.m.; and Friday, 9 a.m.–noon. Info: 360/3326350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.

The Bridge Food Bank: Friday, 2:30 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: Monday and Friday, 9 a.m.–noon, and Wednesday, 5–7 p.m., at 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is 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 Community/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, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Thursday and Saturday, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com.

Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Monday at 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.

Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.

Blaine Senior Center Book Club: Last Thursday of the month, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. Info: wcls.org.

Celebrate Recovery: Every Wednesday, Northwood Chapel, 580 C Street. Dinner by donation at 5:30 p.m. and 12-step program for hurts, habits and hangups at 6 p.m.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of February 2 to 8, 0.9 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2026 year-to-date precipitation record is 5.6 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 61°F on February 4 with a low of 36.6°F on February 5. Average high was 55.9°F and average low was 41°F.

Blaine Arts Council: Meets second Thursday, 6:30 p.m., at Blaine Community/Senior Center, 763 G Street. Meeting is open to the public. The council promotes, cultivates and supports the arts in order to enrich the lives of the community through creativity with a variety of cultural events, education and shows. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.

Birch Bay-Blaine Toastmasters: Wednesday, 6:30–7:45 p.m., Blaine High School, 1055 H Street, room 104. Develop confidence and have fun while speaking for work or pleasure. Info: Contact Laura at 206/660-5958 or agelesslaura@gmail.com.

Tech Help: Tuesday and Thursday, 3–4 p.m, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in for one-on-one assistance from library staff. Info: wcls.org.

Crafting Community: Meets second Monday, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in with arts and crafts and spend some time creating alongside other crafters. Stitch, hook, paint, draw, all while connecting with others. Info: wcls.org.

Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Art, language and origin stories meet at Tidelands Gallery

B y G ale F ie G e , special to

d a FF odil p ress

Nationally-known portrait photographer Matika Wilbur, of the Swinomish and Tulalip tribes, just opened another extraordinary exhibit at her Tidelands gallery near the Seattle waterfront.

Wilbur and 14 other regional native artists offer a stunning show of art embodying the cultural creation stories, as told primarily by the 13 Coast Salish tribes who speak the Lushootseed language.

The stories are histories of how the land, the waters, the animals and the first peoples came to be, Wilbur said.

A 2002 graduate of La Conner High School and an alumna of the Brooks Institute of Photography, Wilbur is perhaps best known for her book “Project 562” and for co-hosting the podcast “All My Relations.”

Project 562 began in 2012 when Wilbur traveled across the country with the goal of photographing members of all U.S. tribes. Shortly after the culminating book was published in 2023, Wilbur and her family opened the gallery just off the busy Seattle waterfront tourist area. The first gallery exhibit focused on Wilbur’s

project portraits.

The current exhibition opens with an introduction:

“Our people have lived here since the beginning of time. We understand ourselves as children of the land, taught how to live in balance, in health, and in relationship. Our wealth does not come from what we own, but from what we share.”

In the spirit of sharing, the exhibit opened Feb. 7 with song and readings, much of it spoken in Lushootseed, with reminders that the language and the creation stories nearly disappeared when children were taken to residential schools and the U.S. government enacted laws that prevented tribes from participating in traditional gatherings and activities.

If you visit the gallery, be sure to read all the posted creation stories, written for the exhibit by Amber Hayward of the Puyallup Tribe.

At the heart of the stories is the Changer or Transformer, who shaped the mountains, the rivers and the people, marking the beginning of the first people to inhabit Western Washington.

The art work includes carvings, paintings, a quilt, photos and a cedar rope.

Peter Boome of the Upper Skagit Tribe shows a large mu-

ral painting of Thunder Child, a spirit who came to live on Earth and rode in on a bolt of lightning.

Wilbur’s photo-painting is of Old Bull Frog Lady, who cares for one of the first babies, part of the story of the sisters who descended to the land on a braided cedar-bark rope.

Wilbur’s aunt Judy Gobin of Tulalip, a fiber artist, crafted a representation of the rope for the exhibit.

“Tidelands is a space where native people can tell our stories and celebrate our language,” Wilbur said. “Our art work is relevant in our society today. We need kinship structures with all brown people. For future generations, we need to fight back against systems of oppression.”

Gale Fiege is a retired newspaper journalist who lives near La Conner.

If you go

Lushootseed Creation

Stories art exhibition

11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday – Saturday through July 22 Tidelands Gallery, 55 University St., Seattle thisistidelands.com 206/453-1011

Road Rules: Orange you glad you know

B y d ou G d ahl

Question: Road signs in construction zones are orange. Aside from color, some look like ‘mandatory’ black-and-white signs, while others look like the yellow ‘advisory’ cautionary and warning signs. So, are orange signs (such as speeds) advisory or mandatory, or do they vary by shape or such?

Answer: We’re going to kick this off with a trivia question: How many colors are in the color code for highway signs? The answer is in the next sentence, so if you want to make a guess, stop reading now. Okay, the correct answer is 13, but if you guessed 11 I’d give it to you because two of the colors are “reserved for future designation.” Bonus points if you can name the two colors. Unless you’re a traffic engineer, or you wrote this chapter of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), you’re probably making a wild guess, so who guessed coral and light blue?

All of these colors (except coral and light blue, at the moment) serve an important purpose. Before you can ever read a sign, you can see its color. Right away, you know what’s essential and what you might choose to disregard.

If you don’t need food, gas or a place to sleep, you aren’t interested in tourist attractions, and you’re not in the middle of an evacuation, you can safely ignore the blue signs. But black-and-white signs? Ignore those at your peril. They’re the ones with the rules.

Orange signs are used for temporary traffic control. They func-

tion a lot like cautionary yellow signs, but are only used when the need is temporary, like during construction, maintenance, utility work or an unplanned incident (more on that in a bit).

Although they’re typically warning signs, like letting you know a lane is ending or advising a slower speed, they might also provide guidance, like directing you to a detour route. Similar to yellow signs, temporary traffic control signs are advisory. However, they can be paired with regulatory signs; for example, an orange work zone plaque mounted above a blackand-white speed limit sign.

The key characteristic of orange signs is they’re temporary. If you see an orange sign ahead, that’s a clue to get ready for something different from the usual. You might still see yellow warning signs, like an advisory speed, in a temporary traffic zone. A yellow warning would only need to be replaced by an orange one if it isn’t appropriate during the temporary traffic changes; in our example the yellow advisory speed may be too fast in a construction zone.

The color code isn’t just for signs. You’ve probably noticed that traffic cones, drums and barricades are orange too. That’s a requirement of the MUTCD when used for temporary traffic control. The takeaway here is that when you see orange, know things aren’t the norm, so be alert to changes in your route. Except …

In an unplanned event that affects the normal flow of traffic, like a crash, natural disaster, hazardous material spill or other emergency response, the signs might be pink.

(Orange signs are allowed if pink ones aren’t available.) If you see pink warning signs, know that in addition to a change in traffic flow ahead, responders had minimal time to make decisions about signs and routes. Things might be even more complicated and chaotic than in a scheduled construction project where planners had plenty of time to determine the best way to redirect traffic.

Although orange (and pink) signs aren’t regulatory, those colors are a bold reminder to give your full attention to your driving.

Doug Dahl is a Blaine resident, manager of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission Region 11 and publisher of TheWiseDrive.com.

s Matika Wilbur's art piece in the Lushootseed Creation Stories exhibit is "Old Bull Frog Lady." Photo courtesy of Matika Wilbur

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