The Northern Light: January 22-28, 2025

January 22 - 28, 2026

Creydt makes run for state senate seat

B y N ola N B aker

Erika Creydt, Blaine school district’s currently longest serving board member, is running for a seat in the Washington State Senate.

Creydt, running as a Republican, announced her campaign for the 42nd Legislative District on January 17. She will look to replace Democrat Senator Sharon Shewmake, who announced in December that she would not seek reelection.

Port of Bellingham director Michael Shepard announced late last year he would run as a Democrat for the senate seat.

In a social media post announcing her campaign, Creydt said her work as a clinical psychologist helping children inspired her to run for office.

“I hear the quiet struggles that many families carry,” Creydt wrote. “I’ve sat with children who are hurting long before anyone notices, and with parents trying to navigate systems that weren’t built to support them. When a child’s mental health is ignored, their education suffers, and so does their future.”

Creydt is clinical director of TouchStone Counseling in Blaine and has a doctorate in clinical psychology from the Adler School in Chicago. She has worked in youth mental health for more than 20 years, according to her campaign announcement.

Creydt also mentioned heavy tax burdens affecting families throughout the state.

“We live in one of the highest-taxed states in the nation,” Creydt wrote. “When the system fails the people in our community, it hurts twice. First because so many families who have paid those taxes are themselves struggling to afford groceries, gas, and housing. Second, because the people that are supposed to be helped with those funds end up going without.”

Creydt has served on the Blaine school board since 2021, currently representing district 1 which includes downtown Blaine and Point Roberts. Her term is set to expire in December 2027.

The 42nd Legislative District represents most of Whatcom County save for the southern half of Bellingham, Sudden Valley

(See Creydt, page 2)

Downtown Blaine improvements celebrated

s Blaine mayor Mary Lou Steward, l., and Kristen Gomes, executive director of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce, cut the ribbon during the grand reopening celebration of Peace Portal Drive on January 17. The event, hosted by the chamber, marked the official end of the city’s downtown revitalization project. The project closed sections of downtown’s main thoroughfare for the second half of 2025 as the city added new sidewalks, replaced trees and improved ADA compliance.

Blaine woman killed in I-5 car accident

B y G race M c c arthy

Washington State Patrol (WSP) is investigating the cause of an accident that killed a 22-year-old Blaine woman after another vehicle crossed the Interstate 5 median in Ferndale, striking the woman’s vehicle on January 20.

Momina Khan, 22, of Blaine, was driving a 2023 white Tesla Model 3 on southbound

I-5, just south of Main Street in Ferndale, around 3:52 p.m. January 20 when a gray 2003 Chevrolet Silverado on northbound I-5 crossed the median, according to WSP. The truck, driven by Eduardo Nievesaponte, 27, of Blaine, came to a rest on southbound I-5. A 2024 Hyundai Tucson traveling on southbound I-5 subsequently hit the Chevrolet.

Khan, who died on scene, was wearing a

Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge misses mark for Guinness World Record

B y N ola N B aker

Despite a valiant effort that drew thousands of frigid participants – and even more cozy onlookers – Birch Bay’s attempt to break the Guinness World Record for largest polar bear dip was unsuccessful, according to the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. Guinness informed the chamber that two technicalities kept the record from being officially broken: non-participants in

the plunge zone and some participants not being fully submerged for the entire duration of the dip, the chamber announced on January 14.

In order to break the Guinness World Record for largest polar bear dip, Guinness laid out specific requirements for both participants and onlookers. Those plunging into Birch Bay had to go waist deep, and remain waist deep, for at least one minute simultaneously. Those watching were in-

structed to stay out of the water and nearby beach to avoid miscounts.

The number to beat was 3,134 participants after the record was set in Norway on December 13, 2025. While it is likely that there were enough participants to break the record, Guinness could not verify the exact number due to non-participants being in the designated plunge zone

(See Plunge, page 7)

seatbelt, according to WSP. Khan was driving one passenger, a 22-year-old woman who was transported to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham.

All three passengers of the Hyundai – a 37-year-old man, 20-year-old woman and eight-year-old boy – were not injured. Drugs or alcohol are not suspected to be involved in the crash, according to WSP. Khan attended Blaine High School.

Blaine residents have taken to the streets in recent weeks to protest the Trump administration and its use of ICE, which have ramped up nationwide since Minneapolis resident Rene Good was killed by an ICE agent on January 7.

More than two dozen protestors lined up near G Street Plaza in downtown Blaine on January 10 to protest the Trump administration, while Blaine High School students followed suit a few days later on January 13 to protest ICE. Blaine High School students marched around the surrounding neighborhood by the school campus, where multiple student speakers addressed the crowd in front of the main high school entrance.

“I have never been so proud of my school as I have been today,” Delliger wrote to The Northern Light. “I want to show the Blaine community that my generation will work to fight for our future even while feeling helpless.”

From page 1

and parts of Acme. Prior to state redistricting efforts in 2020, the 42nd district had voted in favor of Republican candidate Doug Ericksen, who won three consecutive elections in 2010, 2014 and 2018. Prior to that, Republican Dale Brandland served the 42nd district from 2003 to 2011.

Shewmake was the first Democrat to hold the office in nearly two decades.

The primary election is set for August 4 and the general election is November 3. Creydt

Police chief recognizes citizens for assisting officer

Blaine police chief Rodger Funk, r., presented Joe Zaccaria, l., and Jeffery Kennedy with distinguished citizenship awards during the Blaine City Council meeting on January 12. The two were recognized for assisting a Blaine officer who was waiting for backup while attempting to arrest a man who was being disorderly, exposing himself and physically threatening the officer. “They jumped in to help further restrain [the suspect], preventing the need for further use of force, preventing injury to our officer and preventing injury to the suspect,” Funk said.

s

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 Kari Mar kari@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue

Madelyn Jones, Washington State Journal

Dear readers of The Northern Light, I first read The Northern Light 26 years ago, when I was a young reporter at The Bellingham Herald covering west Whatcom County – Point Roberts, Blaine, Birch Bay, Ferndale – and the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe. I read it every week and admired how deeply it covered community life in a way only a local weekly can.

This region has stayed with me. I still remember my first trip to Point Roberts, convinced I’d found heaven, and reporting on life at the border after 9/11, including the multiple-hour commutes for Point Roberts kids just to get to school. These are the kinds of stories that matter, and The Northern Light has always understood that.

I studied journalism at Western Washington University in the 1990s and never imagined I’d return to Blaine not once, but twice: first as a reporter, and now as the steward of this newspaper. I’m honored to

be here.

Over the years, I’ve worked in new media, technology and business consulting, including at The Seattle Times, Microsoft and Accenture. I returned to community journalism last year by launching La Conner Community News because I believe deeply in the value of local news, especially now, when so many communities are losing their local newspapers.

I have enormous respect for what Pat Grubb and Louise Mugar built over almost four decades here. Their work matters, and it endures.

My commitment is simple: to honor that legacy and work with this community to keep The Northern Light strong – delivering local news for local people and supporting the businesses that make this region thrive.

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXXI, No 31

Circulation: 11,000 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

A letter from the new publisher OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

I want to sincerely thank everyone in Blaine who has given me the honor and opportunity to serve as both a councilmember and deputy mayor over the past four years. It’s a role I’ve never taken lightly and one I’ve been truly grateful to hold. I take a great deal of pride in what our council, city leadership and staff have been able to accomplish together during that time.

For me, some of the highlights include the G Street sewer project, important updates to the Blaine municipal code, major improvements to city infrastructure and continuing to pass balanced budgets. Other important projects include the Marine Park shoreline restoration, laying the groundwork to secure grant funding for the Bell Road grade separation project, and most recently, the downtown revitalization project.

I also want to recognize our outstanding city manager and city clerk, along with the entire city staff and leadership team. We are incredibly fortunate to have such capable, dedicated people serving this community every day. Their professionalism, institutional knowledge and commitment to doing things the right way are what keep this city moving forward. I also want to thank our police department for its integrity, commitment to service, and the care it shows in keeping our community safe. Blaine is better because of the people who show up every day to serve it.

Blaine is in a strong place, and I truly believe the future is bright. With the people we have in place and the direction we’re headed, this city will continue to grow,

I’m grateful to be here, and I look forward to the road ahead together. – Kari Mar s Kari Mar.

improve and thrive. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played a small part in that journey, and I’ll always be proud to be a Borderite.

Rhyan Lopez, former city councilmember Blaine

The Editor:

Wow! The Polar Bear Plunge really kicked off 2026 for the Birch Bay community.

You know – that place in Whatcom County, that place where the administration of Birch Bay is made by people who live half an hour away and who need the economic significance of that place to fund the administration of greater Whatcom County.

I hope 2026 provides the Birch Bay community with the opportunity to vote on organizing a city of Birch Bay. I recognize some apprehension of people when they consider the question: Should Birch Bay be a city? The apprehension of deciding that question is a function of not knowing the future.

If you went to the Birch Bay Plunge and still believe that this place is not ready to be a city and should remain part of Whatcom County government, ask yourself: how and why did this event happen?

How? Because a small group of people had an idea to promote Birch Bay – their effort moved the idea ahead (nice job, Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce) and incorporated others who call Birch Bay home.

Why? Because it reflects a community of people wanting to contribute to the success of Birch Bay, even if that requires thousands of people standing in cold water.

If 2026 provides the opportunity to vote

CiviC Meetings

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.

for a city of Birch Bay, I am confident that the Birch Bay community has the talent and desire to protect the interest of Birch Bay significantly better than Bellingham. I’d like to hear your thoughts.

Steve Nelson Birch Bay

The Editor:

A twitch is a tool used by farriers and veterinarians when working with a horse as a substitute for a tranquilizer. A loop of rope, attached to a stick is put around the animal’s upper lip and twisted. It calms the horse and distracts it from the pain it would otherwise experience. President Trump’s attacks on Venezuela have twitched the American people again.

Donald Trump, a convicted felon, and a man scared of what will be revealed in the Epstein papers, has just twitched American. He hopes we’ll all forget about his possible role in the Epstein scandal with his illegal takeover of Venezuela, the kidnapping of the Venezuelan president, the murder of foreign sailors in international waters, and the promise of huge profits from the theft of Venezuela’s oil reserves. His “drug-driven war” is his mask, and he hopes for a sufficient distraction so that the American people will set aside the threat of criminal behavior that could lead to his

(See Letters, next page)

Please

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.

Letters ...

third impeachment. He hopes the drug war twitch will cover the shame that the Epstein papers will undoubtedly bring his way.

We’ve seen this war twitch before when the distraction was the threat of “communists” in Vietnam and the prize was rubber, and once again in Iraq when the twitch was the search for nonexistent weapons of mass destruction after 9/11, and the prize was once again oil. Each time a standing president was covering domestic failings with a convenient war as the twitch to divert and mask his embarrassment.

Please America, wake up to the president’s latest scam (remember Canada, the 51st state). Surely we Americans are smarter than a horse with a twitch on its lip. Contact your congressman and senator and let them know you’re tired of this repeating insanity.

Ronald Snyder Blaine

The Editor:

The Blaine/Birch Bay Community Toy Store leadership team would like to thank all those who donated toys, gift cards and funds to help provide Christmas gifts for 317 children from 119 families through the 2025 Community Toy Store program.

The parents who shopped with us had over 1,200 toys and 300 gift cards to choose from! They were thrilled by the huge selection of high-quality toys that filled our store, and all left with huge smiles on their faces and many words of gratitude for the opportunity to purchase gifts for their own children.

Each family also received a dozen Christmas cookies baked by the Blaine High School culinary arts students, a Christmas ornament craft kit for each child, and free stocking stuffers provided by Operation Homefront. We would also like to thank the over 100 volunteers who made this program possible, as well as Christian Way Community Church for the use of their facility. It is a joy and privilege to be part of such a caring and generous community! Thank you for your outpouring of love and support for all these families!

This year’s shopping proceeds totaled over $3,300, which was split between the Blaine Food Bank, The Bridge Community Hope Center’s emergency assistance fund and the Loads of Love laundry program. Thanks to the families who shopped with us, as well as the donors, for making it possible for us to support these important services in our community.

Laura Vogee, Blaine/Birch Bay Community Toy Store director Blaine

The Editor:

Mr. Grubb, thank you for your service. Your absence from this newspaper will be sorely missed.

Nolan Baker brought awareness to the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2’s California Creek kayak park. You published my October letter expressing concern that this was an ill-founded, taxpayer-funded boondoggle that should be shut

down. This is my update.

On December 22, the county’s State Environmental Policy Act officially issued a determination of non-significance (DNS) to allow the project to proceed without any mitigating conditions. No publication.

That decision is clearly erroneous based upon the facts and the process. The applicant should be required to prepare an environmental impact statement. At the very least, a mitigated DNS is warranted. I offered, and the county ignored, 10 reasonable conditions.

Despite email requests for updates, no one from the county bothered to reply. The county had my phone number and email address.

One December 29, a full week after the DNS was issued, the county mailed a copy of it to me advising that January 1, 2026 – a day the county offices were closed – was the final day to appeal the DNS decision.

On January 2, one day after the appeal deadline, I received the county’s letter in the mail. By its actions, the county ensured that I did not have time to file a timely SEPA appeal.

Based on what we have seen so far, it appears that the county intends to refuse to be transparent in this matter. We have seen this before. This proposed project will cause enormous traffic and environmental problems and costs in the California Creek and Drayton Harbor areas –costs that will ultimately be passed to homeowners in the area.

The message is clear, the county and BBBPRD2, its agency sister, are prioritizing their favorite boondoggles – while our community bears the impacts.

There are five federal approvals, four county approvals and four variances that are still needed for this proposal. I have asked the county to give me timely notice of these other decisions as they are processed, because these regulatory decisions can be appealed.

We’ll see.

Jack Grant Blaine

The Editor:

The Northern Light, and a light indeed you are.

When I moved to Blaine from Canada years ago I was overjoyed to find such a fine local newspaper in my mailbox. It takes much effort and work to put out a paper of this caliber.

A hallmark of this paper is integrity. You are light-hearted also. I wonder if you will every fully know how much your paper has contributed to this community. Such a help to us. An important building block.

Lois K. Smith Blaine

The Editor:

Who ever thought that we could find ourselves in a Harry Potter moment fighting the Death Eaters? It seems that what we have understood as Constitutional protections for ourselves and our institutions are no longer acknowledged or recognized. What has happened to the assurance that our government had citizen’s best interest prioritized over profit and prestige?

Be assured that, like in Harry Potter, being steady, unshakeable and immovable will build walls

and plant gardens of truth and protection for our Constitution and, in some cases, our lives. We can and must assure that the heavy load of weaving beauty, integrity, honesty, harmony and justice back into our country and government is recognized and accepted by all. We must not stand still, concerned but inactive. Ceausescu in Romania was ousted by rattling car keys, and the Chicago ICE was ousted by green whistles. We can do this quietly by numbers. We will not let the Death Eaters hold this land hostage!

Donna Starr Blaine

From social media

The following are comments The Northern Light received on social media in reaction to its article announcing that co-publishers Pat Grubb and Louise Mugar were retiring after 35 years and the newspaper would become a nonprofit under new ownership.

I’ve enjoyed every issue of your newspaper since moving to Blaine in 2011. Thank you and happy retirement! – Laurie Jones

Well done. Congratulations and thank you for the wonderful local paper. – Sharon Tucker

Thank you both for everything you have done for this community! – Jason Friend

Thank you for your hard work! Your newspaper helps define our community. Very important for us. – Mark A. Hodges

Thank you. – Steve Ganz

A few of us remember the state of journalism when you arrived here. Since then, no one has accomplished more than the two of you in generating Blaine pride in its unique identity, an identity largely attributable to your positive vision. You connected neighborhoods and promoted community among them in ways only ever possible with steadfast dedication and decades of right-minded action. In the process, The Northern Light is, no doubt, the premier weekly in all of Washington, as evidenced by Pat’s latest extensive series on the port’s failure to

comply with fundamental state regulations concerning public meetings, board action and armslength contracting. Thank you, Pat and Louise, for making our glorious corner an even better home. – Don Montfort

Thank you, Louise and Pat. Incredible story. I’ve been reading The Northern Light since 2001, when I was 20 years old. And now I’m an advertiser of our small businesses, which I have worked on directly with both Louise and Molly, both amazing people to work with. I can’t thank you enough for your dedication to our communities, and I can only hope the nonprofit will be able to continue what you have worked so hard on. Many wishes for a great retirement, and thank you! –Erin Ryan

Thank you for such a service to our community for all these years! We will miss you, but are so happy about the transfer. – Alicia Rule

Thank you for your commitment to Blaine. – Helen Worley

Thank you for all you have done for our community! Enjoy retirement, but you will be missed. – Kerry Clausen

You have provided an incredible service to our community. Thank you so much. The best to you both in retirement. – Diane Olsen

Thanks for all of the years of service and a damn fine publication ... honest reporting is this day and age can’t find, at least by my standards. Live long and enjoy.

– Warren Marx

And what a going away present you have given us – the excellent reporting on the Port of Bellingham. Thank you and best wishes. – Laurie Bender

Have fun in your next adventures! Our family so appreciates the honesty of your reporting what was happening in our town. You both have left some big shoes to fill!

– Charlie Hawkins

Thank you for all that you have done to keep our community informed.

– Mary Lou Steward

Thank you Pat and Louise for working so hard for so long, and for allowing some of us to join you on the ride! It was a pleasure. – Kara Nicole

Whaaaat? Definitely the end of an era ... and such a great one! What a legacy you leave behind. – Gregory Leigh Lyons

Congratulations on your retirement. I know how hard you’ve worked. Thank you for all you did for our community! Enjoy this next “adventure” in your life.

– Katherine Sitker

Best wishes and thanks for all you’ve done in journalism and for the community! – Dodd Snodgrass

Note: Comments from community and industry leaders on page 16.

Wrestling celebrates Senior Night with win over Meridian

B y N ola N B aker

It’s been a mixed bag for Blaine athletics so far in 2026.

Both boys and girls basketball have struggled to string together wins in the new year, with each team only winning once over the past half dozen games.

Boys wrestling has been taking care of business, defeating conference foes Nooksack Valley and Meridian in the team’s two duels since our last update.

Blaine girls wrestling saw Kiera O’Reilly and Analicea Ordonez place first in the Borderite Blizzard tournament on January 17.

Boys wrestling

Blaine boys wrestling celebrated Senior Night with a resounding win over Northwest Conference (NWC) rivals Meridian on January 14, winning 59-24.

Noxx Briner started off the night with a win by fall over Meridian’s Parker Larson. That was followed up by a win from Cole Voigt, who defeated his opponent by fall in 1:57.

Blaine saw wins from Vinnie Saia, Aidyn Hancock, Matt Campion, Rhys Milligan, Hugo Vekved and Avery Hicks. Of the seven Borderites to win by fall on the mat that night, Hicks had the toughest challenge in the heavyweight division, defeating Meridian’s Girffith Ingram in just under six minutes – the longest win by fall of the night.

On January 20, Blaine hosted the Battle at the Border, where Voigt took home first place in the 120-pound division with wins over Squalicum, Lakewood and Bellingham wrestlers.

Saia won his weight class, beating each of his three opponents by fall. The first place match was Saia’s fastest fall of the night, defeating Lakewood’s Cage Dewey in just 42 seconds.

Milligan won the 175-pound weight class, with the senior winning all three of his matches in under two minutes. The final Blaine wrestler to win first place in the Battle at the Border was Aidyn Hancock, defeating three opponents by fall in quick matches that

lasted all of 1:14, 33 seconds, and 52 seconds. Briner made it to the first place match in the 106-pound division before losing to Bellingham’s Bryant Razo.

Blaine is scheduled to face Mt. Baker on the road on Thursday, January 22 at 6 p.m. (after press time).

Results provided by trackwrestling.com

Girls wrestling

Blaine girls wrestling held the Blaine Blizzard tournament at home on January 17, with Kiera O’Reilly and Analicea Ordonez each earning first place and Nevaeh Taylor placing fourth in their respective weight classes.

O’Reilly dominated, winning by fall in just 44 seconds in the quarterfinal round, then winning the semifinal round by decision, 13-0, then defeating Squalicum’s Faith White by technical fall, 15-0.

Ordonez was on fire, winning her three matches all by fall, and all in 50 seconds or less. Ordonez’s semifinal and first-place match each ended by fall in just 17 seconds – though the final did

come against Blaine teammate Ella Jo Klander.

Blaine girls wrestling will travel to face Ferndale on Thursday, January 22 at 6 p.m. (after press time) then travel to the Lady Knights Invitational in Kamiak on Saturday, January 24.

Results provided by trackwrestling.com

Boys basketball

Boys basketball turned out of a six game losing skid with a win over Mt. Baker on January 7, only to fall into a four game losing streak that the team hopes to turn out of as Blaine approaches the final stretch of the regular season.

Against NWC rival Mt. Baker, Blaine held off a valiant comeback attempt in the fourth quarter winning 71-61.

Senior guard Daniel Banks had one of his most productive offensive nights of the year, racking up 14 points and seven rebounds. Blaine’s leading offensive weapon, senior forward Landon Melton, kept up his high scoring pace with 19 points, icing the

game with multiple free throws in the fourth quarter.

Since that win, the Borderites dropped games to Lynden Christian, Anacortes, Nooksack Valley and most recently Oak Harbor.

The Borderites didn’t score more than 52 points in a game during that span, and are looking upwards at the rest of the conference – save for Mt. Baker – with a 4-11 record.

Blaine will look to steady itself in the final few weeks of the regular season, and try to get its offense back on track before postseason play begins in February.

The Borderites’ next game is on the road against Lynden on Thursday, January 22 at 7:15 p.m. (after press time), and its next home game is Saturday, January 24 against Orcas Island at 1:30 p.m.

Stats provided by whatcompreps.com

Girls basketball

Blaine girls basketball pulled out of a six-game losing skid with a 50-42 win over Oak Harbor on the road on January 19, bringing the team’s record to 4-12 with five

games left in the regular season.

The Borderites came out shooting, hitting on six of the first 12 shot attempts in the first quarter, and jumping out to a 22-14 lead that would not be relinquished.

Senior forward Aaliyah Bowman kept up her excellent season with a double-double, recording 22 points and 11 rebounds along with four steals.

Senior guard Brietta Sandell rained threes all night, shooting 5-for-11 from beyond the 3-point line, and finished the game with 15 points.

Junior forward Kate Koreski was everywhere, collecting 10 points, 10 steals, seven assists and six rebounds.

The Borderites will look to string together its first win streak since December with a January 27 game on the road against Lakewood, then another road trip to Ferndale on Thursday, January 29. Blaine’s next home game will be Monday, February 2 against Mt. Vernon. Stats provided by whatcompreps.com

Birch Bay author G. Leigh Lyons has recently released his children’s book series “Avery McShane” in the U.S. following its initial release over a decade ago under the U.K. publisher of the original Harry Potter books. The four-book series is named

after the debut novel, “Avery McShane,” that tells the tale of the eponymous hero, his friends and his dog, Mati, on their adventures in the Venezuelan jungle. The series takes inspiration from Lyons’ own upbringing on oil camps in Venezuela, Ecuador and Iran as well as his years abroad working as a geologist

Plunge ...

From page 1

at the beginning of the attempt, according to the chamber.

The chamber attempted to provide additional documentation to Guinness to help verify the attempt in the two weeks following the frigid plunge, but it was unsuccessful, according to social media posts.

The chamber said it was still happy to provide the Birch Bay community with a jolt of energy amidst the winter doldrums.

“Despite falling short of the official record, the event achieved its original and most important goal: bringing the Birch Bay community together in celebration while welcoming thousands of new visitors to the bay during the traditionally quiet off-season,” the chamber wrote.

and businessman.

“At the end of the day, I’m really keen to break down prejudices about people in foreign countries because I grew up there,” Lyons said. “I worked most of my career in foreign countries. I traveled the world.” Bloomsbury, which oversaw the Harry Potter series, published “Avery McShane” in 2012 in the U.K. and the Commonwealth. Four years ago, Lyons bought the rights back and spent time editing and revamping the series before releasing it worldwide.

Lyons began writing after the financial crisis in 2008, when his consulting business in Blaine closed. He was in the process of being signed for another book, “Paleopeople,” a not-yet-published fantasy work that New York-based literary agency Sterling Lord was interested in. That process took longer than antici-

pated, so while waiting, he wrote the first Avery McShane book.

The series is targeted toward children aged 8-13, particularly boys, which Lyons believes is an underserved demographic. He described the series as action and adventure fiction, with “the feel of a period piece in the ’60s.”

Lyons’ books are available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Walmart, Target and both Village Books and Paper Dreams locations in Lynden and Fairhaven. To learn more about Lyons and his work, visit his website at gleighlyons.com.

December and New Year’s scenes around Blaine and Birch

Ferndale officer issues clarification on Blaine investigation report

B y P at G ru BB

The Ferndale police officer who investigated complaints against Blaine city officials has issued a clarifying statement regarding one individual named in his October report.

Officer Richard Hart, in a December 1 follow-up to case 25F09556, stated that Geoffrey Baker “has no affiliation with Save Blaine and only limited,

documented collaboration with Donna McGaffic in civic matters.” Baker also goes by the psydenoum Otto Pointer.

Hart’s original October 22 report concluded that complaints filed by McGaffic against Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward and police chief Rodger Funk were unfounded. The report also found that McGaffic and “associates” affiliated with Save Blaine had been “deliberately disrup-

tive to the effective governance of the city of Blaine.”

In his December clarification, Hart acknowledged that “portions of the report’s closing language (specifically references to RCWs and the description of ‘associates’) may have unintentionally created the impression that Geoffrey Baker was suspected of criminal activity.”

Hart stated that Baker’s activities “have consisted exclusively

of public records requests, complaints, appeals, and public comment concerning water resource protection, shoreline management, and ethics compliance.”

“No threats, unlawful communications, or criminal conduct by Geoffrey Baker were identified in the investigation,” Hart wrote.

Hart also emphasized that his assignment “was limited in scope” to reviewing allegations

concerning Funk and Steward, and that other allegations referenced in his report “were outside the scope of my investigation and were not the subject of my findings.”

Baker filed a public records lawsuit against the city of Blaine last August. The two parties agreed a month later to dismiss the suit without prejudice, meaning the case could be reopened in the future.

Pets & Pet Care

Pitfalls that can compromise dog training

Dogs are not just pets, they often become cherished family members who share in all of the joys and accomplishments of a household. Training a dog that’s new to a home can be deeply rewarding, but various pitfalls can slow the progress of training and potentially contribute to confusion or even lead to behavioral problems. Pet parents can get a leg up on what can go wrong and why, and adjust to help make the training process go more smoothly.

Problem #1: Inconsistency

Everyone in the family may want to take part in training the new pet and this can create con-

fusion if everyone isn’t on the same page. People who use different commands or allow different behaviors may confuse the dog. To fix the issue, it’s important that everyone use the same commands and consistently reinforce the same rules. It’s not alright for the dog to jump up on the furniture when the rule is no furniture lounging, for example.

Problem #2: Poor reward timing Rewarding dogs for good behavior is one of the hallmarks of positive reinforcement training. However, rewarding or correcting the pet even a few seconds too late can mean the animal may not connect the feedback to the action. It’s important to deliver rewards or corrections within one to two seconds of the desired behavior for the best results. Leerburg Training suggests using marker training, also known as clicker training, which affords trainers a way to immediately communicate with the dog the instant they do something favorable. Withholding the click/mark, tells the dog that you don’t like what they are doing without any punishment.

Problem #3:

Overusing punishment

Positive reinforcement is the best method of training a dog, and the one that most professional trainers rely on. Still, it can be challenging to avoid yelling or using aversive tools to try to stop a behavior if other methods are slow to work. However, hitting an animal, yelling excessively or using shock collars can create fear or aggression. In

some instances, such tactics may border on animal abuse. Advanced Canine Techniques says that dogs can sense a human’s energy level and confidence and any negative energy, which can be discouraging and adversely affect motivation. Taking a break while training until it can be more fun and positive may stem stress and negative behaviors for both dog and person.

Problem #4: Unclear commands

It’s important that everyone utilize the same commands when training a dog. Saying “come here” one day and “get over here” another can be confusing and result in slower learning. Dogs may respond better to visual cues along with verbal ones, so people can utilize hand gestures when setting commands as well.

Problem #5: Inconsistent results

Many people have dogs that behave wonderfully while in the house, but poorly at a dog park or elsewhere. A dog may not realize that commands and behavior expectations apply everywhere. That’s why it is necessary to practice in different environments and only periodically introduce distractions.

It’s also important to know that a dog that is bored may exhibit restlessness or destructive behavior and won’t be able to focus during training. Meeting the dog’s physical needs first can help when training comes afterwards. After all is said and done, if training is not going as expected, consult a professional trainer for assistance.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: BRUNO A. MORAS Deceased. No. 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. 22, 2026

Personal Representative Cindy Maxwell, of Inslee, Maxwell & Associates

Presented by: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Casie Rodenberger, WSBA #54348

Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax:

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 20, 2026 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: January 22, 2026

Name of Administrator: MARK HOVER

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 20, 2026

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S.

STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Administrator MARK HOVER

Real Estate

& a park like yard create a serene retreat. Abundant natural light define the interior with an open main floor that offers easy living, generous primary suite, & seamless flow to a private patio. Upstairs, the large loft leads to a private guest suite with its own entry and bath.

What’s on the agenda for Washington’s 2026 legislative session

“First it was tax the billionaires, now it’s tax the millionaires, and tomorrow it’ll be tax the thousand-aires,” Couture said.

Bridge and road maintenance

With a looming $12 billion to $16 billion budget shortfall hanging over the Washington state legislature, House and Senate leaders and governor Bob Ferguson presented differing proposals to address the issue.

Three panels of House and Senate leaders discussed the state’s transportation budget and general fund, while Ferguson renewed his support for a “millionaire tax.”

The biggest proposal to balance the budget was implementing Washington’s first income tax since the 1930s. Referred to as the “millionaire tax” by the sponsoring Democratic majority party, this proposal would tax those making $1 million or more per year.

“The focus of the millionaire’s tax is really to address our regressivity in this state and to start shifting to make our tax structure more fair,” said House speaker Laurie Jinkins (D-Tacoma).

One concern brought up by representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn) and senator Chris Gildon, (R-Puyallup) was whether the tax would cause a “capital flight” in which wealthy Washingtonians would move to other states to avoid the increased taxes. Couture said this could drive out innovative leaders of Washington.

Ferguson reaffirmed his support for a millionaire’s tax in Washington, saying he is confident the tax will survive the legal challenge presented against it.

Ferguson also expressed he is not concerned about the possibility of such a tax driving innovators out of the state, instead highlighting that the tax will benefit Washington residents.

“It’s got to be targeted so that we know where these dollars are going, and they’re helping out Washingtonians,” Ferguson said.

Republican leaders’ other main concern is that the millionaire tax would eventually become a tax on all.

The panel discussion on the transportation budget focused on plans for maintenance and preservation of bridges and roads across Washington. Severe flooding in December and damage over time brought heightened urgency for a more effective transportation spending policy.

There are also plans to improve and electrify the ferry system. The ferry system faces hundreds of millions of dollars in deferred maintenance and an aging fleet. Ferguson’s supplemental budget proposal includes $1 billion to build hybrid electric ferries and $150 million for ferry maintenance.

Legislators disagreed on where the money should come from to repair state transportation infrastructure.

House Transportation Committee chair Jake Fey (D-Tacoma) and Senate Transportation Committee chair Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) discussed how funds for maintenance and preservation of bridges, roads and ferries should come from the increased gas tax. They said they want to ensure money does not dip into funds needed for other projects.

A major point of contention was whether Washington should borrow money through bonds to accelerate repairs, which was proposed in Ferguson’s budget. Liias and Fey supported borrowing as a way to quickly address critical infrastructure needs if there was likely long-term efficacy, while senator Curtis King (R-Yakima) and representative. Andrew Barkis (R-Olympia) opposed increasing debt and insisted current revenue sources should be reallocated to cover repairs.

Democrats emphasized the urgency of repairing this infrastructure rather than starting new projects. Due to the complicated nature of the projects, Liias emphasized that it is important to stay ahead of maintenance and preservation. They also hope to work closely with the Washington State

Department of Transportation to increase efficiency and expedite the projects.

“If the governor’s proposal is to use bonded funds to replace old bridges we have seen fail us in the last year … then I think there may be value in taking a look at that,” Liias said.

King, the top Republican on the Senate Transportation Committee, and Barkis, the top Republican on the House Transportation Committee, said the funds should come from the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

They argued that revenue from the CCA should be used to help repair storm damage and transportation infrastructure. Liias and Fey countered this, saying CCA funds should only be used for projects that directly reduce emissions and opposed redirecting the money to roadwork.

Relief and affordability

During the legislative leadership panel, both Jinkins and Senate majority leader Jamie Pedersen (D-Seattle) said they plan to push back on federal policies that target vulnerable groups and hurt the state’s economy.

“We are going to do everything that we can to protect people in our state from a really malevolent, hostile federal government,” Pedersen said.

House Republican leader Drew Stokesbary (R-Auburn) and Senate Republican leader John Braun (R-Centralia) argued the current affordability crisis in Washington is not a result of the federal government’s policies. Stokesbary said the way to provide relief for Washingtonians is through reducing sales taxes.

Both Stokesbary and Braun also said they agreed with Ferguson’s proposal to redirect funds from the CCA into the Working Families Tax Credit program.

According to Pedersen, while the plan isn’t ideal, the legislature will have to make difficult choices in the coming session.

The Washington State Journal is a nonprofit news website operated by the WNPA Foundation. To learn more, go to wastatejournal.org

OBITUARIES

NellAnn McGee

March 18, 1945 – December 19, 2025

NellAnn McGee, age 80, of Blaine, WA, passed away peacefully December 19, 2025 at St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham, WA.

NellAnn was born March 18, 1945 in Dubuque, lA, daughter to Calvin and Evelyn (Leahy) Lower. She lived in Illinois until 1970 when she moved to California with her three children. Later in 1978 they moved to Washington.

NellAnn worked in the food industry in California and Washington. She loved people and was surrounded by her family and many friends. She shared her bright light and infectious laugh with everyone she met. Always the “Belle of the Ball.”

NellAnn is survived by her three children; Norman Thompson (Melissa) of Nebraska, Ned Thompson (Carol) of Washington, and Nadine Eveland (Blaine) of Arizona. She was a wonderful grandma to 13 grandchildren and Gigi to 28 great-grandchildren.

She was one of six children, Jack Lower (Eilene) of California, Joe Lower (Stephanie) of California, Mary Brottlower (Les) of Oregon, Jim Lower (Cindy) of Indiana and Jerry Lower (Mary) of Florida.

Like her father, she had a green thumb and was always tending to her plants inside and outside the house. She felt most at peace outside in the yard under the warm sun. This is where she would pray to Jesus for those she knew. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Blaine American Legion Hall #86 in March, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blaine American Legion in her memory.

Lorene Joanne (Gudmundson) Meck

April 8, 1938 – December 26, 2025

Lorene passed peacefully at home in Bellingham with her three children by her side.

A private family graveside service will be at Hillsdale Cemetery, Blaine. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m., on Saturday, February 28, at the Free Church Unitarian (1218 Harrison Ave., Blaine). A reception will follow.

In memory of Lorene, donations may be made to Free Church Unitarian (1218 Harrison Ave, Blaine, WA 98230) or Whatcom Hospice.

View Lorene’s complete obituary and share memories with the family at www.westfordfuneralhome.com.

sheriff’s repOrts

December 29, 4:04 p.m.: Sex crime – no rape cold call on Seashell Way.

December 31, 4:21 p.m.: Domestic physical on Stein Road.

December 31, 4:51 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Gulf Road.

December 31, 8:03 p.m.: Fight on Birch Bay Drive.

January 1, 9:58 a.m.: Overdose on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

January 1, 11:46 a.m.: Domestic violence arrest on Bay Ridge Drive.

January 1, 12:58 p.m.: Missing child on Birch Bay Drive.

January 1, 2:40 p.m.: Hit and run cold call on Custer School Road.

January 1, 5:07 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Harborview Road.

January 1, 5:45 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

January 1, 6:33 p.m.: Shots on W. 30th Crescent.

January 5, 12:31 p.m.: Theft cold call on Harborview Road.

January 6, 3:16 p.m.: Sex

crime – no rape cold call on Pheasant Drive.

January 6, 3:51 p.m.: Rape cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

January 7, 1:08 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Carson Road.

January 8, 10:22 a.m.: Theft cold call on Seashell Way.

January 9, 9:26 a.m.: Sex crime – no rape cold call on

Pheasant Drive.

January 10, 7:31 a.m.: Shots on Crocket Road.

January 11, 12:01 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Valley View Road.

January 12, 8:21 p.m.: DUI arrest on Grandview Road.

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

pOLiCe repOrts

January 1, 5:25 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Harborview Road.

January 2, 1:10 p.m.: Hit and run on 4th Street.

January 3, 9:55 a.m.: Shots on 8th Street.

January 4, 1:43 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Marine Drive.

January 5, 12:22 p.m.: Assault on H Street.

January 5, 4:35 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on H Street.

January 5, 7:21 p.m.: Theft on H Street.

January 6, 12:45 a.m.: Suicid -

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Mechanical lever

7. Rocky peak

10. Leave a country

12. Discount

13. D.C. ballplayer

14. Partner to “oohed”

15. Engine sound

16. Japanese ornamental box

17. Fido is one 18. Amounts of time

19. DiFranco and Phyo are two 21. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)

22. Make secret plans

27. “Tiny Bubbles” singer

28. “His Airness” 33. Morning 34. Perfected

36. Winger guitarist Beach

37. Abba __, Israeli politician

38. Self-immolation by fire ritual

39. A way to save

money

40. Pulpit

41. Make ecstatically happy

44. Once more 45. Works on 48. Nocturnal S. American rodent 49. State again 50. Expression of disappointment 51. Type of door DOWN 1. Yugoslavian communist leader 2. Exchange rate 3. High school dance 4. Peter’s last name 5. When you anticipate arriving 6. Israeli city __ Aviv 7. Goat-like mammals 8. Margarine 9. End-of-the-spectrum color 10. Make poisonous 11. Popular beverage 12. Actress Lathan

14. Where planes land and depart 17. Political fundraising entity 18. The distinctive spirit of a people or an era 20. Buffer used in microbiology 23. Light, open carriage 24. Metrical feet 25. Email subject line feature 26. A street with lots of nightmares 29. Rapper Rule 30. River in Scotland 31. One who settles a dispute 32. Most chummy 35. We all have our own 36. Arab tribe 38. Slap 40. Ottoman military commanders 41. Scottish or Irish Gaelic language 42. Emit coherent radiation 43. Sun or solar disk

Coming up

Pruning 101: Saturday, January 24, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street and Saturday, January 31, 9:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Trees are breaking hibernation earlier (or not even going into deep hibernation), so brush up on those pruning skills. The workshop discusses tools, why to prune and overgrown trees. Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: nwcore.org.

North Sound Community Choir: Saturday, January 24, 4 p.m., Blaine Performing Arts Center. Festival will feature Male Ensemble NW, along with other choirs from the Pacific Northwest and Lower Mainland, including Blaine’s own Peace Arch Community Chorale. Free with donations taken at the door to benefit the 25th annual Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Camp.

al subject on Cedar Street. January 6, 8:57 a.m.: Theft on H Street.

January 6, 3:03 p.m.: Sex crime – no rape on H Street.

January 8, 12:05 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Clark Street.

January 8, 1:51 p.m.: Burglary on B Street.

January 8, 3:21 p.m.: Lewd conduct on H Street.

January 9, 5:09 p.m.: Missing child on Clark Street.

For a complete list of BPD reports, visit Facebook.com/ BlainePoliceDepartmentWA.

(Egyptian mythology)

44. Inclined to 45. Olfactory reference syndrome 46. Chest muscle (slang) 47. Body part

tides

January 22-28 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Blaine Storytime: Monday, January 26, 10:30–11 a.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. For kids ages 2–6. A weekly open program that includes stories, rhymes and songs with opportunities for movement and interactive participation. Free. Info: wcls.org.

Crafting Community: Monday, January 26, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in with your favorite arts and crafts. Held on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Info: wcls.org.

Tech Help Hour: Tuesday, January 27 and Thursday, January 29, 3–4 p.m. Need help with a technological issue? Want to learn more about library digital services? Drop by Blaine Public Library for some one-on-one assistance from a staff member. Sessions are designed to address a single issue and last for 30 minutes. Schedule a session in advance or drop in for help on a first-come, first-served basis. Info: wcls.org.

LEGO Club: Tuesday, January 27, 3:30–4:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Design, build, and share at this weekly drop-in program for ages 4 and up. LEGO bricks provided. Info: wcls.org.

Blaine Senior Center Book Club: Thursday, January 29, 1–2 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. January’s book: “Solito” by Javier Zamora.

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. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is 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. Firstcome, 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. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.

Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesday, 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.

Celebrate Recovery: Wednesdays, 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. Blaine Arts Council: Meets second Thursday, 6:30 p.m., at Blaine 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: Wednesdays, 6:30–7:45 p.m., Blaine High School, 1055 H Street, room 104. Develop more confidence and have fun when you speak for work or pleasure. Info: Laura 206/660-5958 or agelesslaura@gmail.com.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of January 12 to 18, 0.8 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2026 year-to-date precipitation record is 3.1 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 57.4°F on January 13 with a low of 33.2°F on January 17. Average high was 51°F and average low was 40.7°F.

Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Friday–Sunday, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome.

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

ADVICE FROM THE PROS

Q: What is Healthy Home Maintenance Program?

A: Having a Healthy Home is More Important Than Ever. If you are proactive in scheduling a Healthy Home Maintenance and Cleaning of your systems, you’ll avoid major headaches and potential emergencies down the road. Preventative maintenance can save you money and keep your home comfortable all season long. Our Team at Gary’s Plumbing & Heating is proud to offer plumbing and heating maintenance services in order to keep your systems functioning at peak capacity, with customer loyalty savings. Trusted Plumbing and Heating services for 20 years.

Q: Why does my body feel stiff even though I’m exercising regularly?

A: This surprises a lot of people. Exercise is great, but it doesn’t automatically mean your joints are moving well. Strength training, cardio, and yoga can improve fitness, but if certain joints aren’t moving properly, other areas have to work overtime. That’s often where stiffness or recurring tightness comes from. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring normal joint motion so your muscles and nervous system can work more efficiently. Many patients report feeling “looser” or more balanced after an adjustment, even if they were already active. When joints move better, workouts tend to feel easier and recovery improves. Chiropractic doesn’t replace exercise, it complements it. If you’re putting in the effort to stay healthy, it makes sense to support your body by making sure everything is moving the way it should.

360-332-1086

245 H Street, Downtown Blaine blainechiropractic.com

Q: How much can I contribute to my retirement accounts in 2026?

A: Saving for retirement comes with valuable tax-advantaged opportunities. In 2026, employees participating in a 401(k), 403(b), or most 457 plans can contribute up to $24,500. If you’re age 50 or older, you can add an additional $8,000. Those ages 6063 qualify for an enhanced catch-up contribution, allowing total savings of up to $35,750.

Traditional and Roth IRA contributions limits are $7,500, with an additional $1,100 catch-up for individuals 50 and older, subject to income limits. Simple IRA participants may contribute up to $17,000, with increased catch-up options available. Retirement rules can be complex, but the opportunities can be meaningful. A CFP® professional can help you make informed decisions and take advantage of available opportunities. Skyline Advisors is here to help you plan with confidence.

Q: Why do so many cross-border buyers choose Blaine, Birch Bay, and Semiahmoo?

A: These communities are a natural fit for people who live life on both sides of the border. We see many buyers with dual citizenship, cross-border marriages, or work commitments in both the U.S. and Canada. Blaine, Birch Bay, and Semiahmoo allow residents to stay close to family, jobs, and travel routes while enjoying a variety of housing options and a coastal lifestyle. Whether buyers are splitting time, planning for retirement, or creating flexibility for the future, location matters because cross-border situations can involve unique timing, financing, and occupancy considerations. Working with a local agent who understands these dynamics is key to making the process smooth and well-informed.

Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951 bcoplen@windermere.com www.brandicoplen.com

Q: Why do icy morning walks feel so risky after 50—and what’s the simplest way to prevent a fall?

A: Ice plus stiff “first-thing” joints is a perfect storm. Before you step out, do 60 seconds: ankle pumps, heel raises, and gentle marching to “wake up” balance. Outside, slow down and use the “penguin walk”: short steps, feet slightly turned out, and keep your center over your front foot. Keep hands free (use a backpack), choose shoes with grippy soles, and add traction cleats when sidewalks glaze. If you slip, get checked if you hit your head, feel dizziness, or pain persists.

Scan the QR for my Fall-Proof Icy Morning Checklist + 5-minute balance routine—made for active adults 50+ today.

Comments from local community and industry leaders on The Northern Light...

The City of Blaine is very pleased that a long tradition of exceptional journalism will continue with the publication of The Northern Light. Local papers are part of the fabric of a community and, in part, help shape its identity.  I look forward to reading the next publication of The Northern Light, and working collaboratively with its staff to keep the residents of Blaine informed and engaged.

Mike Harmon City Manager City of Blaine

A little while ago, I was sorting through papers and I found an old envelope. Inside was a clipping from the local newspaper of the town in which I grew up. It was a photo taken of the high school girls’ basketball team, of which I was a member, when it won the regional championship 65 years ago. That is one of the many reasons why the local papers are so critical to the strength and soul of the community. They cover many different aspects of the life we share with no bias or favor. Will a social media post of an event posted today do the same thing? I doubt it. As observers note, one of the factors in our polarization is the lack of unbiased local newspapers. Social media deliberately divides us to generate massive advertising profits for its few wealthy owners. The Northern Light informs the people

of Blaine what brings us together with an unbiased view. It delivers this to us for free, every week in our mailbox.

Mary Lou Steward

Mayor

City

of Blaine

The Northern Light Newspaper and hyper-local journalism are vitally important to small communities like ours. They do far more than report headlines. They tell stories that connect neighbors, elevate local voices, support small businesses, and share information that shapes our daily lives.

Other Point Roberts Press publications such as the Mount Baker Experience, Waterside Magazine, and regional maps play an important role in helping to promote Whatcom County as a premier tourist destination. They support our work as a Visitor Information Center by providing materials that help us connect visitors to local businesses, events, and activities throughout our community.

We are grateful to Patrick Grubb and Louise Mugar for their years of partnership and dedication to local storytelling. We are excited to see The Northern Light back in print and appreciate the vital role it will continue to play in keeping our community informed, engaged and connected.

Danielle

Gaughen

Executive director

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce

Prior to getting connected to the community through the Chamber of Commerce The Northern Light became my one-stop shop, my reliable source of events and goings on in Whatcom county, specifically Blaine and Birch Bay.  In fact The Northern Light is where I first learned of chamber meetings.   I began attending meetings, getting involved and subsequently invited to the Board of Directors.

The Northern Light has become and will continue to be an integral part of our hometown. The journalists are honest, thoughtful people always striving to keep our community informed in a non-bias way: the events are always listed in coming up column, the advertisements direct us to new services and/ or businesses we need. While I enjoy the world of online and social media, reading The Northern Light weekly gives us a chance to slow down, be informed and be excited for what is ahead. Thank you for all you do. Your legacy will live on.

Kristen Gomes Executive director

Blaine Chamber of Commerce

Why should we care about local news?

Two reasons. First, local news organizations provide connective tissue for their communities. They are continuous bulletin boards for residents, who learn

about volunteer beach cleanups and the new school principal. The community sees those bulletins – and sees itself. Second, professional journalists are truth tellers. At their best, they examine powerful institutions and assist their communities’ ongoing search for truth. They are a vital source of the agreed-upon facts that we need to move forward.

George Erb

Secretary

Washington Coalition for Open Government

While many of us worry about finding the next generation to sustain local newspapers, we have some rockstars in La Conner who just aren’t willing to let a newspaper die. I am so grateful to and impressed with Kari Mar and the community group behind her at Daffodil Press for keeping the doors open for yet another paper. Succession planning is so critical and I hope we’re able to get ahead of it and find more people like them to take up the torch for local journalism. Identifying successors as our publishers age and look to retirement is a challenge across the nation and leading to news deserts. The onus really is falling to communities to rally around their papers to save them.

Ellen Hiatt,

Executive director

Washington Newspaper Publishers Association

SAN FRANCISCO JOE’S SCRAMBLE

AVAILABLE DAILY IN FEBRUARY | $17

Seasoned ground beef griddled with fresh spinach, bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms, scrambled together with three eggs. Served with hash browns.