City officials are discussing reinstating park impact fees, and Blaine residents will get a chance to share their thoughts on the issue at a public hearing.

Whatcom County officials are planning to oppose a state Department of Ecology (DOE) decision that could force county staff to spend more resources managing stormwater discharge in Birch Bay.

The Blaine Chamber of Commerce is in the final stages of preparation for the city’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July festivities.

Blaine City Council members highlighted the importance of an Amtrak stop in the city by passing a formal resolution of support at Monday’s council meeting.

This November, Whatcom County voters will decide on expanding the Port of Bellingham commission to five members.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) crews have begun converting the D Street on-ramp at the truck route border crossing to a NEXUS-only lane.

Set on the blocks, fighting a deep end-of-meet fatigue, Cherish Morrison, 18, looked down the track and only focused on the next 10 meters. The 400m was her final race at the Class 2A State Track and Field Championships at Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma late last month.

A statewide environmental nonprofit is teaming up with two state agencies to establish citizens committees to help protect aquatic reserves across Washington.

BP Cherry Point refinery officials say a crack in a pipe feeding a crude oil refining unit ignited the petroleum running through and it was likely the cause of the February 17 fire at the refinery that forced the evacuation of the entire facility and shut down operations for months.

Many people grow hydrangeas to enjoy the long-lasting flowers in their landscape. As an added bonus, the blooms of these lovely plants can be easily dried for year-round enjoyment, and unlike most other plants, the color of some hydrangea blossoms can be controlled or changed by gardeners.

For Bob Christianson, owner of Pacific Building Center and True Value Hardware, this time of year means paint and plants.

In February, Gentle Acupuncture opened on Marine Drive inside BearHug Massage, marking itself as the only acupuncture practice in Blaine. Acupuncturist Gayla Woodenlegs said she wanted to provide the service to an area that didn’t have acupuncture available.

Creating Hope Today’s second annual Kid’s Day, garage sale, and BBQ fundraiser will be held Saturday and Sunday, July 7 and 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Semiahmoo Kids Kamp. The garage sale, with items sold by donation, will continue through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Robert (Bob) Newby of Blaine went to be with his Lord on Saturday evening, June 23, 2012.

Police reports from the Blaine Police Department for June 20 through June 26, 2012