Amid a steady increase in families coming to the Blaine Food Bank due to the rising cost of living, Whatcom County’s second-busiest food bank is joining the nationwide Stamp Out Hunger campaign on Saturday, May 9.
Teaming up with U.S. Postal Service letter carriers — and a few other local organizations — the food bank is asking the Blaine community to leave nonperishable food items at their mailbox on the morning of May 9. The donations will be picked up by USPS letter carriers and eventually brought to the food bank. Stamp Out Hunger is the largest oneday food drive in the country, and next weekend will be the first time in years that the Blaine Food Bank has participated, said Blaine Food Bank Director Lisa Dobbin.
“We have a fabulous community of very generous people,” Dobbin said. “If you put the easy way in front of them, they want to help and it couldn’t get easier than this.”
Mail carriers will pass out donation bags this week, and those bags can be filled with any unexpired, nonperishable food. There is an acute need for canned vegetables and protein, and especially pet food.
Dobbin said contributions taper off after the holiday season, making spring a slow time for donations. Donations spiked after the federal government shutdown in late 2025 resulted in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits being temporarily suspended, but Dobbin said they have since dwindled.
The food bank has extended its hours to accommodate an influx of people as grocery prices and the cost of other necessities rise, Dobbin said.
(See Food bank, page 3)
Morecombe, who plays Elle Woods, performs the opening number of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” on April 27 in the Blaine Performing Arts Center. Blaine High School drama students are performing 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday this week and next week, along with 2 p.m. Saturday matinees both weekends. Read more on page 11.
A bicyclist in Birch Bay and a driver suspected of being under the influence in Semiahmoo were transported to the hospital in critical condition after separate accidents within an hour of each other on Saturday evening.
The first accident involved a 49-year-old Lynden man who was bicycling about 9:50 p.m. eastbound in
the 4800 block of Birch Bay-Lynden Road, near Birch Bay Waterslides. A driver of a 1995 Geo Prizm struck the bicyclist from behind, which pushed him down into the oncoming lane of traffic, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater wrote in an email to The Northern Light.
The bicyclist, who was wearing dark clothing without a helmet, did not have any lights or reflectors, Slater said. The
Lummi Nation files lawsuit over Point Roberts burial site disturbances
in the disturbance of burial sites in Point Roberts during the construction of at least three federally-funded broadband projects.
long trenches that caused permanent damage and loss of ancestral remains and artifacts in an area that the Lummi Nation used for over 5,000 years.
driver of the Geo Prizm stopped for the bicyclist and tried to alert an oncoming driver of the man, but the driver struck the cyclist with their 1992 Ford Ranger, Slater said.
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) Chief Jason Van Der Veen said first responders from Birch Bay Station 63 transported the man, who had a
On Monday, the Lummi Nation filed a federal lawsuit against Whatcom County, Whidbey Telecom, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Commerce over a series of “preventable and unlawful failures” that allegedly resulted
The 52-page lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. It alleges that Whidbey Telecom (a telecommunications company serving Whidbey Island, Point Roberts and Hat Island) dug 1,000- to 2,000-foot-
The lawsuit states that Whidbey Telecom was or should have been aware of the presence of the cultural resources and burial grounds in Point Roberts, and that the defendants
(See Burial site, page 9)
Danika
Photo by Grace McCarthy
B y N ola N B aker
Pair of serious Blaine area accidents hospitalize two on same night
reduced level of consciousness, to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. PeaceHealth and Harborview spokespeople said the bicyclist is not in their care. Both drivers did not appear
impaired and cooperated with law enforcement, Slater said.
When asked the speeds at which the bicyclist was hit and whether any charges were being considered, Slater replied
Meet, Eat & Talk with
that the investigation was ongoing.
About 40 minutes later, an automatic iPhone alert was sent to first responders just before 10:30 p.m. about a potential vehicle accident in the 9000 block of Semiahmoo Parkway, near the Sea Smoke neighborhood.
Two Blaine Police Department officers found a 21-yearold Blaine man in a black 2016 Chevy Malibu that had struck an embankment. The man did not appear to be wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, and several alcoholic beverage containers were seen in the vehicle, along with odors of intoxicants, Blaine Police Deputy Chief Brent Greene wrote in an email to The Northern Light.
764, Lynden, WA 98264
After finding the man unresponsive, Blaine officers requested assistance from NWFR. First responders from Station 61 in Blaine responded because the Birch Bay’s Station 63 crew was assisting the cyclist, Van Der Veen said. The Blaine station is about one to two minutes farther than the Birch Bay station for a vehicle driving the speed limit.
Blaine officers did not observe obvious signs of trauma, Greene said. While monitoring the man before NWFR arrived, officers noticed the man had stopped breathing and were unable to find a pulse. Greene said the man began breathing and his pulse returned after chest compressions.
NWFR transported the man to St. Joseph Medical Center. PeaceHealth spokesperson Anne Williams said the man was in serious condition on Tuesday, but improved to satisfactory condition the next day.
Blaine police believe the man was driving 50 mph, about 15 mph over the speed limit, before his vehicle collided with a retaining wall off the road. Police forwarded DUI and malicious mischief charges to the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.
Whatcom County candidates to file for upcoming election
B y G race M c c arthy
Whatcom County residents looking to throw their hats in the ring for elected office will have the chance to do so starting at 8 a.m. Monday.
Candidates can sign up to run
in the Aug. 4 primary during filing week, a one-week window for candidate registration that ends at 5 p.m. May 8. The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office encourages candidates to file online, but filing is also available by email, mail, fax or
(Food bank, continued from page 1)
Mail carriers, firefighters team up with food bank for local donation drive
The food bank’s goal is to collect 10,000-12,000 pounds of food. That requires more cargo space than what the mail carriers can take, so the food bank is relying on a few reinforcements. For starters, some mail carriers will be followed behind by their friends and family driving their own cars, picking up any donated food that can’t fit in the USPS vehicles, Dobbin said. North Whatcom Fire and Rescue will also run its own route throughout Blaine, filling up fire engines with donated food from houses along H Street, D Street, the Salishan neighbor-
hood, among other areas.
Edge Logistics and Transport, a Blaine shipping company, is offering free warehouse space as the amount of food collected is expected to be more than the food bank can store. Volunteers from the Phillips 66 refinery in Ferndale will sort the donations.
The food bank, which serves about 800 families every month, is the most popular food bank in Whatcom County outside of Bellingham. Dobbin estimates the food bank feeds roughly 12,000 people a month.
“We’re excited to see what Blaine can do,” Dobbin said.
in person. Mailed forms must be received by the deadline.
The August primary is a toptwo election, meaning the two most popular candidates, regardless of party, will move on to the November general election.
Here are the following positions representing Blaine and Birch Bay constituents up for election:
• Congress Representative, District 2: A two-year term currently held by Rick Larsen (D-Everett).
State Senator, 42nd Legislative District: A fouryear term held by Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham), who announced she is not running again.
State Representative Pos. 1, 42nd Legislative District: A two-year
CITY OF BLAINE
May 11, 2026
5:30 PM – Study Session: Town Hall
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting
May 12, 2026
9:00 AM – Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting
May 14, 2026
6:00 PM – Planning Commission Meeting
May 25, 2026
City Offices Closed –Memorial Day
1:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting –CANCELLED
6:00 PM – City Council Meeting – CANCELLED
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.
term held by Alicia Rule (D-Blaine).
State Representative Pos. 2, 42nd Legislative District: A two-year term held by Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham).
Whatcom County Prosecutor: A four-year term held by Eric Richey.
• Whatcom County District Court Judge Pos. 1: A four-year nonpartisan position held by Angela Anderson.
Whatcom County District Court Judge Pos. 2: A four-year nonpartisan position held by Jonathan Rands.
• Port of Bellingham Commissioner, District 4: A newly created position
after voters approved expanding the commission from three to five seats last November.
• Port of Bellingham Commissioner, District 5: A newly created position after voters approved expanding the commission from three to five seats last November.
Dozens of Whatcom County precinct officer positions will also be in the August election, along with five Washington State Supreme Court justice positions.
For more information, call the election division at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office at (360) 778-5102 or visit bit.ly/4cP1xTu. The office is at 311 Grand Ave., Suite 103, in Bellingham.
steensmA creAmery • spotted oWl beAchcAt breWing • And more MOTher’S Day SPecial STarTerS
cOckTail ShriMP … 15 six poAched prAWns With cocktAil sAuce caeSar SalaD … 9 romAine, pArmesAn, sourdough croutons, sun dried tomAtoes Bang Bang ShriMP SalaD … 19 crAcker crusted shrimp With bAng bAng sAuce With romAine, AvocAdo, cucumber, mAngo, green onions And lemon vinAigrette avOcaDO TOaST … 9 smAshed AvocAdos, poAched egg, everything bAgel seAsoning MainS
Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com
cOcOnUT French TOaST … 16 mAngo sAlsA And rum AnglAise hOUSe BreakFaST … 16 tWo eggs your WAy, bAcon or sAusAge, house potAtoes Bay Breeze OMeleT … 18 bAcon, sAusAge, cArmelized onions, spinAch And sWiss cheese FarMer’S OMeleT (veggie) … 17 roAsted peppers, AspArAgus, Artichoke heArts, spinAch And goAt cheese eggS BeneDicT … 18 english muffin, house cured cAnAdiAn bAcon, poAched eggs, hollAndAise And house potAtoes SalMOn BeneDicT … 21 english muffin, sAlmon, poAched eggs, hollAndAise And house potAtoes DeSSerTS
MaPle SUgar DUSTeD ricOTTa DOUghnUTS … 11 With vAnillA pudding
The Blaine Food Bank is participating in the national Stamp Out Hunger campaign on Saturday, May 9 in partnership with USPS letter carriers. The food bank hopes to raise over 10,000 pounds of donated food.
The Northern L ght
The Northern Light is published weekly by Daffodil Press, LLC.
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Daffodil Press is a locally owned, community-centered publishing company dedicated to strong local journalism and vibrant regional storytelling.
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Please include your name, address, email and daytime phone number for verification. Letters are limited to 150 words. We may edit for clarity, length, legality and standards of civility. We do not publish falsehoods or hate speech. Unsigned letters will not be considered. We accept one letter per author every four weeks. Send letters to: letters@daffodilpress.net
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Contributors In This Issue
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Vol XXXI, No 45
Circulation: 11,000 copies
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Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward, l., cuts the ribbon alongside branch manager John Ramsey during the grand opening celebration of Keller Williams Western Realty on Saturday in downtown Blaine. The real estate office, 225 G St., is the only Keller Williams office in Whatcom County outside of Bellingham.
Photo by Ruth Lauman
Grand opening celebrates Keller Williams in Blaine OpiniOn Letters
The Editor:
The BHS Hall of Fame Committee is looking for any relative of Albert Valdason who graduated from Blaine High School in 1926 and was a teacher and coach in the Blaine School District in the 1930s. If anyone reading this knows a family member of Mr. Valdason, please send information to jnnatbbb@aol.com. Your help will be very much appreciated.
Jan Boykin
Birch Bay
The Editor:
A recent article by Grace McCarthy on a proposed ZIP code for Birch Bay highlights claims, including those by Lisa Guthrie, that such a change would somehow create or affirm the community’s identity.
Birch Bay already has a well-established identity. Residents, visitors and businesses clearly recognize it as a distinct place, regardless of the mailing address they happen to use. A ZIP code assigned by the U.S. Postal Service is, at its core, a tool for efficient mail delivery — not a measure of community character.
It is understandable that some would prefer to list “Birch Bay” in their address without explanation. But personal preference does not necessarily establish a broader public need, nor does it justify drawing larger conclusions about economic development or incorporation.
We would be better served by keeping these discussions grounded in practical realities rather than symbolic changes.
David Ensign
Birch Bay
The
Editor:
Sunday, I was on my deck enjoying the beauty and peace of the evening overlooking Semiahmoo Bay. It was quiet except for birdsong and the gorgeous view of the bay.
Suddenly I heard a large engine noise that I thought was a drone. Instead, it turned out to be an ultralight aircraft; actually, three ultralights. They were extremely noisy and disruptive.
I understand the thrill of flying one; I would enjoy it myself. What I did not understand was the flyers had not considered how many people they had disrupted and made feel angry this evening. Unless these groups of flyers can make their machines quiet, they should not be flying over our coastline.
My husband and I moved here for the peace and beauty of the community. Things are changing and we are sad.
HD Loewen
Blaine
The Editor:
On May 9 we have a great opportunity to support our Blaine Food Bank through the annual Stamp Out Hunger letter carrier food drive.
Blaine Food Bank provides access to nutritious food like fresh produce, proteins, dairy and pantry essentials to families in need throughout Whatcom County. Additionally, its food rescue program helps reduce food waste significantly by securing surplus food from retailers and farms, cutting waste and ensuring edible food reaches those in need, in a safe and efficient manner.
We need to support our local food banks while they work their magic to make a significant impact on the community’s food security and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable food system.
Let’s come together on Saturday, May 9, and make a positive difference for those needing a little extra support.
Brandi Ra Civico, food bank board member and volunteer Bellingham
The Editor:
Age discrimination in insurance is something young first responders face, even if it’s not openly talked about. It should be addressed by our elected representatives.
If you’re under 25 and serving as a firefighter, EMT or police officer, you’re already taking on responsibility and risk that most people never will. Yet when it comes to insurance, you’re often grouped
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: Third Wednesday 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
into a higher-risk category because of your age.
This kind of blanket pricing can feel unfair. It can mean higher premiums at a time when many young responders are just starting their careers, earning modest wages.
The goal isn’t to ignore risk, but to recognize merit. There should be room for insurance models that consider training, certification and professional responsibility.
And if we value the people who run toward danger when others run away, then that fairness should extend beyond words — and into systems like insurance that impact their daily lives.
Dean Berkeley Blaine
The Editor:
The seventh Bellingham Scottish Gathering returns to Blaine on June 6 for the annual festival of Scottish culture. We’ve found a home at Marine Park where the harbor and Salish Sea are reminiscent of Scotland’s seaside towns and fishing heritage.
The gathering celebrates Scottish culture through music and dance, clan and organization information booths and Scottish-themed vendors. It is an educational and fun-filled day for all ages. The proximity to the international border brings competitors and tourists to enjoy Scotland’s culture for a day.
We are seeking area volunteers for many tasks at the festival. Whether you are an organizational wizard, have labor skills or just want to help, we have a job for you.
Volunteer meetings will be scheduled during May. If you are interested in participating, please send an email to heather@scottishdancesociety.org or leave a message at (360) 715-8682.
Heather Richendrfer, executive director of Scottish Dance Society
Bellingham
Please send letters to letters@daffodilpress.net no later than noon on Monday.
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.
Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: (360)3328311, ext. 3330.
In the Garden with Kelle: May is always so ‘bee-zy’
The phrase “busy as a bee” never rings truer than this time of year.
Our gardens are exploding with blossoms. It seems that everywhere we look we are cheered by bright colors and soothed by pleasant floral scents, all orchestrated by the buzzing of the bees.
While most folks generally call anything that buzzes around flowers and is black and yellow a bee (followed by vigorous swatting), there are many bee and bee-like pollinators, most of which couldn’t be bothered stinging you. Except for the wasp, which is in the same family as bees but significantly more aggressive because it must feed meat to its larvae.
Fun fact: Did you know that honey bees actually are not native to North America or even the Western Hemisphere? They were brought here by European immigrants. Honey bees settled in to the new continent so well that it was quickly forgotten they weren’t from around here.
But instead of pushing out our native bees, of which there are over 4,000 distinct species, honey bees and native pollinators have learned to share and work harder when together.
The most well-known of the native bees are the mason bees,
which is named for its nesting habit of building a mud wall between each cell in its nesting tube. Mason bees are one of the easiest native pollinators to recognize and manage in your yard.
They are also significantly more efficient at pollinating than honey bees.
They hatch in the spring just when our fruit trees are blooming and find their way to suitable nesting sites — cavities that tend to be tube-like, think bug holes burrowed into a tree snag. Then, female bees proceed to collect pollen and nectar to build a tiny pillow of food for their egg. This process takes 20-30 trips. A female bee then lays an egg before building a mud wall, which takes about 10-15 trips and requires a ready source of mud.
The mud wall will isolate her egg from the adjoining cells, ensuring each cell a better chance at survival. Each egg in the tube will belong to the same female mason bee. As she fills the tube up and is running out of room, she switches the sex of the eggs she is laying from female to male.
The positioning protects the female eggs from predators. She also leaves a vestibule at the opening of the tube, where there is no egg, that is about the length of a bird beak. This process takes about six to eight weeks. Once she lays her eggs, the female
dies.
A baby bee hatches about 1014 days after the egg is laid. The small larva happily goes about munching on its own bed.
Once the food has been eaten, the larva is ready to pupate and spins itself into a cocoon. This process is usually completed by the end of July or early August.
The final phase results in the mason bee pupa developing into an adult bee inside of the cocoon. The adult mason bee, now living in the cocoon, will stay in the nesting tube throughout the winter until it is time to go to work the following March, when trees are blooming again.
While we know a lot about mason bees, we are just beginning to learn about the many other bee pollinators in our world. In Washington, we have a huge variety; ground nesting, leaf cutter, sweat, cuckoo, plaster and bumble bees (my personal favorite).
Native bees tend to be solitary nesting, except for the bumble bees that live in social nesting sites.
Some may only live a few weeks. Many are only a few millimeters long. For the most part, they are just working hard to gather food for their eggs and aren’t too worried about us, so they can’t be bothered to sting anyone.
Honey bees are the only bees that produce honey. Of the sev-
en to nine recognized honey bee species in the world, only the Western honey bee is found here. Though you will see a huge variety of colors and patterns, they are all the same bee that lives in a hive (or a cavity if feral) and produces honey.
All of our bees are in danger. A loss of habitat, use of pesticides and herbicides and reduction in food sources all contribute to the problem.
How can you help? Educate yourself about pollinators, take a class, stop or severely limit the
use of chemicals in your yard, and plant flowers that bloom consecutively so they provide food for all pollinators throughout the year. If possible, plant more native plants in your yard. For more information on raising mason bees in your yard, visit nwcore.org/pollinator.html and agr. wa.gov/pollinators.
Kelle Rankin-Sunter is founder of Blaine CORE, which holds free home and gardening classes in Blaine. Rankin-Sunter can be reached at fruit@Blaine-CORE.com.
2 bed, 2 bath, 1,855 sq ft
3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,613 sq ft
5
4104 Loomis Trail Rd, Blaine 8645 Blue Grouse Way, Blaine
5433 Wood Duck Loop, Blaine
4584 Anderson Rd, Blaine
8491 Blaine Rd, Blaine
9695 Terrace Ave, Blaine
8719 Semiahmoo Dr, Blaine
9411 Turnstone Ln, Blaine
8148 Quinault Rd, Blaine 0 Birch Point Rd, Blaine
Sweet Gum Dr, Blaine 659 Sweet Gum Dr, Blaine
Bayview Ave, Blaine
Earth Day was well-celebrated on April 22 around Blaine and Birch Bay, with primary school children learning to plant flowers and neighbors organizing roadside cleanups. Below are a few activities that community members initiated to improve the environment around north Whatcom County.
Blaine’s Salishan Neighborhood Association adopted the Interstate 5 exit 274 off-ramp for a litter cleanup on Saturday. Within two hours, the group collected 25 bags of trash. From l.; Ben Kirkendall, Jocelyne Harsch, Kathleen Capson, Sue Sturgill, Sheli Moore and Janet Pickard. A group is also needed to adopt the on-ramp. To volunteer contact Ben at liznben2024@ gmail.com.
Pre-K through second grade students celebrated Earth Day by planting sunflowers in reusable milk cartons on April 22 at Blaine Primary School.
Photo by Liz Kirkendall
Photo courtesy of Terre Shapiro
Girls tennis nabs win over Lakewood, girls golf places second at Lake Padden
B y N ola N B aker
The Lady Borderites had a good week on the courts and the links, with girls tennis earning its second team win of the season with a 4-3 victory over Lakewood, and girls golf having one of its best overall performances of the season with a second-place finish at Lake Padden Golf Course.
GIRLS TENNIS
Blaine girls tennis earned its second win of the season in a showdown against Northwest Conference (NWC) rival Lakewood on Tuesday.
Playing on home court, Blaine’s Kylee McNew and Jade Butler-Barros each won their individual matchups, and two doubles partners, Carly Saunders and Bea Dickson, and Chloe Biondolillo and Kylie Murillo, won their matchups.
All told, Blaine defeated the visiting Cougars 4-3, improving the team’s overall record to 2-7 with just two regular season games remaining.
McNew defeated Rayna Peacher in straight sets, 7-6, 6-3. Butler-Barros defeated Kate Magelson in straight sets as well, 6-2, 6-2.
In doubles, the duo of Saunders and Dickson dropped their first set, but came back for a three-set victory, winning 5-7, 6-0, 6-1. Biondolillo and Murillo won in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.
Girls tennis was scheduled to play its final two games of the regular season at home, with a match against Burlington-Edison at 4 p.m. Wednesday (af-
derite on the day, finishing the course tied for fifth place with a clean 100. Bring was the only Borderite to place in the top10, but that didn’t mean her teammates were slacking.
Sydney Arus finished in 12th place with a score of 106. Olivia Tanjuaquio was right behind her teammate, finishing 13th after shooting a 109. Hannah Phelps-McDonald tied for 16th, shooting a 112, and teammates Thora Engen and Megan Rosenberger tied each other for 18th, each shooting a 114.
Blaine girls golf will play one more scheduled match this regular season, another NWC bout at 2 p.m. May 6 at Shuksan Golf Course in Bellingham.
Stats provided by whatcompreps.com
BOYS SOCCER
ter press time) and the final regular season match against Mount Vernon at 4 p.m. Friday. Stats provided by whatcompreps.com
GIRLS GOLF
Blaine girls golf traveled to Bellingham for an eight-team NWC match on Monday, and ended just seven strokes shy of taking first place from Mount Vernon.
The Borderites finished with a team score of 541 at Lake Padden Golf Course, posting one of its best results as a team this season.
Blaine senior Marcella Bring shot the best score for a Bor-
from Earth Day
from Lincoln Park on April 22 in Blaine. Superfeet, which gives its employees 16 hours of paid volunteer time each year, partnered with Whatcom Million Trees Project and the city of Blaine for the work party. The crew removed English ivy from 128 trees in the park. Ivy is particularly threatening to mature trees as it blocks sunlight.
Blaine boys soccer fell to Ferndale 4-1 on Tuesday night at Borderite Stadium, dropping the team’s record to 2-11-1. The Borderites are currently in 8th place in NWC standings and third among 1A teams.
Blaine’s lone goal against the Golden Eagles came from Wade Lottimer, who volleyed a long free kick from Dima Yuryev into the net.
The Borderites was scheduled to host Senior Night, the final home game of the regular season, at 7 p.m. Thursday against Bellingham at Borderite Stadium.
Stats provided by whatcompreps.com
See more photos and other sports at thenorthernlight.com
Photo courtesy of Whatcom Million Trees Project
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 showed its appreciation for Mother Nature on April 22 by cleaning up trash on Alderson Road.
Photo courtesy of Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2
Carly Saunders returns a serve during Blaine's match against Lakewood on Tuesday.
Photo by Nolan Baker
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
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
252 Sweet Gum Dr
MLS# 2421130
$609,000
658 Parkside Place
MLS#2491003
$650,000
reserve, this home offers a peaceful setting with no direct rear neighbors—ideal for buyers seeking quiet, connection to nature. At the same time, just minutes from I-5.
Brandi Coplen (360) 201-3951
This beautifully designed 4-bedroom home features a spacious and functional layout that seamlessly blends style and comfort. The open-concept main floor features soaring ceilings, a cozy propane fireplace, and durable luxury vinyl plank flooring. The kitchen boasts sleek flat-panel cabinets, dark quartz countertops, and a stylish range backsplash. Enjoy the covered back patio year-round, perfect for entertaining. Built on a durable slab-on-grade foundation.
Brandi Coplen (360) 201-3951
This beautiful view home offers space, quality, and an incredibly convenient location just minutes from downtown Blaine’s shops, restaurants, schools, and easy I-5 access. Set in a premier location just steps from Lincoln Park, the home enjoys added privacy along with a peaceful natural backdrop. The spacious floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with both formal and casual living spaces plus the open-concept layout today’s buyers love. Vaulted and 9’ ceilings.
Leah Crews (360) 305-4747
Lummi Nation sues Whatcom County, Whidbey Telecom over Point Roberts burial disturbances
failed to conduct required environmental reviews.
Although the Lummi Nation repeatedly warned the company upon discovering the issue in 2023, Whidbey Telecom allegedly continued to dig in close proximity to and within cultural sites, even after discovering “extensive” human remains.
Despite state law requiring disturbed human remains to be protected from further disturbance, many were left exposed to the elements. At least one cranial fragment was lost forever, and other remains are believed to be lost as well, according to the lawsuit.
Donna Hilty, CEO of Whidbey Telecom, said the company is aware of the lawsuit.
“We have not yet had the opportunity to review the complaint in detail or to evaluate possible implications for certain projects going forward.
“We look forward to providing further updates and
to address the allegations in the near future,” she wrote in a statement, stating she is currently not in a position to comment further.
“The disturbance, exposure, weathering, scattering, mishandling, destruction and loss of ancestral remains constitute profound cultural and spiritual harms that no monetary compensation can fully redress”
Whatcom County allegedly permitted two of the projects and violated county code by not consulting the Lummi Nation. The USDA and the Department of Commerce (Burial
are also being accused of funding the projects without consulting the Nation. All the defendants are accused of failing to notify the Lummi Nation of the disturbances and denying access to the sites to allow for the recovery and reburial of the remains, among other accusations.
Riley Sweeney, a spokesperson for Whatcom County, declined to comment amid pending litigation.
Lummi Nation is requesting the cessation of further disturbance to the sites, an assessment of the damages, access to the sites for the reinternment of the remains, and compensation for the losses sustained.
“The disturbance, exposure, weathering, scattering, mishandling, destruction and loss of ancestral remains constitute profound cultural and spiritual harms that no monetary compensation can fully redress,” the Lummi Nation wrote in the lawsuit.
Luther Olson
September 2, 2000 – March 18, 2026
Luther Olson came into the world September 2, 2000 and spent the next twenty-five years sharing his special brand of kindness, enthusiasm and humor with us. He died on March 18, 2026, before his life really unfolded its strong wings.
He grew up mostly in Point Roberts, WA, where the forest meets the ocean and the border runs through the middle of everything. The trees and the tides shaped him early, and that love of wild places never left him. The border did too, and he didn’t like artificial lines that separated people from each other and from their potential.
Through his father’s maritime career he traveled frequently with his family, always looking for a way to get in the water and a way to make new friends. He loved spending time in Saskatchewan and in San Francisco with his extended family. He was passionate about sports, whether playing soccer or rooting for the Mariners.
As an adult Luther made his home in Bellingham. He liked being his own boss and was a talented entrepreneur with a passion for local producers and creators. He valued what’s particular and handmade in a world that keeps tilting toward the generic. With a huge heart he was devoted to the people, and dogs, he loved. He led with compassion and generosity.
Luther developed epilepsy as he entered adulthood. He died on March 18 following a seizure, with his beloved dog Kova at his side. He would have wanted her remembered exactly as she was: loyal and loving.
He is survived by his mother Meg and his father Brad, his sister Liz and Breonna, his girlfriend and fierce protector for many years. He also leaves behind a circle of devoted friends, a dozen beautiful bongs that can only be described as functional art, and an impressive collection of immaculate shoes. Luther had places to go and footwear to ensure he went there in style.
We will gather to celebrate Luther on Friday, June 12 at 2 p.m. at Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale. Please bring memories and water balloons.
sheriff’s repOrts
April 19, 8:12 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Drive.
April 19, 9:29 a.m.: Mental health flag on Moonglow Court.
April 19, 9:37 p.m.: Traffic stop on Alderson Road.
April 19, 10:05 a.m.: Refer to other agency on Twilight Place.
April 19, 12:30 p.m.: Mental health flag on Surf Place.
April 19, 4:33 p.m.: Assist agency on Mile Post 269 on I-5, Custer.
April 19, 5:18 p.m.: Assist a person on Harborview Road.
April 19, 5:49 p.m.: Extra patrol on Alderson Road.
April 19, 6:48 p.m.: Watch for on Birch Bay Drive and Cedar Lane.
April 20, 12:46 a.m.: Extra patrol on Surf Place.
April 20, 10:16 a.m.: Assist a person on Blaine and Alderson roads.
April 20, 11 a.m.: Assist a person on Surf Place.
April 20, 11:27 a.m.: Mental health flag on Surf Place.
April 20, 11:56 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/non-injury on Loomis Trail Road.
April 20, 12:26 p.m.: Alarm audible on Custer School Road, Custer.
April 20, 12:57 p.m.: Domestic physical on East Street.
April 20, 2 p.m.: Whatcomm
record on Pipeline Road.
April 20, 5:16 p.m.: Refer to other agency on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.
April 20, 7:18 p.m.: Assault arrest on Harborview Road.
April 20, 7:21 p.m.: Refer to other agency on Sweet Road.
April 20, 8:28 p.m.: Watch for on Bay and Blaine roads.
April 20, 8:35 p.m.: Trespass on Gulf Road.
pOliCe repOrts
April 12, 10:14 a.m.: Burglary on Drayton Harbor Road.
April 12, 11:09 p.m.: Missing person on Custer School Road.
April 13, 12:52 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Pacific Highway.
April 13, 9:19 a.m.: Threat on 16th Street.
April 14, 9:38 p.m.: Domesticphysical on A Street.
April 15, 11:14 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Grant Avenue.
April 17, 11:51 a.m.: Child abuse on Parkview Street.
April 17, 1:09 p.m.: Suicidal subject on D Street.
April 17, 2:29 p.m.: Threat on H Street.
April 18, 7:54 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Peace Portal Drive.
April 18, 10:06 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Peace Portal Drive.
April 18, 10:23 a.m.: Surrender of weapons on H Street Road.
April 18, 9:01 p.m.: Hit and run on 2nd Street.
CrOssWOrd
ACROSS
1. Purchase
4. British news organization
7. Midway between northeast and east
8. Language specialist group
10. Fancy automobile
12. Small loop or series of loops
13. Exploiter 14. Don’t know when yet 16. Group of languages 17. One who’s finished 19. After B 20. Angled 21. A place to adopt pets 25. Swiss river 26. Young boy 27. Unexciting 29. American comedian Vidale 30. Peyton’s little brother
31. Corporate higher-up
32. “All in the Family”
star 39. Strike something forcefully
41. Up in the air (abbr.)
42. Clay earth pigments
43. Means to record brain activity 44. Small constellation 45. Embraces 46. Brief description 48. Exclude 49. White (French) 50. Insect 51. A major division of geological time 52. Soviet Socialist Republic DOWN 1. Bridge building d 1. Type of whale 2. In tune 3. A citizen of Yemen 4. Actress Ling 5. One who supports 6. Circus performer 8. Yearly tonnage (abbr.) 9. Quantitative fact
11. Utah city 14. Where a golfer begins 15. Attendant 18. The ancient Egyptian sun god 19. Book of Chronicles (abbr.) 20. Benedictine monk 22. Not turbulent 23. Car mechanics group 24. Buffer used in chemistry
27. Fall heavily 28. Pie _ __ mode 29. The Brits love it 31. Children’s TV channel (abbr.) 32. Jacksonville footballer
33. Helps little firms 34. __ and behold 35. A way to resemble
36. Fingers 37. Excessive indulgences
38. You might be an “empty” one 39. “How the West Was Won” writer
April 18, 11:28 p.m.: DUI on Boblett Street.
April 19, 11:31 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Sweet Road.
April 19, 7:24 p.m.: Assault - simple on Garibaldi Lane.
April 21, 11:17 a.m.: Warrant arrest on 2nd Street.
April 21, 2:43 p.m.: Hit and run on H Street.
April 22, 10:00 a.m.: Burglary on H Street.
April 22, 5:31 p.m.: Theft on Bennett Drive.
April 23, 2:32 p.m.: Suicidal subject on C Street.
April 23, 4:47 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on H Street.
April 23, 5:58 p.m.: Theft on Lux Lane.
April 24, 2:04 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute on E Street.
April 25, 10:29 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Sea Smoke Way.
40. European river 44. They begin the alphabet 47. The body’s messenger
tides
April 30 - May 7 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Coming up
Get Ready for Kindergarten Family Night: 5 p.m., April 30, Blaine Primary School. Building tour, classroom visit, pizza and more. RSVP: bit.ly/4tE6C8F.
Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival: April 30–May 3, downtown Bellingham. More info: cascadiafilmfest.org.
“Legally Blonde: The Musical”: 7 p.m., April 30–May 2 and May 7–9, and matinées at 2 p.m., May 2 and May 9, Blaine Performing Arts Center. Blaine High School students perform “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” Recommended for ages 13 and older. General admission $12, students/military/seniors $10 at bit.ly/4cBEaNB.
Birch Bay Vogt Library Surplus: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 2, Birch Bay Vogt Library, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Refrigerator, washer and dryer, dishwasher, books, CDs, tables and chairs. By donation. Sponsored by the Friends of Birch Bay Library.
Beach explorations: Beach walks: 11:30 a.m., May 2, Birch Bay State Park, meet at BP Heron Center. Registration not required. Information: bbbparkandrec.org.
Birch Bay Author Book Signing: 4 p.m., May 2, The Way Café, 4823 Alderson Road. Local author Lee Connors introduces his book “I Am Paul” and companion workbook. The book explores the transformation of Saul to Paul and how the world was impacted forever.
Future Women in EMS and Fire: May 2–3. Free. Calling all Whatcom County women interested in a career in the fire service. Learn from women already working in the industry and get hands-on experience. This weekend is about building skills, gaining confidence and finding community. Application and more information: tinyurl.com/futurewomen-in-ems-fire.
Star Wars Day Community Stroll: 6 p.m., May 4, Blaine Welcome Center, 546 Peace Portal Drive. Break out your favorite Star Wars character costume and meet like-minded people who love everything Star Wars. All ages welcome. Family-friendly free event.
National Day of Prayer Gathering at Peace Arch Park: 2 to 4 p.m., May 7, Peace Arch Park. Hosted by Walking in Love. This gathering will also serve as the kickoff to Walking in Love’s 2026 National Journey, where founder Beckey Hamm and her husband, Scott, will travel the perimeter of the U.S., visiting national parks, praying over the nation and its people.
Better Than BookTok: 4 to 5 p.m., May 7, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Themed bring-your-own-book club. This month, the book theme is “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner. This book club is meeting virtually, please register to receive the Teams link via email on WCLS.org/events.
Traditional Plants with Lora Boome: 2 to 4 p.m., May 9, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. A presentation about traditional plants and their uses. The workshop will demonstrate how to use devil’s club herbal-infused oil and make a roll-on massage oil, which attendees can take home. Provided in partnership with the Nooksack Tribe. Spaces are limited and registration is required.
Crafting Community: 5 to 7 p.m., May 11, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in with arts and crafts to spend time creating alongside other crafters. Stitch, hook, paint, draw, all while connecting with others. Info: wcls.org.
Washington State Basic Boater Education Course: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., May 11–14 and June 8–11. This online course on Zoom is for anyone wishing to learn safe boating skills and qualify for a Boater Education Card. $15 registration plus $10 printed book. Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Bellingham and San Juan Islands Flotilla. Reservations and questions: boatingsafetyWA@gmail.com.
Spring Book Sale: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 16, Blaine Library meeting room, 610 3rd Street. Find books of all genres, DVDs, CDs, puzzles and more. Sponsored by Friends of Blaine Library. Info: wcls.org.
Ongoing
Blaine Library closed for construction: April 27 through May 8. Limited doorside service available.
Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Noon to 1 p.m., Monday, on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: Jerrylyn at (360) 305-2246.
Senior Community Meals: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $6 per meal ($10 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First-come, firstserve basis. Info: (360) 332-8040.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of April 20-26, no precipitation was recorded. The 2026 year-to-date precipitation record is 14.6 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 72.2°F on April 26, with a low of 38.7°F on April 25. Average high was 67.3°F and average low was 44.1°F.
CAP Clothing Bank: 9 a.m. to noon, Monday and Friday, and 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing for all ages and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or (360) 392-8484.
Blaine Food Bank: 9 a.m. to noon, Monday and Friday, 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, 500 C Street. Info: (360) 332-6350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.
Celebrate Recovery: 5:30 p.m., 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.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Blaine High School theater presents ‘Legally Blonde’
B y G race M c c arthy
Fifty Blaine High School drama students have been busy reading lines and marking the stage for the opening weekend of their spring performance, “Legally Blonde: The Musical.”
Opening night was set for Thursday in the Performing Arts Center featuring an allstar cast that includes Danika Morecombe as Elle Woods, Toby Porter as Emmett, Riley Osborn as Professor Callahan and Blake Collins as Warner.
“I’m excited to see everything come together and to let all of our hard work show,” Morecombe said.
The performance is based on the Broadway adaptation of author Amanda Brown’s book “Legally Blonde,” which was published in 2001 and became a box office success that same
year. The musical follows Elle Woods, a Harvard law student as she navigates school and relationships.
Drama teacher Olivia Theilemann is directing the Blaine show, with music led by Andy Marshall and Mike Dahl. The performance is recommended for anyone 13 years or older, though Theilemann said families are encouraged to bring younger children if they feel comfortable with some cheeky humor.
Theilemann said she wanted the show to be an upbeat contrast to last year’s musical, the Greek tragedy “Hadestown.”
This year’s performance also offered small roles that she said allowed many students to be part of the production.
“It’s a big boost of confidence,” Theilemann said. “Being on stage allows the students to open up and lets them shine.”
The high schoolers involved
CITY OF BLAINE PLOVER
FERRY POSITIONS
SUMMER SEASONAL – TEMPORARY
Salary per hour varies based on position – No Benefits
Applications are being accepted for Captain, Senior Deck Hand, and Deck Hand. These are part-time, seasonal positions for approximately 20 to 40 hours per week.
Required availability Thursday through Sunday, May through September.
Other workdays may be possible.
Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s job page, https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/blainewa?
The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
NOTICE Water Main Flushing
The City of Blaine and Birch Bay Water and Sewer District started flushing the water distribution systems. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.
During the flushing process, water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness in the water. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works or Birch Bay Water and Sewer District.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, contact City of Blaine Public Works at 360-332-8820, Birch Bay Water and Sewer District at 360-371-7100 or visit www.cityofblaine.com or www.bbwsd.com for weekly area updates.
in the production each had a favorite moment or part they were excited to share with the audience. For stage manager Tommi Misquitta, it was the dancing she liked the most, while Collins said he looked forward to the “There! Right There!” musical number because of its humor.
Kaden Hansen, playing Kyle the UPS driver, said he was eagerly awaiting the last performances of his high school career.
“I want the audience to have fun and romanticize life,” Hansen said.
Rehearsals began in mid-February, with students dedicating four weekday evenings and Saturdays to the show. Theilemann said she was excited for the community to support her students who had put “blood, sweat and tears” into rehearsals.
“We can’t wait for Blaine to show up,” she said.
The performance starts at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, April 30-May 2 and May 7-9, with 2 p.m. Saturday matinees both weekends. The theater opens 30 minutes before each show. Tickets cost $12 and are discounted $2 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at bit.ly/4eaZrjH.
The Performing Arts Center is in Blaine Middle School, 975 H St.
FIRST STEP
YOUTH ACCOUNTS
Helping kids and teens build smart money habits early.
