Issuu

Blaine City Council approves manufactured home park

The Blaine City Council unanimously approved a 150-unit manufactured home park Monday night, backing city staff recommendations that expanded several development exceptions beyond what the city’s hearing examiner endorsed.

The project, known as Creekside at The Ridge, will be built on about 49 acres east of Harvey Road and north of H Street Road near the Harbor Hills neighborhood. Plans include manufactured homes, private roads, stormwater facilities, trails, recreational amenities and a community clubhouse.

The council approved the project through a planned unit development, or PUD, ordinance after staff recommended a series of modifications to the hearing examiner’s earlier conditional approval.

HEARING EXAMINER DENIES 8 WAIVER REQUESTS

The vote highlighted a sharp divide between the city’s professional staff and Hearing Examiner Phil Olbrechts, who had warned in his April 20

(See City Council, page 3)

million

B y G race M c c arthy

Birch Bay Waterslides was listed for sale shortly after the water park announced it would not open this summer.

On Monday, John L. Scott Bellingham Real Estate put the 43-year-old water park and the surrounding land on the market for $6 million. The water park makes up one-third of the 14.5-acre property at 4874 Birch Bay-Lynden Road, with vacant land covering the other two-thirds, according to the listing.

The unincorporated Whatcom County land is zoned general commercial, which allows for multi-family, mixeduse residential and a variety of commercial options.

In early May, the water park posted a notice on its website and updated social media to inform customers it would be closed for

(See Waterslides, page 11)

Blaine City Council passed a resolution recognizing National Safe Boating Week, which runs May 16-22, during its Monday meeting. The National Safe Boating Council’s campaign reminds boaters of precautions they should take, such as wearing life jackets and checking equipment, before getting on the water for Memorial Day weekend. For more information on boating safety, visit safeboatingcampaign.com.

The ongoing cost of living crisis has not spared Whatcom County residents, and local service providers say they are seeing the effects.

Food banks face donation shortages and struggle to truck in food rescued from grocery stores due to spiking diesel prices.

At the Blaine School District (BSD), homelessness rates have gone up since COVID, reflecting a harsh economic climate for working families.

The Northern Light spoke with service providers from multiple agencies around Blaine and Whatcom County to see how helping working families and those facing homelessness has changed due to the current economic climate.

‘WHAT BILL CAN I GO WITHOUT?’

At the BSD Family Service Center, Director Julie Butschli has been connecting low-income and unhoused families with federal aid, grants and countless other methods of assistance — from Christ-

Blaine man sentenced for child rape, assaults

B y G race M c c arthy

A 24-year-old Blaine man was sentenced to nearly eight years in prison in Whatcom County Superior Court on May 6 after pleading guilty to child rape and two domestic violence assaults. His eligibility for release will be reviewed at the end of his sentence, with the possibility of up to life in prison.

The sentencing comes after Fredy Eduardo Martin Esteban, 24, of Blaine, pled guilty in superior court to second-degree child rape and two counts

of domestic violence assaults in the second- and fourth-degrees on March 17.

A plea deal had been struck that dropped the rape charge from first degree to second, and dismissed five assault charges and a malicious mischief charge.

Martin Esteban, then 20, was arrested on Nov. 11, 2022, the same day that Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, where a young

(See Man sentenced, page 5)

mas presents to school supplies to housing referrals — since 2020. Even compared to the zenith of the pandemic, she said, families are struggling more today.

Emergency gas vouchers are an example of how the center is currently scrambling to meet the needs of local families. By law, the school district cannot give out standard gas cards, and has had to partner with one local gas station for emergency funds in case,

(See Cost of living, page 11)

Photo by Grace McCarthy

RCMP rescues woman experiencing mental health crisis in Semiahmoo Bay

B y G race M c c arthy

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) rescued an Oregon woman experiencing a mental health crisis in Semiahmoo Bay on Monday morning.

The Blaine Police Department responded to a call about 7:50 a.m. Monday requesting a welfare check for a woman throwing rocks at vehicles in the 9200 block of Semiahmoo Parkway, according to spokes-

person Tim Richardson. The woman was later identified as a 50-year-old from Oregon.

The woman declined to speak to officers when they arrived, and instead walked toward the beach. As officers approached the woman, Blaine police said she began walking into Semiahmoo Bay in the direction of Canada about 8:40 a.m.

them of the situation, and then requested a marine unit from the U.S. Coast Guard and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.

The woman was in the U.S. waters of Semiahmoo Bay for about an hour, about 400 yards from shore, or more than three football fields, according to police.

“The timeliness of their arrival likely saved her life,” said Brent Greene, deputy chief of Blaine Police Department.

Blaine police called the RCMP and U.S. Border Patrol to advise

The water temperature was 47 degrees, according to police, while the air temperature was about 57 degrees.

RCMP was the first boat to arrive about 9:40 a.m. and pulled the woman, whose head was barely above water, into their boat 10 minutes later. Police described her as hypothermic with a weak pulse.

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue met RCMP at Blaine Harbor, where the medics then transported the woman to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham for an involuntary health commitment.

Call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis or suicidal thoughts.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988 or text HOME to 741741 for a crisis counselor.

The Whatcom County Triage Center crisis line is 800-584-3578.

The Washington Warm Line is 877-500-9276 and provides peer support for people living with mental illness 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. For more information about resources, visit namiwhatcom. org/crisis-resources.html.

Questions remain month after BP Cherry Point explosion sends 3 to hospital

B y G race M c c arthy

Investigations into what caused an explosion at BP Cherry Point that sent three people to the hospital are still underway, with limited information provided nearly a month after the April 18 incident.

starting May 23! Join us for an evening of live music by Alex Britton and bold coastal flavors grilled over an open flame. Enjoy a full spread of seasonal sides, decadent desserts, and more.

Cesar Rodriguez, U.S. media relations manager for BP, said the energy company’s internal investigation was ongoing and no new information was available as of May 11. He did not respond to questions on when the internal investigation will be completed or in which unit BP believes the explosion occurred.

A Washington State Labor and Industries spokesperson said on Monday its investigation was still active.

Read the full article online at thenorthernlight.com

(City Council, continued from page one)

City council unanimously approves east Blaine manufactured home park

recommendation that many of the waivers the developer requested exceeded what Blaine’s municipal code allows.

“This recommendation unfortunately comes with several significant revisions to staff recommended development standard waivers,” Olbrechts wrote in his findings. “The staff report includes scores of recommended ‘exceptions’ and waivers to City development standards that are not authorized by the Blaine Municipal Code (BMC).

“Sixteen such waivers were identified directly in the staff report and additional waivers were incorporated by reference from the Applicant’s draft master plan. Only six of the 16 waivers recommended in the staff report are approved. Two of the waivers are found unnecessary. The remaining 8 waivers are denied.”

CITY COUNCIL APPROVES REVERSAL

At Monday’s meeting, Blaine Community Development Director Alex Wenger urged the council to restore or broaden many of those exceptions through revisions included in the final ordinance. Those revisions were approved Monday night with the unanimous vote.

“Most of those were fairly innocuous,” council member

Richard May said.

Wenger argued the flexibility was permissible under the city’s PUD regulations, which allow departures from standard zoning requirements in exchange for what officials described as “superior design” and more efficient use of land.

Among the changes, staff supported:

• allowing some lots to be 3,000 square feet instead of 4,000 square feet

• allowing private road systems to serve clusters of homes allowing attached garages instead of only carports

• permitting zero-lot-line garage setbacks

• allowing some alleys to be 20 feet wide instead of the required 30 feet

While Olbrechts ultimately ruled that many environmental issues could not be revisited

City Council looks to remove public hearings for some development

B y K ari M ar

Blaine City Council is considering zoning text amendments that would streamline permit review and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) procedures while reducing the number of projects requiring public hearings.

Under the proposal, subdivisions with fewer than 100 residential lots could move through an administrative review process instead of requiring a public hearing before a hearing examiner. The changes would also revise

permit timelines, clarify SEPA appeals and shift some permit decisions to the Community Development Services administrator.

Blaine Planning Commission voted 4-0-1 in April to recommend approval following a public hearing.

Blaine man spends 11 days in hospital following Semiahmoo crash

B y G race M c c arthy

A 21-year-old Blaine resident has been released from the hospital following a crash last month that police alleged he caused by driving under the dinfluence.

On April 25, Blaine Police Department officers found the man unconscious in a 2016 black Chevy Malibu that had struck an embankment in the 9000 block of Semiahmoo Parkway, near the Sea Smoke neighborhood.

Blaine police said they observed the man, who did not appear to be wearing a seatbelt, surrounded by several alcoholic beverage containers and intoxicant odors. The man did not show obvious signs of trauma, but police began chest compressions after they lost the man’s pulse and he stopped breathing before medics arrived.

The man was transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical

Center in Bellingham, where he stayed 11 days. PeaceHealth spokesperson Amy Drury said the man was discharged May 6.

Blaine police alleged the

man was driving 50 mph in a 35 mph zone. The City of Blaine’s prosecutor is reviewing DUI and malicious mischief charges.

because the city’s earlier critical areas determination had not been appealed, he did require additional stormwater review conditions during final engineering review.

The council’s unanimous vote now clears the way for the project to proceed under the revised conditions approved Monday night.

SaturdayMay16th 10:00am—4:00pm

Design inspiration for a clubhouse at Creekside at The Ridge that developers unveiled during a community meeting on the project in February 2024. Image courtesy of the Lones Group

The Northern Light is published weekly by Daffodil Press, LLC. About Daffodil Press

Daffodil Press is a locally owned, community-centered publishing company dedicated to strong local journalism and vibrant regional storytelling.

We proudly publish: The Northern Light

• All Point Bulletin (Point Roberts)

• La Conner Community News (La Conner)

• Mount Baker Experience (Mt. Baker foothills)

• Pacific Coast Weddings (annual guide)

• Waterside (summer recreation guide for coastal Northwest Washington)

Daffodil Press LLC is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association and active in chambers of commerce throughout Whatcom County and coastal Northwest Washington. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or publisher.

Letters to the Editor

We welcome thoughtful letters from our readers. Letters should address local issues of broad community interest and help foster informed civic dialogue.

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

Publisher Kari Mar kari@daffodilpress.net

Managing Editor Kie Relyea kie@daffodilpress.net

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@daffodilpress.net

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@daffodilpress.net

Creative Services

Doug De Visser doug@daffodilpress.net

Emma Storey emma@daffodilpress.net

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst molly@daffodilpress.net

Office Assistant Emmy Duke

The Northern Light

229 Marine Drive

Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXXI, No 47

Circulation: 11,000 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Bird of the week: The golden-crowned sparrow

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we find ourselves not only looking back — but asking what freedom, opportunity and belonging mean today.

There has never been a single American story. This place is shaped by many histories: Indigenous, immigrant, displaced, hopeful, unfinished. The idea of the “American Dream” has meant different things across generations — and for some, it has required resilience in the face of exclusion or loss. For others, it is still taking shape. We want to hear from you. What does the American Dream mean in your life?

• Is it something you’ve achieved, questioned or redefined?

• Does it live in your work, your family, your language, your land? Has it changed over time — or across generations?

• What do we need to remember to move forward more fully and honestly together?

We invite community members to share personal stories, reflections, essays, poems or photo essays that explore the many meanings of the American Dream.

There is no single right answer — only your truth.

The golden-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla) has a distinctive yellow forehead in breeding season. It feeds on seeds, blooms and insects on the ground and builds its nest on the ground, often with the rim even with ground level. It is migratory and can be found from Baja, California to the Aleutian Islands. Washington is breeding territory and breeding season is May through August.

Photo by Nancy K. Crowell/La Conner Community News

Submission guidelines:

• Length: 300 words

• Format: essay, poem, photography, original artwork

Deadline: June 15

Send submissions via email to: emily@daffodilpress.net

Selected submissions will be featured as part of our 250th anniversary storytelling series, highlighting the voices and experiences that make up our community.

This is an opportunity to reflect, to challenge and to imagine. To honor where we’ve been — and to ask where we are going.

We look forward to hearing your story.

The Editor:

Blaine High School’s theater arts is unsurpassed!

Once again, the musical “Legally Blonde” delivered with high marks — acting, singing, choreography, music set under the fine directing of Olivia Theilemann, Andy Marshall and Mike Dahl. Wow, just wow. Solos from the main characters and the group songs were dazzling, and the whole play was a true delight.

Paramount in BHS, performances by the theater arts program rival any university’s.

Kay Dee Powell Blaine

The Editor:

From the beginning of the Blaine Public Schools Foundation, I believed that the key to our success was community engagement.

Now, one year in, I know that the key

to the success of our students — and the strength of our community — is simply showing up.

Regardless of whether you have ties to a specific student, this is your reminder to show up. In the classroom, cheering from the sidelines, or attending a Blaine High School production (“Legally Blonde” was so great I went twice). This isn’t just about increasing financial investment, though that support is always vital. This is about sharing the joy that is right here in our community. These kids don’t just perform; they inspire, motivate and amaze. When we show up for these kids, we aren’t just supporting their future. We are enriching our own present.

Traci Bowe, Blaine Public Schools Foundation founder Blaine

The Editor:

We are truly overwhelmed with grat-

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 Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.

Correction:

itude for the incredible amount of food donated during this year’s Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. Thanks to the generosity of our neighbors and the hard work of our letter carriers and volunteers, over 11,000 pounds of food was donated to help support local families right here in our community.

This is a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can make a meaningful difference. From all of us at the Blaine Food Bank, thank you for your kindness, your generosity and your commitment to caring for one another. Together, we are building a stronger, more caring and resilient community

Lisa

Dobbin, Blaine Food Bank director Blaine

Please send letters to letters@daffodilpress.net no later than noon on Monday.

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: 360-332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org.

A previous version of the article titled “American Legion post raising money for wheelchair lift” in the May 7 issue of The Northern Light misstated the position of Dennis Kaiser. Kaiser is the former post commander and currently serves as the first vice commander. We regret the error.

Whatcom County candidates file for upcoming election

B y G race M c c arthy

Filing week has come and gone, and a new group of candidates are set to ramp up their campaigns ahead of the Aug. 4 primary. The election will send the top-two finishers to the November election, regardless of party affiliation, for races that range from Congress to new Port of Bellingham commissioners.

Below is a list of candidates who will be on Blaine and Birch Bay voters’ ballots come August.

• Congress Representative, District 2: A two-year term held by Rick Larsen (D-Everett). Larsen is being challenged by Raymond Pel-

letti (R-Blaine), a real estate agent who unsuccessfully ran for state representative in 2024. Larsen is also being challenged by Edwin Feller (R-Lynden), Tomas Scheel (D-Ferndale) and Devin Hermanson (D-Seattle).

• State Senator, 42nd Legislative District: A fouryear term held by Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham), who is not seeking re-election. The candidates are Erika Creydt (R-Blaine), Michael Shepard (D-Bellingham), Eamonn Collins (D-Bellingham) and Ryan Bowman (no party-Bellingham).

• State Representative Pos. 1, 42nd Legislative Dis-

(Man sentenced, continued from page one)

trict: A two-year term held by Alicia Rule (D-Blaine). Rule is being challenged by Whatcom County Republican Party chair Misty Flowers (R-Bellingham), who has run unsuccessfully for county positions over the past few years.

• State Representative Pos. 2, 42nd Legislative District: A two-year term held by Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham). Timmons is being challenged by Justin Pike (R-Ferndale), a detective at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.

• Whatcom County Prosecutor: A four-year term held by Eric Richey, who is not

Blaine man sentenced for child rape, assaults

child was undergoing a sexual assault nurse examination. The child told deputies Martin Esteban, whom she knew, “hurt her,” according to the affidavit of probable cause.

Court records show deputies established probable cause for arrest after speaking to the adults who recounted the child’s description of the assault and witnessed strange behavior from her.

On Jan. 21, 2023, the court released Martin Esteban from jail after $20,000 cash bail was posted. A few days after he was released, a woman known to Martin Esteban disclosed to detectives several instances of domestic violence, including that he tried to strangle her while she was pregnant in 2021. Court records show the woman was arrested at the time as she was believed to be the primary aggressor. The charges were later dropped.

The sheriff’s office issued a warrant for Martin Esteban’s arrest for the strangulation and other assaults on Feb. 9, 2023. After jumping bail for over a year, he was arrested near Santa Barbara, Calif., in the summer of 2024.

Judge Evan Jones sentenced Martin Esteban to 7.9 years in prison for second-degree child rape. He was also ordered to concurrently serve 2.4 years combined for the two domestic violence assault charges.

Jones gave Martin Esteban the minimum length in the standard sentencing range for his criminal history and the second-degree child rape charge, which is 7.9 months to 10.4 years in prison with life in community custody. He received the high end of the sentencing range for the assaults.

Before his prison time ends, the Indeterminate Sentence Review Board will determine whether Martin Esteban should be released or incarcerated longer, with the ability to order him to serve up to life in prison.

Martin Esteban declined to participate in a presentence interview, which provides the judge with a comprehensive look at the defendant’s life before determining the sentence length.

Neither the child nor the woman submitted impact statements to the judge prior to the sentencing.

As of May 13, Martin Esteban remained in Whatcom County Jail while awaiting being transferred to prison.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic or sexual violence, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) 24-hour hotline is available at 360-715-1563 or 877-715-1563.

Brigid Collins Family Support Center, a Bellingham-based nonprofit working to end child abuse, can be reached at 360734-4616 and brigidcollins.org.

Lummi Victims of Crime has a 24-hour helpline at 360-3122015.

The National Domestic Violence Helpline operates a chat line at thehotline.org/help.

running for re-election. The position will see Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office senior leaders Jesse Corkern, Erik Sigmar and Donna Bracke battle it out in the August primary alongside defense attorney Ryan Swinburnson, who is also Blaine School Board president.

• Port of Bellingham Commissioner, District 4: A new position created from a voter-approved ballot measure last year that expanded the number of Port of Bellingham commissioners from three to five. The candidates are Blaine residents Dean Berkeley and Jaden McConnell, Lynden residents Tim Chartier and Paul Burrill, and Ferndale residents Tor Benson and Samantha Cruz-Mendoza.

• Port of Bellingham Commissioner, District 5: A new position created from a voter-approved ballot measure last year that expanded the number of Port of Bellingham commissioners from three to five. The candidates running in August are Todd Lagestee, Bellingham; Randall Wood, Everson; Spenser New, Deming; Jerry Burns, Maple Falls; Shawn Ensley, Bellingham; and Chris Elder, Acme. Incumbents Angela Anderson and Jonathan Rands are running unopposed for their Whatcom County District Court judge positions. The election will also have a slate of precinct committee officer candidates, a challenge for PUD No. 1 Commissioner District 1 and openings for Washington state Supreme Court justice positions.

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.

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.

Girls golf named district champs as Borderites battle through conference playoffs

B y N ola N B a K er

Conference playoffs kicked off this past week, with baseball, soccer and girls golf battling local Northwest Conference rivals for a few precious spots in the upcoming state playoffs. Track and field also competed in its final regular season meet before its playoffs kick off this week.

GIRLS GOLF

Three Borderites are statebound, with two more qualifying as alternates after a successful 36 holes at the 1A District Championships at North Bellingham Golf Course this week.

Marcella Bring, Sydney Arus and Hannah Phelps-McDonald qualified for a spot in the 1A State Championships after placing third, fourth and fifth, respectively, in the two-day tournament.

Thora Engen and Olivia Tanjuaquio placed sixth and seventh, respectively, and will also travel to Liberty Lake for the 1A Girls State Tournament that tees off May 19. Bring, Phelps-Mcdonald and Engen qualified for last year’s state tournament, and will look for even more success this time around.

At North Bellingham Golf Course, Bring led the Borderites with a two-round score of 193, behind Meridian’s Kali Tan (first place, 160) and Dallas Reinke (second place, 189). All told, the Borderites grabbed five of the top seven spots, with all five players

who qualified for a state spot shooting a score of 204 or less, easily securing Blaine’s district championship banner.

BASEBALL

The Borderites split the first two games of the 1A District Tournament in a Saturday double-header, and remained alive in the bracket with just one win to go in order to qualify for the 1A State Tournament.

Blaine started out the district tournament with a gutsy 1-0 win against Overlake/Bear Creek, thanks to a dominating pitching performance from Ashton Vezzetti.

Junior middle infielder Aaron Garza hit an RBI single in the first inning that scored a sprinting George Streeter, giving the Borderites a slim, onerun lead.

Vezzetti wouldn’t need any more run support, twirling a complete game shutout, allowing just three hits and striking out eight batters en route to one of the most clutch performances of his high school career.

A few hours later against Cedar Park Christian, one of the tournament favorites, the Borderites fell 4-2.

Blaine pitcher Josh Cochran held his own on the mound, striking out seven batters over five innings while allowing just one hit. But the junior issued six walks that came back to bite.

The loss dropped Blaine into the losers’ bracket, where the team is scheduled to play against King’s at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 16 at Sehome

High School. A win for the Borderites against King’s, and the team will qualify for the state tournament.

Stats provided by whatcompreps.com

SOCCER

Boys soccer held its own against Lynden Christian in the opening round of the District 1 1A Tournament on Saturday at Borderite Stadium, forcing a high-stakes penalty shootout to decide which team would

advance and which would drop to the losers’ bracket.

After regulation ended in a scoreless tie, the Lyncs came out on top in penalty kicks, winning by an official score of 1-0.

Both teams scored the first two tries each, but Blaine faltered in its third attempt. After both teams eventually ended up tied at four goals each, Lynden Christian sophomore Jackson Yun scored the deciding fifth penalty kick, sending the Borderites to the losers’ bracket.

Thankfully, the double-elimination style tournament allows the Borderites a chance to extend its season.

The Borderites were scheduled to face Nooksack Valley at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday (after press time) at Borderite Stadium. Win, and Blaine continues on in the district tournament to face the loser of a game between Lynden Christian and Meridian for a chance to qualify for state. Lose, and Blaine’s season is over.

Good news for the Borderites, though perhaps adding more pressure, is that the team has already beat Nooksack Valley once this season.

The Borderites beat the Pioneers on the road, way back on March 23 by a score of 3-1. Repeat that outcome, and the hometown boys will be one win away from state qualification.

Stats provided by whatcompreps.com

TRACK AND FIELD

Blaine track and field traveled to Ferndale on May 6 for a conference clash against the hosting Golden Eagles and Sedro-Woolley in the program’s final meet before the 1A District 1 Tournament starts on Wednesday.

In the girls 100-meter sprints, freshman Zoe Hill continued her stellar debut season with a third place finish, posting a time of 13.92. Hill also came in third place in the 200-meter race, finishing again behind the two Sedro-Woolley sprinters with a time of 29.19.

Freshman Sophia Johner finished second in the 400-meter finals with a personal best time of 1:07.92. In the 800-meter event, junior Kathryn Lowry also finished second with a time of 3:01.97.

The Blaine girls had a solid showing in the long distance races, with sophomore Carrie Balback blowing out the field in the 1600-meter race with a time of 6:18.52, more than 24 seconds faster than the runner up from Sedro-Woolley.

In the 3200-meter race, Balback posted a season-best time of 14:23.68, finishing second.

In the 100-meter hurdles, senior Brietta Sandell finished second with a time of 17.24.

On the boys side, underclassmen Tyler Rogers, Logan Bennett and Quinn Addis lined up for second, third and fourth place in the 800-meter finals, with Addis earning a personal best time of 2:30.39.

The boys discus squad also had a great showing, with sophomores Connor Crews, Aiden Mullins and Vincent Maxey all throwing personal best distances to earn third, fourth and fifth place finishes.

The Borderites will begin the two-day 1A District Championships starting Wednesday (after press time) and concluding on Friday at Lynden Christian High School. First events on each day will start at 4 p.m. and run through 7 p.m.

Stats provided by athletic. net

Blaine senior pitcher Ashton Vezzetti pitched a complete game shutout en route to a 1-0 win for the Borderites against Overlake/Bear Creek on May 9.

Photo by Aaron Garza

Tips to stay motivated to exercise

Lack of motivation can be a difficult hurdle to clear when approaching any activity or goal. And that’s particularly so with fitness-related goals, as lack of motivation to exercise, which many people find boring and unenjoyable, often contributes to a sedentary lifestyle.

The benefits of exercise, which include decreased risk for chronic disease, weight management and improved mental health, should be all the motivation anyone needs to get up and go. But some people still need a little help to ensure they stay the course and achieve their fitness goals. People can try these strategies if their motivation to exercise is lacking:

• Embrace a new routine. While millions of people can’t imagine a day without breaking a sweat at the gym, others find gym-based workouts a little tedious and lacking in excitement. If that outlook sounds familiar, individuals can embrace new exercise routines that engage them. Sports provide great exercise, so adults can look into activities like pickleball, jogging and cycling to break a sweat and get fit. Each of those activities can greatly improve cardiovascular fitness and help people main-

tain healthy weights.

• Set small goals along the way to larger ones. Fitness-related progress does not come overnight, so what appears to be a lack of daily results can make it difficult to stay committed for the long haul. Setting short-term goals along the way to long-term ones can provide all the motivation people need to keep going. For example, if your ultimate goal is to lose 10 pounds, set a one-pound-per-week shorter goal. Being able to measure your progress each week can motivate you to stay the course.

• Remind yourself why you’re looking to get more fit. There’s no bad reason to get fit. Some people who find they lack the motivation to keep going simply need to remind themselves why they started an exercise regimen in the first place. Did you want to shed weight before a class reunion? Get healthy so you can be more active with your children? Exercise more to reduce your risk for a disease or condition that runs in your family?

By routinely reminding yourself why you initially set out to get more fit, you may provide that spark to stay the course. Set up smartphone notifications as reminders if you feel you need a daily refresher

regarding your motivation to exercise.

• Make it a family affair. The buddy system is effective in many applications, and it can be particularly good at motivating people to stay

the course and achieve their fitness goals. Encourage a spouse, sibling, friend or even your whole family to join you as you begin your journey to a healthier you. With someone there to get you going each

day, you’re less likely to skip workouts.

Staying motivated to exercise may not be easy. But there’s a number of things people can do to ensure their motivation to get fit does not wane.

Roma Nagin, MD Zafir Khan, MD

7806

Rentals - Commercial

NELSON BUILDING

925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine LEASE SPACES FOR:

• Commercial

• Manufacturing

• Warehousing

• Distribution

4900 Sq. Ft. Coming Available

“Near Truck Route & Mall” 360-305-0286

Email nelsbldg@msn.com

BEAUTIFUL STUDIO APT

in Blaine available now. Excellent references required. $800/month plus $100 for utilities. Fully furnished. Beautiful country setting. Single occupancy. TEXT 360-739-5606.

ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE!

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: CHARLES D. BUCKLEY, Deceased. No. 26-4-00380-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer E. Slattery

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Robert Lange, Deceased. NO. 26-400347-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030)JUDGE: Jennifer

Slattery

in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on

days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: May 14, 2026

Personal Representative: Karen Elizabeth Hansen 1735 Pence Avenue

Bellingham, WA 98226

Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 26-4-00392-37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of William Johnston, Deceased. NO. 26-4-00365-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Evan P. Jones

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the 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);

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated proceedings were commenced.

The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: April 27, 2026 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: May 1, 2026

Name of Personal Representative: RICHARD L. JONES (AKA DICK JONES)

Attorney for Personal Representatives: 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: April 27, 2026. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Date of First Publication: April 30, 2026

Personal Representative: Karen Lange 4854 152nd Place SE Bellevue, WA 98006

Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 26 4 00347 37

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of LANNY G. GOLDEN, Deceased. Cause No. 25-4-00583-37. NOTICE OF VACANCY & SUCCESSION. RCW 11.40.150

This is to notify you as required by law that by reason of his death, Arthur Kleiner has ceased to be Personal Representative of the above-named estate, and on April 14, 2026, Verena Kleiner was appointed as Successor Personal Representative of the Estate of Lanny G. Golden.

Successor Personal Representative: Verena Kleiner

Attorney for Personal Representative: Teresa Byers Ogden Murphy Wallace PLLC

701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 5600

Seattle, Washington 98104

Telephone: (206) 447-7000

Fax: (206) 447-0215

Warren Stevie Reece

October 13, 1953 – January 29, 2026

Warren Stevie Reece (age 72) entered into rest on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in Bellingham, WA, surrounded by his family. Warren was born on October 13, 1953, in Denver, CO, to Charles Wesley and Helen (Herring) Burrell Reece. He attended Garfield High School in Seattle, WA, graduating in 1972. Furthering his education, Warren attended Western Washington University in Bellingham and later graduated from Bates Technical College in Tacoma, WA. During his working career, Warren worked in the paper milling industry. He retired after 27 years of dedicated work in 2001. During his life, Warren enjoyed many hobbies and interests. Most notable was his enjoyment of Volkswagen automobiles, CB radios, and science fiction movies. His greatest interests and most enjoyable times were spent with family and friends.

Warren will be remembered for a multitude of attributes. Most notable was his strong Christian faith. Because he was a man of faith, he was naturally outgoing and social, and a steward of goodwill toward others in need. Warren will be remembered most for having a jovial sense of humor and being the most caring father, grandfather, “Pop-Pop”, godfather, and most compassionate neighbor.

He is survived by his two daughters, Jazzmin Reece (Tyler) of Portland, OR, and Porsha Reece of Seattle, WA; his brothers, Chauncy Reece of Seattle, WA, Louis Burrell, and Kent Burrell, both of Bellingham, WA; and two grandchildren, Tyson and Michael. Warren is preceded in death by his mother, Helen Herring Burrell (2025); father, Charles Wesley Reece (1991); and Louis Burrell Sr. (2004); son, Steven Reece (2008); sister, Pamela Reece; and brother, Russell Reece (2025)

A celebration of Warren’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m., Sunday, May 17, at the Squalicum Boathouse, located in Zuanich Point Park, 2600 N Harbor Loop Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225. All are welcome. Warren’s family would like to thank the Peace Health care team and Whatcom Hospice for their compassionate care, professionalism, and clear and present comfort and support. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle, and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com.

sheriff’s reports

May 6, 7:55 a.m.: Extra patrol on Gemini and Saturn streets.

May 6, 7:56 a.m.: Animal problem on Fir Street.

May 6, 3:42 p.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Custer School Road, Custer.

May 6, 4:49 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 6, 8:46 p.m.: Assist a person on Stein Road.

May 7, 10:21 a.m.: Assist agency cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

May 7, 11:35 a.m.: Welfare check on Morrison Avenue

May 7, 1:45 p.m.: Serve papers on Beachway Drive.

May 7, 2:35 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Harbor Drive.

May 7, 5:15 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Valley View and Loomis Trail roads.

May 7, 7:29 p.m.: Impound private on Peace Road.

May 8, 5:14 a.m.: Alarm audible on Loomis Trail Road.

May 8, 6:09 a.m.: Custodial interference on Birch Bay Drive.

May 8, 12:16 p.m.: Alarm audible on Custer School Road.

May 8, 4:40 p.m.: Assist a person on Helweg Road.

May 8, 4:48 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Crocket Road.

May 8, 8:05 p.m.: Harassment cold

call on Loomis Trail Road.

May 8, 10:09 p.m.: Mental health flag on Stein Road.

May 9, 9:22 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call Semiahmoo Lane.

May 9, 10:07 a.m.: Civil problem cold call on Starfish Lane.

May 9, 2:36 p.m.: Civil problem

cold call on Casterock Drive. May 9, 8:45 p.m.: Alarm panic on Whitehorn Way.

May 10, 1:01 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay Lynden Road and Portal Way.

May 10, 3:47 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Seafair Drive and Catalina Court.

May 10, 7:33 p.m.: Trespass on Crayton Harbor Road.

poliCe reports

April 26, 1:54 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Martin Street.

April 26, 5:48 p.m.: Bicycle theft on 3rd Street.

April 26, 6:15 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Peace Portal Drive.

April 27, 7:02 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/injury crash on Washington Street.

April 27, 9:10 a.m.: Assist a person on H Street.

April 28, 10:33 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Sea Smoke Way.

April 28, 5:57 p.m.: Property found on Marine Drive.

April 29, 5:28 a.m.: Traffic on Blaine Road.

April 29, 8:42 a.m.: Welfare check on 8th Street.

April 29, 10:21 a.m.: Overdose on Borderite Way.

CrossWord

41. Containers

43. Large, flightless birds

45. Part of a book

46. American spies

47. Pancakes made of buckwheat flour

Fates

The Yankees have lots of these 19. Unhappy 20. Mimic 21. Remove from the record 22. Where cargo ships dock (abbr.) 23. A way to fight

Turfs

Contract

Country along the Arabian peninsula

Tree species

Pituitary gland secretion (abbr.)

34. Perfect 35. “Partner” to groans

37. Jewish calendar month

38. Where wrestlers work

39. Egotistical

40. Potted plants

49. Swiss river

50. Disfigure 53. Have surgery 57. Formal withdrawal

58. Early English council

59. Area units

60. 2,000 lbs. 61. Siskel and __ DOWN 1. Animal jaws 2. Small water buffalo

3. An appliance has one 4. Every 5. Largest English dictionary (abbr.) 6. Very skilled 7. No more than what is specified 8. Tire measurement 9. Towers 10. Forward

11. Jacob __, American journalist 12. Vale 13. Former CIA 16. Middle Eastern nation 18. Exhausts 22. South Dakota 23. The complete duration of something 24. Kids love him 25. Singular 27. Cod genus 28. Mild yellow Dutch cheese 29. Resistance unit 30. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea 31. Cast out 33. 60-minute periods 35. Most worn 36. European river 37. Atomic mass unit 39. Items of food 42. Body parts 43. Ireland 44. Partner to Pa 46. Sammy __, songwriter 47. Dutch settler 48. Full-grown pike fish

Coming up

Books and Bites: 1 to 2:30 p.m. May 15, Blaine Library, 610 3rd St. Join for this month’s title, “Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir” by Tessa Hulls. Beach explorations – Clamming 101: 10:30 a.m. May 16 and noon on May 18, Birch Bay State Park, meet at BP Heron Center. If you plan to harvest clams, please have a current clamming license. Registration not required. Information: bbbparkandrec.org.

Blaine’s Spring Block Party: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 16, downtown Blaine. This year’s Spring Block Party recognizes the rich cultures and contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander communities in honor of Asian/ Pacific American Heritage Month. The event includes Hula and cultural performances by Hālau Hula Ka Lei Mokihana I Ka Ua Noe and Ki’ihele Music, traditional food and drinks, hands-on crafts and kids activities, artisan street fair, beer garden and more. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

April 29, 8:01 p.m.: DUI on Mitchell Avenue.

April 29, 9:27 p.m.: Domestic order violation on H Street.

April 30, 2:59 p.m.: Assault – simple on H Street.

May 1, 12:17 p.m.: Runaway on Leighton Street.

May 1, 6:34 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident – blocking on H Street.

May 1, 6:37 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/injury crash on H Street.

May 2, 11:45 p.m.: Suicide attempted on B Street.

May 2, 7:38 p.m.: Vandalism on Boblett Street.

May 2, 9:52 p.m.: Civil problem on Mary Avenue.

May 2, 11:17 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Adelia Street.

49. Sun or solar disk

50. Minute arachnid

51. From a distance

52. A monthly expense

53. Young women’s association

54. Brazilian state

55. Air freight provider

56. Pointed end of a pen

tides

May 15 - 21 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

World Wildlife Dance Performance: 6 p.m. May 16, and 1 p.m. May 17, Blaine Performing Arts Center, 975 H St. Day-to-Day Dance students performance. $15 general admission, children under 2 admitted free. Tickets at the door or daytodaydance.com/events.

Community Dinner: 5 to 6:30 p.m. May 21, Blaine Community Center, 763 G St. Open to everyone. Last community dinner before summer hiatus. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with neighbors. Cost is by donation. Contributions support future community meals and programs. Offered by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Questions: 360-656-6416.

Summer Hike at Lake Whatcom: 9 a.m. May 22. The bus departs from the Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini St. Bring lunch, snacks and water. Cost is generally $5 to $10. Offered by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Questions: 360-656-6416. Registration required at bbbparkandrec.org.

Bellingham Shoestring Circus: May 29 through June 14, under the big top tent by Waterfront Pump Track in Bellingham. Tickets: shoestringcircus.com.

History Fair – K-5 REACH program community event: 6 to 7:30 p.m. June 1, Blaine Elementary School cafeteria. Families and the community will have the opportunity to walk through displays showcasing a person in history that students researched and learned about. Each student will be in front of their display to answer questions about their historic figure. Roughly 68 students are participating.

Molt Search workshop: 10 a.m. to noon June 5, BP Heron Center and on the beach in Birch Bay State Park. Hosted by WSU Whatcom County Extension. Molt Search surveys can be done at any time on any shoreline with safe and legal access. More information and an online registration: wsg.washington.edu/crabteam/moltsearch or bit.ly/4uE7EBL.

Ongoing

Blaine Primary School Art Walk: Month of May, each of the 20 K-2 classrooms will have their art displayed at businesses in Blaine, downtown (H Street and Peace Portal Drive) and the IGA shopping center.

Youth Peace Poetry Contest: Now through May 29. Kids ages 4-18 submit their work in the form of poetry, song lyrics, personal reflections or any other form of writing that sparks their imagination. Youth are encouraged to share what peace means to them in ways that are authentic and inspiring. Sponsored by Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center and Village Books. Info and submission forms: bit.ly/4uaILho.

Senior Community Meals: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G St. Suggested donation of $6 per meal ($10 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First-come, first-serve basis. Info: 360-332-8040.

Blaine Storytime: 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, Blaine Library, 610 3rd St. For ages 2-3. An open program that includes stories, rhymes and songs with opportunities for movement and interactive participation.

Blaine Food Bank: 9 a.m. to noon on Monday and Friday, 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, 500 C St. Info: 360-332-6350 or info@blainefoodbank.org.

CAP Clothing Bank: 9 a.m. to noon Monday and Friday, and 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, 508 G St. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is in the basement of the CAP Center and provides free clothing for all ages, and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360-392-8484.

The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Donations accepted 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday and Saturday or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com.

Lego Club: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Blaine Library, 610 3rd St. Design, build and share at this drop-in program for ages 4 and up. Lego bricks provided. Info: wcls.org.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 4 to 10, no precipitation was recorded. The 2026 year-to-date precipitation record is 14.6 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 81°F on May 4 with a low of 47.3°F on May 9. Average high was 69.4°F and average low was 50.4°F.

Off the Shelf — A Teen Hangout: 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Blaine Library, 610 3rd St. Looking for a place to relax after school? Come hang out, play games, listen to music, be creative or just chill with friends.

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

Grief Share: 6 p.m. Thursday, North Bay Community Church. Groups offer a safe, welcoming place to understand your emotions, learn how to cope, and find steady support along the way. Contact us at grief@northbay.cc for more information.

The Bridge Food Bank: 2:30 to 4 p.m. Friday, The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360-366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

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

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

(Cost of living, continued from page one)

for example, a student needs to go to the doctor in Bellingham and their family cannot afford the trip.

“The demand for gas vouchers is insane,” Butschli said. “If I didn’t limit it in some way, I would be handing them out every single day to multiple people, because it’s just so crazy.”

Butschli described one Blaine family living in their car, needing vouchers not just to get around, but to be able to run the engine overnight so they can have a heat source in the colder months.

Some families are living in oneor two-bed motel rooms since rental housing is “so expensive and elusive,” Butschli said.

Others move from campground to campground, two weeks at a time, unable to find consistent housing.

Butschli said many families have been connected to low-income housing. Others are being helped by local faith organizations. But those opportunities are hard won.

For every family she serves, it’s tough to narrow their individual cost of living crisis to a single source, Butschli said. It’s not just the price of gas, housing or insurance, but the combination of all those pressures adding up on a family. Butschli works with families facing homelessness, as well as middle class families who are struggling to stay afloat.

“Especially for our low-middle class (families), it’s, ‘What bill do I not pay? What bill can I go without at this point?’” Butschli said. “It’s really hard to pinpoint. Housing is not attainable. It’s not even that it’s not available, it’s that it’s not attainable.”

Those financial stressors "absolutely show up” in the attendance and performance of children facing housing insecurity, Butschli said.

Kids come to school more exhausted because of their chaotic living situations, and although

the district provides free breakfast and lunch for low-income families and the federal government provides transportation for homeless students through the McKinney-Vento Act, just getting to school and being engaged in class can pose a major challenge.

“When I look at the complexity of my role juggling these pieces and coordinating all these variables with different agencies and departments within the school district, I think, ‘What in the world are these children juggling?’”

Butschli said.

According to data from the state Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, since the 2022-23 school year, roughly 3% of the BSD student body identified as homeless at any point in the school year. That’s between 55 and 64 students, up from around 2%, or roughly 42 students, between 2018-19 and 2021-22.

In the current school year, 42% of the total student body identified as low-income.

As a percentage of the student body, the rate of homeless students in Blaine is similar to nearby school districts in Ferndale and Lynden, where rates have varied between 2% and 4%.

“Blaine School District absolutely prioritizes making sure kids can be included and experience what their peers are experiencing, regardless of their income,” Butschli said. “We’re trying to make sure that school is a safe haven for them.”

‘THE PRICE OF DIESEL — IT’S HORRIFYING’

Another place where the impacts of the cost of living crisis can be seen is the Blaine Food Bank (BFB).

Known as one of the most well-equipped — and the most used outside of Bellingham — food banks in Whatcom County, Director Lisa Dobbin said the location has been dealing

(Waterslides, continued from page 1)

Birch

Bay Waterslides on the market for $6 million

the 2026 season, though no additional information was provided.

The looming sale comes after a Skagit County man was seriously injured going down the Hairpin slide in August 2023, requiring him to spend nearly two weeks in the intensive care unit in Seattle. The man filed a negligence lawsuit in May 2024 in Whatcom County Superior Court; the trial is expected to begin Aug. 26.

In the fall of 2024, the water park announced it hired

with a perfect storm of higher demand and higher operating costs over the past year.

The gas pump, once again, provides a perfect example.

BFB participates in the “Grocery Rescue” program where participating grocery stores donate fresh fruits, vegetables and proteins. The catch? BFB has to pick it up themselves, usually in Bellingham, and always with their diesel box trucks.

According to data from AAA, diesel prices in Bellingham are hovering around $6.50 per gallon. That’s down slightly from a month ago, but much higher than the average price from last year: a now-paltry $4.25 per gallon.

That means the box trucks that BFB rely on to bring in fresh food from participating grocery stores costs about 53% more to move compared to last year.

“Our trucks are on the road seven days a week,” Dobbin said. “The price of diesel being what it is — it’s horrifying. Fortunately, the amount of food we get through the rescue program certainly outweighs the cost that we’re having to spend on that fuel. But we’d love to have that additional money to be able to put towards food rather than fuel.”

While operating costs are increasing, demand is higher than ever, Dobbin said.

The food bank provides about 800 meals every week to needy families, serving more than 10,000 people every month. That’s up significantly, Dobbin

said, from previous years.

Echoing what Butschli said, BFB customers who speak with Dobbin haven’t highlighted one specific, spiking bill that’s caused this moment of need, but rather a tidal wave of economic factors hitting them all at once.

“It's the combination of all of it. People are just overwhelmed with all of the increases,” Dobbin said.

The increase in demand comes with new people looking for assistance. Dobbin described seeing more new faces each week over the past year, with many working families showing up for the first time.

“ I think the biggest change that we’ve seen is (serving) working families that used to be able to make ends meet, but they can’t now,” Dobbin said. “They’re looking at whether or not they’re going to feed their families or pay for their medication or pay for their car insurance ... For me, it’s just about giving back to the community and (asking), ‘What can we do to help these families get back to where they can survive on their own?’”

Have rising costs affected the way you live? The Northern Light wants to hear your story. Please email news@daffodilpress.net or call 360-332-1777

California-based water park consulting company, Global Management Amusement Professionals, to oversee a fiveyear plan to upgrade the facilities. The park reopened last summer after undergoing over $1 million in renovations.

Jun Yu Development LLC bought the property in 2011. Park owner Qiyan (Max) Li and real estate agent Patrick Starr did not respond to requests for more information.

Advertising in The Northern Light isn’t just about promoting your business; it’s about becoming a vital part of the Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo community. With over 23,000+ print readers every week, your message reaches the homes, families, and decision-makers you care about most.

When you advertise with us, you’re not just gaining visibility—you’re building relationships. Our readers trust The Northern Light for its commitment to local stories and businesses, meaning your ad will resonate with an audience that values shopping local, supporting local, and staying connected.