Blaine City Council: UGA swap proposal, Bell Road project, town hall
B y G race M c c arthy
The latest news from the Blaine City Council meeting on October 13.
UGA alternative City council unanimously approved a resolution allowing the planning department to revise its urban growth area (UGA) proposal.
Alex Wenger, director of Blaine’s Community Development Services, said he planned to bring a revised UGA proposal to Blaine City Council after the November 4 election. The new proposal would be based on the outcome of the de-annexation proposition and an updated land capacity analysis.
The ballot measure will go before Blaine city voters in November asking whether they would like for 573 acres of incorporated UGA land in east Blaine to be de-annexed. If voter-supported, the city would then seek approval to “swap” that UGA land with unincorporated UGA land near Semiahmoo as well as UGA land in southeast Blaine. The city hopes to include the change in the county’s comprehensive plan update, which is due by the end of the year. Wenger said there were “technical” issues that needed to be worked out with the county, including possibly changing the name from “swap” to “UGA reduction and addition.” He added the city needed to talk more with Birch Bay residents about the proposal.
By approving the resolution, council also approved removing a proposed UGA reserve near Semiahmoo that was in the original plan because UGA reserves are not required in the comprehensive plan update.
Bell Road-BNSF
Railway Grade Separation City council unanimously approved a roundabout with an I-5 terminal relocation as its preferred alternative for the Bell Road-BNSF Railway Grade Separation Project.
The grade separation is a long-range
(See City council, page 3)
Belarmino leads freshmen goal scorers, page 6
Candidates on Blaine, Birch Bay, page 10
Seaside Bash and OysterFest bring fall fun
s The Blaine Seaside Bash and OysterFest
Man sentenced to over 15 years for murder attempt
Judgement follows leniency request after stage 4 cancer diagnosis
Birch Bay resident Clayton Edward Dubois, 44, was sentenced in Whatcom County Superior Court to over 15 years in prison after attempting to “mercy kill” his former partner while high on methamphetamine in August 2024.
During a September 13 sentencing hearing, Judge Evan Jones handed down a 15.6-year sentence for the attempted
first-degree murder charge with a domestic violence enhancement and an eight-month sentence for unlawful firearm possession in the second-degree. Dubois will serve 1.5 years of community custody following his release.
A Whatcom County jury found Dubois guilty of the charges in August. Jones sentenced Dubois with the minimum of the sentence range for first-degree murder, which is 15.6 to 20.8 years
November 4 general election ballots mailed
B y N ola N B aker
The 2025 general election season is here, with ballots due to arrive at the homes of Whatcom County voters as early as October 15 for the November 4 general election. Voters may cast their votes immediately upon receiving their ballots, and ballot processing will begin on October 15, according to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. Ballots may be returned to any of the 24 official drop boxes in Whatcom County by
8 p.m. Election Day, Tuesday, November 4. Ballots returned by mail and postmarked by November 4 will also be accepted, thought the auditor’s office cautions voters to check the last pickup time on their mailboxes. Stamps are not needed to return ballots either by drop box or by mail. Online and mail voter registrations must be received by Monday, October 27. Prospective voters can also register in person any time before 8 p.m. on Election Day by visiting the auditor’s office at 311 Grand
Avenue, suite 103, in Bellingham from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The auditor’s office can assist people registering to vote and updating their registration address. It also has accessible voting units for those who require visual or audio aids.
For more information about the general election, call the auditor’s office at 360/778-5102 or email elections@co.what-
(See Election, page 8)
in prison for the charge and Dubois’ criminal history. Dubois was given the maximum of the three- to eight-month sentencing range for unlawful firearm possession.
On September 29, Dubois’ defense counsel requested the court give Dubois an “exceptionally low sentence of two years” because he had been diagnosed
(See Court, page 3)
Photo by Ruth Lauman
Drayton
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Anyone interested in protecting the water quality of Drayton Harbor will have the chance to hear about the state’s new proposal to create cleaner water during a pre-
sentation 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, October 23 at the Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. The hour-long presentation, “Next Steps for Clean Water: Science, Tools, and Incentives for the New Drayton Harbor TMDL” will provide information on the Washington State Department of Ecology’s draft water quality improvement plan called the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). The plan will be an effort with other partners to make the watershed safe for recreation. James Kardouni, water quality TMDL lead for the Water Quality Program at Ecology and Aneka Sweeney, education and outreach manager at Whatcom Conservation District will lead the meeting.
The presentation will be part of the Whatcom Watersheds Information Network Speaker Series. To register or for more information, visit whatcomwin.org/speaker-series. Questions may also be directed to Cheryl Lovato Niles at clniles@wsu.edu.
This Fall, get your vehicle transpor ted with a purpose.
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City council ...
From page 1
project to improve the traffic congestion and safety concerns caused by train delays at the intersection of Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive near the southern Blaine city limits. The at-grade crossing would be replaced with an overpass.
Council also had the option to vote on another alternative of adding a roundabout at the existing I-5 ramp terminals, but the city’s project consultant, David, Evans & Associates, recommended the alternative that council approved. Council’s resolution authorizes the project’s alternative analysis
Court ...
From page 1
with stage 4 rectal cancer and a brain tumor after the arrest.
Public defender Carl A. Munson Jr. wrote in a September 29 sentencing memorandum that Dubois believed he had about two years to live, despite no medical personnel putting his life expectancy in writing. Munson Jr. argued that a lighter sentence would hopefully give Dubois time with his 12-year-old son, attend church and address drug and alcohol problems.
On August 20, 2024, Dubois was arrested after attempting to leave the woman at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. Dubois told police that he had consumed methamphetamine, marijuana and tequila, before attempting to murder the woman, then 41, at his home on Lincoln Road. The woman later said they had an amicable evening together and had known each other for the majority of their lives.
Dubois told police he was going to “mercy kill” the woman, who he said put a spell on him. Dubois hit her twice with propane tanks in his garage. In response to being asked why he was trying to hit her, Dubois
report to be finalized. Life-saving awards
Blaine police chief Rodger Funk recognized three members of Blaine Police Department with recognitions for their life-saving efforts during two calls in May and September. Officer Trevor Chau received a life-saving award, sergeant Jordan Maphumulo received two life-saving awards and officer Jeremiah Leland received the meritorious service medal, a recognition that goes above life-saving. Read more on page 4.
Budget
Finance director Jennifer Spidle finished the second half of her presentation on the proposed 2026 budget, which will be about
replied, to “kill her.”
Dubois then told police he had a “change of heart” and took her to the hospital.
The woman was transported to the intensive care unit at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where she was treated for multiple facial fractures, among other injuries. She filed a personal injury lawsuit against Dubois this spring requesting compensation for medical and counseling fees, loss of wages and attorney fees.
According to the defense’s leniency request, the woman told the prosecutor that Dubois asked her not to bring methamphetamine to the house.
“Please let it be clear that Mr. Dubois is in no way inferring or insinuating that Ms. Higgins is in any way responsible for this event,” the defense wrote immediately after.
Dubois’ attorney, Munson,
as barebones as this year’s budget. City council will hold two public hearings on the 2026 budget during its meetings on Monday, October 27 and Monday, November 10.
Town hall
Blaine resident David Brudvik, who had never attended a council meeting, was the first to speak during Monday night’s packed town hall. Addressing everyone from the podium, Brudvik said he was building a profile on the members of a group once-called Save Blaine, which is made up of a handful community members who have thrown accusations at city leaders and filed large public records requests. Brudvik said he wanted to uncover the group’s
believed that Dubois was overcharged and should have only received a felony assault as there was no evidence of premeditation and no reliable evidence of intent. He added that Dubois did not pose a threat to the public, having only one felony conviction of an attempt to elude police in 2006 and a few misdemeanors, the most recent of which being disorderly conduct in 2018.
Defense stated taxpayers would bear Dubois’ medical costs as he has undergone chemotherapy and daily radiation treatments in Bellingham.
“If Mr. Dubois is sentenced between 15 and 20 years, that will most likely be a death sentence for him,” Munson wrote. “He will most assuredly die in prison. The state will continue to pay for his care, treatment and surgeries and everything else until the day he dies.”
BRUDVIK PLUMBING
actions because he didn’t think it was right how they were impacting the city.
Referring to it as a quote from a “cult classic of the ‘90s,” Brudvik ended his speech reciting the fictional Ezekiel Bible verse that actor Samuel L. Jackson says in the movie Pulp Fiction while holding a gun to another man’s head. The audience erupted in applause after Brudvik’s speech.
In a subsequent email to The Northern Light, a Save Blaine member said they believed the Pulp Fiction quote represented a direct threat against the group. Brudvik’s speech was followed by former council member Mike Hill accusing council member Richard May of drinking during a
2022 council meeting; an accusation denied by May. The confrontation ended in Hill yelling.
The town hall was standing-room only as other audience members provided an array of thoughts around the city, from ongoing budget discussions to the November general election.
The town halls are held for 30 minutes before the first regular council meeting of the month. They serve as an alternative to oral public comment, which was banned in February 2024 after members of the Save Blaine group failed to follow council rules, leading to police officers monitoring meetings. A crowd-control barrier now separates speakers from city leaders.
s The city of Blaine’s monthly town hall was standing-room only before the Blaine City Council meeting on October 13.
Photos by Grace McCarthy
s From l.; Blaine councilmembers Sonia Hurt, Eric Davidson, mayor Mary Lou Steward, Rhyan Lopez and Sarbie Bains attend the October 13 meeting.
The Northern L ght
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Blaine police chief Rodger Funk recognized three officers during the October 13 Blaine City Council meeting for their actions that saved lives in two separate incidents.
Officer Trevor Chau was recognized
The Editor:
Although I agree with Dave Berry’s statement that we must confront dehumanization of our fellow citizens, I would like to take it a step further by strongly emphasizing that we all pay particular attention when responding to those whose political ideas differ from our own.
Supporting the previous opinions penned by Ron Snyder, Cathy Taggett and Brian Bell, I present the facts below indicating the greatest examples of dehumanization are President Trump’s references of contempt for those he disagrees with.
At Charlie Kirk’s memorial service, which the New York Post estimated at 22 million viewers, President Trump spoke of his political opponents, “I hate my opponent, and I don’t want the best for them.”
Quotes of record include that Democrats are “evil people” and that his political opponents are “fascists” and guilty of
with a life-saving award, while sergeant Jordan Maphumulo received two life-saving awards, and officer Jeremiah Leland was honored with the meritorious service medal, a recognition that goes above life-saving.
During the first incident, Maphumulo found a young person unresponsive
Letters
“treason.” Further, he has stated that he considers his domestic enemies to also be “enemies of the people” suggesting that Democrats are domestic terrorists describing them as “the enemy within” and “threats to democracy.”
Most recently on his Truth Social site President Trump posted Democrats were “the party of hate, evil and Satan.”
And finally, just last week President Trump told hundreds of top military officials that he would use the U.S. military against the “enemy from within,” suggesting that the president’s plan is to use our military against his political opponents, i.e., protesters and/or Democrats.
In the spirit of confronting dehumanization of my fellow citizens as well as honoring the kindergarten lessons that words hurt, I respectfully suggest that this audience consider that regardless of your “side” there is something fun -
CiviC Meetings
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Town halls typically at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday meeting each month. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee: Typically the last Thursday of each month, 6 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Updated meeting info: bit.ly/3QmWVcX.
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district office, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
during a medical emergency call in May.
Maphumulo immediately began rendering aid and revived the person before EMS advanced care support arrived.
“If it was not for his quick call and decisive actions, it is likely this individual would not have survived,” Funk said.
This is the second time Maphumulo has been recognized for his life-saving efforts in the past 1.5 years.
During the second incident, the fire department alerted the police department that it was responding to an automated external defibrillator (AED) call, in case the police were closer and could arrive first. Officers Leland and Chau self-dispatched and Maphumulo, who was not on duty, responded. It was Chau’s second month on patrol.
Within 26 seconds of arriving on scene, Leland and Chau were able to relocate the person to an area where they could provide CPR and began the emergency procedure. “That’s lightning fast,” Funk said.
Maphumulo arrived, and the three worked to save the person’s life, which Funk said likely wouldn’t have been saved without their swift actions. The officers revived the person before the fire department arrived.
Funk said Leland calmly directed the chaotic scene while providing CPR.
“He is responsible for the brave actions of everybody as a team,” Funk said of Leland. “He showed strong leadership, and in my mind, that goes above and beyond life-saving.”
damentally wrong with the judgment of this U.S. president. Most aptly put by Julian Barnes, “The greatest patriotism is to tell your country when it is behaving dishonorably, foolishly, viciously.”
Like me, if you’re an American with family who risked their lives to safeguard this democracy, I hope you consider it your responsibility.
Ann M. Mulvey Birch Bay
The Editor: It could be argued that the loose use of the terms fascist and Nazi are unnec -
(See Letters, next page)
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Blaine Public Works and Park Advisory Board: Second Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine council chambers. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district boardroom, 770 Mitchell Avenue. Info: blainesd.org.
North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: Third Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.
BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee meets quarterly in-person and on Zoom. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.
Port of Bellingham: First and third Tuesday, 4 p.m., Port of Bellingham Harbor Center, 1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. 146, in Bellingham and via Zoom. Info: portofbellingham.com.
s From l.; Blaine police officers Trevor Chau and Jeremiah Leland, police chief Rodger Funk, and sergeant Jordan Maphumulo during the Blaine City Council meeting on October 13. Funk honored Chau with a life-saving award, Maphumulo with two life-saving awards and Leland with the meritorious service medal.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
essarily inflammatory. However, a national leader does not have to be either a fascist or a Nazi to be an aspiring dictator with designs of heading an authoritarian government.
In historical hindsight, Hitler’s path to dictatorship can be easily traced by looking at intermediate actions before he achieved absolute control in Germany. At the time, many people were reluctant to concede that he was deliberately seeking just that. A number of German political parties including Jews held out hope that they could divert him by appeasement. They were not the only Germans surprised by how Hitler ruled.
Over a million Brownshirts who were the muscle behind his rise to power were downsized and their leader was eliminated (shot).
A good case can be made that President Trump has authoritarian ambitions. His own words and his own actions are compelling evidence. His actions so far in his second term will constitute the signs that foreshadowed his dictatorship if he ends up succeeding in achieving his ambitions.
The moderate characteristics of Charlie Kirk and his willingness to engage in civil dialogue do not minimize his support for a president who constantly characterizes his opponents as fascists, communists, vermin, traitors and enemies often in terms that seem to incite violence.
Republicans don’t like being called Nazis and Democrats don’t like being called vermin. Sometimes it appears that we have voted ourselves into a predicament akin to skiing downhill out of control. It is not hopeless. The revival of a commitment to the principles of “liberty and justice for all” might avert impending disaster. We could also undertake to actually become a Christian nation where we follow the teaching of
Jesus such as treating our neighbors as ourselves.
Jim Thomson Blaine
The Editor:
The Whatcom Environmental Council (WEC) and Whatcom County Planning have raised significant concerns about the city of Blaine’s proposed urban growth area (UGA) swap.
In April 2025, WEC urged Blaine officials to include environmental considerations such as open space corridors in their analysis. A subsequent letter in May criticized Blaine for acting before public participation was complete and for omitting environmental review. WEC stated, “In reviewing […] the UGA Swap, there is no mention of any environmental considerations. Your focus appears limited only to public facilities. We ask that you correct this deficiency and direct staff to identify open space corridors and environmental impacts (and benefits) of any UGA swap.”
Whatcom County Planning also expressed concerns. They noted that Blaine’s proposal maps showed less than 15 percent of the UGA expansion areas as critical areas and omitted Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (CARAs) entirely. In contrast, Whatcom County and Washington state maps show critical areas covering the entire proposed UGA expansion area. Both county and state data confirm Birch Point contains significant aquifer recharge areas.
As a member of the Birch Bay Community Advisory Committee (BBCAC), I must ask: Why did Blaine ignore major environmental factors, including a critical aquifer and wetlands, on the land they seek to annex? Are they merely swapping one aquifer in east Blaine for another on Birch Point? Whether by oversight or indifference, this omission affects Birch Bay directly –most of Birch Point lies within the Birch Bay watershed. Birch Bay is very aware of stormwater running downhill from Birch Point, flooding Birch Bay Village,
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that there will be public hearings on the 2026 Preliminary Budget. The public hearings on the final 2026 budget are scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025, and Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the City Council Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000. City Council meeting agendas are published on the Friday before the City Council meeting. The draft preliminary budget will be available for review on October 27, 2025, on the City’s website.
All interested individuals are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding the proposed 2026 preliminary budget. Written comments should be sent to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Written communication must be received by 3:30pm on November 10, 2025, for it to be included in the record. Blaine City Hall is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled hearing.
For further information on the property tax levy or 2026 budget, please contact the Finance Department, 360-332-8311.
Richmond Park and Deer Trail, eventually delivering pollutants into the bay itself. Effective stormwater management is already challenging in Birch Bay due to geology, wetlands, development and climate change. Runoff from Birch Point erodes Semiahmoo bluffs and flows downhill into Birch Bay, leaving Whatcom County and the Birch Bay watershed residents responsible for the cost of stormwater erosion, flooding and pollution control. BBWARM’s Birch Point Sub-watershed Drainage Study identifies seven stormwater projects needed to protect Birch Bay from Birch Point development – at an estimated cost exceeding $15 million.
Doralee Booth Birch Bay
The Editor:
I will be voting for Eric Lewis for Blaine City Council. He has shown that he can back up his vision of the city with realistic, no-nonsense plans that will save us money and really get done. I also like that he is willing to hear everyone’s side of the story before taking action.
Laura Jensen Blaine
The Editor:
Do you remember Chicken Little and “the sky is falling”? I think the alphabet soup of TV stations have come up with a 2025 Chicken Little, now screeching “Trump is a threat to our democracy” and “Trump is a dictator.”
The alphabet soup news reporters are saying the Republicans are causing the government shutdown. As I write this, the Democrats refuse to talk, since they want billions of dollars for free everything for illegal immigrants. What do our veterans and our low-income senior Americans get free? Don’t forget that something free is paid by somebody, and I gather it’s us the American taxpayer.
Another phrase thrown around is that Trump wants to be king. Did I miss the press conference when he said he’s king instead of president? President Trump seems to enjoy throwing out absurd statements and the alphabet soup reporters want you to believe it. I love the fact that someone made him a Trump 2028 red cap, and the media is going ballistic. I like to think of him as the new sheriff in town. He was elected for the promises he made to Make American Great Again.
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing for the 2026 revenue sources and proposed Property Tax Levy is scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025, at 6:00pm in the City Council Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000. City Council meeting agendas are published on the Friday before the City Council meeting.
All interested individuals are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding the proposed property tax levy. Written comments should be sent to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Written communication must be received by 3:30pm on October 27, 2025, for it to be included in the record. Blaine City Hall is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled hearing.
For further information on the property tax levy or 2026 budget, please contact the Finance Department, 360-332-8311.
I’m shocked at the alphabet soup reporters who throw out the word “MAGA” like it’s some disgusting group of people.
How about the hatred toward ICE and anyone who doesn’t want illegal criminals roaming their streets? You do know that foreign countries opened their jails and told the criminals and rapists and murderers to head to the border. Thank you, Biden, for letting millions of “unknowns” walk in the back door … no questions asked. I must show my driver’s license to buy wine at Grocery Outlet! I’ll end with my simple take on tariffs … we sell an American-made product to another country, and they charge us a fee/tariff. They sell here in America, and we have been “Mr. Nice Guy” … until now. I heard a TV reporter comment on how sad children will be this Christmas with fewer toys under the tree. Is it because the bulk of items in our stores are “Made in China”?
Anne Freeman Blaine
CITY OF BLAINE
October 27, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting Public Hearing – 2026 Property Tax and Revenue Sources Public Hearing – 2026 Budget
October 28, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting
November 4, 2025 9:00 AM – Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting
November 10, 2025 5:30 PM – Study Session: Town Hall 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting Public Hearing – 2026 Budget
November 11, 2025 City Offices Closed – Veterans Day
November 13, 2025 6:00 PM – Planning Commission
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.
Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website www.cityofblaine.com
“Thank you for your diligent and informative reporting.” - Jennifer Harmon-Lewis
House • John Whitmer • Jeffrey Lewis and Jennifer Harmon-Lewis
Football falls to Nooksack Valley, girls soccer shut out by Anacortes
B y
The regular season is winding down, and postseason play is beginning to come into view. With the PA announcer at Borderite Stadium updating the crowd on the Mariners’ playoff hopes on October 10, Blaine football wasn’t able to keep up with Nooksack Valley. Over the weekend, cross-country traveled to Lakewood for the 42nd Hole in the Wall Invitational, competing against some of the fastest distance runners in the state, and girls soccer fell to a top-of-thepack Anacortes team.
Football
With the Nooksack Valley Pioneers riding a three-game losing streak and the Borderites looking for its first Northwest Conference win of the season, the October 10 game could’ve been a chance for Blaine to upset the defending 1A Northwest Conference (NWC) champs.
But the upset never materialized, with Nooksack Valley winning 5222. The loss drops Blaine to a 1-5 record with a 0-2 1A NWC record.
Nooksack Valley controlled the first half, with sophomore running back Trey Heutink scoring twice, and senior quarterback Evan Brown connecting with senior wide receiver Jaxon Hester for a touchdown.
Hester scored again for the Pioneers when he blocked a Blaine punt in the second quarter, scooping up the block and running it 16 yards to the endzone. By the time of the second half kickoff, Blaine was down 33-0.
But the Borderites didn’t show even a second of quit. The team scored quickly on a 19-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Connor Brown to ju-
nior wide receiver Peyton Bouma.
Nooksack Valley responded with a nifty, 32-yard catch and run from Max Lautenbach, but the Borderites would hold them scoreless for the rest of the third quarter. Brown launched another touchdown pass in the third quarter, this time a nine-yard connection to senior wide receiver Kai Kerwin.
The Borderites were able to tack on another two points when Nooksack Valley’s center sailed the ball over the quarterback’s head, going out of the endzone for a safety.
With the score now closer at 39-15, the Pioneers closed the door for good in the fourth quarter, scoring two consecutive, backbreaking touchdowns.
The final score of the game was Brown’s third touchdown pass on the night, a 10-yard pass to Bouma for his second touchdown catch.
passing and three touchdowns. After racking up the stat sheet with consecutive games over 100 yards receiving, Kerwin was held to just three catches for 37 yards by a fast and flying Nooksack Valley secondary. Peyton Bouma led the Borderites with six catches for 79 yards, while sophomore Hunter Candanoza brought in three catches for 49 yards, and Isaac Bouma had 50 yards receiving on one catch.
The Borderites will continue its search for its first NWC win of the season, with three games remaining in the regular season schedule. Blaine football will take the ferry to play Friday Harbor at 6:30 p.m. Friday, October 17.
30 on the road against Meridian. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com
Cross-country Blaine cross-country attended the 42nd annual Nike Hole in the Wall Invitational on October 11, competing against some of the best distance running programs in the state.
In the men’s varsity silver group, Blaine sophomore Emmanuel Rios-Martinez placed 115th in a field of 299 athletes, finishing the five-kilometer course with a time of 18:06.7. Junior Steven Phelps-McDonald placed 220th with a time of 18:59.0, and junior Verdaan Aujla placed 294th with a time of 20:52.8
varsity silver division, Blaine didn’t get the team result it was presumably hoping for, finishing 31st out of 32 teams with a team score of 891.
Senior Oscar Taylor led the way for the Borderites with a time of 21:57.9 on the five-kilometer course at Lakewood High School. Freshman Colin Clark had the school’s second-best time at 22:18.4. Out of a massive heat of 377 runners, Taylor placed 239th and Clark placed 267th.
The top Blaine girls competed in the junior varsity gold heat, with sophomore Carrie Balback placing 60th in a field of 277 runners with a time of 21:50.9. Freshman Zoe Hill placed 247th with a time of 25:13.0.
In the junior varsity bronze heat, junior Olivia Carlson-Vega took charge with a time of 27:36.5. Freshman Kathleen McLean posted a time of 28:40.0, while freshman Khyrie Craig and senior Ana Tuski couldn’t quite break the half-hour barrier, finishing with times of 33:30.4 and 33:31.2, respectively.
Times provided by Athletic.net Girls soccer
Facing one of the toughest opponents in the entire Northwest Conference, Blaine girls soccer was shut out, 5-0, on the road against Anacortes on October 14. Blaine’s final regular season home game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, October 16 against Sehome (after press time).
November 6
due October 31
Brown finished with 174 yards
The next home game will be at 7 p.m. Friday, October 24 against 1A NWC rival Mt. Baker. The final game of the regular season is scheduled for Thursday, October
In the men’s varsity bronze group, seniors Jacob Troupe and Abel Carlson-Vega weren’t able to break the 20-minute mark but still had solid times of 20:39.1 and 21:08.8, respectively.
Competing in the men’s junior
Blaine girls soccer sits at second place in the 1A division, but are well behind first place Lynden Christian. With a record of 5-9 (3-9 NWC), Blaine is looking down on Nooksack Valley, Meridian and Mt. Baker in the standings.
Belarmino shines in freshman season
B y N ola N B aker
For any and all teenagers, the transition from middle school to high school can be tough. New schedules, new teachers, and a host of new responsibilities can be a lot for a teenager to tackle.
Add on the task of varsity soccer? It can be too much.
That doesn’t seem to be the case for Blaine High School freshman Ruby Belarmino, who has burst onto the Northwest Conference (NWC) scene with 10 goals already during her first year playing for the Borderites.
Belarmino, who’s one of three freshmen named to Blaine’s opening day starting varsity roster, is
leading the team in scoring, and is currently tied for fourth in goals in the conference.
Among the NWC top scorers, Belarmino is the only freshman with double-digit goals scored, and is behind only Lynden Christian senior Kayla Yun (12) for the lead among 1A players. The next highest freshman goal scorer this year is Ferndale’s Mia Collins, with six.
Belarmino credits the upperclassmen on the team for the fast start to her high school career, specifically mentioning junior midfielder Kate Koreski (Blaine’s second leading goal scorer with six).
“I just feel so welcomed by this
team,” Belarmino said. “The upperclassmen treat me as if I’m at the same level as them and not as if I’m under them.”
Belarmino said her teammates have helped her adjust to the higher level of competition, and understand how to play in head coach Gio Quesada’s system.
“They’ve shown me how our coach wants soccer to be played, and they’ve helped me learn a new way of playing soccer,” Belarmino said. “Gio is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had. He knows the game so well, he’s lived the game and he loves coaching. He doesn’t find this a job at all, this is what he loves.”
Quesada, who has coached both boys and girls soccer teams at Blaine for years, said players like Belarmino only come around every once in a while.
“She’s hungry for a score,” Quesada said of the freshman striker. “She’s good and she has something different, but at the same time, the team sees the energy she puts out and tries to match her.”
(See Belarmino, page 7)
N ola N B aker
s Blaine quarterback Connor Brown, second from r., is tackled by Nooksack Valley defenders in the second half of Blaine’s 52-22 loss on October 10.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Belarmino ...
From page 6
A talented striker in Quesada’s classic 4-4-2 formation can be a game-changer. The Borderites are 5-9 on the season and are ranked second in the 1A postseason rankings with just a few regular season games remaining.
Belarmino said her goal and the team’s goal this season is the same: Win the 1A tournament and qualify for state.
Personally, Belarmino said her goal is to not put too much pressure on herself, while also performing at as high of a level as she knows she’s capable. That also applies for school and life, not just on the soccer field, she said.
“I think being my own advo-
cate helps,” Belarmino said. “Like, making it known when I need help from a teacher and being able to go up and talk to them, that helps with keeping the stress off school so I can focus on soccer.”
Belarmino, who grew up in Blaine, recalls first playing soccer when she was just two years old, and hating it. Her father Raymond helped coach her next teams with Blaine Youth Sports, and she quickly fell in love. By the fifth grade, she joined Whatcom Rangers, the region’s premier select soccer club.
She first started as a goalkeeper – and still loves the position – but said once her coaches discovered how fast she was, she was quickly moved to wing and striker.
Quesada said that pedigree as a goalkeeper allows her to be a
more effective striker.
“I think that helped,” Quesada said. “Being the goalkeeper, you see the whole field. Being the forward, you only see one-third. She understands how the keeper thinks.”
Looking back on 10 goals over a nearly complete regular season, Belarmino said her favorite moment was after her goal against Nooksack Valley at home on September 23. It wasn’t the amazing goal that made it her favorite memory – though Belarmino did seem
to enjoy describing the one-touch missile from outside the penalty box – it was jumping into the arms of Koreski in celebration, then being mobbed by the rest of the team.
“It was one of the most beautiful goals I’ve ever taken in my life,” Belarmino recalled. “Then I look up and there’s Kate Koreski, I jumped up and she just held me.”
Now succeeding at the highest level in high school soccer, Belarmino hopes the Borderites can break through to the state tour-
nament that has barely eluded them in recent years.
If the Borderites make it to the state tournament, Belarmino will surely be one of the reasons. She said she wouldn’t have had the personal success without her teammates, coaches, and parents, Chelsey and Raymond.
“I’m just so grateful that this sport was given to me as an opportunity,” Belarmino said. “I haven’t had a team like this and it’s just so amazing.”
s From top, Blaine freshman Ruby Belarmino warms up during a practice on October 13. Belarmino, c., jumps into the arms of her teammates after a goal against Nooksack Valley on September 23. Photos by Nolan Baker
s The Whatcom County ballot drop box at North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Station 63, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
Election ...
From page 1
This year’s ballot will be full of important decisions for local voters, especially in Blaine and Birch Bay. Decisions on the ballot include a statewide vote on how to invest long-term care funds, a dozen county propositions, local measures to increase the number of Port of Bellingham commissioners and change the city limits of Blaine, races for four Blaine City Council positions, three Blaine school board positions, and much more.
Below is what will appear on ballots for most Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer voters:
Port of Bellingham Proposition 2025-04
This proposition would increase the number of commissioners of the Port of Bellingham from three to five, which would create new districts. If passed, the proposition would allow
two commissioners to meet outside of port meetings, something that currently isn’t allowed under the state’s Open Public Meetings Act because it would create a quorum.
City of Blaine Proposition 2025-07
The lone city measure brought to voters in Blaine will be Proposition 2025-07 regarding the reduction of city limits.
The resolution is asking voters if they are in favor of de-annexing 573 acres of incorporated urban growth area (UGA) in east Blaine – the majority of which is the Grandis Pond property. The city would also de-annex 37 acres near Dakota Creek.
If passed, the city would then try to replace those areas with 453 acres of UGA near Semiahmoo as well as 124 acres of UGA in southeast Blaine. The proposed Blaine UGA in Semiahmoo would lead to the city promoting high-density housing near Semiahmoo, which has already been planned for future development,
according to previous reporting by The Northern Light Blaine City Council voted 6-0 to put the decision to voters during a July 14 council meeting. Proponents of the UGA swap say Blaine is in desperate need of land for affordable and dense housing with the development of Grandis Pond in question, while opponents say the city has not done its due diligence on environmental and water concerns, among others.
Whatcom County measures
There are 12 propositions for Whatcom County voters to consider on county government, many of which are specifically focused on the functions of the county executive and council.
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission proposed these changes, which would amend what is essentially the county’s constitution. The 15-member commission meets every 10 years to assess and update the county charter.
• Proposition 1 would authorize county councilmembers to hire dedicated legislative aides, or for multiple councilmembers to hire one joint aide.
• Proposition 2 would establish a Whatcom County “Office of the Ombuds” which would investigate complaints and inquiries into county government.
• Proposition 3 would establish performance audits, or a new process to review, evaluate and report on aspects of county government. Independent contractors would conduct the audit.
• Proposition 4 seeks to clarify the powers and duties of county elected officials with an amendment to Article 3 of the county charter.
• Proposition 5 would amend Whatcom County’s redistricting process to better comply with state law, and require the districting committee hold a public hearing before adopting a redistricting plan.
• Proposition 6 would adjust the calculation of signatures required to place a referendum on ballots. If
approved, the requirement for a referendum would be signatures equal to 14 percent of the most recent county executive election. The current requirement is eight percent of the last gubernatorial election.
• Proposition 7 would prohibit the county government from taking action in relation to an initiative or charter amendment.
• Proposition 8 would require more public disclosure requirements upon the county executive prior to approving budgets.
• Proposition 9 would prohibit county council from approving any non-emergency supplemental budget appropriations unless a report has been submitted within the last 90 days.
• Proposition 10 would more clearly define rules of procedure for charter review commission meetings.
• Proposition 11 would adjust the calculation of signatures required to place a charter amendment on ballots. If approved, signatures collected would have to equal 20 percent of the most recent county executive election. The current requirement is 15 percent of the last gubernatorial election.
• Proposition 12 would require the county executive to publish an analysis of how land supply and construction costs could be affected by new legislation.
Senate Joint Resolution 8201
The only state measure on this year’s general election ballot will ask Washington voters to approve a constitutional amendment proposed by the state legislature that would allow taxpayer money in the state’s longterm care fund to be invested.
If approved, this amendment would allow the state fund dedicated to providing long-term care benefits for eligible seniors and people with disabilities to be invested into private stock. The state created a long-term care insurance program in 2019.
The state constitution generally prohibits investing public money into stocks of private companies, allowing states to invest public money only into securities like government and corporate bonds.
Exemptions exist, with public pension and retirement funds, workers’ compensation funds, and others, being invested into publicly traded stocks, according to the measure’s explanatory statement.
If approved, the Washington State Investment Board would manage the funds.
Whatcom County Council races
• Whatcom County Council District 1 – Kaylee Galloway (unopposed)
• Whatcom County Council District 2 – Elizabeth Boyle and Maya Morales
• Whatcom County Council District 3 – Jessica Rienstra and Kyle Christensen
• Whatcom County Council At-Large Position A – Barry Buchanan and Misty Flowers Port of Bellingham races
• Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 1 – Michael Alvarez Shepard (unopposed)
• Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 2 – Ken Bell and Carly James Blaine City Council
• Ward 1 Position 1 – Eric Lewis and Jiggy Sorrell
• Ward 2 Position 4 – Isaac Newland and Ray Leone
• Ward 3 Position 6 – Sukhwant Gill and Don Enos
• At-Large Position 7 – Mike Hill (dropped out) and Sarbie Bains Blaine school board
• Director District 3 – Bob Feaster and Jim Shaver
• Director District 4 – Ryan Swinburnson (unopposed)
• Director District 5 – Chelsey Belarmino (unopposed)
Fire District 21 (North Whatcom Fire and Rescue)
• Commissioner Position 3 –Craig Anthony (unopposed) Birch Bay Water and Sewer District
• Commissioner Position 3 –John Schindler and Joan Connell Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2
• Commissioner Position 2 –Sheli Moore (unopposed)
• Commissioner Position 4 – Billy Brown (unopposed)
Photo by Grace McCarthy
Photo by Grant Parker The Blaine Seaside Bash featuring OysterFest brought
Photos by Ruth Lauman, unless otherwise noted
November candidates share plans for Blaine, Birch Bay
4Don Enos Blaine City Council
Ward 3, Position 6
Why Don, Why Now
Blaine is full of potential. The choices we make today will define what our community becomes tomorrow. Don Enos is running for City Council to bring steady leadership, protect what makes this town special, and help shape a future we are all proud of. www.doneforblaine.org
The Northern Light asked candidates for contested races representing the Blaine and Birch Bay areas in the November 4 general election one simple question: If elected or re-elected, how would you serve constituents in Blaine and Birch Bay?
The candidates for Blaine City Council, Blaine school board, Port of Bellingham and Whatcom County provided the following written responses.
City of Blaine Ward 1
The Blaine City Council Ward 1 Position is a four-year term that represents residents east of 6th Street and in the southeast portion of the city. Incumbent Eric Lewis and challenger Jiggy Sorrell are vying for the seat. Eric Lewis Incumbent Eric Lewis was appointed to Blaine City Council in October 2024. He is an electrician who served in the U.S. Marine Corps and is a member of Blaine Community Theater and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474.
Answer: I will continue my track record of practical fixes and optimistic vision for Blaine. I welcome feedback, and I cosponsored the return of public comment because a council member’s job is to hear out the concerns and suggestions from all the people and businesses in our community, then take action if needed. Facing rising costs and reduced city income from visitors at the moment, I supported cutting half a million dollars of optional spending for frills that we can do later. But I look to future goals for great recreation plus theater & arts that can pair with the great dining destination that Blaine is becoming.
My background as an electrical maintenance technician helps me advocate for our city to have enough equipment and staff to quickly restore power when there’s an outage. As a marine, I had to drink contaminated water, which motivates me to ensure that we have safe clean drinking water here in Blaine. We need a mix of housing options for our workforce, families, and retirees, so I am ready to support quality development and get barriers out of the way and simplify our permitting and building process.”
Jiggy Sorrell
Jiggy Sorrell is director of programs at Brilliant Planet, a nonprofit providing free bikes to Blaine and Birch Bay children. He is also a U.S. Navy veteran who serves on the MERIS (Marine, Economic and Research Insti-
tute for Sustainability) Executive Committee and Drayton Harbor Shellfish Advisory Committee. No response was submitted. City of Blaine Ward 2
The Blaine City Council Ward 2 position is a four-year term representing most of the Salishan neighborhood and southwest of downtown to city limits. Candidates Isaac Newland and Ray Leone are racing to represent the ward.
Isaac Newland Isaac Newland is a software developer for managing international supply chains. He has been involved with Key Club and volunteering with youth sports and school activities.
A: If elected, I will work to make Blaine a community where residents feel heard, supported, and proud of the direction we’re heading. I believe city leadership should listen to constituents first, before council votes are cast and plans are finalized, because the best ideas often come from the people who live here.
I will fight for affordable housing so that young families and working residents can build their futures in Blaine. I would love for my children to be able to live and work in the city they were raised in. I will also advocate for strong partnerships with our schools, because they are the heart of our community and the foundation of our future success.
To create long-term stability, we need to broaden our economy beyond border traffic and tourism. I will support efforts to attract light industry and other sustainable business opportunities that bring steady jobs and revenue to Blaine year-round.
Together, we can build a more resilient, inclusive city, one that grows responsibly while keeping Blaine’s small-town character and community spirit strong.
Ray Leone
Ray Leone is a retired nurse and teacher who is involved with the Blaine Senior Center and Salishan Neighborhood Association. Leone regularly attends city council and planning commission meetings.
A: If I was to serve on council, I will not make promises that I won’t or cannot keep. I would support returning community voice during council meetings. I’d have the expectation of an ethical city council and city hall that engages our residents first and manages our city with clarity and transparency. I will not be a pawn of special interests nor serve you as a politician but hold office as a community representative. I will listen to both residents
B y G race M c c arthy
s Eric Lewis.
s Jiggy Sorrell.
s Isaac Newland.
s Ray Leone. s Sukhwant Gill.
and our visitors. Listening means one will get the consideration of an ear. If not getting what you want, it means my being willing to explain why not. I will question, seek clarity, perspective, be ethical, truthful, and keep an open mind. I’ll encourage, be an advocate for vision, quality of life, community character, the environment, and for quality over quantity as we develop Blaine. Can any city councilor anywhere really do this alone?
I believe such can only happen through an active partnership with the community. If I am given the privilege of serving, I would ask of you to help serve as well. Be an active partner together with me as we develop a Better Blaine.
City of Blaine Ward 3
The Blaine City Council Ward 3 position is a four-year term representing Semiahmoo, west of 6th Street and the northern part of Salishan neighborhood. Candidates Sukhwant Gill and Don Enos are vying for the position.
Sukhwant Gill
Sukhwant Gill is a former Blaine City Council member who owns Shell gas station on D Street and the Blaine Mart convenience store. Gill has also served on the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee.
No response was provided.
Don Enos
Don Enos is a real estate agent who currently serves on Blaine Planning Commission and is vice president of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce. He also is on the Whatcom County Association of Realtors’ government affairs and education committees.
No response was provided.
Blaine School Board District 3
The Blaine School Board District 3 position is a four-year term representing north Birch Bay and Birch Point. Bob Feaster and Jim Shaver are competing to represent the district.
Bob Feaster
Bob Feaster has 35 years’ experience in public education that includes serving as assistant superintendent, school psychologist and special education director. He is interim coordinator of Blaine school district’s Family Service Center and volunteers for several Blaine area nonprofits.
A: I will continue to serve our community, as I have for the past 8 years, giving my time and energy working for those in need, by volunteering with the Community Assistance Program (CAP), Wildbird Charity, and Peace Arch Education Foundation.
Two themes of my candidacy are “Let’s listen to each other and work together for our stu -
dents” and “Experience and knowledge matter”. I will serve the Blaine school district with these in mind.
I have always been a listener and firmly believe that we need to listen to each other and collaborate for our students. It’s a principle that will guide my actions moving forward. I will seek to hear from all, including those who are often not heard. I believe in working hard to represent families and students.
I have 35 years of experience working in public schools. This, combined with my 8 years working in Blaine schools, ensures that I will be able to immediately advocate for our employees, families, and students on day one.
I will also work to have our district move forward and to be the district that parents are excited to have their children attend. We can and will have a bright future.
Jim Shaver
Jim Shaver is a cybersecurity engineer who has served as a precinct committee officer. He has volunteered for Blaine school district, Kulshan Community Land Trust and the Mount Baker Beekeepers Association.
A: If elected to the school board, my commitment to the Blaine school district centers on four key priorities.
First, I will work to strengthen communication between the district, families, and community members. Transparent, accessible dialogue builds trust and ensures everyone has a voice in our students’ education.
Second, I am dedicated to hiring a superintendent who embraces community engagement and understands the unique needs of our district. Strong leadership that listens and collaborates is essential for success.
Third, I believe education should inspire curiosity and critical thinking and that technology should support, not replace that thinking. I will advocate for teaching practices that help students become lifelong learners, equipping them not just with knowledge, but with the skills to adapt, question, and grow.
Finally, I am committed to fostering a culture of respect and acceptance that stands firmly against bullying. Every student deserves to feel safe and valued at school. By promoting empathy and including everyone, we can create an environment where all students thrive.
These priorities reflect my belief that strong schools are built on communication, leadership, learning, and compassion. I would be honored to have the opportunity to serve our commu-
nity and our children. Whatcom County Council At-Large Position A
The Whatcom County Council At-Large Positon A is a four-year term representing all Whatcom County residents that incumbent Barry Buchanan and Misty Flowers are on the ballots for.
Barry Buchanan Incumbent Barry Buchanan has served on Whatcom County Council since 2013, is a former Bellingham City Councilor and former chair of the Whatcom County Democrats. He is a U.S. Navy veteran and has worked as vice president of Bianchi Group.
A: I feel that the Blaine/Birch Bay community has been very divided over water issues and Urban Growth Areas. I would like to help facilitate a meaningful conversation with all stakeholders in the room to start a healing and regenerative process. Everyone means well with the passionate efforts to seek their vision for the area. We need that honest, “everyone at the table”, face-to-face, problem solving in order to find the best solutions for growth in the Blaine/Birch Bay community. The other thing I will do is to continue to support Birch Bay in their quest to find the answers to potential incorporation.
Misty Flowers
Misty Flowers is a small business owner and works in holistic wellness. She is chair of the Whatcom County Republican Party and was a lead organizer of Be Brave Washington, which advocated against Covid-19 vaccine mandates.
A: If elected, I will serve Blaine and Birch Bay residents through better representation on the council. I will ensure your tax dollars are used wisely and efficiently instead of increasing your taxes. I will help protect your property and water rights, work to increase living wage jobs and housing options. I will address water management issues by prioritizing infrastructure that protects people and property. I will strengthen county relationships within and around the county, ensuring our smaller cities are included in budget needs so that our county at-large is better represented. Thank you for your support and if elected, I look forward to serving you on Whatcom County Council.
Port of Bellingham
Commissioner District 2
The Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 2 position is a four-year term that represents part of east Bellingham, most of Lynden, Everson and Maple Falls. Incumbent Ken Bell and Carly James are competing for the seat.
Ken Bell Incumbent Ken Bell has served on the Port of Bellingham Commission since 2017 and is president and CEO of Iron Creek Group, a soil remediation company. He has also served on the Whatcom County Planning Commission and the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission.
A: The north county has long been neglected for infrastructure investments. This commissioner has been advocating for investment every year of my term. We brought full occupancy back to the harbor by adjusting rates to attract business. Today the marina is full. During my term we spent $1.77 million cleaning contamination along Sigurdson so we could begin rebuilding. We spent $1.4 million upgrading Westman Marine infrastructure, over $860,000 on extending the life or our moorage and marina and $330,000 to build a safer fuel tank farm.
We will continue this pattern of investing heavily in Blaine’s working waterfront to modernize facilities, improve safety, and enhance environ -
mental stewardship. Major projects include expanding the Blaine Boatyard, constructing new Westman Marine travel lift piers, and completing extensive MTCA cleanup work to restore marine areas. Infrastructure renewal will continue with pier repairs, dredging to maintain navigational depth, and replacement of the Sea K Fish bulkhead and piers. Supported by significant State and Federal grants, these projects – totaling nearly $40 million – will strengthen Blaine’s maritime economy, create family-wage jobs, and ensure a cleaner, more resilient harbor for future generations.
Blaine and Birch Bay are important investments for attracting tourism and vital for our commercial fishing industry.
Carly James Carly James owns Bison Bookbinding and Letterpress, which has two downtown Bellingham locations. She also owns an accounting and consulting firm and has volunteered with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
No response was provided.
s Don Enos. s Bob Feaster.
s Jim Shaver.
s Barry Buchanan. s Misty Flowers.
s Ken Bell. s Carly James.
JUDGE: Jennifer Slattery
The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: October 16, 2025
Personal Representative: Phyllis Harber-Murphy 1843 Main Street #A4 Lynden, WA 98264
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225
Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp
Registration opens for CAP Thanksgiving Baskets
B y M adely N J o N es
Registration opens on Friday, October 17 for the Community Assistance Program (CAP) ready-tocook Thanksgiving meal baskets.
CAP will hand out 220 boxes to families with limited financial resources in Blaine, Birch Bay, Point Roberts and Custer from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, November 25 in Blaine. Pre-registration is required and will be open until Friday, November 14. To register, call 360/3939483 or visit blainecap.org.
“It’s important to help out others in need that may not be as blessed,” said CAP logistics coordinator Tim Alger, adding the program is made possible through generous donations.
CAP provides assistance for those in the Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts communities who require additional resources to meet their basic needs.
Registration is first-come, firstserved; a waitlist will open once all 220 baskets have been reserved. After registering, participants will receive a postcard in the mail with additional details.
The baskets will contain fresh turkeys, potatoes, yams, stuffing mix, onions, celery, chicken broth, gravy mix, cranberry sauce, canned green beans, rolls with butter, a gallon of milk, pumpkin pie and whipped topping.
Pickup will be at a new location this year: Christian Way Community Church, 1733 H Street, suite 260 in the Blaine International Plaza. Also new this year, households of one and two will receive a take-out meal prepared by the IGA Market deli that includes turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, a
roll with butter and pumpkin pie with whipped topping, according to CAP’s website.
The program is entirely volunteer-run, and donations can be made online with a debit or credit card at blainecap.org. Checks are also accepted and may be made out to CAP with “Thanksgiving
OBITUARIES
John Francis Finn
August 20, 1920 – October 11, 2025
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of John Francis Finn. John was born in Escanaba, MI, and spent his teenage years in Marquette, MI. He was a WWII veteran and served with the U.S. Coast Guard in the South Pacific as a Quartermaster, First Class. After the war he went to the University of Michigan and took courses in engineering and business administration. He graduated with a BBA degree in February 1950.
John worked for the Pittsburg Corning Corporation for 35 years all over the U.S. and Canada. In his spare time, John enjoyed fly fishing, skiing, ocean charter fishing, sailing and golf. In retirement, John and his wife Barbara sailed his boat the “Lalage” in the San Juan and Gulf Islands. John also designed, and built their retirement home in Birch Bay Village which was one of his proud accomplishments.
John was always welcoming friends into his home and enjoyed a good game of cribbage any time of the day, always saying “time for one more?”. He made it to the impressive age of 105 and still it wasn’t enough time. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
John is survived by his friend, companion and loving wife, Barbara; children Dianne Finn, Jay Finn, and Collin Finn (pre-deceased); grandchildren Aryn Chapman and Evan Finn, and great-grandchildren Alexander Nachmann, Collin Finn and Rylan Finn.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Whatcom Hospice Foundation. A service will be held on October 23, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., at Greenacres Memorial Park, Ferndale.
Baskets” in the memo line. They may be mailed to 508 G Street, Blaine, WA 98230.
Dennis Marino Olason
June 10, 1936 – August 11, 2025
Dennis Marino Olason of Blaine, WA, a teacher, scientist, gardener, carpenter, and active community member, passed away peacefully from natural causes August 11, 2025 at Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA, at the age of 89.
Dennis was born to Skapti and Elin (Ella) Olason on the family farm in Hensel, Pembina County, ND, one of nine siblings. At some point during his childhood Dennis acquired the nickname “Kip” and was fondly referred to in this way by the Olason clan all of his life. Dennis and the other younger kids attended the one-room Eastman School within a mile of home.
In 1948, Skapti moved with Ella, Dennis, siblings Harold and Sally, and Ella’s mother, Gudridur Magnusson, to a 40-acre dairy farm on the Sweet Road in Blaine, a town with a strong Icelandic community. Dennis, Harold, and Sally attended school in Blaine and did chores on the farm. Dennis played sports at Blaine High School and earned a letterman’s jacket.
After high school graduation, Dennis attended Western Washington University in Bellingham where he met Ann Frazier whom he married in 1960. He and Ann eventually settled in Renton, WA, where Dennis had a 30-year-long career of teaching middle and high school science.
After retirement, Dennis and Ann decided to pursue their dream of building a custom home on property inherited from Skapti a mile east of the old family dairy farm on Sweet Road outside Blaine. It was in the midst of this exciting but challenging time that Dennis suffered a major heart attack. An emergency trip to Seattle for heart surgery saved his life and allowed him to get back to Blaine.
Dennis and Ann enjoyed ten wonderful years in their country home, where they spent many days tending to their beautiful landscape and vegetable gardens. In 2002, Dennis and Ann regretfully gave up their big country place and moved into a house with a more manageable yard, just off of Peace Portal Drive in Blaine. Gardening continued on a smaller scale and the new neighbors became good friends. With his long-time interest in community planning and local government, Dennis joined the Blaine Planning Commission and eventually served on the City Council. He and Ann were active in the Blaine Senior Center, where they enjoyed having coffee with friends. Dennis was an advocate for good local health care, particularly for the senior population, and was instrumental in recent years in bringing the Family Care Network clinic to Blaine.
Growing up on a farm shaped Dennis’s strong work ethic, his lifelong affection for plants and animals, his generosity, and his resourcefulness. He was proud of his extended family and his Icelandic heritage. He loved to visit his roots at the family farm in North Dakota, still run by his nephew Doug, and made several trips there over the years.
Dennis lived with congestive heart failure for over 30 years, managing life with humor, determination, and pragmatism. He was a serious man of well-chosen words and a resource for good advice, but also loved to gently tease everyone he met with a twinkle in his eye.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Skapti and Elin Olason, and his siblings John, Matt, Mary, Mike, Steve, Polly, and Harold. He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Ann, his daughters Sara (Tom) Noland and Paula (Jim) O’Halloran, and his sister Sally (Tom) Cooper, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, friends and colleagues.
A celebration of life will be held in Dennis’s honor at the Blaine Senior Center on Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 1–4 p.m. (763 G Street, Blaine, WA 98230). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blaine Food Bank, Blaine Scholarship Foundation, Blaine Library, or The Foundation for WWU & Alumni (Western Washington University). A guest book and additional memories of Dennis are available at: www.funerals.coop/obituaries/dennis-olason.
s CAP Thanksgiving Baskets.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
sheriff’s repOrts
October 4, 4:18 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on California Trail.
October 5, 6:06 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Clamdigger Drive.
October 5, 1:04 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Blaine Road.
October 5, 4:14 p.m.: Assist citizen on Pacific Highway.
October 5, 9:24 p.m.: Theft on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
October 6, 8:41 a.m.: Welfare check on Yvonne Way.
October 6, 11:20 a.m.: Civil problem on Birch Bay Drive.
October 6, 5:25 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Birch Bay Drive.
October 6, 5:41 p.m.: Runaway cold call on Sole Drive.
October 7, 8:01 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle cold call on Stein Road.
October 7, 10:50 a.m.: Trespass on Harborview Road.
October 7, 3:44 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Drive.
October 7, 5:21 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on
Valley View Road.
October 8, 5:29 a.m.: Death investigation on California Trail.
October 8, 1:04 p.m.: Death investigation on Loomis Trail Road.
October 8, 7:45 p.m.: Welfare check on Anchor Parkway.
October 9, 6:46 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Delta Line Road.
October 9, 7:40 a.m.: Suspicious person cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
October 9, 12:44 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Boblett Road.
October 9, 12:51 p.m.: Theft cold call on Kickerville Road.
October 9, 3:58 p.m.: Juvenile problem cold call on Bay Road.
October 9, 6:18 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Loomis Trail Road.
October 9, 8:51 p.m.: Suspicious person cold call on Alderson Road.
October 10, 10:17 a.m.: Welfare check on Loomis Trail Road.
CrOssWOrd
daism
ACROSS
1. Remark 5. Upper body part 8. Expression of dismissiveness
12. Alternate name 14. Popular beverage 15. Swiss river 16. Step-shaped recess 18. Rocker Stewart 19. Bright shade of color 20. Popular “street” 21. Wrath 22. Heat units 23. Nocturnal omnivorous mammals
26. Fall back into 30. Remove from the record 31. Sound a splash made 32. Popular Dodge pickup model 33. Jamaican river 34. Notable event in Texas history 39. Cool! 42. Subset of Ju-
44. Newly entered cadet
46. Duct in urinary system
47. Exterminator 49. Snatch quickly 50. Have already done
51. Less healthy 56. Therefore 57. What couples say on the altar 58. Mysteriously 59. Look angry or sullen
60. Bird’s beak 61. Taco ingredient 62. Square measures 63. Google certification (abbr.) 64. Singer Hansard DOWN 1. Pubs 2. Wings 3. Popular BBQ dish 4. Small sponge cake
5. Open-roofed entrance halls
6. Organize anew 7. Type of wine 8. Forums 9. North Atlantic islands (alt. sp.) 10. Pond dwellers 11. Large integers 13. Signaled 17. Brief 24. Type of student 25. Tibetan monasteries
26. Revolutions per minute
27. NY Giants great Manning
28. Local area network
29. Residue from burning
35. Illuminated 36. Vasopressin
37. Notable space station
38. Wood sorrel
40. Adhering to laws
41. Chose 42. Hovel
43. Stood up 44. European city 45. Works cease-
October 10, 10:25 a.m.: Fraud cold call on Richard Way.
October 10, 10:45 a.m.: Welfare check on Jess Road.
October 10, 11:53 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle cold call on Delta Line Road.
October 10, 4:30 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Birch Bay Drive.
October 10, 7:22 p.m.: Welfare check on Parkland Drive.
October 10, 9:19 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Drive.
October 10, 10:48 p.m.: Burglary on Alderson Road.
October 11, 6:09 a.m.: Death investigation on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
October 11, 1:10 p.m.: Obstructing arrest on Helweg Road.
October 11, 8:03 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Lasiandra Drive.
For a complete list of WCSO reports, visit whatcomcounty.us/2120/Activity-Reports.
lessly
47. Mistake
48. Sun-dried brick
49. Sicilian city
52. A steep rugged rock or cliff
53. Murder
54. Other
55. “Deadpool” actor Reynolds
ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
tides
October 16 - 22 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Coming up
Home Farm Pumpkin Patch: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. through October 31, Home Farm, 8020 Kickerville Road. Pumpkin patch, farm store, kid friendly corn maze, visit the pigs. Weekends feature concessions, face painting and tractor train rides. Info: home farm.farm.
Books and Bites: Friday, October 17, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. October title: “Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone” by Benjamin Stevenson. Info: wcls.org.
Blaine Candidate Forum: Friday, October 17, 6 p.m., Blaine Community and Senior Center, 763 G Street. Meet and greet candidates for Blaine City Council and Port Commission. Info: info@blainechamber.com.
Haunted Car Wash Carnevil: Friday and Saturday, October 17 and 18, 6–10 p.m., Roadrunner Express Car Wash, 825 Grant Avenue. Enter a twisted ride of terror where clowns rule, shadows come alive and only the brave come out clean. $25 plus tax per car. Portion of proceeds benefit the Blaine Public Schools Foundation.
Backstage @ the Border: Friday, October 17, 7–9 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street. Featuring The Quartertones playing music from the Holy Land. $10 at the door, no one is turned away. Proceeds benefit Loads of Love. Info: backstageattheborder.com.
Live Music at The Vault: Friday, October 17, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: The Problem Jazz Collective. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Movie Night: Friday, October 17, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Featuring a free, indoor family-friendly Halloween movie. Bring a chair. Free popcorn. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Pumpkin Carving Party: Saturday, October 18, 2–4 p.m., North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Station 61, 9408 Odell Street. Featuring a coloring contest, photo booth and popcorn.
DSHS Mobile Office at the Library: Thursday, October 23, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. DSHS staff on hand to provide crucial services in environments that may not have DSHS brick-and-mortar offices nearby, and to be agile in meeting the needs of people who could benefit from their programs. Info: wcls.org.
Community Dinner: Thursday, October 23, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy community and connections over dinner. Free, donations accepted. Info: call or text 360/656-6416. Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, October 23, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro. 277 G Street. General knowledge trivia with Alan. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Veronica North Performance: Thursday, October 23, 7:30 p.m., The Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly Street, Bellingham. Point Roberts native and BHS Alumna performs poetic lyricism weaved into indie-pop/folk melodies. Tickets: wildbuffalo.net.
Peace Builder Awards: Friday, October 24, 5–8:30 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham. Celebrate people putting the pieces together for creative conflict resolution in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our community. Proceeds from the gala benefit Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center. Tickets start at $95 at bit.ly/4qdOOQK.
Halloween Disco Party: Friday, October 24, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. All ages. $10 adult, $5 child.
Understanding Poverty Workshop: Saturday, October 25, 1–3 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street. Free, interactive workshop providing a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of those living in situational or generational poverty. RSVP to info@blainecap.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.
Trick-or-Treat on the Berm: Saturday, October 25, 3–5 p.m., Birch Bay berm between the Birch Bay Vogt Library and Terrell Creek. Kids trickor-treat at several stops along the berm. Plus fun, games and costume contest at the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Info: birchbaychamber.com.
Pink Power: Breast Cancer Awareness Session: Thursday, October 26, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Learn about prevention, early detection and treatment. Ask questions and get answers from an expert in women’s health. Open to everyone. $5 suggested donation. Info: call/text 360/656-6416.
Trunk or Treat: Saturday, October 25, 6 p.m., Blaine Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2550 Thornton Street, Ferndale. Food and children’s carnival games followed by trunk or treating. Please no weapons on costumes. Info: 425/345-2979.
Ongoing
Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Info:360/332-6350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of October 6 to 12, 0.6 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 19 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 67.6°F on October 6 with a low of 41.7°F on October 6. Average high was 62.3°F and average low was 47.1°F.
The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays, 2 p.m.–4 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.
CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center is located at 7620 Birch Bay Drive.
Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $6 per meal ($10 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
ADVICE FROM THE PROS
Q: As winter approaches, what can I do now to get ready to ski or snowboard and avoid early-season injuries?
A: The best way to avoid injuries is to start NOW. Build strength, balance, and endurance before the snow flies. Do power moves (squats and reverse lunges), balance drills (single-leg stance), and short interval training (stair climbs) for 10 minutes a day. Stay consistent for 6–8 weeks and you’ll be ready for opening day while significantly reducing your risk of injury.
Scan here to Grab the FREE Ski-Ready Mini Guide and schedule your PT screen at 7 Elements before your knees, hips, and back are tested by the first run.
Q: As the fall season approaches and sweater weather sets in, why is it important to have your furnace serviced?
A: It's crucial to have your furnace serviced before the colder months to ensure it's operating efficiently and safely. A well-maintained furnace can prevent breakdowns, reduce energy costs, and keep your home warm and comfortable. Local experts at Gary’s Plumbing and Heating are available to help you get your furnace in tip-top shape for the season!
Don’t wait until the first freeze to find out your furnace isn’t working. Call today!
• 360-734-9700 Plumbing License: GarysPH786M9 www.Garys-Plumbing.com/tips Call for Same Day Service 360-734-9700
Plumbing and Heating, LLC
Advice from the PROS
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Q: Should I change advisors if mine lives in a different state?
A: If your advisor lives in another state, they may not fully understand the unique financial landscape here in Washington. Our state has its own tax rules like estate and capital gains taxes that can affect your long-term plans in significant ways. Working with a local advisor means you have someone who is knowledgeable with state regulations and has the capability to partner with nearby CPAs and attorneys to help you navigate them with confidence. Just as importantly, it gives you easier access to in-person conversations and a trusted relationship close to home.
At Skyline Advisors, we believe your financial plan should reflect your personal goals including the intricacies of Washington law, so you can move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
Q: With today’s lending rates and more homes on the market, is now a good time to buy in Blaine or Birch Bay?
A: For many buyers, this can be a smart time to make a move. Inventory has improved in Blaine and Birch Bay, giving buyers more options than earlier in the year. While lending rates remain higher, working with an experienced local agent can make a big difference. A seasoned agent who partners with trusted local lenders understands how to structure offers that include rate buy-downs or seller credits— making monthly payments more manageable and the overall purchase more affordable. Buyers who are prepared, pre-approved, and ready to act quickly will find opportunities this fall, especially in a market where negotiation and creativity can go a long way.
A: As the seasons change and temperatures drop, barometric pressure changes, and humidity varies these changes can cause an increase in inflammation, stiffness, and pain in your joints which can hinder mobility.
Q: How can chiropractic help?
A: Chiropractic uses a variety of techniques such as manual adjusting, decompression, and instrument assisted adjusting to help restore proper joint motion within the body, reduce muscle tension, relieve pain, and allow for proper nervous system function.
Q: What can you do on your own?
A: Make sure to continue to be active during the colder days, stretch, stay hydrated, eat a wellbalanced meal, and be mindful of proper posture.
Natalie Milligan, MPT, MS
Dr. Samantha Ford, DC
We’re Open!
Downtown Blaine is open for business! Phase 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Project begins Monday, September 29. During construction, the following downtown businesses will remain open and have public access:
• Starbucks Coffee (entrance off F St.)
• Bordertown Mexican Grill (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Blaine Welcome Center (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Inn on the Harbor (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Hill’s Chevron & Gift Shop (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Aloha Cafe (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Ttowa Sushi (access through back parking lot)
• CTK Church (pedestrian walkway off H St.)
• Black Forest Steak House (enter off G St.)
• Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Inn at the Harbor (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Monte’s Just A Bite (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Blaine Bouquets (pedestrian walkway off G St.)
• Bella Boutique Consignment (pedestrian walkway off H or G St.)
