The Northern Light: May 29-June 4, 2025

May 29 - June 4, 2025

Blaine man arrested for child abuse material, page 5

Scottish festival to bring dancing, athletic competitions to Blaine

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Scottish dancing and athletic games will be a mere stone’s throw from downtown Blaine during the Bellingham Scottish Gathering on Saturday, June 7.

The festival will bring 150 competitors across the Pacific Northwest and B.C. for Scottish dance, athletic, drumming, and bagpipe competitions. The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Blaine Marine Park, with the strength competitions taking place on Semiahmoo Spit.

The festival will have a vendors market selling everything from jewelry to clan booths and a Scottish storyteller. McKay’s Taphouse will host the beer garden, while food vendors serve up burgers, hot dogs and even haggis, the national dish of Scotland that is made from organ meat stuffed inside of a sheep stomach lining.

“I’d love to see a resurgence of more involvement in these activities,” said Heather Richendrfer, festival founder and executive director. “Certainly, you don’t need to be Scottish to do those activities, but it is a way to celebrate your heritage if you are Scottish.”

The dance competition is sanctioned by the Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing and brings judges from across the U.S. It will have competitors from four years old to adults competing for cash prizes.

The athletic games will include a caber toss, lifting heavy stones and hammer throwing, among other displays of strength.

Gates open at 8 a.m. before the festival officially kicks off at 9 a.m. with all of the competitions. The storytelling will occur in the mid-morning and afternoon, and a massed band performance will take place around lunchtime. The pipe band competition is set for mid-afternoon, and dance events will continue through the day. The event will finish with a massed band display.

The festival, which started in 2018, is celebrating its second year in Blaine. Richendrfer

(See Festival, page 3)

A 55-year-old California man suspected of scamming a Whatcom County resident of more than $100,000 is being held in Whatcom County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bail. The case is believed to be part of a nationwide organized crime group targeting seniors, according to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO).

Xiaobin Zhou, 55, was booked into jail for first-degree theft on May 20 after the county resident reported being a victim of

Blaine sends 9 to state T&F tournament, page 6

Memorial Day recognized in Blaine, Birch Bay, page 7

Roadrunner Express Car Wash opens in

New Birch Bay business rents golf carts, kayaks

A new Birch Bay business is driving recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike – one golf cart and kayak rental at a time.

Birch Bay Carts and Rentals celebrated its grand opening at 7608 Birch Bay Drive just in time for Memorial Day Weekend on May 23. The shop specializes in rentals of golf carts, kayaks and paddleboards, but it’s also making other outdoor products, like coolers and hammocks, more accessible to the Birch Bay community.

Birch Bay residents Nick Tew and Justina Lemcke wanted to open the storefront to share their family’s love for cruising around the bay together. Tew said he couldn’t find many golf cart communities similar to Birch Bay in Washington state and wanted to share the unique experience with others.

“It’s providing both locals and visitors ways to experience how awesome Birch Bay is, like we do,” he said. “We’re excited to be able to provide that.”

The couple, who both work remote corporate jobs, initially planned to rent the

golf carts from their home, but saw an opportunity to expand to other outdoor rentals when a storefront became available on Birch Bay’s thoroughfare.

Tew said he hoped the golf cart rentals will increase revenue at other Birch Bay businesses by better connecting tourists with the community center. To incentivize this, Birch Bay Carts and Rentals has started “Birch Bay Bingo” for customers to visit local spots and those who finish receive a shirt.

Currently, there are six golf carts avail-

(See Carts, page 7)

ongoing fraud to the WCSO five days earlier, on May 15.

The victim told WCSO detectives that the fraud began in mid-April when they received a call from someone claiming to be officer

“Daniel Lucas” from the Federal Office of the Inspector General. “Lucas” said he was investigating money laundering and drug trafficking, and the victim needed to speak with his partner “David Freeman.”

“Freeman” contacted the victim and provided them with a photo of a fake

badge and credentials. He told the victim they were a fraud victim and needed to deposit money from their bank account into a federal reserve in Seattle.

According to WCSO, the victim was told not to tell anyone about the money transfer, notify law enforcement, or research “Freeman” or “Lucas.” The victim was asked to contact “Freeman” twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, as well as answer

COMINGTO BLAINE!

Saturday,

Blaine Marine Park & Semiahmoo Spit

Featuring the City of Bellingham Open Highland Dancing Championship

A full day celebrating the sights and sounds of Scotland.

• Experience Pacific Northwest Beauty and Nature along the Salish Sea.

• A stone’s throw from the Peace Arch and border crossing into Canada.

• Waterfront views of Semiahmoo Spit, Mount Baker and White Rock, B.C.

Roadrunner Express Car Wash opens in Blaine

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A new option for washing cars just opened in Blaine.

Roadrunner Express Car Wash celebrated its grand opening on May 22 at 825 Grant Ave, bringing multiple wash packages that are available both as single purchases and monthly unlimited deals.

The services include a “good” wash for $12 for a single wash or $25 for a month of unlimited washes, a “better” wash for $15 or $33 monthly unlimited that also includes an undercarriage blast and smooth finish, and a “best” wash for $19 or $39 monthly unlimited that adds on a tire shine, ceramic seal and surface shine. Each wash includes a free vacuum, and a Rain-X Graphene Diamond Finish is available as an add-on.

Co-owner Wayne Sharp said he and the other owner, Jeff Miller, decided to open the business because they saw an opportunity

Festival ...

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said she chose Blaine to host the event because of its seaside parallels to where the World Highland Game Championships are held in Scotland.

Richendrfer started a Scottish dance studio, the Clan Heather Dancers, in Bellingham over 50 years ago and has traveled the world judging dance competitions, including the world championships.

Tickets cost $25 for adults and $20 for students, seniors and active military members. Children under 5 years old may enter for free, and four-person group bundles are available for $62.

Tickets are available at scottishdancesociety.org/scottish-gathering. A finalized festival schedule will soon be available on the website and Facebook.

to provide a car wash to the underserviced area.

The car wash stands out from other car washes because it uses advanced technology that, in part, allows it to reclaim about 70 percent of its water. It also uses nontoxic cleaning products that Sharp said are environmentally safe.

“We’re always looking to improve. We’re not restricted to the boilerplate franchise package,” Sharp said. “If we can improve something, we want to do it so we can give a better experience.”

The car wash is the second for the company, following its first location, Chain Lake Express Wash, in Monroe.

Sharp and Miller have building and development backgrounds that expand past the car wash industry. Miller said he sees the Blaine car wash as a jumping off point for more Blaine and Whatcom County development, including for residential buildings and hotels.

The Blaine location is open

from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days per week, though those hours are subject to change seasonally. The car wash is located between the Taco Bell and the upcoming Blaine Family Medicine clinic.

“It was great to see the enthusiasm,” Miller said of the grand opening. “I think that’s a great sign that things are off to a great start.”

For more information, call 360/997-0178 or email info@ roadrunnerexpresscw.com.

“The Scottish people are very proud and their history is important to them,” Richendrfer said.

“This is a major cultural event in Whatcom County.”

June Events at The Vault

Second Saturday Art Walk

Saturday, June 14 • 2-6:30 pm

Celebrating a new show featuring several members of Whatcom Art Studio Tour in The Studio and a member of the Blaine Arts Council in The Bistro

Father’s Day Brunch

Sunday, June 15 • 10 am-2 pm Live Jazz on the deck 12-2 pm

Winemaker’s Dinner Saturday, June 28 • 5-8 pm

Presented by Will Hoppes, Winemaker

Please call 360-392-0955 to make your required reservation

Description

How

Future

Please make your reservation on Open Table. www.thevaultwine.com

The Northern L ght

The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.

Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.

Letters Policy

The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

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

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue Kelle Rankin-Sunter

The Northern Light

225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXX, No 49

Circulation: 11,000 copies

Baker, Birklid awarded teachers of the year OpiniOn

Letters

The Editor: I appreciate the local news coverage on Blaine city matters. I’m writing to correct an error published in your May 15 issue.

Grace McCarthy’s article on the downtown revitalization project referenced a memo prepared by Mike Harmon, explaining that the City of Blaine was contacted by the Washington Department of Ecology (DOE) regarding environmental compliance measures it was required to take. This compliance measure was a result of a notice I sent to the DOE.

McCarthy stated that I had “voiced concern that there could be toxic plumes under Hill’s Chevron gas station … that could contaminate Cain Creek.” Harmon’s memo, entitled “Request for Council Action” (RFCA) stated that my notice contained “false allegations” and “disinformation,” but acting in an abundance of caution, DOE required the city to take “extraordinary” preventative measures to contain any potential toxins.

Correction: I did not voice concern that there “could be” toxic plumes, but rather

“there is a toxic plume” adjacent to the Chevron gas station according to the city’s Hazmat study and the DOE’s hazardous waste site. Additionally, I disagree with Harmon’s characterization of my notice to the DOE as containing “false allegations” and “disinformation.”

My notice was grounded in evidence-based research, specifically referencing the Hazmat Memorandum prepared by GeoEngineers on November 28, 2023 for the City of Blaine. The DOE site identified the carcinogenic benzene plume had never been fully remediated. Public health was at risk, including the WSDOT construction crews working in the vicinity (Culvert Case). Consequently, this information was submitted for compliance actions by the DOE.

These actions are important for protecting and restoring Blaine’s water resources and are beneficial for the proposed Marine Education Center (MERIS), tourism and shellfish industry.

Geoffrey Baker Blaine

CiviC Meetings

Circulation Independently verified by: 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 City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

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 5:30 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.

Clarification

In the article titled “Council questions downtown revitalization in light of budget concerns” in the May 15 issue of The Northern Light, it quoted Mike Harmon as saying Geoffery Baker, who goes by the alias Otto Pointer, filed a notice containing “false allegations” and “disinformation.” Harmon did not elaborate on those references in the city memo or during the meeting.

Our article stated that Mr. Pointer had voiced concern that there “could be” toxic plumes under Hill’s Chevron gas station. In fact, Mr. Pointer was definitive in saying that “there is a toxic plume adjacent to the Chevron gas station according to the city’s Hazmat study and the DOE’s hazardous waste site.”

Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

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.

Blaine man charged with dealing, possessing child sexual abuse material

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A 33-year-old Blaine man remains in jail after being charged with 10 counts of dealing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and one count of possessing it. He is being held in lieu of $250,000 bail or $25,000 cash.

Thomas Ryan Sullivan, 33, was arrested on May 14, nearly a year after a friend of Sullivan’s reported him possessing extensive CSAM on digital storage devices. The affidavit of probable cause (APC) filed in Whatcom County Superior Court shows the storage devices believed to belong to Sullivan contained 3,531 images and 173 videos that met Washington

Scam ...

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his calls. “Agents” collected money or gold three times, each time a different person.

During the fourth collection, detectives observed Zhou pick up a package and quickly flee the scene.

state law’s definition of sexually explicit conduct. In addition, over 700 images or videos were classified as “child exploitive,” meaning the person’s age could not be determined or the person was displayed provocatively, but the media was not inherently illegal, according to the APC. Court records also state over 50,000 images and/or videos contained computer-generated or animated CSAM.

On April 18, 2024, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) responded to a call from someone who reported their friend, Sullivan, had dropped off a flash drive containing CSAM and two hard drives at their Bellingham residence earlier that day.

He was arrested with the support of several law enforcement agencies, including Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

No identifying information about the victim was released.

The WCSO said Zhou is believed to be part of a group that has committed several million dollars

The friend reported it was common for the two to share hard drives with video games and media. According to the affidavit, Sullivan told the friend that two hard drives contained TV shows and movies, and a flash drive had pornography. After Sullivan had left the residence, the friend opened the flash drive on his computer and found the CSAM.

On May 16, 2024, a WCSO detective dropped off the three digital storage devices to the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations office for digital forensic processing, which was completed a few days later on May 22. On May 28, 2024, the detective interviewed the friend.

Nearly a year later, on May 8, Whatcom County Superior Court

in fraud using fake credentials to target seniors across the U.S. WCSO public information officer Deb Slater wrote in a statement that law enforcement will never contact people to ask for money or valuables.

“Even if credentials appear authentic, verify any request by contacting the agency directly,” Slater wrote. “If you are told over the

granted a search warrant for Sullivan’s Blaine home, and it was executed May 14. Sullivan said he had encountered CSAM previously, but wasn’t specific on when, and said there was a “moderate” chance the drives contained CSAM. Investigators found there was recent access to CSAM on Sullivan’s computer, according to court records.

Sullivan was arrested and booked into Whatcom County Jail on May 14. During his pretrial appearance on May 15, the court approved the state’s motion for Sullivan to not have contact with anyone under the age of 18. His arraignment was held May 23.

Anonymous tips of child sexual abuse material can be reported to

phone that you are facing federal charges, please reach out to your local law enforcement agency. Don’t fall victim to scams.”

Zhou will be formally charged during his arraignment at 8:30 a.m. Friday, May 30.

The WCSO asks that anyone who is a victim of this scam or knows someone else who is a vic-

School board passes interim superintendent contract

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Blaine school board unanimously approved the contract for interim superintendent Dan Chaplik during its May 27 meeting.

Per the contract, Chaplik will start the one-year interim position on July 1, with an end date of June 30, 2026. Chaplik’s initial base pay will be $218,270 as well

as a $5,000 stipend for holding a doctorate degree. The board will also pay for one-half of monthly rent, up to $1,000 per month.

Chaplik will retire at the end of the school year from working as superintendent of the Sultan school district, a position he’s held for 18 years. He’s worked in (See Contract, page 13)

CITY OF BLAINE

Billing and Energy Conservation Program Coordinator

Salary Range: $6,071 to $7,087 per month plus benefits.

The Billing and Energy Conservation Program Coordinator works with indirect supervision to perform and oversee an array of activities related to Utility Billing and Energy Conservation Rebates. This position participates in the administration of utility billing, ensuring that utility functions are appropriately administered, and maintains and administers the energy conservation rebate program.

Interested persons should review the full job description and complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/

First review deadline is June 6, 2025 at 4:30 PM.

The position is open until filled.

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s tip line at cybertipline.com and to the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has resources available for child sexual exploitation survivors and their families at bit. ly/4anORly. The center also operates a 24-hour hotline at 800-843-5678.

Stop It Now! operates a child sexual abuse helpline at stopitnow.org and 888/PREVENT.

Brigid Collins Family Support Center, a Bellingham-based nonprofit working to end child abuse, can be reached at 360/734-4616 and brigidcollins.org.

Lummi Victims of Crime has a 24hour helpline to support both children and adults at 360/312-2015.

tim to call the nonemergency tip line at 360/676-6911.

June 3, 2025 9:00 AM – Public Works and Parks Advisory Board Meeting

June 9, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting *Cancelled*

June 19, 2025 City Offices Closed –Juneteenth

June 23, 2025 6:00 PM – City Council Meeting

June 24, 2025 3:30 PM – Civil Service Commission Meeting

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

Blaine track and field shows out at district, sends 9 to state finals

The Blaine Borderites had a busy weekend with multiple district and state tournaments over the past weekend. Girls tennis sent three players to the state tournament in Yakima, while nine track and field athletes are on their way to state this week.

Two Borderites also announced their commitments to play sports at the collegiate level in the past

week, with multisport athletes Juliana Zuzarte committing to play soccer at Hawaii Pacific University, and Josiah Weeda committing to Colorado Christian University to compete in track and field. In one final piece of news for the Blaine softball team that recently bowed out of district playoffs, senior catcher/pitcher/third base Shaylie Daniels was named as a first team selection on the All-Northwest Conference team,

voted on by conference coaches at the end of every season. Daniels was a force at the plate, racking up 31 hits, three home runs and an impressive slash line (batting average/on base percentage/slugging percentage) of .608/.697/.941. In 51 at bats, Daniels struck out just three times all season.

Track and field

After 20 Blaine athletes earned spots in the 1A District 1/2 championships on May 22 and 24, nine will advance to the 1A State Championships in Yakima starting Thursday, May 29.

Both boys and girls 4x100-meter relay teams punched their ticket to the state tournament, with the girls team of Brietta Sandell, Teia Dube, Kaitlyn Ritter Von Trautmann and Zuzarte moving on with a time of 51.96. The boys team of Colby Shipp,

Dylan Johnson, Jaiden Paez and Beckum Bleazard will join Meridian as the only two Whatcom County teams in the state 4x100 field after posting a time of 44.99.

Ritter Von Trautmann also earned a state placement in the 200-meter sprint with a qualifying time of 26.66, and Sandell will compete in the 300-meter hurdles at state after a 48.31 race. Dube will be the lone Borderite competing in a field event at state after winning first place at districts in high jump with a 4’10” jump.

Weeda rounded out the state qualifiers for the Borderites, continuing his season of complete dominance in the hurdles. Weeda, who will compete in hurdles at the collegiate level next season at Colorado Christian, earned two district wins in the 110-meter (14.88) and 300-meter hurdles (39.35).

Girls tennis

Blaine girls tennis sent three players to the state tournament in Yakima on May 23, with the doubles team of Bea Dickson and Carly Saunders winning their first match, then dropping the next two to exit the tournament.

Ana Tuski, the lone Borderite to earn a singles qualification for the state tournament, lost her opening round play-in match.

Girls golf

Golfers Thora Engen and Marcella Bring represented the Borderites well at the state tournament at Liberty Lake Golf Course in Eastern Washington on May 20.

Engen missed the cut to qualify for the second round by one stroke, finishing the first round with a score of 102. She tied for 33rd in a field of 60 golfers.

able for rental, but Tew said he hopes to grow that number before summer break starts. The golf carts are electric and powered by lithium batteries, which Tew said creates less work for renters, is quieter and better for the environment.

Tew encourages people to make reservations online, especially for busy summer weekends. Golf cart renters are required to do a safety briefing online and receive additional instruction before receiving the cart. Each renter will also be given a map of the streets where golf carts are permitted.

Birch Bay Carts and Rentals rates start at $40 for a 20-minute test run, $125 for a sunset cruise and $135 for a full day, with discounts given for each subsequent day. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are $35 for one hour, $65 for three hours or $90 for a full day.

Memorial Day observed in Blaine and Birch Bay

American Legion Peace Arch Post 86 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474 recognized Memorial Day with several ceremonies held in Blaine and Birch Bay on May 26. The two organizations remembered

fallen veterans with visits to Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Blaine, the Blaine and Hillsdale cemeteries, and the American Legion’s memorial wall.

Birch Bay Carts and Rentals is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. The store can be contacted at 360/805-7433 or birchbaycarts@ gmail.com

“We don’t know where the business could go, but there are a lot of directions we could take it to serve the people here,” Tew said. “That’s really exciting to the both of us.”

In case you missed it, we hardly had any April showers, but May seems to be making up for it. With plenty of rain and warmer temperatures, we are enjoying a growth spurt in our lawns and a frenzy of weeds. It is a great time to remove those “weeds.” The definition of a weed is anything growing where you don’t want. In addition to conventional weeds, we could include the butterfly bush in the corner of the yard (an invasive species) or volunteer trees (which will only get more expensive to remove as they get bigger).

There are edible weeds that you might want to add to your dinner plate instead of the compost pile; a few of these are dandelions, henbit, purslane and garlic mustard. They are delicious when leaves are young and tender –they are packed with vitamins,

making them a very nutritious addition to soup or salad. Obviously, the usual culprits are those weeds that invade our flower and vegetable beds and lawns. Most of us are concerned with weeds making an unsightly appearance in our garden spaces. However, many weeds are invasive species and can be harmful to the environment. They overtake habitats, vigorously replacing and leaving no room for native plants that feed our wildlife. English ivy climbing trees is a prime example.

For conventional groundbased weed removal, my fa-

vorite tool is a fork. Insert the stout tines under the weeds and tip them back to loosen the soil underneath and pull the weeds right out. This technique usually ensures that you will get most of the root with the weed.

Annual weeds like sticky willy or shiny geranium that have not yet gone to seed can be piled back onto the surface of the soil for the worms to feast upon and enrich your soil. Perennial weeds like dandelion or buttercups should be disposed of in a yard waste toter if you want to make absolutely sure they won’t become weed zombies in your

compost pile (coming back to life to invade your garden with their “still alive parts”).

Some plants (even the ones you want to keep) can be toxic to livestock, pets and children. Buttercups should never be eaten. Unfortunately, our area has large quantities of poison hemlock. Ingestion results in suppressed respiratory function, which can cause permanent kidney damage or even death. There is no known antidote, and the stems are deadly for up to three years after the plant has died. Removal of this weed is required on public byways (though not on private property) due to its extreme toxicity.

Care should be taken when working in the garden, especially with toxic plants. Always wear gloves, and if you have respiratory issues, wearing a mask could be helpful.

After you get everything cleaned, keep it tidy by laying several layers of cardboard to suppress any volunteers and smother any horsetails that

might be left, and cover with 4 to 6 inches of very coarse wood chips or “hog fuel.” If you use larger chips, it will take longer to break down. You can use smaller mulch; however, it will break down much more quickly and accelerate the decomposition of the cardboard.

For a complete list of weeds found in Washington, visit bit.ly/43xlkTk

I would also invite you to explore the “weeds” display at the Hovander Homestead Park, 529 Nielsen Ave in Ferndale. The Whatcom County Master Gardeners manages the demonstration area and offers visitors the chance to see weeds in their young stage as well as fully developed. An information card next to each pot helps explain the class of weed and primary features.

Kelle Rankin-Sunter is founder of Blaine CORE, which holds free home and gardening classes at Blaine Public Library. Rankin-Sunter can be reached at fruit@Blaine-CORE.com.

& Home Garden

Perennials to consider for the garden

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that provides a great reason to get outdoors. Getting one’s hands dirty in the garden often pays off with a colorful, awe-inspiring and aesthetically appealing finished product.

Perennials are plants that live multiple years. Even though peren-

nials may die back above ground each winter, their roots remain alive, which is why the colorful blooms typically return anew once warm weather makes a comeback. Gardeners who want to capitalize on the hardiness of perennials can consider these plants for their gardens this season.

• Coreopsis: Coreopsis are perennials that thrive in a wide range of conditions, including various types of soil. So gardeners who find their soil is predominantly clay as well as those with sandy soil may be able to successfully plant coreopsis on their properties. Better Homes & Gardens notes coreopsis are native to the United States and produce colorful blooms that can withstand hot and dry weather throughout the summer.

• Russian sage: Russian sage pro-

duce purplish-blue flowers that BHG notes retain their color for weeks. Russian sage can be planted in a variety of the hardiness zones defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and many gardening experts recommend them to gardeners whose local climates tend to be especially hot and dry.

• Hellebore: BHG notes hellebore are ideal for gardeners who want some color in the early days of spring. Hellebore, sometimes referred to as “Lenten Roses,” have an early flowering season, so their blooms, which can be pink, white, purple, yellow, green, rose, or purple, can be a welcome sign in spring.

Baptisia: Gardening experts note these purple-blooming perennials thrive in sun. Gardeners who

(See Perennials, page 10)

AND

New 1-story house with 3.898 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, bi-garage, built in 2024; martine and territorial view, .54 acres land.

1-story house with 2,517 S.F., 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 756 detached garage, 466 deck, built in 2004; marine view, .21 acres land.

2-story house with 3,159 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 784 built-in garage, 1,260 attached garage, 504 carport, 504 deck, 1,512 shop, built in 2023, 9.55 acres land.

2-story house with 2,856 S.F., 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, 716 attached garage, 1,020 detached garage, 525 patio, built in 1921, 2.64 acres wooded land.

New house with .39 acres land; marine and territorial view.

1-and a half story house with 2,875 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 360 bonus room, 702 attached garage, 298 deck, 382 patio, built in 2003; marine and territorial view, .36 acres land.

1-story with 2,750 S.F., 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 927 attached garage, 398 deck, built in 2016; territorial view, .34 acres land.

2-story with 3,929 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 437 loft, 890 detached garage, 300 patio, built in 1995, .40 acres land.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:

1) tavern with 2,450 S.F., built in 1901, 2) tavern with 2,450 square feet built in 1902, .10 acres land.

LAND:

.50 acres residential lot; territorial view, wooded land.

39.30 acres wooded land with 784 mobile home built 1990.

8484 Camas Drive, Blaine

2180 Montfort Avenue, Blaine

3870 Holzheimer Trail, Blaine

4190 Red Cedar Road, Blaine

8460 Camas Drive, Blaine

8849 Goldeneye Lane, Blaine

5541 Peregrine Way, Blaine

5423 Canvasback Road, Blaine

$950,094

$1,081,000

$1,450,000

$890,000

From page 9

want perennials with particularly long life expectancies can consider baptisia, as experts note they can live for many decades. Baptisia are drought-tolerant, and they can grow in soil that may not be considered great for other plants.

• Coneflower: The unique look of

coneflowers has generated many enthusiasts of these perennials that bloom from early summer to fall. Coneflowers are highly adaptable, making them capable of growing in various zones and soil types. Once established, coneflowers are consid-

ered very drought-tolerant. Perennials can add aesthetic appeal to landscapes year after year. Gardeners are urged to speak to experts at local gardening centers to identify the perfect plants for their gardens.

.35

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4.51

658 and 664 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine

8819 Wood Duck Way, Blaine Tyee Road, Benson Road, and 592 McLaren Road, Point Roberts West Road, Blaine 5553 Coquitlam Drive, Blaine 5527 Whitehorn Way, Blaine

SPONSORED BY:

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: REYNA CRUZ, Deceased. No. 25-400484-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge LEE GROCHMAL.

The Person named below has been appointed as Administrator 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 Administrator or the Administrator’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 Administrator 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 of the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors:

May 29, 2025 with the Clerk of Court

Date of First Publication: May 29, 2025

Name of Personal Representative: Carmela Ann Galvez Cruz

Attorney for Personal Representative: Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Address for Mailing or Service:

True North Legal Services, PLLC PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227

P: (360) 639-3393

E: Genissa@truenorthlegalservices.com

DATED: May 23, 2025

True North Legal Services, PLLC

Genissa M. Richardson, WSBA #56339

Attorney for Administrator: Carmela Ann Galvez Cruz

Published in The Northern Light May 29, 2025, June 5, 2025, & June 12, 2025.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: DONNA MAE SCHULTZ, Deceased. No. 25-4-00520-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Jennifer Slattery 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: May 22, 2025 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 29, 2025

Name of Personal Representative: GARY ALLAN SCHULTZ

Attorney for Personal Representative: 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 May 22, 2025

STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Personal Representative:

GARY ALLAN SCHULTZ

of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased DAWN COLLEEN ROSSO must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Co-Personal Representatives or the Co-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 have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Co-Personal Representatives 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 this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedent.

DATE OF FILING OF NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH CLERK OF THE COURT: April 28, 2025

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: May 15, 2025

CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES: BREANN LEIGH LaPLANTE, and SHANNON MARIE ROSSO RESIDENT AGENT AND ATTORNEY FOR CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES: Mark W. Stowe, Attorney ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Mark W. Stowe, Attorney Stowe Law PLLC 276 Boundary Bay Road P.O. Box 129 Point Roberts, WA 98281

Phone: (360) 945-0337 Email:stowelawpllc@outlook.com

DATED this 28th day of April 2025. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA#16655 Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, KING COUNTY. Estate of CAROL JEAN LARSEN, deceased. Case No. 25-4-03197-4 SEA. NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any persons 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 will be forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and non-probate assets.

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: May 15, 2025

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Philip A. Larsen

ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE Heather S. de Vrieze, WSBA#28553 de Vrieze | Carney, pllc 3909 California Avenue SW #101 Seattle, WA 98116-3705

COURT OF PROBATE PROCEEDINGS: King County Superior Court CAUSE NUMBER: 25-4-03197-4 SEA

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

Beach Cat Brewing among local businesses expanding to Bellingham

B y G race M c c arthy

Beach Cat Brewing Company’s opening of its waterfront Bellingham location is the latest in a series of Blaine and Birch Bay businesses opening second locations in Bellingham.

Beach Cat is expected to open its second brewery, its “South Paw” location, at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 29 in Bellingham. The brewery is at 1100 C Street, across Whatcom Creek from Waypoint Park and the Acid Ball.

The brewery will have live music, stand-up comedy and food trucks, including JT’s Smokin BBQ and Lumpia Luv. Its new location has expanded its beer production.

Beach Cat Brewing’s Birch Bay location, 7876 Birch Bay Drive, suite 101, will remain open.

Bordertown Mexican Grill and Namaste The Royal Taste of India have also recently opened locations in downtown Bellingham.

Bordertown held its grand opening on March 22 at 1055 N.

State Street in Bellingham. With both a large indoor space and patio seating, the restaurant expanded significantly from its dine-out only restaurant in Blaine, at 538 Peace Portal Drive. The restaurant serves tacos, burritos, tortas and other Mexican staples.

Namaste began serving Bellingham residents about a year after opening its first restaurant, at 234 D Street in Blaine. The second location opened in late December 2024 at 1213 Cornwall Ave., serving an assortment of dishes from masalas to curries.

Meeting scheduled on America250 celebration

Representatives of the Washington State Historical Society will hold a meeting on Sunday, June 8 in Blaine on plans to celebrate America250, the 250th anniversary of the U.S. that will occur next year.

The meeting will run from 10:30 a.m. to noon and be held at the Alaska Packers Association (APA) Museum, 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. The representatives, Lorraine Ralston and Dylan High, will include information

on arrangements to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary both at the state and national levels, as well as information on how local organizations may become involved. The meeting will have a breakout session for local museums and historical societies to brainstorm their participation.

Registration is required by Monday, June 2, as space is limited. To register, email info@ america250wa.org.

“America250 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to reflect

on our past and look to the future, and we hope every community in Washington will get engaged,” Ralston wrote in an email.

In Whatcom County, the involved partners so far are the APA Museum, International Peace Arch Association, Point Roberts Historical Society, Whatcom County government, Whatcom Museum, Whatcom County Historical Society and Daughters of the American Revolution.

For more information, visit america250wa.org.

Stafholt administrator joins state board

Stafholt, in a statement.

Stafholt administrator Danielle St. Germain was recently sworn in as the multi-skilled nursing facility representative on the Washington Health Care Association (WHCA) Board of Directors.

St. Germain was voted into the board and officially stepped into the position at the annual WHCA meeting in Tacoma on May 19. The WHCA supports assisted living and skilled nursing facilities in Washington state.

“This is a huge accomplishment, and extremely rare to have a representative up north, let alone in Blaine,” wrote Leah Buress, chief nursing officer at

Contract ...

From page 5

education for 32 years and began his teaching career at Blaine Elementary School.

St. Germain has been the administrator of Stafholt Health and Rehabilitation of Cascadia since last summer. A Western Washington University graduate, she’s worked in health care for the past decade. St. Germain worked as a social worker at Avamere St. Francis in Bellingham and Bellingham Healthcare before serving as an administrator in Vancouver, Washington for the past two years.

In her nomination letter, St. Germain said she wanted to join the board to improve healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with disabilities, and to advocate for quality and affordable health care.

Chaplik was one of seven applicants for the position. In his interview, Chaplik said he preferred working with smaller school districts to have more involvement in the community, according to previous reporting in The Northern Light

Blaine superintendent Chris Granger will start next school year as Sultan’s superintendent. The board voted 4-0 with Erika Creydt, Ben Lazarus, Cliff Freeman and Ryan Swinburnson in support.

sheriff’s repOrts

May 15, 5:21 a.m.: Missing person cold call on Pacific Highway.

May 15, 8:49 a.m.: Overdose on Drayton Harbor Road.

May 15, 3:21 p.m.: Trespass on Bay Road.

May 15, 8:22 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Loomis Trail Lane.

May 15, 8:42 p.m.: Runaway cold call on Treevue Road.

May 15, 8:49 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Kickerville Road.

May 16, 6:06 a.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Sunset Drive.

May 16, 8:39 a.m.: Runaway cold call on Treevue Road.

May 16, 9:51 a.m.: Prowler cold call on Seashell Way.

May 16, 10:22 a.m.: Prowler cold call on Sunset Drive.

May 16, 10:49 a.m.: Hit and run cold call on Key Street.

May 16, 4:09 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Fishermans Bend Lane.

May 17, 8:10 p.m.: Rape cold

call on Carstan Loop.

May 17, 10:11 p.m.: Party on Semiahmoo Drive.

May 18, 1:03 p.m.: Burglary, domestic violence arrest on Beachcomber Drive.

May 18, 5:22 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Camas Drive.

May 19, 1:41 p.m.: Theft cold call on Blaine Road.

May 19, 3:06 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Harborview Road.

May 20, 1:57 a.m.: Shots on Harborview and Anderson Road.

May 20, 4:20 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

May 20, 9:57 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

May 20, 12:09 p.m.: DUI on Drayton Harbor Road.

May 20, 2:25 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Portal Way.

May 20, 4:49 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Nicole Lane.

May 20, 10:43 p.m.: Shots on Harborview Road.

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS

1. Marsh plant

6. Southern constellation (“The Peacock”)

10. Fogginess

14. Home to Fools’ Day 15. Absence of the sense of pain

17. Popular November holiday

19. Consume food 20. Buddy 21. Long-haired goat-antelope

22. Japanese honorific

23. Actor Malek

24. One point south of southeast 26. Illegal acts

29. As fast as can be done

31. Prevents harm to young 32. Exclamation of satisfaction

34. African nation

35. Slow-moving animal

37. Oh, goodness!

38. A team’s best pitcher 39. Cleanser

40. Radioactivity units 41. Expectorated matter

43. Cover a wide range

45. The central area of a church

46. California capital (abbr.)

47. Dutch painter Klaver

49. 007’s creator 50. Impression of dishonesty

53. Northeastern sports rivalry

57. Cloths

58. Stalin’s police chief 59. Hostelries

60. Bitterly regret 61. Anwar __, Egyptian statesman DOWN 1. Satisfy 2. European health advocate

3. Expression of annoyance 4. Strong liquor 5. Large red deer 6. Holder of less common religious beliefs 7. West Indian shrub 8. Family of proteins 9. Wealthy, influential business leader 10. Low spirits 11. Approves food 12. Monetary unit of

Iran and Oman 13. Mary __, cosmetics 16. Expressed in pithy maxims 18. Relaxing spaces 22. The NFL’s big game 23. Proof of payment (abbr.) 24. Starchy preparation of dried orchid tubers

25. Indicates near 27. Minneapolis suburb 28. Herring-like fish 29. Doctors’ group 30. Pouches 31. Bread dipping in sauce

33. Commercials 35. A reminder of past events

36. Affected by injury 37. Geological time 39. Stationary part of a motor 42. Brings together 43. Of sound mind 44. Personal computer 46. Without (French) 47. A bank might give you one 48. Agricultural testing organization 49. A small island 50. Type of gene

May 20, 10:57 p.m.: Shots on Breeze Loop.

May 21, 6:18 a.m.: DUI arrest on Harbor Drive.

May 21, 8:13 a.m.: Vandalism on Anderson Road.

May 21, 8:42 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Sunset Drive.

May 21, 9:55 a.m.: Shots cold call on Harborview Road.

May 21, 2:31 p.m.: Eluding police arrest on Interstate 5.

May 21, 7:17 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Nicole Lane.

May 21, 8:03 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Moonlight Way.

May 22, 12:14 a.m.: Shots on Harborview Drive.

May 22, 12:20 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Moonlight Way.

May 22, 12:58 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Beachway Drive.

May 22, 3:37 p.m.: Welfare check on Creasey Road.

May 22, 7:06 p.m.: Civil problem on Harborview Road.

51. Murres

52. Card game

53. A measure of human health

54. Australian airline (abbr.) 55. One point south of due west 56. Affirmative

tides

May 29 - June 4 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Coming up

Peace Arch Palooza: Friday, May 30, 6-8 p.m., Borderite Stadium. Enjoy a fun, family-friendly evening with food, crafts, games, community resources and live music. Free entry. Fundraiser for Blaine High School ASB.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, May 30, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Dick and Jane. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Blaine Borderline 5K Fun Run: Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m–2 p.m., Blaine Marine Park. Enjoy a scenic 5K walk/run for all ages and fitness levels. Plus a street fair, food vendors and beer garden. Registration: $27.50 includes shirt and medal at bbbparkandrec.org.

Live Birds from Sardis Raptor Center: Saturday, May 31, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park’s wildlife theater. Learn raptors’ hunting strategies, listen to highly skilled volunteer trainers who will provide insight into identification, anatomy of flight, the raptor’s role in the environment and much more. Please bring a chair. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Bellingham Scottish Gathering Volunteer Meeting: Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Be involved in one of Whatcom County’s best-loved events coming to Blaine on June 7. Volunteers needed with all kinds of skills: clerical, setup and tear down, clean up, parking, first aid and runners for various events: Info: heather@scottishdancesociety.com.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, June 5, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Shoestring Circus: Friday–Sunday, June 6–8, Thursday–Sunday, June 12–15 and June 19–22, Bellingham Waterfront Pump Track, Granary Avenue, Bellingham. This year’s show, “The Museum,” transforms the circus tent into world of art and imagination and takes you from still life to thrill life. Cast members from Broadway, Cirque du Soleil and multiple word record holders. Tickets: shoestringcircus.com.

Bellingham Scottish Gathering: Saturday, June 7, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Blaine Marine Park and Semiahmoo Spit. Enjoy a day-long festival of the sights, sounds and tastes of Scotland. Featuring the City of Bellingham open Highland dancing championship, bagpipe bands, food and merchandise vendors, beer garden, clan tents and more. $25 adult; student, senior, active military $20; group or family of four $62, Tickets and info: scottishdancesociety.org.

DVSAS Garden Tour: Saturday, June 7, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., various locations. Spend the day (rain or shine) exploring some of the most beautiful and unique gardens in Bellingham while supporting the work of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services. Info: dvsas.org/2025-dvsas-garden-tour.

Boating Safety Classes: June 9–12. Participate in an eight-hour course in two-hour sessions over four days. For anyone wishing to learn safe boating skills and qualify for a Boater Education Card, issued by the Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission. Cost: $15 plus separate downcast of e-book or $25 for printed book. Info and reservations: bliaux.com or email boatingsafetyWA@gmail.com. Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Bellingham and San Juan Islands Flotilla.

Beach Exploration: Friday, June 13, noon–2 p.m., meet at Birch Bay State Park’s bp Heron Center. Explore the shoreline and view marine critters at low tide. Rocks can be slippery, appropriate footwear advised. Free. Info: bbbparkandreg.org.

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:360/3326350 or Info@blainefoodbank.org.

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 now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.

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

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 19 to 25, 0.4 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-to-date precipitation is 16.2 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 72.5°F on May 24 with a low of 42.3°F on May 22. Average high was 66.8°F and average low was 45.9°F.

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’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive.

Narcotics Anonymous: Mondays, 7–8 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Everyone welcome. Info: Blainenarcoticsanonymous@gmail.com.

Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Mondays, noon–1 p.m. on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: Jerrylyn at 360/305-2246.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at noon, Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at noon, women’s meeting Mondays at 4 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Info: 307/349-0450.

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

Blaine gallery to highlight Indigenous art, pottery in June

The Blaine Arts Council will soon be rotating its gallery collection for a June display that will showcase Indigenous woodwork, pottery bowls,

intricate rugs and vibrant paintings.

The June exhibition will promote the artwork of Kaa Shaayí, Kathleen Carlsson, Heidi Grevstad and Maria Monks, along with winning artwork from the Blaine High

Arts council seeking artists for summer festival

Local artists, get your paint brushes and canvases ready: The Blaine Arts Council (BAC) has released its call for artist vendors in its Art by the Sea Summer Festival. Artists will need to hurry, though, as the submission deadline is Sunday, June 15.

BAC is seeking artists of all media, whether their specialty is paintings, ceramics, photography, jewelry or another art form. The submission

fee is $150 for BAC members and $200 for non-members.

The festival will be a two-day event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 26-27 in the parking lot of and across the street from the Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. The festival will have art demonstrations, an outdoor market and live music.

To apply, visit the BAC website at bit.ly/4ji1xgr.

School Evening of the Arts. Displays will include a Tlingit wooden paddle replica, a rug with an image of a great blue heron, a variety of modern pottery and a painting of the Los Angeles fires.

The new art will be on display from Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 29. The gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive, is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. The art will also be the focus of

the Second Saturday Downtown Art Walk, which starts at the gallery with an artist reception and encourages attendees to meander through downtown businesses, 4-6:30 p.m. June 14.

Reach Your Neighbors. Grow Your Impact. Support Your Local Community. Secure your spot today! Call 360/332-1777 or email sales@thenorthernlight.com to get started and give your business the local edge it deserves. www.thenorthernlight.com Local Stories, Local Voices, Local Impact.

Advertising in The Northern Light isn’t just about promoting your business; it’s about becoming a vital part of the Blaine-Birch Bay community. With over 23,000+ readers every week, your message will reach 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.