The Northern Light: October 30-November 5, 2025

30 - November 5, 2025

Don’t forget to turn back

Sheriff’s office proposes new location, page 3

Ballots due 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, page 4

Foundation brings pumpkin patch to district

Man dies following Peace Arch incident

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently announced that a U.S. citizen died last month after being apprehended for driving the wrong way at the Peace Arch border crossing and running from officers. The man likely died due to a major artery blockage, according to CBP. CBP detailed the following account in an October 23 press release.

An unnamed U.S. citizen was driving a white Mercedes Benz the wrong way on a southbound exit ramp at the Peace Arch border crossing in Blaine at 10:13 p.m. on September 20. The driver crashed into a curb, stopping in grass south of the primary lane booths, before running north toward the primary lanes. A Glock 26 handgun fell from his waist. Cocaine, marijuana, ketamine and a THC vape was later found on him.

A CBP officer called 911, while other officers requested the man surrender. The man, who wasn’t complying, was taken into custody after falling. Officers handcuffed him in front of his body as well as put leg restraints on him.

At 10:25 p.m., just over 10 minutes after the incident began, the officers moved the man, who they placed in a wheelchair, to a secondary area.

At 10:30 p.m., the officers laid the man on his side atop of a mat in the secondary area. Officers tried to wake him and called 911 again after he didn’t respond. An of-

(See Peace Arch, page 5)

s The new Blaine Public Schools Foundation organized an on-campus pumpkin patch on October 22 at Blaine Primary School. The foundation, which wants to create more educational opportunities for Blaine students, created the event after hearing that the school may not be able to visit a pumpkin patch due to limited volunteers. Each student decorated a pumpkin that was donated by CTK Food Share and Farm. The foundation held an online auction earlier this month that raised $20,000 for future opportunities.

Chaplik’s contract extended for another 3 years

The Blaine school board unanimously extended interim superintendent Dan Chaplik’s contract, which was set to end next summer, for another three years during its monthly meeting on October 27. The board also updated the district’s cell phone policy in the middle and high school and the district announced lunch returning to the high school in January.

Chaplik to stay as superintendent

The school board extended Chaplik’s contract through the 2027-28 school year, with an option for the board to optout of the contract prior to the final year.

The contract extension comes just a few months after Chaplik began his duties as interim superintendent on July 1. Chaplik replaced previous superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger.

The board will discuss terms for the second and third years of the interim

Whatcom County Council disapproves of west Blaine urban growth area expansion

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Whatcom County Council has signaled to the city of Blaine that it does not approve of the city’s proposal to expand its urban growth area (UGA) into west Blaine, should city voters approve de-annexing east Blaine.

County council voted 6-1 to send a message to Blaine that it wasn’t in support of the city adding about 450 acres of unincorporated UGA in Birch Point and rural Semiahmoo. The dissenting voter, councilmember

Jon Scanlon, said he wanted the county to have negotiations with the city first, which he didn’t believe had occurred.

“It’s a good idea for us to tell them, ‘This is not what we’re looking for. Don’t bring it back,’” Elenbaas said of the UGA proposal.

Councilmembers voiced concerns surrounding stormwater runoff, keeping Blaine city limits more contiguous, and that city development could increase traffic on county roads which would require more county maintenance. Some councilors said they were

concerned the UGA could be seen as a “land grab” as Birch Bay tries to incorporate.

Scanlon suggested Blaine consider adding UGA south of H Street or along I-5, while councilmember Tyler Byrd suggested Blaine look at more infill, or development within city limits. Councilmember Ben Elenbaas said he was open to future discussion, but he didn’t believe the plan currently helped Blaine or Birch Bay. Last fall, Blaine’s Community Develop-

superintendent’s contract in the spring of 2026. Chaplik has made a point to bring a new culture into the school district, one that seems to be noticed by the district directors.

“Frankly, I don’t think healing the community happens in a year,” director Steve Galbraith said. “I think it takes Dan more than a year to get past some stuff, to implement systems which I

(See School, page 10)

Candidates for a Better Blaine

Sarbie Bains

I’m a mother of two, small business owner, property owner, and long-time Blaine resident. Serving on the City Council has deepened my commitment to keeping Blaine a great place to live, work, and raise a family. My focus is on practical, community- driven solutions:

• Expanding housing options for working families and those on a fixed income.

• Investing in youth and family recreation to create safe, healthy spaces.

• Strengthening local job opportunities and supporting small businesses.

• Revitalizing our downtown to encourage walkability and local investment.

I believe Blaine’s future depends on balanced growth that protects our smalltown character while improving quality of life for everyone.

Don Enos

As a dedicated Blaine resident, I have seen both the challenges and opportunities this community faces. My career reflects a deep commitment to transparency, ethical leadership, and community engagement, which are the foundations of smart, responsive local government. I’m committed to fair, transparent leadership and to restoring real public participation. That starts with dedicated time for community input at council meetings. I’ll focus on practical solutions that create local jobs, strengthen small businesses, revitalize our downtown, and support families and schools. At every step, I’ll protect the character that makes Blaine a place worth staying, building, and leading. Let’s build a stronger Blaine where families thrive, businesses grow, and the next generation wants to stay to live.

Newland is a

Isaac Newland

Washington

a dedicated father, and an advocate for responsible growth and community-driven leadership. Born in Richland and now raising his family in Blaine, Isaac is running for City Council to help guide Blaine’s future with thoughtful planning and a strong sense of local pride. With a background in psychology and computer information systems, and a career spanning customer service, education, and technology, Isaac brings a wide range of real-world experience to the table. He’s worked as a support manager, co-founded a small educational toy company with his dad, and currently manages supply chain systems that support businesses across the country. Isaac understands what makes Blaine special: its close-knit neighborhoods, access to nature, and deep community roots. His children attend Blaine public schools, and his parents are part of Blaine’s senior community—he knows firsthand how policy affects real people at every stage of life. Isaac believes Blaine can grow without losing what makes it feel like home. He’s not a career politician—he’s a neighbor who wants to listen, lead with integrity, and make sure Blaine works for everyone.

No candidate authorized this ad. It is sponsored and paid for by Candidates for a Better Blaine 738a Peace Portal Drive, WA 98230

supporting

Bob Feaster for Blaine School Board

Cliff Freeman: Current President, Blaine School Board

Dave & Elizabeth Wilbrecht

Julie-Anne Butschli

Terre Shapiro

Glen Crabtree

Gigi Bartch

Sue Wozniak

Rick VanderYacht

Kimberly Akre

Bonnie Onyon

Lisa Black

John Dennison

Tiffany Sacknoff

Rob McKay

Monica Fox Baisch

Amy Gallaher Bogner

Patrick Alesse

Denise Magnusson

Don Leu: Past President, Blaine School Board

Layne & Donna Boyce

Harry & Melanie Shearer

Kristin Strong

Pat Jenks

Max Shelton

David & Gaye Sawicki

Aubrey Cole Patterson

Zeal Bains

Lindsay Angus Dickson

Don & Carol Shank

Leanne Keel

Michelle Schulz

Linda Fiscus

Ernie & Heidi Hutchins

Kacey Wilmorth

Carol Joy Crauswell

Sherrie Dingman

Charles Gibson: Past President, Blaine School Board

Mike & Lynda Stobbart

Jim & Nancy Engstrom

Bill & Nancy Reilly

Rick & Suzanne Jones

Lyle & Pam Sieg

Denny & Laura Allen

Marshall & Laura Bailey

Ruben Wolf

Colleen Bacon

Dean & Mari Herbert

Margaret Elphick

DeeDee Hahs

Dawn Baker

Mark St. Germaine

Gwynee Fowler-Briggs

Jim & Janice Tate

Sandy Zietel

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office proposes move to Cordata

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has proposed to move to a new location in the Cordata neighborhood in Bellingham. The new location would be 4600 Ryzex Way, which was formerly the headquarters of Ryzex, Inc., a manufacturer of printing technology. Whatcom County officials said in an October 27 press release announcing the location that the building’s 30,000-squarefoot layout and close proximity to Guide Meridian Road make it an

ideal spot for the sheriff’s office. Before moving forward, Whatcom County Council will need

to approve the lease agreement, which it’s expected to consider during its November 5 meeting.

The sheriff’s office has voiced concern about the condition of its current office, which is in the basement of the county jail in downtown Bellingham. Such concerns include space limitations and an aged structure that includes ceiling leaks and interview rooms without soundproofing.

“Moving the sheriff’s office administration out of the jail basement was a top priority for me from day one,” Sheriff Donnell

Tanksley wrote in a statement.

“For the first time in nearly a century, the sheriff’s office will have a dedicated, safe and appropriate workspace of its own.”

If approved, county executive Satpal Sidhu wrote in the announcement that relocation could start as early as next summer.

The lease term would run

Staying Open!

We are excited to announce the start of Phase 3.5 of the Downtown Blaine Revitalization Project, is slated for Monday, November 3. Please be aware that during this construction phase, traffic from the roundabout south to F Street will be reduced to a single lane with intermittent closures. While this next phase brings important upgrades, we want to assure everyone that our fantastic downtown businesses will remain open and accessible.

• Gateway 1890 Taphouse (entrance off Marine Dr.)

• L & L Bakery (pedestrian walkway off F St.)

• Vapester Smoke Shop (pedestrian walkway off F St.)

• Edaleen Dairy (entrance off F St.)

• Starbucks (entrance on F St. or Peace Portal)

through the end of 2033, with an annual base rent of about $507,100. There are options for two-year extensions, and the county also reserves the option to purchase the property.

The sheriff’s office and the county’s facilities team are working closely to determine needed security upgrades.

Turkey with Jus or Risotto Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash Mashed Potatoes or Candied Yams with Pecans

Sage Apple Stuffing

Citrus Spiced Cranberry Sauce

Orange Thyme Glazed Carrots

Brussels Sprouts

Dinner Roll

Traditional Pumpkin Pie & Spiced Whipped Cream

$50 per person. Tax & gratuity included.

Orders due November 16th while they last Pick up November 26th • 2:30-5:30 pm

Call 360-392-0955 to place your order

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

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The

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXXI, No 20

Circulation: 11,000 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

OpiniOn

Less than a week left until November 4 election

The clock is ticking until ballots are due 8 p.m. Tuesday for the November 4 general election. As of October 28, the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office has received 15,796 ballots, which make up 9.3 percent of active county voters.

Positions for Blaine City Council, Blaine school board, Port of Bellingham, Whatcom County Council and Birch Bay Water and Sewer District are among the contested races in this year’s election. Ballots will also have measures includ -

The Editor:

We are facing a significant challenge. Unless Congress reopens the federal government or secures alternative funding, SNAP benefits may not be available starting November 1. More than 42 million Americans rely on SNAP to feed their families. Without it, countless households will be left scrambling to meet their most basic need: food.

As I sift through data and try to understand the potential impact for the families we serve through Blaine Food Bank, my

ing a proposition for Blaine residents on de-annexing east Blaine, a proposition on expanding the port commission from three to five members, 12 county propositions and one state measure on longterm care fund investments.

Whatcom County has over 20 ballot drop boxes, three of which are located at Blaine Public Library, the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Birch Bay station and Custer Elementary School.

The auditor’s office, at 311 Grand

Letters

thoughts keep returning to the human toll. Behind every statistic is a real person – a parent skipping meals so their child can eat, a senior choosing between groceries and medication, a family facing eviction because they had to buy food instead of paying rent.

Yes, data can help us prepare to a certain extent, but we know the needs in our local communities far exceed what food banks alone can meet. Statistics offer a snapshot of the past – they can’t fully capture the uncertainty and urgency of what

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.

Avenue in Bellingham, can help people register to vote, update registration or vote until 8 p.m. Election Day. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at 311 Grand Avenue, suite 103, in downtown Bellingham. The office will be open until 8 p.m. on election night.

Ballots postmarked by November 4 will be accepted, though the auditor’s office cautions people to check the last collection time for their mailbox.

lies ahead. Many low-income families rely on SNAP benefits to get by and may not need to visit food banks. But if those benefits lapse, these families will suddenly find themselves in need, joining others who are already struggling. Without SNAP, families will be forced into impos-

(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.

BLI not playing federal video blaming Democrats for government shutdown

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Port of Bellingham staff confirmed during the most recent commission meeting that Bellingham International Airport (BLI) was not playing a controversial video from the federal government blaming Democrats for the government shutdown.

Commissioner Michael Shepard asked interim executive director Tiffany DeSimone to comment on

(See Letters, previous page)

sible choices:

• Skipping meals to stretch what little food remains;

• choosing between food, rent, utilities or medicine;

• turning to food banks, like ours, that are already stretched thin;

• or sacrificing nutrition, health and stability just to get by.

Today, we saw a record-breaking number of guests at our distribution – and we expect that number to keep rising.

We don’t know exactly what the coming weeks will bring, but we do know this: We hear our guests, we understand their fear, and we are committed to doing everything we can to help.

It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed in moments like these. But we won’t turn away. We will stand together, face this challenge head-on and continue to serve with compassion and respect. Your support means more now than ever.

Together, we are not just feeding people … we are feeding hope!

Lisa Dobbin

Director, Blaine Food Bank Blaine

a video released by the Trump administration earlier this month as the port had received numerous queries on whether the video was playing in Bellingham.

Airport operation manager

Gage Dally said the airport had not been asked to play the video and did not have the capability to stream it. DeSimone added the port was watching the decisions of nearby regional airports.

The federal administration

The Editor:

As far as I know, not one deer was struck or killed on Drayton Harbor Road during this year’s fawn season. Thank you, city of Blaine, for putting up wildlife warning signs, and thank you, Blaine drivers, for being careful and compassionate.

Jennifer Plombon Blaine

The Editor:

Thanks to Nolan Baker for bringing awareness about the California Creek Estuary Park. Non-complaint proposals require public input and appropriate comment periods.

I first heard of this ill-conceived proposal in late September. The county asked for comments from those living within 1,000 feet and warned they were shortcutting the approval process.

Go to the county’s website, bit. ly/47rZ5js. Patently incomplete. All plans on file seem selected to mask any suggestion that there might be people living near the proposal. Proponents will hire a “park host” to “discourage vandalism” from dusk to dawn 120 days of the year. No supervisionafter dark or during the other (245) days of the year.

After I commented, the county

CITY OF BLAINE ANNUAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

• Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee

• Public Works and Park Advisory Board

• Civil Service Commission

• Planning Commission How to Apply:

• Applications and Descriptions: Available at https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/567/Board-Commission-Applications.

• First Review Deadline: Submit your application by 4:30 PM on Friday, November 7, 2025. Applications will be accepted until vacancies are filled.

• Interviews: Anticipated to occur at the 2nd regular City Council meeting in November, or the 1st regular City Council meeting in December.

has requested airports across the country play the video depicting Department of Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem faulting Democrats for the government shutdown. The shutdown began October 1 and has created longer security lines at times at airports.

“It rivals calling pickleball a fad, the number of emails we’ve received,” commissioner Ken Bell said.

sent me additional materials that had been previously accepted but not posted. These fresh disclosures made matters worse – this “park” requires three code variances, a shorelines permit and a conditional use permit to construct 70 new parking stalls and to dump that traffic onto Drayton Harbor Road just a few hundred feet away from Blaine Road – an already dangerous intersection.

I found a Bellingham Herald headline that the $370,000 grant to Whatcom Land Trust was for “salmon and orca recovery in Blaine estuary,” how does this park further that objective?

Where is the public demand for more trails in logged wetlands that, in this case, have no other interest? This property does not rival existing amenities afforded by Semiahmoo Resort and the spit or the many trails and amenities planned for west Blaine.

Do we need a special kayak launch for additional access to a portion of harbor that has no water in it much of the summer due to negative tides? Semiahmoo Spit is a better launch site – the water isn’t miles from the beach – and significant public parking is being constructed there.

Instead of this park boondoggle, let’s spend taxpayer-funded recreation money on something that could actually benefit the community. How about widening Drayton Harbor Road to improve safety, adding bike paths and connecting the existing trail to the spit so we can promote biking visitors to frequent our restaurants and hotels?

Jack Grant Blaine

Peace Arch ...

From page 1

ficer assessing the man could not find a pulse and began chest compressions before using an automated external defibrillator a minute later.

At 10:42 p.m., Whatcom County EMS arrived and attempted to save the man’s life until pronouncing him dead at 11:11 p.m.

The Whatcom County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy on September 22 that had preliminary results showing the man had a major artery blockage. The toxicology report and official findings will be released when the report is complete.

The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing the incident and has notified the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General.

CITY

November 4, 2025 9:00 AM – Public Works and Park Advisory Board Meeting

November 5, 2025 9:00 AM – Public HearingAvista PUD/Plat/SEPA Appeal

November 6, 2025

9:00 AM – Public HearingAvista PUD/Plat/SEPA Appeal

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

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.

& Home Garden

Decorating the exterior of a home for the holiday season is a beloved tradition in countless households. In the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” Clark Griswold had “250 strands of imported Italian twinkle lights,” each with 100 bulbs per strand. His grand total of 25,000 lights caused a temporary blackout. While driving around to take in holiday lighting displays, many people may see some that emulate Clark Griswold’s vision and be inspired to create their own designs.

Lights are just one type of home decoration. Wreaths, inflatables, metal or wooden structures, and much more are part of holiday displays as well. While decorating can be fun and festive, it’s also important to ensure that it is done safely.

The following tips, courtesy of Travelers Risk Consultants and Meyer Landscaping & Design, can keep family and friends safe during this wonderful time of year.

• Plan ahead. Determine how many electrical outlets you have and plan the display around the accessibility of those outlets. Be sure to calculate the maximum amount of wattage allowed so you do not overload the electrical system. Never exceed the maximum number of strings or devices that may be linked togeth-

er. Lighting packaging should provide such information. Also, plug all outdoor lights and decorations into ground-fault circuit interrupters to reduce the risk of electric shock.

• Test the lights. Only purchase lights that have been tested for safety. Look for a certification mark from UL, ETL, CSA, or another nationally recognized laboratory.

• Go with LED. Light emitting diode string lights run cooler, last longer and use less energy than incandescent lights.

• Inspect decorations. Make sure all the lights, electrical cords, lighted holiday decor, and inflatables are in good condition before use. Dispose of anything that has frayed wiring or is broken.

• Use only outdoor-rated products. Be sure the extension cords and any other products are rated for the outdoors. Electrical connections should be kept clean and dry before plugging things in, and an extra step of wrapping plug connections with electrical tape can further reduce moisture.

• Practice ladder safety. Ladders are often utilized when adding lights or other decor to homes. Always be safe on and around ladders. It’s essential to maintain three points of contact while on the ladder. Don’t risk leaning too

(See Safety, next page)

Tips for winterizing exterior living areas

When the summer entertaining season draws to a close, homeowners need to ensure their outdoor living areas can handle weather that’s right around the corner. Although outdoor furniture and other items tend to be durable, the impact snow, wind and ice can have on them may lead to damage over time. That is why many homeowners take steps to winterize their outdoor spaces and protect their belongings. Here’s a look at how to prepare for the winter to come.

• Furniture: Cover or store furniture to protect it from the ele-

ments. Covering it with weather-proof covers can be adequate if storing items indoors is not possible.

• Deep clean: Items that will be covered or stored should be thoroughly cleaned prior to being removed from spaces for the season. Lingering dirt and moisture can cause permanent damage.

• Insulate and drain: Don’t risk damage to pipes, which can freeze and crack in the cold. Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets and drain water lines to

(See Winterize, page 8)

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& Home Garden

(See Safety, previous page)

hard to one side while on the ladder, and always have a spotter. Use wooden or fiberglass ladders when stringing electrical decor and lights, as metal ladders conduct electricity.

• Identify where power lines are located. Be mindful of power lines when decorating outdoors. Keep oneself and decorations at least 10 feet away from power lines.

• Skip staples and nails. Nails

and staples should not be used when decorating. Nails and staples can puncture the protective layers of a home, allowing moisture to get in and break down the structure of the home. A nail or staple also may accidentally puncture an electrical cord, increasing the risk of electrocution. Use hooks and other attachment devices specially designed for holiday decor.

• Avoid items that can contribute to roof damage. Heavy items

on the roof can cause unnecessary stress to shingles and result in damage. Only use lightweight and appropriately anchored items on the roof.

• Dress appropriately. Before hanging holiday decorations and lights, assess the conditions and wear the proper clothing for the weather. If the weather is especially rough, skip decorating for a safer day.

Decorating safety is of the utmost importance and should be a priority this holiday season.

your furnace isn’t working. Call today!

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Winterize ...

From page 6

prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Use foam pipe insulation to prevent freezing and cover any exposed pipes.

4 Beds, 4 Baths, 3,694 sqft

5 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,528 sqft

3 Beds, 3 Baths, 4,157 sqft

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• Apply mulch: After cleaning up garden debris, think about applying mulch to garden beds and cover tender plants to protect them from the weather.

• Check gutters: Be sure that gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and any additional debris. If gutters and downspouts are not cleaned, ice dams may form on the roof and cause water damage.

• Inspect and repair: Inspect walkways and driveways for any damage and make repairs now so water will not seep in and cause further issues with freezethaw cycles. Consider applying a sealant to protect surfaces from

snow and ice.

• Pools and spas: It’s essential to follow the industry or manufacturer recommendations for closing down swimming pools and spas for the season. While covers may not be essential in all climates, covering can help prevent leaves and other debris from getting in the water. Water should be expelled from pipes and tubing to

prevent freezing and bursting. If space allows, consider moving the pool pump indoors to prolong its longevity. Turn off the electricity to the outlet where the filter is plugged in.

There may be additional, region-specific steps to winterize a property, but these pointers are a good starting point to protect outdoor spaces.

Sam Randhawa: 360-300-0001

Please call or text!

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Road Rules: Keeping up with speeding drivers

were barely a thing when this study was done.

Question: Can you explain the rules about driving the posted speed limit versus keeping up with the flow of traffic? I have a teenage driver, and we don’t agree on this issue.

Answer: It’s amazing how wrong a study can become when it’s reduced to one sentence in a Facebook post. Actually, I can’t blame social media entirely for this misinformation. The “keep up with the flow of traffic” error has been around long before the internet. Now it just gets passed around faster.

The premise is based on something called the Solomon Curve. Back in the 1950s, researcher David Solomon collected crash data from about 10,000 collisions and graphed them based on vehicle speed at the time of the crash and the average speed of traffic on the road where the crash occurred. The results were a U-shape curve, with the bottom of the curve (where the smallest frequency of crashes were) roughly aligning with the average speed of traffic, and the U extending up on either side as speeds increased or decreased.

People who haven’t read the study share things like, “driving 10 mph slower than traffic makes you six times more likely to crash (not true)” and “slower drivers pose a greater risk than speeders (also not true).” Other people believe it because they haven’t read the study either. Then people apply that error to their freeway driving and think they’re safer by going faster. They’re not. Also, speeding laws don’t have an exception for “keeping up with traffic.”

Of the multiple reasons to reject the Solomon Curve when it comes to freeway driving, the big one is this: of the 35 road segments in the study, only one was what we’d consider a freeway. Solomon collected data from 1955 to 1958. President Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act (the basis for the interstate system) in 1956. Freeways

The rest of the roads were mainly rural highways with intersections, driveways, businesses, and all the other things that cause drivers to slow down in the roadway. No doubt that if you’re on a 50-mph highway and you slow down to 25 mph to pull into a driveway you’re at a greater risk of getting rear-ended. But those crashes aren’t because of drivers cruising along the highway at slower speeds; they’re the result of intersection conflicts. Nearly a quarter of traffic fatalities in Washington occur in and around intersections.

Another key point in Solomon’s study that gets overlooked is crash severity. Even though there were more crashes involving slower vehicles, the injury and fatality crashes were on the fast side of the curve. Drivers crashing at the fastest speeds had a fatality rate 22 times that of the slowest drivers.

Also, Solomon’s research is almost 70 years old. A lot has changed since his study, and data collection has become more of a science. More recent studies have concluded that “no relationship between slower speeds and increased crash involvement was found,” and “no evidence was found of a U-shaped risk curve whereby slower vehicles were also at greater risk.”

We like to believe information that supports our behaviors, so people who want to speed misinterpret the research. But crash data and physics both confirm that as speeds increase so does both crash frequency and severity. Solomon’s study showed that speed differential is a risk factor for crashes, but speeding up to eliminate it is not a real solution. Drivers who respect the speed limit are not the problem; it’s the other drivers speeding past the people who follow the law.

Doug Dahl is a Blaine resident, manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

Blaine ...

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ment Services Department revealed its proposal to de-annex 573 acres of east Blaine after the new owners of the Grandis Pond property indicated they wouldn’t develop it as densely as once planned. Blaine planners jointly announced in the fall that if city voters passed the de-annexation, the city intended to add UGA near Semiahmoo that they would like to use for future housing. Blaine City Council has been in support of the de-annexation and UGA swap.

The city’s de-annexation and UGA land swap coincided with the com-

prehensive plan update, a decennial update that guides growth for the next 20 years. All cities and Whatcom County must submit their plans to the state by the end of the year.

Blaine’s plan would de-annex the chunk of east Blaine UGA, along with a 37-acre unincorporated UGA near Drayton Harbor. The UGA swap proposal adds 453 acres of unincorporated UGA just south of Semiahmoo and 124 acres of UGA in southeast Blaine that the city hopes to use for industrial land.

The original UGA swap proposal also had over 500 acres of unincorporated UGA reserve, which is meant for even longer-term growth, near Semiahmoo. However, the city, along

with all other cities in the county, removed the UGA reserves from their comprehensive plans earlier this month following county guidance.

The city technically does not have a UGA plan on the table as it rescinded its plan from the county earlier this month to reconfigure future growth projections, among other changes. City staff has said it will resubmit the plan to city council and Whatcom County after the election.

County council said they only disapproved of expanding the Blaine UGA in west Blaine.

“Regardless of what happens in the election, this isn’t the best place to expand,” Councilmember Todd Donovan said.

&

Description of the business: Title Services – The History Buffs. Think of title services as the detectives of real estate. They dig into the property’s past to make sure it’s drama-free—no hidden claims, no surprise liens, just a clean title ready for transfer. They investigate ownership history, check for legal hiccups and provide title insurance to protect you from future surprises.

Escrow Services – The Peacekeepers. Escrow is like the super-organized friend who holds onto everything until everyone’s ready. They don’t take sides—they just make sure everything goes by the book. They hold money and documents safely. They make sure all contract terms are met, and release everything once the deal is good to go!

How the business started: In 1970 Norm Nelson created Skagit County Title. Gale Hickok, our current CEO and majority owner was his first employee. Throughout the years our name has changed a few times, but the same values continued.

Future Goals: Continue to provide exceptional customer service to our clients, and to be chosen as best title and escrow company once again, in 2026!

Blaine teams prepare for fall postseason

B y N ola N B aker

The fall regular season is almost wrapped up, with just a few football games remaining before postseason gets into full swing. Multiple Blaine teams will head into the postseason next week with a chance at securing a state playoff berth on the line.

Football

Blaine football wasn’t able to overcome a strong Mt. Baker team, losing 49-20 on October 24. With the win over the Borderites, Mt. Baker claimed the 1A Northwest Conference (NWC) Championship that was given to the team with the best regular season record.

School ...

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think need to be implemented, and get the district on a good footing.”

Chaplik, who began his teaching career at Blaine Elementary School 32 years ago, has made efforts to increase enrollment, improve outcomes for students, and repair relationships between the district and Blaine community.

“In looking at the massive amounts of change that has gone on in really key positions, I don’t think that I could, in a year’s time, in fairness to everybody, have everything up to speed,” Chaplik told the board. “Meaning, there’s a lot to learn.”

Within his first few weeks on the job, Chaplik proposed pausing a controversial merger of first through third grade classes from the primary school into the elementary school. The merger was intended to save the cash-strapped district hundreds of thousands of dollars but was widely disliked by staff and parents.

Chaplik said the fallout from the merger would have been

Blaine sophomore quarterback Connor Brown finished the game with three touchdown passes, 272 yards passing and completed 20 of 33 attempts.

Sophomore receiver Hunter Candanoza led the team with five receptions for 108 yards.

The loss put Blaine at 2-6 (0-3 NWC) with two games remaining on the regular season schedule, both on the road against Meridian at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 30 (after press time) and Lakewood on Friday, November 7. Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com

Girls soccer

The girls soccer team was shut out in its final regular sea -

“brutal,” and said the district needs to do all it can to attract more students.

Director Ryan Swinburnson fought to add an additional opt-out for the 2026-27 school year, so the district could have more flexibility in the contract, but was voted down 1-3.

“It’s not anything specific to Dan,” Swinburnson said. “It’s simply specific to the situation that our district finds itself in.

We don’t want to be in a position where the morale and culture boost that we’ve experienced all of a sudden dissipates.”

Chaplik reported to the board that he had already identified $435,000 in revenue the district was missing from oversized K-3 classes. Swinburnson went on to say that morale in the district seems to be improving.

“I spent my first five years here,” Chaplik said. “I’m convinced that Blaine has meaning to me that I don’t think any other school district does.”

Food service to reopen in high school

Chaplik announced that food service in the high school cafeteria will resume starting Janu -

son game, losing 4-0 on the road against Bellingham on October 23.

It was the Bayhawks’ fifth consecutive win, and the Borderites dropped to a 5-12 (3-12 NWC) record to finish the season. Despite the underwhelming record by season’s end, Blaine’s three conference wins all came against 1A opponents Meridian, Nooksack Valley and Mt. Baker. If Blaine can repeat its success against those teams in the postseason, the Borderites have a chance to make a deep run in the District 1 1A tournament.

The Borderites host Nooksack Valley at Borderite Stadium at 11 a.m. Saturday, November

ary 12, 2026.

Both middle and high school students receive school meals from the middle school cafeteria, with the high school cafeteria used as a central kitchen that doesn’t serve food. That change was made by Granger as a cost-saving measure after multiple years of decline in the number of students purchasing school lunches.

In an effort to better control campus, the school is becoming stricter on students who try leaving campus for lunch. Chaplik said that has resulted in roughly 150-200 more meals being served daily.

With more students eating on-campus, Chaplik said the district is claiming nearly $10,000 more a month in food costs, which are picked up by the state.

New cell phone policy

The board unanimously approved a new policy that will require phones to be put away during the regular school day for middle and high school students. The vote comes after Chaplik introduced a more rigid cell phone policy during the

1. On November 5, the winner will face the winner of the Lynden Christian versus Meridian game.

Volleyball

The Borderites dropped a hard-fought, five-set game to Mt. Vernon at home on October 27, losing the final set by a score of 16-14.

Blaine had to battle from behind all night as it lost the first set to Mt. Vernon 25-21 before it came back to win the second and fourth sets in electrifying fashion, 25-20 and 26-24.

Junior Teia Dube led the team with 16 kills and 34 digs, and senior Carly Saunders had a solid all-around performance with nine kills, 20 digs, five aces and

three blocks. Blaine’s final home game of the season was scheduled on Wednesday, October 29 against Oak Harbor (after press time). Stats provided by WhatcomPreps.com Cross-country Blaine cross-country competed at the Northwest Conference Championships on October 22. Sophomore Emmanuel Rios-Martinez earned the fastest time for a Borderite in the five-kilometer race and finished 48th out of 119 with a time of 17:23.7. Junior Steven Phelps-McDonald had the next best time for Blaine, finishing 79th with a time of 18:39.8.

September board meeting. Policy 3245 is similar to ones already enacted in other Whatcom County school districts, and the previous policy hadn’t been updated since 2017. The original draft of the policy had required students to turn off their cell phones during school hours, but now

the policy requires phones to be put away, not powered off.

“Districts that have implemented these policies and procedures have had good experiences,” Chaplik said. “Students have had better experiences, are engaged with each other and learning, and not with their phones.”

Trick-or-Treat on the Berm brings Halloween spirit to Birch Bay

Everyone from Harry Potter to Super Mario lined up to the Birch Bay Activity Center for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Trick-or-Treat on the Berm on October 25.

The chamber counted more than 1,250 people attending the event, which was moved from along the berm to inside due to inclement weather. Adults and children alike dressed in

their best Halloween costumes as they made their way to each community organization handing out candy.

Photos courtesy of Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce

Murphy, Deceased. NO. 25-400956-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) 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 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Num-

Registration opens for CAP Community Toy Store

B y M adely N J o N es

Registration opens Saturday, November 1 for the Community Assistance Program’s (CAP) Community Toy Store.

The program offers new toys and gift cards at a markdown of about 80 percent that will be displayed in a store-like manner. Pre-registration is required and will be open through Sunday, November 30.

Families are eligible to register if they live in the Blaine school district, meet the income

guidelines for free or reduced lunch and are not receiving other forms of gift assistance.

The toy store will take place 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, December 11 and Friday, December 12 and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 13 at Christian Way Community Church, 1733 H Street, suite 260, in the Blaine International Plaza.

On Thursday, November 20, Westside Pizza will host a fundraiser, and those who order using the code “Blaine Toy Store” will have 25 percent of their sale

donated to the program. The fundraiser will take place at the Blaine location at 1733 H Street, suite 200, and is hosted on World Children’s Day.

On Thursday, November 20, Westside Pizza will host a fundraiser where 25 percent of sales will go to the toy store if customers order with the code “Blaine Toy Store.” The fundraiser will take place at the Blaine location at 1733 H Street, suite 200, and is hosted on World Children’s Day.

CAP provides resources to families with additional financial needs in the Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts communities.

The program runs on community donations, with many ways to donate. Those who purchase toys to donate from Launching Success Learning Store in Bellingham are eligible for 15 percent off their purchase. A wish list is available on Amazon, and monetary donations are also accepted, with proceeds going to nonprofits in the community. Donation information can be found at blainecap.org.

Cash is the only accepted form of payment. People who require additional financial assistance may apply for vouchers after registering at blainecap.org. Those unable to register online may call 530/828-5195.

Port of Bellingham continues Blaine Harbor fueling conversations

B y G race M c c arthy

Port of Bellingham commissioners have directed staff to request Semiahmoo Marina Condominium Association (SMCA) make good on its verbal promise from nearly a decade ago to provide discounted fuel to Blaine Harbor tenants as the port inches closer to creating a fuel dock.

The discussion during the port’s October 21 meeting was prompted by The Dream Boat Company owner Randall Parten, who encouraged commissioners to send a letter to SMCA asking why it wasn’t following through on the agreement it made with the port.

The agreement in question dates back to 2015, when Blaine Marina Inc. closed its doors, and along with it, the lone fuel services in Blaine Harbor. Shortly after the port began brainstorming fueling options, SMCA told the port commissioners that it would offer Blaine Harbor tenants discounted fuel at its Semiahmoo dock.

At the time, some people raised concerns that SMCA would have a monopoly on fueling. SMCA ended the discount a few years later.

In August 2024, Parten brought a petition with over 70 signatures to the port requesting that the port restore fuel services and ask SMCA to honor its commitment.

Semiahmoo Marina harbormaster Doug Romano told The Northern Light last summer that the SMCA never intended to offer the discount in perpetuity.

“SMCA never executed an agreement with the port, and it had no obligation to offer such a discount,” Romano said. “When it became financially infeasible to continue, SMCA ceased offering a discount to port moorage tenants.”

The port discussed its options in February but did not end with a clear action.

Interim port director Tiffany DeSimone told commissioners on October 21 that port staff was eyeing fuel dock locations while working on Blaine cleanups. The port has

previously said it couldn’t add a fuel dock until the Westman Marine site is cleaned, a multi-year project estimated to cost at least $14 million.

Commissioner Ken Bell said he wanted the commission to write a letter to SMCA as Parten had requested. Bell encouraged Briscoe, who was on commission in 2016, to have an in-person conversation with the association.

“They looked you in the eye, made a promise and didn’t deliver on the promise,” Bell said. “I’ve always found that kind of accountability refreshing.”

DeSimone suggested port staff reach out to the SMCA before the commissioners sent the letter.

“It’s unwise to allow a monopoly to continue to dominate and continue to create ill will,” Bell said.

Briscoe said the commission didn’t feel urgency to put in the fuel dock in 2016 because it had the deal with Semiahmoo.

“We’ve got urgency now,” he said. “It’s been long enough that we need to ‘get off the pot’ so to speak and get something figured out.”

Nancy Breitbarth

August 5, 1944 – July 16, 2025

Nancy Breitbarth, of Blaine, WA, passed away in Carlsbad, CA, on July 16 after a brief battle with ovarian cancer. Nancy grew up in Southern California and graduated from Cal Poly Pomona. She met her husband Lary working at a summer internship for General Dynamics, where both of their fathers worked. They married in 1966 in Ontario, CA.

Nancy worked as a social worker as well as in a variety of healthcare office settings. Nancy was very crafty, and she started her own successful children’s clothing business, called Pumpkin Patch, before joining Lary’s dental practice as his Office Manager. Lary and Nancy moved to Blaine in 1998.

During their retirement years, they cruised around the San Juan and Gulf islands in their boat, and traveled throughout the world regularly. She especially loved Spain and Norway. Nancy also enjoyed quilting and cooking for friends and family.

She is survived by her husband Lary, her children Christian and Chelsea, their spouses Julie and Chris, and her granddaughters Riley and Ashlyn. The family will not be holding a service, but would be honored if donations were made to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (ocrahope.org) in her name.

Free monthly dinners bring community together

s Seats were filled on October 23 for the monthly community dinner at the Blaine Community/Senior Center. The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 brought back the popular event, which stopped about five years ago, with the help of volunteers in September. Columbia Bank and the Blaine Chamber of Commerce supported this month’s dinner. Dinners are served 6-8 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at the center, 763 G Street. Dinner is free, with donations accepted.

sheriff’s repOrts

October 17, 7:43 a.m.: Extra patrol cold call on Gemini Street.

October 17, 11:52 a.m.: Juvenile problem cold call on Halibut Drive.

October 17, 6:43 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Sunset Drive.

October 17, 7:26 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Delta Line Road.

October 18, 8:54 a.m.: Hulk vehicle on Ham Road.

October 18, 12:34 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Bay Road.

October 18, 1:41 p.m.: Welfare check cold call on Harbor Court.

October 18, 4:28 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Haynie Road.

October 18, 5:33 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Koehn Road.

October 18, 8:52 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Square Street.

October 19, 1:27 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

October 19, 1:01 p.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay Drive.

October 19, 1:20 p.m.: Domestic order violence on Delta Line Road.

October 19, 2:58 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

October 19, 7:07 p.m.: Welfare check on Sweet Road.

October 19, 7:58 p.m.: Security check on Salish Road.

October 20, 9:48 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Birch Bay Drive.

October 20, 11:50 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Creasey Road.

October 20, 12:00 p.m.: Senile subject cold call on Drayton Harbor Road.

October 20, 12:20 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Faris Road.

October 20, 12:59 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

October 20, 6:07 p.m.: Welfare check on Creasey Road.

October 20, 10:28 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Lateener Lane.

CrOssWOrd

ACROSS 1. Difficult 5. Coarsely ground corn 9. There’s one for the “world” 11. Loved Romeo 13. Sticky situation

15. Pelvic areas

16. An informal debt instrument

17. Cannot be repaired surgically

19. A device attached to a workbench

21. Related on the mother’s side 22. Sound unit

23. __ Sagan, astronomer

25. Utah city

26. A disappointing effort

27. Steal goods during a riot

29. Wakes up

31. Hair salon service

33. Serenaded

34. Looked intensely

36. U.S. Air Force expert Robert F.

38. A type of cast 39. One’s duty 41. Where golfers begin 43. Make a mistake

44. Semitic sun god 46. Ancient Greek City

48. Having had the head cut off 52. A place to stay 53. Unwise 54. Most unnatural 56. Dennis is a notable one

57. Ointments

58. Students’ exam 59. Leaked blood DOWN

1. Brave 2. Act of awakening 3. Jest at 4. Sandwich store 5. Chapter of the Koran 6. Dismounted 7. Small vehicle 8. Irked 9. One who earns by disreputable dealings 10. Monetary unit of

Samoa 11. Long, mournful lamentation 12. Weight unit 14. Alone, single 15. Decreases 18. Indicates beside 20. Worn by exposure to the weather 24. A body of traditions 26. College students’ ultimate goal 28. Amino acid 30. Nasal mucus 32. US government entity 34. Swinish 35. Legislative body in Russia

37. Grant an exemption to 38. Put in advance 40. Satisfy 42. Felt 43. Mild yellow Dutch cheese made in balls

45. Witnesses 47. Picnic invaders 49. Gasteyer and de Armas are two

October 21, 8:53 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Skyvue Road.

October 21, 8:46 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Loomis Trail Road.

October 22, 11:43 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Birch Bay Drive.

October 22, 1:48 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Delta Line Road.

October 22, 6:02 p.m.: Security check on Seashell Way.

October 23, 2:05 a.m.: Welfare check on Bay Road.

October 23, 11:46 a.m.: Welfare check on Cedar Court.

October 23, 5:31 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Salish Road.

October 23, 5:45 p.m.: Welfare check on Stein Road.

October 23, 6:42 p.m.: Moving vehicle accident injury on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

October 23, 6:53 p.m.: Security check on Nootka Loop.

For a complete list of WCSO reports, visit whatcomcounty.us/2120/Activity-Reports.

50. Ancient person of Scotland 51. Cheerless 55. Unwell

tides

October 30 - November 5 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Coming up

Thanksgiving Baskets: Registration is open through November 14 for ready-to-cook Thanksgiving dinner baskets for low-income households of three or more people living in Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer or Point Roberts. Low-income households of one or two people can register for a prepared Thanksgiving take-out meal. Distribution will take place on November 25 in Blaine. Register at blainecap.org or call 360/393-9483. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Info: blainecap.org.

Trick-or-Treat at the Library: Friday, October 31, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street.

Trick-or-Treat Downtown Blaine: Friday, October 31, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Art Gallery, 922 Peace Portal Drive. Kids pick up a punch card at the Blaine Art Gallery and take to participating businesses for a treat.

11th Annual Freeman Halloween Carnival: Friday, October 31, 4:30–8:30 p.m., 608 C Street. Featuring candy, prizes, contests, games, cotton candy, popcorn, food trucks and more.

Ulrich Manor Haunted House: Friday, October 31, 5–9 p.m., 728 C Street in Blaine. Featuring haunted actors and more.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, October 31, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Costume contest plus music by Tea Seas Trio. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Reduce Home Waste: Wednesday, November 5, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. A workshop on home composting. Also, learn more about new guidelines regarding the disposal of compostable materials that will impact many Whatcom County residents in the coming years. Info: nwcore.org.

An Evening With Elvis: Thursday, November 6, 6–8:30 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Witness an unforgettable tribute show by Jeffrey Elvis. Tickets: $15 at bit.ly/3JtTwsU. Info: 360/656-6416.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, November 6, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Bulbs for Spring Flowers: Saturday, November 8, 9:30–11 a.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Now is the time to order and plant those tulips, crocuses, hyacinths and daffodils.Local daffodil grower and bulb expert, Bill Carter, will join the workshop. Info: nwcore.org.

25th Annual Nordic Fest: Saturday, November 8, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Ferndale Events Center, 5715 Barrett Road. Shop Nordic gifts and crafts, Scandinavian bakery, Norsk kafe, Bunad parade. Entertainment with music and dancing all day. Admission: $5. Presented by Daughters of Norway. Info: Donita Reams, Donitascell@gmail.com 360/220-3027

Autumn Pop-Up Market: Saturday, November 8, 4–7 p.m., 7 Elements Spa, 7714 Birch Bay Drive. Shop throughout the spa from vendors of art, clothes, food and more. Info: 7elements.life.

Whatcom Hospice Gala Auction: Saturday, November 8, 5 p.m., Four Points Sheraton, 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham. Live and silent auctions, a dessert dash, and a program hosted by longtime Hospice friends, Dave Walker and Allen Fee. Info and tickets: bit.ly/3Jzmjwk

Celebration of Light Service: Sunday, November 9, 4:30–5:30 p.m., Bellingham Cruise Terminal Dome Room, 355 Harris Ave. Bring a picture or meaningful object to place on the memory table for the duration of the program. Sponsored by PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice. Please RSVP by November 6 to: whatcomhospicegrief@peacehealth.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:360/332-6350 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 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 October 20 to 26, 0.6 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2025 year-todate precipitation is 20.8 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 66.3°F on October 23 with a low of 42.1°F on October 26. Average high was 60°F and average low was 45.6°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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.

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.

Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Mondays. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.

Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.

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

Washington Newspaper Publishers Association

2025 Better Newspaper Contest Awards

We are pleased to report that The Northern Light and our special publications received 45 awards at the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association’s 2025 Better Newspaper Contest at the state conference in early October. The entries, judged by out of state news professionals, represent the best editorial, reporting and advertising published by Washington’s weekly newspapers in the past year. Fellow co-publisher Louise Mugar and I are so proud of our outstanding editorial, design and sales teams.They continue to excel at delivering real news and designing effective ads that work.We also appreciate the quality work submitted by our contributors.

Fifteen of our total awards were judged first in the state – a testimony to the quality work our team produces on a regular basis. Mount Baker Experience and Pacific Coast Weddings both received first place awards showing that our team’s good works extend across our publication span. Providing fairly and accurately on local news and making sure our publications get into the hands of engaged readers is what we do and we are pleased that the judges appreciated our efforts.

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FIRST PLACE

Experience Coupeville

Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar

SECOND PLACE

Anytime Toffee

Doug De Visser, Gary Lee

THIRD PLACE

Pacific Building Center

Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst

Humorous

SECOND PLACE

Whole Pilates

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Ads Featuring Animals

THIRD PLACE

Canine Divine

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Arts & Entertainment

FIRST PLACE t

Celebrate Summer in Blaine by the Sea

Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar

SECOND PLACE

Bellingham Scottish Gathering

Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar

THIRD PLACE

Harbor Harvest & Oyster Fest

Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar

Full Page Ad

SECOND PLACE

Mt Baker Lodging

Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar

THIRD PLACE

Yeager’s Sporting Goods

Doug De Visser, Gary Lee

Half Page or Larger

FIRST PLACE

Leader Block Trattoria

Doug De Visser, Gary Lee

SECOND PLACE

July 4th Celebration

Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst

THIRD PLACE

Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival

Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst

Smaller than half page

FIRST PLACE

Solstice Senior Living

Doug De Visser, Gary Lee

SECOND PLACE

Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Finally, we’d like to recognize you, our readers and advertisers for your support and involvement.Without you, we wouldn’t be here.Thank you.

THIRD PLACE s

Vista Materials

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Romantic Ad

FIRST PLACE

Samson Estates Winery

Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar

SECOND PLACE

Majestic Inn & Spa

Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar

Single Advertiser, Small

FIRST PLACE

Trippy Hippie

Doug De Visser, Gary Lee

SECOND PLACE

Vista Materials

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

THIRD PLACE

Bargain Betty’s Fireworks

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Single Advertiser, Half page or larger

SECOND PLACE

Dank of America

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

THIRD PLACE

July 4th Celebration

Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst

Use of Small Space

FIRST PLACE

Ace Hardware

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

PHOTOGRAPHY

Newspaper House Ad

FIRST PLACE

29 Years Ago A Newspaper Was Born

Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar

SECOND PLACE

Booming!

Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar

THIRD PLACE

Show Community Support

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst

Youth Oriented

FIRST PLACE

BSD Back to School

Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst