March 5 - 11, 2015 HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer
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Birch Bay twins start charity, page 13
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Daylight Saving Time begins March 8
Blaine welcomes math championship Northwest Birding Festival Special pull-out Section
Three apply for district 2 county council seat By Ian Ferguson Three candidates hoping to replace former Whatcom County Council member Sam Crawford made their case to sitting council members who will be making an appointment shortly. Crawford resigned his seat on council effective March 1 for work-related reasons, and the remaining council members will decide who gets to replace him for the remainder of his term, which ends in November. The three candidates who applied for his vacant seat presented statements to the council at its March 3 regular meeting. Crawford was a conservative voice representing district 2 on the council for more than 15 years until his January resignation announcement. Jim Cozad, Kathy Kershner and Satpal Sidhu are vying to be his replacement for the remainder of his term. Kershner served on the Whatcom County Council for four years and was council chair for two years. Sidhu is a business owner and engineer by training who recently ran for the 42nd district state representative position. Although he lost to Republican Luanne Van Werven, Sidhu fared better than most Democrats in the election, garnering 44.3 percent of the vote. Cozad was a teacher and coach at Sehome High School, and has long been active in the Opportunity Council and Interfaith Coalition, primarily working to help homeless and disadvantaged families in Whatcom County. (See Council, page 2)
s Blaine math teacher Christy Wood announces the winners of the Whatcom County Math Championship on February 28. Students came to Blaine from throughout the county to compete. Blaine will also host the statewide math championship on March 28. Photo by Jeff Callender
Telescope Beach renovations underway By Steve Guntli City construction crews are busy making improvements to Telescope Beach in Marine Park. The Marine Park shoreline reconstruction and naturalization pilot project is a clean-up of the Marine
Park beach between the shelter and tree headlands. Alex Wenger, Blaine deputy community planner, said the project would restore the beach and allow for easier access to the waterfront. The project received a $50,000 grant from the Washington Department of Ecology’s (DOE) Terry Husseman ac-
Alaska Airlines reducing flights out of Bellingham By Steve Guntli Alaska Airlines is cutting summer flights to Las Vegas and Honolulu from its regular service out of Bellingham International Airport (BIA). Beginning June 6, the airline will fly to
See us at the Home SHow! Booth 326 Tracy Booth, Founder Locally Owned & Operated, Serving Whatcom County
those locations on a seasonal basis. Outside of the winter season, Alaska will only offer six flights a day out of BIA, five to Seattle and one to Portland, Oregon. The announcement marks the second time in a month an airline has reduced flights out of BIA. In early February, Fron-
count. The account was set up to fund projects with fees collected for water (See Beach, page 13)
Online
thenorthernlight.com facebook.com/thenorthernlight
Inside
tier Airlines announced it would no longer offer seasonal direct flights to Denver, Colorado. According to Bobbie Egan, a spokesperson for Alaska, the airline is cutting the routes due to a decreased demand during (See BIA, page 13)
Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Coming Up . . . . . . . . . . 17 Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
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The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
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“We need to create better pathways to prosperity for all,” Cozad said, citing the lack of affordable housing, living wage jobs and mental healthcare access in Whatcom County, as well as problems with domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse and an overloaded
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criminal justice system. “I have the leadership skills and ability to work collaboratively,” he said. Kershner could not attend the meeting because of a previously scheduled engagement, but Jessica Elenbaas read Kershner’s statement to the council. “Kathy asks that you consider her recent experience as an elected council member, and the over-
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whelming support she enjoys in district 2. You know she served with integrity, and made decisions she believed would benefit the county, even knowing that they wouldn’t benefit her,” Elenbaas said. “She understands the issues the county is working on, and can hit the ground running.” Sidhu said he would bring a balanced, non-partisan approach to government, and said the council would benefit from his ability to plan for the long term. “As a council member, I would like to see healthy debate and careful listening to the diverse views on issues before making any decisions,” he said. “I’m a long-term thinker, and balance my decisions on their impact over the next five, 10 or 20 years.” Sidhu also highlighted his ties to the agricultural community in district 2, and the fact that with 30 years of business experience, he would match Crawford’s strong voice for business. Council chair Carl Weimer thanked the candidates for applying, and said the council would most likely make its decision at their next meeting on Tuesday, March 17. Kremen will not seek second term County councilmember Pete Kremen has announced he will not seek reelection. Kremen, 63, said he is stepping down so he can spend more
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March 5 - 11, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com Continued from previous page time with his wife, Fidela, who recently retired. Kremen was elected to county council in 2011. He held the position B seat in council district 1, which includes Bellingham and much of south Whatcom County.
Kremen has spent more than 30 years in public office. He was first elected as state representative for the 42nd legislative district in 1984, where he served six terms. In 1995, he was elected county executive, a position he held for 16 years. Before government, he was a broadcast journalist and the
news and public affairs director for KBFW radio in Bellingham. “This was not an easy decision for me,” he said. “I’m so blessed to have had the opportunity and honor of serving people in our community at both the state and local levels for most of my adult life.”
3
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Congratulations to All Participants in the Whatcom County Middle School Math Championships!
Blaine School District and Phillips 66 welcomed students and families on Saturday, February 28.
Whatcom County Executive Jack Louws presents an award.
Blaine Middle School Principal Darren Benson presents an award to an excited fourth grader from the Wade King math team.
Former NASA space shuttle astronaut Wendy Lawrence with the 5th grade individual winner from St. Paul’s Academy.
Whatcom County Council Member Barbara Brenner with the winning 7th grade team from Whatcom Middle School.
Providing energy and improving lives. Join us for the statewide math championships in Blaine on March 28.
4
The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
The Northern L ght Photo of the week 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, 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. 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. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com
s Young Jace May helps author Clete Barrett Smith illustrate the world record for eating raw mayonnaise (Oleg Zhornitskiy ate 128 ounces in less than 8 minutes in 2002). The assembly of Blaine Elementary School students then helped Smith come up with a short story about a professional eating contest. Smith, a former Blaine High School teacher and now bestselling author of four children’s books, spoke to the students as part of Read Across America Day on March 2.
Photo by Steve Guntli
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Steve Guntli steve@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Kara Furr kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Ferguson ian@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Design Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@thenorthernlight.com Office Manager Amy Weaver info@thenorthernlight.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Janet McCall Catherine Darkenwald sales@thenorthernlight.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@thenorthernlight.com Contributors In This Issue Cooper Inveen, Jessica Scott Wright The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XX, No 38 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Mar.12 Ads due: Mar. 6
Opinion The Editor: On March 22, a group of us will participate in the 29th annual Big Climb in Seattle. This event raises money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and I will be climbing 69 flights of stairs, or 1,300 steps, as part of Larissa’s Crew. Our goal is to reach $50,000 in donations, and with your help, it can be done. Climbing those stairs is not an easy task. However, the real challenge is helping fight blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. These cancers target all age groups from infants and toddlers to teens and young adults; individuals in the prime of their lives all the way to those that have worked hard and are waiting for a peaceful retirement. No ages are spared, which means any of us, our friends or neighbors may one day be given the dreadful diagnosis. This is exactly what happened to Larissa, a healthy, vibrant and active wife, mother, grandmother and leader in our Blaine community. A stem cell trans-
plant saved her life. Great strides are being made everyday though research, and what was once a death sentence is now a reason to fight and remain optimistic. Stem cell transplants and new chemo regimens are continuing to be developed with huge success rates. Please support me by going to LLSWA. org/goto/crew15, scroll down and click on my name, then click “Donate Now.” It’s that easy and as a bonus, it is 100 percent tax deductible. Thanks for your support. No donation is too large or small. Marta Kazymyra, MD Blaine
apply. The schedule is flexible. If you are new to the area, it is a good way to become acquainted with local history. If you are an “old timer,” you may be able to share your experience. Basic training is provided. The guest books show more than 1,000 people sign in every summer. They find their way to “the spit” from all around the world. The beach location, view of the mountains, Point Roberts, Canada and the Strait of Georgia
The Editor: The Alaska Packers Association Museum at Semiahmoo Park needs a few volunteers who are interested in local history and enjoy talking to visitors. We are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from Memorial Day Weekend through September. If you can spare five hours every two or three weeks, please
The Whatcom Conservation District’s native plant sale will take place on Saturday, March 28, not Sunday, March 29.
Continued on next page
Correction:
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info: bbwsd.com.
Birch Bay Watershed & Aquatic Resources Management District: Third Wednesday, 6 p.m., location varies. Info: bbwarm.whatcom county.org.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Parks Board: Third Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 7 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blaine.wednet.edu.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Chamber Officem 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org
North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 7 p.m. Blaine Fire Station. Info: nwfrs.net.
March 5 - 11, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
Letters ...
Continued from previous page highlight the story of the old APA Cannery and Blaine’s fishing history. We have an interesting story to share. The APA Museum will be open for Wings Over Water, Saturday and Sunday, March 14–15. If you are interested in a volunteer spot please come in and check it out between 1 and 4 p.m. Sunny Brown Birch Bay The Editor: As I drive into work every morning, I notice on a regular basis that children are walking to school in the road and wearing mostly dark clothing. At this time of the year it is still dark when the children are going to school. It is extremely worrisome to me that a driver may not see one of these kids in time to stop or swerve around them. If they swerve, they could go into a ditch or hit an oncoming vehicle. We have recently had some deaths in the area due to people walking or biking that have not been seen by drivers. I would hate to see this happen to someone’s child, simply because they did not use basic safety precautions. So, please, I ask all of you who would be walking, jogging or biking in the dark to be aware of this. Drivers cannot always see you when you are wearing dark attire. Parents, please talk to your children about being safe while walking or biking in the dark. Cheryl Fischer Blaine The Editor: In every pro-Gateway Pacific Terminal article or letter to the editor I have ever read where the authors say jobs and the environment can exist together, they never mention any concern they have for the environment. Meanwhile, these writers talk as if jobs can only ever come from the GPT project and/or other potential heavy (and polluting) industry. According to the EPA’s facility level information on greenhouse gasses tool, between Whatcom and Skagit counties we already have four out of five of the industries (BP and Intalco in Whatcom, Shell and Tesoro in Skagit) – often referred to as our good neighbors – that are the worst emitters of greenhouse gases (over one million metric tons each for 2013) in the state. If we ever expect to maintain the focus needed to help these industries reduce their environmentally disastrous emission rates, we cannot continue to rubber stamp additional industries that are just as devastating, or more so, in terms of their adverse effects on our local and severely threatened ecosystem. In my opinion, Lummi Nation is right to request denial of the permit for GPT by the Army Corps of Engineers. Their culture directly depends on the health of the Salish Sea. With
intensive study and education they have worked for years to protect and preserve it. It is astute of Lummi Nation to decline to speak with SSA Marine, which has displayed grave disrespect for both the people and their culture. Let’s stop thinking in disposable terms: disposable income, disposable water, disposable wildlife, disposable planet. We are at a critical juncture where we have to seek, invite, create and continue to support jobs that add to the health and wellbeing of all the prized and critical lands, waters, and life in our area. Dena Jensen Birch Bay The Editor: I would like to respond to a couple of letters I read in The Northern Light. Linda Roll claims there are no problems with the coal being shipped to Canada. I guess she hasn’t talked to people in Point Roberts whose houses and property are coated with coal dust blowing off the uncovered piles at the Canadian terminal. She must not have heard about the ore carrier smashing into the terminal dock resulting in tons of coal being dumped into the ocean. Bob Jones complains about the Lummi Nation not being “fair” by not talking to SSA Marine. They don’t have to. Their treaty rights protect their fishing. The recently released vessel traffic study, which was financed by SSA Marine, stated Lummi fishing would be adversely affected. Game over. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can drag this out but they can’t change the facts. Lummi Nation’s sovereign treaty rights are the law of the land and trump the need for jobs and the greed of the extractive industries and their bought and paid for politicians. Who or what do Wyoming and Montana think they are, threatening to sue my state because we are “holding up” the terminals? The corporate
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plunderers have bought the services of turncoat former Washington state public officials whose salaries we taxpayers shelled out for. Now they are stabbing us in the back working for other states that care nothing for our state, our concerns or our processes. That makes me as mad as the fact these coal companies are ripping up public land and taking our national natural resources to ship to Asian countries that restrain imports of our goods by tariffs and currency manipulation while we bend over and let all their products in while piling up enormous trade imbalances. Letting multi-national companies destroy the northern plains and pay next to nothing for our coal for export won’t answer that problem. This rip-off coal play is coming to a well-deserved end and the sooner the better. Mike Sennett Bellingham The Editor: A democracy is always temporary in nature; it cannot exist as a permanent form of (See Letters, page 16)
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The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
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s Mandy Hayes pulls up for a jump shot in a state tournament game against White River February 28. Blaine lost 60–51.
Photo by Janell Kortlever
By Ian Ferguson After overcoming challenges all season long, the Blaine girls basketball team fell to third-ranked White River in a state tournament elimination game that was exciting to the bitter end. The Borderites battled to within three points of a tie with less than two minutes to play, but White River, ranked third in the state in 2A, pulled away for a final score of 60–51. White River will go on to play firstranked Mark Morris, while the Borderites ended their strong post-season run just shy of their goal of the final eight. Blaine coach Ryan Pike said the team’s mood at the final buzzer was deflated. “You expect that. With five seniors, when the season ends, it’s a bittersweet moment. It’s hard to accept that it’s over, but you look back at all the good times over the course of the season and all the things they were able to accomplish.” In the beginning of the season, few would have chosen the Borderites to make a strong post-season bid. Star Taylor V’Dovec was out with a toe injury, they were facing larger 2A teams after a reclassification from 1A, and the team struggled to find a combination that worked. The Borderites lost eight of their first nine games of the reg-
ular season. One of those losses in December was to White River, a powerhouse team that trounced the Borderites at home 81–50. Then, starting in early January with a win against Mount Baker, the Borderites started to come together. From that point on, they went 8–11 in the regular season. They took third place in the 2A district tournament, defeating Anacortes, Shorecrest and Sehome and losing only to Lynden. By the time they faced White River again in the regional round of the state tournament, the Borderites were “a completely different team from the team in December,” Pike said. “Not only having Taylor [V’Dovec] back, but the confidence and experience level of everyone on the team improved so much.” The regional game was played at Puyallup High School February 28. Blaine surprised the White River Hornets by jumping out to a six-point lead to start the game. The teams battled back and forth, with both missing some up-close shots, and the first quarter ended with Blaine ahead 12–10. In the second quarter, White River took the lead and steadily built it. V’Dovec got into foul trouble and Blaine was outscored 16–6 in the second quarter.
“We tried to battle, but we couldn’t keep up with their offense,” Pike said. “We started losing rebounds.” White River hit a couple three-pointers to start the third quarter, and the Borderites fell even further behind. By the fourth quarter, White River had built a 14-point lead. That’s when the veteran Blaine players started doing what they have done so many times before: playing strong under pressure. With the knowledge that their season was slipping away, the Borderites switched to a fullcourt defense and started hitting every shot, chipping away at the White River lead. Mandy Hayes hit a three-pointer to start the fourth quarter. Breanna Chau hit two points and forced a turnover. Mikayla Deming drew a foul and made both free throws, then Chau hit six consecutive free throws. With less than two minutes to play, V’Dovec made a two-point shot to bring the score to 49–46. “At that point I had complete confidence that we were going to come back and win the game,” Pike said. “The girls have been in that high-pressure situation so many times before and come through with the win.” But White River hit a three-pointer that stunned the Borderites, and locked in their defense to hold onto the lead. Continued on next page
March 5 - 11, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
7
Law Firm Law Firm Girls The ... Immigration The Immigration From previous page
• U.S. green cards / naturalization • U.S. green cards / naturalization • Work / investor visas • Work / investor visas “White River is a very good team, and there’s no shame• in Denied entry waivers • Denied entry waivers losing to a good team when you • Removal hearings • Removal NEXUS appeals hearings • NEXUS appeals play your hardest,” Pike said.
360-332-7100 360-332-7100
s Makayah Veliz defends against a White River opponent in a state tournament game February 28.
Photo by Janell Kortlever
“The girls definitely put in the effort, and played as hard as •www.blaineimmigration.com 435 Martin St., Suite 2010 •••435 Blaine, WA St., Blaine,WA WA 435Martin Martin St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, they could.”www.blaineimmigration.com www.blaineimmigration.com The loss was especially bitterLeonard D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law sweet for the five seniors on the team, four of whom have now played in a state tournament every year since they were freshmen. “This senior class is probably the best class to have ever come through Blaine girls basketball,” Pike said. “To be able to go to the state tournament all four years is a testament to who they are and how hard they worked. They got a top-eight trophy two of those years, and they went through reclassification twice, which is really taxing but they handled it well. What these five girls have been able to accomplish is amazing.” V’Dovec, Chau, Hayes, Deming and Barb Pocus will graduate this year, leaving big shoes for their teammates to fill. Josie Deming, Kjirstin Larson, Kiana Gray, Makayah Veliz and Lyric Berry will be the names to watch, Pike said. “I’m hoping they can accept the challenge to step up and beCanada come the leaders of Blaine girls U.S.A. basketball next year.” Only $9.49 per gram D Street Looking back on this season, H Street Pike said he was proud of every- purchase of one ounce. Some exclusions apply. While supplies last. Expires 3/12/15. See store for details. one on the team. Blaine “We went back and beat the Pea ce P Open Mon-Sat 10-8 • Sun 11-7 teams that beat us earlier in the orta l Dr . season, and that’s a gauge of the 922 Peace Portal Drive, Downtown Blaine team’s improvement,” he said. 360-332-8922 Must be 21+ “It shows how hard the girls worked. They should be really This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence proud of everything they’ve acof the is drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of the is product. For use complished this year.”
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s The Borderites pose for a team photo after defeating the Shorecrest Scots in a district tournament game February 19.
only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
Photo by Ian Ferguson
Outdoor experts feature in recreation expo Check out the latest in outdoor gear and services at the second annual Recreation Northwest Expo. The expo takes place Thursday, March 12 at the Bellingham Lakeway Inn and showcases outdoor adventure gear and services in the northwest. Nearly 100 exhibitors will show off the latest outdoor equipment, discuss health and wellness options and encourage outdoor activity. Visitors can sign up for dozens of door prizes, which include trips, gear and free entry to local races. This year’s expo features three keynote speakers. Krissy Moehl, a writer and ultramarathon runner, is a popular lecturer on healthy living. She has been featured in
numerous publications and gave her own TED Talk on running in 2011. William Dietrich is a Pulitzer-prize-winning journalist, bestselling fiction author and a professor at Western Washington University. Christian Martin is a freelance writer and environmental activist based out of Bellingham. Together, Dietrich and Martin will speak about their new book, “The North Cascades: Finding Beauty and Renewal In The Wilds Nearby.” Admission to the Recreation Northwest Expo is free. The doors will open at 4 p.m., and the keynote speakers will begin at 7 p.m. To register for door prizes, visit recreationnorthwest.org.
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Lakeway Inn & Conference Center, Bellingham Thursday, March 12th 4:00pm - 8:00pm Featured Speakers @ 7:00pm Krissy Moehl-Ultramarathon Trail Running Ambassador William Dietrich & Christian Martin-Authors: The North Cascades Meet Face to face with Health Professionals, Nutrition Experts, Local Gyms, Personal Trainers, Bike Shops, Running Stores, Gear Outfitters, Outdoor Media, Outdoor Activity Clubs, Stewardship Organizations and Local Race Organizers. Sign-up online or onsite to win great DOOR PRIZES! Recreation Northwest.org
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The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
New legislation could alter state’s wolf management efforts y p p a H thday B C I Bir Jay! WNPA N O y
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Cake Graphic Designed by FreePik.com
As Washington’s gray wolf population continues to grow, so do concerns of some of those living in the areas of the state most affected by their return. “There’s two sides to this issue, and it kind of boils down to either you like them or you don’t,” said Rep. Joel Kretz, R-Wauconda, who Welcome the 50’s Club. co-sponsored several wolf-related bills this legislative session. Love, Mom Seven bills relating to Washington’s gray wolves have been introduced to the 2015 Legislature, with four surviving for continuing Whatcom Conservation District consideration in their respective chambers this week. Together they could have a dramatic effect on Washington’s wolf-recovery policy. Much of the wolf debate stems Own an On-Site Septic System? from an uneven distribution of to: Poll-site electionLearn on Marchhow 10, 2015 wolves across the state. Ten of from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. atSave the Money on Inspections Prevent Costly Repairs Washington’s 13 wolf packs reside WCD Office, 6975 Hannegan Road, in area the state’s northeast corner, and Inspect Your Own System Find Rebates in your Lynden, WA. the two largest recent attacks on Join us for a FREE Septic Self Inspection WORKSHOP!! Registered voters who reside in livestock have both occurred in Dec 10th, 6-8pm,WECU in Ferndale, 5659 Barrett Rd Whatcom County are eligible to vote. Stevens County. While WashingQuestions?ToCall (360) 526-2381, Register visit: ton is on track to meet the state’s www.chumsofterrellcreek.org come in or check our website at total wolf population objectives, or www.whatcomcd.org there’s a long way to go before geoCall Whatcom Conservation District (360) 354-2035 x103 graphic distribution goals are met. Although wolves are considered endangered at both the federal and state levels, the number of wolves in northeastern Washing-
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ton has prompted demands that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) alter its classification of “endangered” to reflect an animal’s presence in a region rather than in the state as a whole. If wolves were reclassified this way, they would only be considered legally endangered in twothirds of the state. Sen. Brian Dansel, R-Republic, is sponsoring Senate Bill 5583, which would give the WDFW the power to declassify an endangered species on a regional level. It would also require the department to respond to any petition to declassify with a full investigation and a written response explaining why it chose or chose not to declassify the species. If the department does decide to declassify an endangered species, the bill would require it to construct an entirely new management system for the species based on populations in that particular region. The new system would have to consider “customs and culture of local communities over statewide goals for any species” undergoing a status change. The bill declares that the impact on local cultures and communities is “the paramount priority.” Dave Dashiell of the Cattle Producers of Washington advocated for the bill at a committee hearing on February 5, saying he doubted cattle ranchers in Stevens County could “survive another five or six years waiting for [wolves] to be dispersed across the state.” His sheep flock, he reported, was the target of an attack last year that resulted in the deaths of at least 30 sheep and many more that were never located. Nate Pamplin, assistant director for the WDFW wildlife program, strongly opposed the bill. “The agency’s authority to list a species as endangered comes from that species of wildlife being seriously threatened with extinction in the state of Washington,” he
said. “So if we were to set aside the regional contribution of a species, we are essentially setting aside that contribution to delisting that same species elsewhere in the state.” As for the ranchers, Pamplin said the department already has a program in place to compensate those who have lost livestock to wolf attacks, and open-range ranchers can earn up to twice market-value on reimbursements for individual animals whose carcasses are never located. He said the department is currently processing Dashiell’s claim in a similar manner. SB 5583 passed out of the Senate ways and means committee and is on the rules committee calendar for advancement. An identical bill in the House, co-sponsored by Kretz, died in committee after one public hearing. Kretz has been concerned about wolf distribution since the beginning of the legislative session. During a presentation that WDFW’s wolf policy lead Dave Ware gave to a joint House and Senate committee last month, Kretz suggested using helicopters to relocate wolf packs to western Washington’s more populated areas, in an effort to take some of the burden off of his wolf-heavy district. “There are those people who think wolves should be everywhere and should run the state,” Kretz said. “I would support them in Seattle particularly.” Ware called the suggestion logistically and politically impossible. Despite their disagreements, Ware supported one of Kretz’s bills during a public hearing in the House Appropriations Committee on February 26. HB 2107 would require the department to amend the 2011 wolf conservation and management plan to better address the uneven distribution. Among other things, the new plan would have to consider reducing or consolidating recovery zones, outline new attack prevention methods for ranchers and re-eval-
uate when lethal force can be used against individual wolves. It now awaits full House consideration. “This is probably the best vehicle to address some of the concerns we’re getting from folks in northeastern Washington,” Ware said, seeing the bill as an appropriate compromise. Dansel’s companion bill in the Senate, SB 5960, passed out of the Senate ways and means committee on February 26 and could receive full Senate consideration this week. One thing ranchers and conservationists consistently agree on is that they need to better understand the predatory impacts wolves have on the wild animals around them. No official data exist on how elk and deer populations in the northeastern part of the state have been affected by the rising number of wolves there. The lack of data has sparked considerable debate between conservationists and hunters who worry that an increased wolf presence could harm game populations. House Bill 1676 would shine light on that issue. The bill would require the University of Washington’s Predator Ecology Lab to assesses and report on the health of hooved animal populations in places with high wolf recovery rates. It’s also the only piece of wolf legislation to gain the approval of Conservation Northwest, which advocates for the protection of the region’s old growth forests and other wild places. It awaits assignment for full House consideration by the House rules committee. The bill passed out of the House committee on general government and information Technology on February 26. UW researchers will have until October 2016 to deliver their report, although the bill would not take effect unless the Legislature allocates the necessary funding by June 30.
360-393-0473 Haynie Opry opens early for 10th anniversary
NOTICE OF FLUSHING
The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system. During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at 332-8820. Leroy Dougall, Blaine Public Works.
The Haynie Opry, located at 3344 Haynie Road, is Blaine’s center for old-fashioned country music and is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The Opry is usually only open during the summer but this year the season will start Saturday, March 14. Opry founder Matt Audette and his band, the Circle of Friends Band, will perform alongside guest artists Roosevelt Road, a bluegrass band from Snohomish. Audette spent years as a touring musician, spending time in country hotspots like Nashville, Tennessee and Dallas, Texas. When Audette decided to settle in Blaine in 2005, he wanted a venue to share the music he loves. “I didn’t want it to be a bar or a tavern,” he said. “I wanted it to be family-friendly, something people would bring their kids to. I thought that was something the community could enjoy.” Audette found the space he was looking for at the Haynie Grange 169 building. The managers of the organization loved the idea, and the Haynie Opry was born.
s From l., Walt Roder, Matt Audette, Ron Reiss and Karl Wagoner make up the Circle of Friends Band.
Photo courtesy Walt Roder
The Circle of Friends Band has played almost every show at the Opry. Their music is a mixture of original compositions and tributes to classic artists. Last summer, the group staged a tribute to singer George Jones. This July, the Circle of Friends Band will honor Hank Williams. The Haynie Opry has attracted some big-name artists. Jack Greene, who topped the country charts in the late ’60s with his song “There Goes My Everything,” took the stage in 2010. Other classic performers, like
Tommy Overstreet and master yodeler Rod Erickson, have stopped by over the years. Audette hopes to continue bringing in talented artists in the years to come. “The whole idea of the Opry was to attract big-name country legends to perform here,” Audette said. “We hope to keep doing that.” Tickets for the March 14 opening night show will be available at the door for $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Audette at 366-3321.
13TH ANNUAL
NORTHWEST BIRDING FESTIVAL MARCH 13, 14 &15
BLAINE • BIRCH BAY • SEMIAHMOO
Friday, March 13 Wings Over Water Festival Opening and Artist Reception 5 p.m.– 7 p.m. Semiahmoo Resort-Golf-Spa 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine Cost: Wine Tasting $10 Everyone is invited for the Opening and Artist Reception at beautiful Semiahmoo Resort. David Hancock of Hancock Wildlife presents “Historical Context to Wildlife of Drayton Harbor.” Our featured artist Lorna Libert will exhibit her art as well as a gallery of artistic bird images by local and professional photographers. Sip wine and sample light appetizers for $10. Enjoy live music by “The Celtic Roots.” WOW commemorative wine glasses will be available for an additional $2, while supplies last.
Saturday, March 14 ALL DAY BIRDING EXPO 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Blaine Middle School 975 H Street, Blaine
Free activities for the whole family! There will be indoor and outdoor activities to mix and match according to interests and the weather, including live raptor presentations by Sardis Raptor Center, wildlife exhibits and displays, kids’ activities including build your own bird house, workshops, expert speaker presentations, field trips and more!
Saturday, March 14
KEYNOTE FEATURED PRESENTATION: “Woodpeckers of North America” by Paul Bannick 5 p.m. • Cost: Free Blaine Performing Arts Center • 975 H Street, Blaine
Through vivid new images, intimate video, compelling sound and personal narratives, Paul will explore four seasons in the lives of North American woodpeckers. Sponsored by Kathy Stauffer/Windermere Real Estate
For complete details visit WingsOverWaterBirdingFestival.com CORPORATE SPONSOR
Blaine
ALL DAY IN BIRCH BAY Starting at 9 a.m. Exploring the birds of Birch Bay and their habitat Starting 9 a.m. with a Birding Breakfast Buffet & Presentation at CJ’s Restaurant, 7878 Birch Bay Drive. Followed by Birding & Photography Field Trips and a Workshop Presentation by Whatcom Conservation District at BP Heron Center* in Birch Bay State Park. For complete details, see page 3. *Discovery Pass required for Parking
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EVENT SPONSORS
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & Visitor Information Center
Sunday, March 15
Hill’s Chevron
PLEASE SEE ADDITIONAL FESTIVAL SUPPORTERS ON PAGE 4
Northwest Birding Festival
ABOUT OU
2015
FEATURED WILDLIFE PRESENTATION:
Photo: Andrew Redding
BLACK
“Welcome to Subirdia” sharing our neighborhood with birds “Fortunately, there is a rich diversity of bird species and wildlife that are thriving in our urban environment.” This is the good news from Professor John Marzluff’s latest book,Welcome to Subirdia. At his featured presentation Saturday, he will tell us how we can value nature and enhance bird and wildlife habitat in our communities while creating attractive and exciting places to live and work. He will also share with us important steps we need to take to secure the future of birds and wildlife among us. Copies of Welcome to Subirdia will be on sale after the presentation. John Marzluff is James W. Ridgeway Professor of Wildlife Science at the University of Washington, where he teaches classesinornithology,urbanecology,conservation and field research.
FEATURED SPEAKERS
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Saturday, March 14 “Welcome to Subirdia”
Photo: Eric Ellingson
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3 p.m. Cost: Free Blaine Performing Arts Center 975 H Street Blaine
Photo: Ken Salzman
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DAVID HANCOCK: A well known wildlife biologist and photographer from Surrey, B.C. will be the featured speaker at our Friday night opening reception. On Friday night he will be presenting a “Historical Context to Wildlife of our Northwest and particularly Drayton Harbor.” The talk will immediately follow our reception at Semiahmoo Resort. He will also be speaking on Saturday. For details, see schedule on page 4. Photo: Joe Meche
JOE MECHE: Wildlifephotographerandavidbirder,
Joe can be seen taking a break to enjoy the calm waters of Drayton Harbor while photographing birds.“Encountering birds in flight and close up at eye level from my kayak is a spectacular sight.” A favorite speaker at the festival for 13 years, Joe will be offering a digiscoping class on Saturday from 10 a.m. - noon at the Blaine Boating Center as well as a presentation on Baja Birding on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in the performing arts center. For complete details, see schedule on page 4.
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LORNA LIBERT: Strong and whimsical, like an old man of the sea with a tall tale to tell, sea birds have become a prominent subject of Lorna’s. After spending over a decade inspired by worn, weathered fishing boats, Lorna developed a fondness for the sea birds that adorn them. Meet Lorna on Friday, March 13 during ourFestivalOpeningandArtistReception at Semiahmoo Resort. View an exhibit of her larger than life paintings.
COMMON GOLDENEYE: A sea duck that hunts for its food underwater. The males can be identified by their white belly, dark back, green head and golden-yellow eyes with white patches underneath. The females’ bodies are mostly grey with brown heads.
Welcome
Birders & Bird Watchers!
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FREE advice We’ve Moved! Mon.-Fri. 10-5:30
Sat. 10-4
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The Blaine/Birch Bay communities truly appreciate the amazing variety of birds found in our local bays and harbors. We invite you to join us in our celebration of their survival and beauty. Bring your friends, too! L AW O F F I C E S O F
RogeR ellingson & Rajeev MajuMdaR A law office serving bird watchers and birders alike, and always impressed by dunlins in flight.
289 H Street, downtown Blaine • 360-332-7000 www.NorthWhatcomLaw.com
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A Special Publication of The Northern Light
UR LOCAL BIRDS
2015
K OYSTERCATCHER: Acommonyear-roundresidentonSemiah-
it that has a bright orange-red bill with adult bird possessing red and eye, both of which contrast with their black bodies. It uses its strong ry bivalves, such as mussels, off the rocks and then to open them. n be found along the water’s edge searching for food and, at times, quite vocal, especially in flight.
-TAILED DUCK: A sea duck that is a winter resident of Drayton
The original name for this bird was Long-tailed Duck, but for some was called an Oldsquaw. The name was recently changed back to the designation. This bird breeds in northern Canada and Alaska and ocks are often seen far out at sea. Long-tailed Ducks fly low over the with its stiff-winged flight, tilting from side to side.
HERN PINTAIL: This bird is an elegant looking duck that is comeen at both Blaine and Semiahmoo Spit during the winter. It is easily ed by its long tail, chocolate colored head, blue and black bill and reast and neck with a thin white line extending up the back of the arge numbers of Pintail are often seen at both of the locations men-
EXPLORING
BIRCH BAY
BIRDS AND THEIR HABITAT Sunday, March 15
Enjoy a day in Birch Bay exploring birds, birds, birds! 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Breakfast for Birders
Where: CJ’s Beach House Restaurant • 7878 Birch Bay Drive Cost: $15 Seating is limited. Reservations can be made at 360332-4544 or day of the festival at Blaine Middle School during the festival. Enjoy a fabulous breakfast buffet and presentation by featured speakers Craig and Joy Johnson. “Birds, Backyard Habitat and Beyond”, a film by Craig & Joy Johnson, Puget Sound area watercolor artist and photographer, Craig Johnson with his Craig & wife, writer Joy Johnson, have created a remarkable DVD that Joy Johnson beautifully illustrates what can happen when native habitat is allowed to flourish, even in as small a space as a suburban backyard. The Johnsons illustrate the delights possible by recording the birds and other creatures that visit their backyard. This engaging film provides a window to wildlife behaviors many people have never seen before. Watch and wonder as this panoply of creatures forage for food, create nests, raise young, maintain their plumage and much more. Using Craig’s animations, graphics and photographs, the Johnsons offer some simple suggestions to increase the variety of birds visiting your yard. You can learn more by visiting their inspiring website at http://www.pugetsoundbackyardbirds.com.
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Bird Watching Stations Around the Bay
LIN: A small sandpiper that winters in our area and is often found in
on Semiahmoo Spit and at Birch Bay. It is usually seen in flocks, someonsisting of more than 100 birds. The flight of these flocks is amazing ock can turn in unison as if was one bird. These shorebirds are often obing mudflats or performing their aerial maneuvers.
Where: 4 locations along Birch Bay Drive and the Heron Center* in Birch Bay State Park Cost: Free Seeing is believing! See a variety of birds with scopes and binoculars at manned birdwatching stations at locations around the bay. Stop by the Birch Bay Visitor Center at 7900 Birch Bay Dr., to receive a map and list of bird species you may see. *Discover Pass or Single Day paid parking required in Birch Bay State Park. (Handicap exceptions).
11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Birch Bay Bird Walk - Guided by Paul Woodcock Where: Meet at CJ’s Beach House Restaurant • 7878 Birch Bay Drive Cost: Free
GREAT BLUE HERONPhoto:EricEllingson
Paul Woodcock of the North Cascade Audubon Society will lead a guided bird walk location to be determined by weather and other factors. There is a good possibility of seeing as many as 50 bird species in the area.
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Wildlife Photo Shoot
Where: Meet at Birch Bay Visitor Center • 7900 Birch Bay Drive Cost: Free • Limit: 25 participants Local photographers, Wayne Diaz and Eric Ellingson will lead a wildlife photo shoot in the uplands behind the Birch Bay Visitors Center and along the bay. Wayne and Eric both live in Birch Bay and take the majority of their beautiful bird photographs in the local area. Birds commonly seen at this time of day are eagles, brant, king fishers, song birds, dunlins, hawks, crows, various duck species and blue heron. Bring your own camera.
1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.: Workshop - Invite Nature Into Your Backyard Where: BP Heron Interpretive Center*- Birch Bay State Park Cost: Free *Discovery Pass required for parking at Birch Bay State Park
Whatcom Conservation District has participated in the festival for many years, but this is the first time they have had the opportunity to provide a workshop! This family friendly workshop will focus on what we can all do to improve bird, pollinator and fish habitat in our own backyards, whether we live in an apartment or a 20 acre farm, we can all make a difference. There may be more surprises in store! There could also be a field trip to nearby Terrell Creek Marsh one of the few saltwater/fresh water estuaries still left in Northern Puget Sound. For more information call 360-371-5004.
Blaine Harbor
Visitor and permanent moorage available
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Full service marina to the San Juan & Gulf Islands Just 2 minutes from Interstate 5 & the U.S./Canada border
BP Heron Interpretive Center
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A Special Publication of The Northern Light
Northwest Birding Festival
2015
Saturday, March 15th - All Day Events Schedule
8 a.m. – 11 a.m.: Blaine Community Pancake Breakfast Where: Blaine Senior Center • 763 G Street Cost: Adults $6, Children $4. The Blaine Senior Center, just across the street from the Middle School, will be serving pancakes, waffles, biscuits & gravy or french toast, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee & OJ. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.: All Day Birding Expo, Festival Headquarters & Information Where: Blaine Middle School • 975 H Street Enjoy lots of free activities for the whole family including talks by expert wildlife speakers, kids activities and more. You can even make a bird house. *Pre-registration ticket sales available starting at 8:30 a.m.
10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Early Bird Field Trip to Semiahmoo Spitled by Paul Woodcock & Jim Jorgensen Cost: $5 (includes snack) Reservations are recommended - call 360/332-4544 or vic@cityofblaine.com. This field trip allows birders to explore the abundance of birds along Semiahmoo Spit, located between Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor. Enjoy a scenic bus ride around Drayton Harbor and learn about the fascinating geology of the area from speaker Jim Jorgensen. Take a leisurely two-hour walk with naturalist Paul Woodcock to view the birds close at hand. Visit the Alaska Packers Association Museum to learn the history of the area.
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Wildlife Presentation: “The History of Bald Eagles, Salmon & Wildlife in the Fraser Valley Region” by David Hancock Where: Blaine School Performing Arts Center • 975 H Street Cost: Free Biologist, filmmaker, writer and publisher David Hancock will discuss bald eagles, salmon and wildlife in the Blaine and Fraser Valley region. Why does this region host the world’s largest collection of bald eagles? Why are urban eagles nearly twice as productive as the wilderness eagles? Noon to 1:30 p.m.: Live Raptor Presentation, “Hunters of the Sky” by Sardis Raptor Center Where: Blaine Middle School Cafeteria • 975 H Street Cost: Free This is an exciting opportunity for up-close encounters with owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles. Noon to 2 p.m.: Painting is for the Birds - Uptown Art Where: Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive Cost: $25 Preregistration online at www.wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. Discover your inner artist and come away with your own hand painted work of art! A Bellingham Uptown Art instructor will guide you in creating your own painting of local birds. No experience required. All supplies included.
NEW
FESTIVAL Event EVENT Map MAP Festival
10 a.m. to Noon: Eye on Wildlife Workshop for Kids Where: Blaine Middle School • 975 H St. Cost: Free Ages: 8 & up Maximum of 15 participants. Participantswillviewaslidepresentationand short videos of amazing birds and animals. Participate in a watercolor art project celebrating wildlife and appreciation of the wonders of nature. The class is taught by local artists Wendy & Megan Bloom.
NEW
Semiahmoo Resort Semiahmoo Golf - Spa Resort
APA Museum
*Pre-registration available 8:30 a.m. at Blaine Middle School, 975 H Street or call 360/332-4544.
1:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.: Photography Workshop: The Basics of Photographing Birdsby Photographer Ken Salzman Where: Blaine Middle School Cost: FREE, Registration at the Festival. This workshop will show novice photographers how to capture bird images. Instructor Ken Salzman has been an avid birder and bird photographer since 1981 and teaches birding and bird photography classes at Whatcom Community College.
NEW
10 a.m. to Noon; 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Salish Sea Birding & Wildlife Cruise by San Juan Cruises & North Cascade Audubon Departure: Semiahmoo Resort, Plover Dock 9565 Semiahmoo Drive. Cost: $47.50. Preregister online at www. wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com* Take a two-hour open water cruise from Semiahmoo Spit to Point Roberts aboard the 50-foot Salish Sea. *Note: cruise may be sold out prior to festival.
NEW
*Cruise may be subject to cancellation due to rough sea conditions. If this should happen, prepaid registration fees will be refunded.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Plover Passenger Ferry Nature Cruises* Where: Blaine Harbor Boating Center Dock 235 Marine Drive Cost: $5 Take the historic Plover Ferry on a guided nature cruise of Drayton Harbor & SemiahmooBay.DetailsonMVPloverPassengerFerry,visit:www.draytonharbormaritime.org. Departure on the hour from Blaine Boating Center Dock. (Last departure is at 3 p.m.) A shuttle bus will run to and from Blaine Middle School to Blaine Boating Center. *Pre-registration, ticket sales available, starting at 8:30 a.m. at Blaine Middle School, 975 H Street. (Sorry, no ticket sales at the dock). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Kid’s Activities Where: Blaine Middle School • 975 H Street, Blaine Cost: Free All day kids’ activities including arts & crafts, games, face painting and some wild surprises! 10 a.m. ‘til gone: Kids’ Birdhouse Building Where: Blaine Middle School • 975 H Street, Blaine Suggested donation: $1 Build a bird house to invite the local birds to make your back yard their home. (For kids up to age 14, while supplies last.)
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: North Cascades Audubon Society Bird Viewing Stations Where: Viewing station maps will be available at the Blaine Middle School. Cost: Free Seeing is believing!You will be amazed at the number of interesting bird species you can see close at hand through a spotting scope. Knowledgeable birders from North Cascade Audubon will be on hand to assist and answer questions. 10 a.m. to Noon: Digiscoping 101 - with Joe Meche Where: Blaine Boating Center • 235 Marine Drive Cost: Free Digiscoping is a relatively new technique that allows you to use a point and shoot camera and a spotting scope to capture sharp images of birds. Joe Meche will demonstrate this technique in a hands-on class/workshop. Participants are encouraged to bring their own cameras, scopes, and tripods. Includes a short field trip to practice the how-to methods in a natural setting. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Alaska Packers Association Cannery and Museum Where: 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway (Semiahmoo Spit) Cost: Free - Donations welcome Experience the history of Blaine’s fish cannery days, housed in an original Alaska Packers cannery building. The exhibits tell the story of days gone by and include a scale model fish trap, antique machinery, a gallery of historic photos, and an original 28-foot Bristol Bay fishing boat. For more information: draytonharbormaritime.org.
1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Wildlife & Geology Field trip to Semiahmoo Spit & Birch Bay with Jim Jorgensen* Ticket Sales/Bus Departure: Blaine Middle School • 975 H Street Cost: $5 includes snack Guided by Jim Jorgensen, take a scenic bus ride around Drayton Harbor to Semiahmoo Spit, a 1.25 mile natural spit, rich in history, geology and opportunities to view wildlife. There will also be an opportunity to visit the AlaskaPackersAssociationCanneryandFishing Museum.
Blaine Birch Bay Park & Rec
NEW
1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.: Baja Birds by Joe Meche Where: Blaine Middle School 975 H Street Cost: Free If winter is too cold or wet and too dark to enjoy getting out to do a little bird watching, consider following the birds to a more suitable winter climate, take a trip down the Pacific Flyway to Baja Sur, Mexico. Some of the same birds that we see here in spring and summer spend their winters south of the border. Join writer/photographer Joe Meche as we take a virtual trip down the coast to sample some of the sights that are just a short flight away. BP Heron Center
2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Live Raptor Presentation: “Hunters of the Sky” by Sardis Raptor Center Where: Blaine Middle School Cafeteria • 975 H Street Cost: Free This is an exciting opportunity to have up-close encounters with many magnificent birds of prey including owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles. All birds are residents of the center and have injuries that prevent their return to the wild. 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Photography Workshop: Advanced Bird Photography by Paul Bannick Where: Blaine Harbor Boating Center • 235 Marine Drive Cost: $25 Registration at Blaine Middle School A unique opportunity for photographers to learn from Paul Bannick who is an award-winningwildlifephotographerspecializinginthenaturalhistoryofNorthAmerica. Paul explores how to get the best bird photographs. Bannick’s workshops use photographs, personal stories and interaction with students to communicate the key ideas. No need to own a camera or lenses to take this class. 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Featured Wildlife Presentation: “Welcome to Subirdia” by John Marzluff Where: Blaine School Performing Arts Center • 975 H Street Cost: Free John will talk about his latest book, “Welcome to Subirdia” and will reveal how our suburbs and city parks are remarkably rich in bird diversity. Learn how suburbs may play a key role in preventing loss of species in the face of the dramatic disruptions of climate change and other human impacts. Learn what steps we can take to secure the future of birds and wildlife living alongside us. 5 p.m.: Keynote and Featured Presentation: “Woodpeckers of North America” by Paul Bannick Where: Blaine School Performing Arts Center • 975 H Street Cost: Free As co-author and photographer for the new book,“Woodpeckers of North America, ANaturalist’sGuide,”PaulwillexamineNorthAmericanwoodpeckerspeciesthrough award winning images, intimate sounds and stories and observations from the field.
Visit us often! April 25 & 26: Semiahmoo Bay International Sailing Regatta May - Oct: Peace Arch International Sculpture Exhibition May - Labor Day: Alaska Packers Cannery Museum May 9 & 10: Springfest Art Tour of Blaine Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day: Historic Plover Passenger Ferry Rides Saturdays, May 23 - Oct 31: Blaine Gardners Market June 26, 27 & 28: International Art Festival July 4: Blaine Old Fashioned 4th of July parade, street fair, car show & fireworks July 6-11: Drayton Harbor Music Festival July 11: Art-2-Jazz Street Fair July 24 & 25: G'ana'k'w Canoe Family Festival Aug 1 & 2: Drayton Harbor Days raft race, steam boats, arts and crafts, kids events Sundays, Aug 2-23: Peace Arch Park International Concert Series Blaine Visitor Information Center 728 Peace Portal Dr., downtown Blaine
360-332-4544
www.BlaineChamber.com
Come Play at Birch Bay!
A Birding Paradise! Visit us again for these fun events!
March 28 Birch Bay Road Race June 20 & 21 Birch Bay Kite Festival July 18 & 19 Sandcastle Competition August 1 & 2 Roll Back Weekend August 15 & 16 Birch Bay Music Festival August 29 & 30 Birch Bay Discovery Days
VIC - 7900 Birch Bay Dr. • 360-371-5004
BirchBayChamber.com WINGS OVER WATER 2015 SUPPORTERS (Financial Supporters in Bold)
Ace Hardware AMS Mailing Service Banner Bank Bellingham West Marine Big Al’s Birch Bay Waterslides Blaine Insurance Blaine Pizza Factory Blaine School District Blaine West Marine Bob & Lois Franco Bobbie Brown/Windermere The C Shop Charlie Hawkins Chmelick,Sitkin & Davis CJ’s Beach House Restaurant Cost Cutter David Riffle Ed & Pat Kingshot Edaleen Dairy Eric Ellingson Freeman Real Estate GLM Winery Hagen’s of Blaine Mailing Service Heidi Holmes Horseshoe Antiques Jim & Carolyn Calhoon Joe Meche Ken Salzman LFS Marine & Outdoor Lynden Christian School Mike Kent/Windermere Natures Path Foods North Bellingham Golf Course NWcascades.com Pacific Building Center Paso Del Norte Peace Arch City Café Pleasant Valley Dairy Propack Inc. Roger Ellingson Seascape Condos Seaside Bakery Café Stafholt Good Samaritan Center Sunny Brown, APA Cannery Museum Subway TC Trading Totally Chocolate The Northern Light Umpqua Bank Van Wingerden Garden Center Whatcom Conservation District Washington Brant Foundation Wayne Diaz WECU Bank
March 5 - 11, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
13
Birch Bay twins start charity program By Steve Guntli Eleven-year-old twin sisters Sarah and Amy Aginsky were looking for a way to give back to the community for their upcoming bat mitzvah. When they first learned of the Street Store concept, it seemed like a natural fit. “We picked the Street Store because it started in South Africa,” Amy said. “Our parents were born there and we still have relatives living there, so we felt connected to it.” The Street Store program was created in January 2014. Street Stores operate like regular retail stores, only without the exchange of money. Homeless people can pick out up to four items of clothing or shoes, while volunteers help them find the right sizes and pairings. The girls live in Birch Bay
and attend school in Richmond, B.C. They are looking for donations from the community to supply the charity event, which will be held at Lighthouse Mission Ministries in Bellingham from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7. “We’ve had an excellent response,” Sarah said. “Our school is helping out, and so are our neighbors and lots of people from the community.” The sisters said most people are donating used clothes, but some of the items are new. Lago Apparel, a screen-printing company in Langley, B.C., has donated about 250 brand-new hats and shirts for the Street Store. Signs by Tomorrow in Bellingham is donating posters and promotional materials for the event. Clean clothes and shoes for
s Sarah, l., and Amy Aginsky in Birch Bay. men, women and children can be dropped off until March 6 at the four Whatcom County Vision Plus locations in Belling-
ham, Ferndale and Lynden. “We want to thank the community for all their help,” Sarah said. “This is going to be the
first of many projects for us.” For details, contact Lauren Kramer at 360-5695 or laurenkramer@hotmail.com.
Beach ...
like to use it, so we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding,” Wenger said. The city will be removing old chunks of concrete off the shore close to the telescope. The concrete was once the foundation of a cannery that operated in the late 1800s. “The WDFW was adamant we get that concrete out of there,” Wenger said. “The parks board took a long time weighing the historical value, but in the end we felt rebuilding the beach was more important.” The crumbling concrete blocks and rebar at the site also pose a safety concern, Wenger said. A machine called a concrete breaker will break down
the concrete, a process which Wenger warns can be noisy. Boulders and sand will be installed. The city will also expand grassy areas near the shore and install native plants. The city is using its own employees to perform the restoration. Doing so allowed the city to begin the project immediately while saving on the cost of hiring a contractor. So far, the crew has laid out a temporary road through the park to allow heavy machinery easy access to the shore. Wenger said the city administration will be actively seeking to improve the rest of the Marine Park shoreline in the future.
From page 1
s Construction crews carve a temporary road through Marine Park to allow heavy machinery easy access to the beach.
Photo by Steve Guntli
BIA ... From page 1
the summer months. This also gives the company the chance to reroute its larger Boeing 737 planes to busier markets out east. Alaska will resume flights to Honolulu, Maui and Las Vegas from November to March. The Maui flights were already on a seasonal basis. The declining number of flights out of Bellingham may have to do with the struggling Canadian dollar. The loonie is currently valued at 79 cents on the U.S. dollar. According to the Port of Bellingham, 55 percent of passengers flying out of BIA are Canadian.
FIND US ONLINE!
Photo by Lauren Kramer
quality violations. The city has held the project for more than a year, waiting on permits from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) as well as the completion of an environmental impact review from the DOE. The final permits cleared on February 18. The project will take approximately two to three weeks to complete. During that time, access to Telescope Beach will be restricted. “We realize this is one of our best parks and a lot of people
14
The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
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Construction
Handyman
A-1 Handyman Plus
• Remodel & Home Repairs • All Phases of Carpentry • Home Improvements • Kitchen & Bathrooms • Drywall & Texture • Painting • Rot Repair • Decks & Porches • Doors & Windows
COMPLETE REMODELS
Specializing in Renovations & New Construction Kitchens & Baths • Custom & Spec Homes Decks, Garages & Additions
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Honest, Reliable & Affordable
completeremodels@yahoo.com www.completeremodels.net COMPLR*006PP
DESIGN BUILDERS,
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LLC
ALL-IN-ONE HANdymAN
Remodels Contractor & Additions • General Bathrooms &&Kitchens • Remodels Additions Decks & Porches • Decks & Porches Small Jobs Welcome
Serving Blaine Serving Birch Birch Bay Bay & & Blaine
360-201-3464 360-201-3464
wwwUs .WhatcomHomeBuilder. com Call For A Free Estimate Call Us For A Free Estimate LicLic##DESIGBL934JL DESIGBL934JL
HOTLINE ELECTRIC Service/Construction Residential - Commercial Industrial Licensed • Bonded • Insured HOTLIE*914J7
360 325.3581 • Home Repairs • Remodels • Kitchen & Bathrooms • Roof Repairs • Doors & Windows • Drywall & Texture • Painting • Fencing
Contact us for a free quote:
www.handymanbellingham.com Lic.# ALLONOH860O6
Landscaping
• Spring Cleanup! • Retaining Walls • Patios, Walkways • Outdoor Living Design
Plumbing
• Mowing • Edging • Trimming • Weed Control
3040 BIRCH BAYLYNDEN RD.
360-366-5340
Sunshine Landscaping Sabastian
Licensed • Insured • Residential • Commercial Winter Cleanup, Mowing, Hedging, Weeding, Pruning, Hauling, Small tree removal, Pressure washing, Roof moss removal 360-739-1476 • 360-739-1729
Painting PAINTING INTERIOR and exterior. Reasonable rates, 31 years experience. Licensed, bonded and insured. Call Doug 360-371-9094. Lic#DOUGLPP066KL.
WINTER SPECIAL 20% OFF Be another happy customer of
The Edge Intl., LLC Painting & Design “Get The Edge”
Free Estimates
Locally
360-393-5123 Owned
Lic.# eDGeIeI901Kf
Tree Trimming & Removal Chipping & Hauling, Tree Sales Stump Grinding - Bucket Trucks
Duty Free Americas, Inc. is a travel retailer offering our customer (traveling into Canada) top shelf liquors, international brand fragrances and quality gift items at Duty Free and/or significant price savings.
Walk ins welcome! We look forward to hearing from you!
At our Blaine Location, we are in need of:
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Supervisor. Must have valid driver’s license and some maintenance experience. Wage starts at $12/hour and will increase depending on experience. Call 360-332-1847 for interview.
Boats
Lic# CLEANCL878LL
Greg Kendall, Owner-Operator
Please visit our website at http://bellingham.expresspros. com/ to apply or we accept applications Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm
1964 TOLLYCRAFT 17.5’, Mahogany hull, 55 hp Evinrude outboard engine, comes with Caukins easy-load trailer, rig has always been stored inside. $4,000. Serious inquiries only. Leave message at 360-3198725.
360.410.8188
Kendall’s Tree Service ,LLC
Class A CDL & at least 1 year current OTR exp. Clean MVR/PSP Reports. Call 1-800-837-2241 8AM to 4PM CST for info & app or email: jobs@ashleydistributionservices.com or www.ashleydistributionservices.com to apply under jobs.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Natural Play Therapy/interaction with 13 year old boy with autism. No experience necessary. Call 360-778-2465, 360-4410908, or for program info go to naturalplaytherapy.com.
cleancutlandscapedesign@gmail.com
Lic#KENDATS872JW
Computer
CommerCial Grounds maintenanCe & Full residential serviCes
www.get-the-edge-painting.com
Find it in the Classifieds!
TRUCK DRIVERSOTR/CLASS A CDL
• Forklift Drivers • Machine Operators • Concrete laborers • Merchandising • Food Processing • Lumber Mill • Fish Processing • General Labor/production • Soldering • Shipping & Receiving • CDL Driver • Process Technician • CNC Operator • Dump truck driver • Dishwashing • Payroll • Accounting • Administrative Assistant • Executive Assistant • Medical Office Data Entry
360-734-2457
CLEANING SPECIAL 4 hours for $100. Professional cleaning, we do it all. 360-527-0555. www.marthascleaning.com. WALKABOUT WINDOW WASHING. Residential and commercial. Bonded, insured, experienced. 360-384-8888.
4152 Meridian, Suite 201 Bellingham, WA 98226
Honest, Affordable, Small jobs welcomed!
360-393-8246
Cleaning
Lic #A1HanHp962MH
info@thenorthernlight.com
Help Wanted
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Call or Email Amy! 360/332-1777 fax: 360/332-2777
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Lost and Found
MALE PHEASANT (escapee?) spotted in yard and on deck of house under bird feeders at end of Georgia Street, Blaine. Royal blue head, multi-colored body. Phone Mrs. Hurd if this your bird, 360-738-9960. PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.
Ashley Distribution Services in Blaine, WA seeks:
LTL DRIVERS (Multiple stop loads to retail stores!) Earning potential avg. $74,000 - Ability to Enter Canada • Home Weekly • Paid Vacation • Full Benefit Package
Part-time Sales Associates (All shifts available)
Apply in Person: 20 -12th Street, Blaine, WA, 98231 OR E-Mail us at DFAJobs@DutyFreeAmericas.com Join the Team today! • EOE M/F/D/V
Pet Supplies
Storage
ENGLISH RIDING show outfit—Beautiful black English jacket, made in Romania, size 12L ($75), shirt with collar ($10), riding pants size 30-32” waist ($30), black velvet english helmet size 6 7/8 ($25). All for $110 if quick, uncomplicated sale. Leave message at 360319-8725.
8’x10’ • 10’x12’ • 12’x20’ Available Now!
Marina Slips
Receive a
$200 Voucher at Captain’s Cove Marina!
Sign up for annual moorage with Captain’s Cove Marina and receive a $200 voucher* towards the fuel dock, work yard or pub! Call or email for more details! *Offer only valid for new or returning customers.
604-946-1244
info@captainscovemarina.ca www.captainscovemarina.ca
8027 Blaine Rd. BIRCH BAY
371-2600
Lots/Acreage BEAUTIFUL PARKLIKE setting! D-6 Lakewood Road, Oak Harbor, WA. In Lake Wood Estates (which consists of 15 acreage lots), nine homes currently in the development range in price from $425K to approx. $650K. Property has large Evergreens and Alder, lots of ferns in a beautiful setting. $175,000. 360-720-9095.
Looking for a
place to eat? Check out the
DINING GUIDE on page 16
March 5 - 11, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
Real Estate
Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 360.371.5100
15
8105 Birch Bay Square St. I-5 Exit 270, Blaine
BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO SEMI AHMOO OPEN HOUSES OPEN SUNDAY • 1-3 OPEN SATURDAY, MARCH 14 • 12-2
OPEN SUNDAY • 1-4
5437 Tanager Ln. • $354,000
Oh so charming Semiahmoo home wows w/soaring ceilings & upper clerestory windows that flood the 1,776 s.f. open plan with natural light. Island kitchen, main floor master suite & den, private upper guest suite & finished bonus room. Huge walk-in attic for future expansion or fantastic storage. Hardwood floors, classic white millwork & soft designer colors. Well maintained & ready to call home. Virtual Tour: StonehavenCharm.com.
8795 Wood Duck Way, Gate 3, Semiahmoo • $698,000
Over 5,000 s.f. of sheer luxury on the 9th tee at Semiahmoo. Large beautifully landscaped lot, sunny patio w/outdoor kitchen, 5-BR, 2-suites, opulence plus upstairs master w/ private balcony, double fireplace and spa bath. Office spaces, bonus rooms, extreme high quality theater rm, hobby rm and red cedar sauna.
Carolyn Jackson 360-220-6636
Brenda Mills 360-319-0072 B I RCH BAY OPEN HOUSES OPEN SUNDAY • 12-4
OPEN SATURDAY • 2-4
9141 Gleneagle Drive, #5 • $314,900
Tastefully and beautifully updated, this home is a must see. Large gourmet kitchen with upper-end appliances, maple cabinets, silestone counters. Good sized master bedroom overlooking a private pond with a luxurious master bath, upstairs laundry and 2 extra bedrooms for guests. Lovely private outdoor space for entertaining with a spacious deck in the back and patio in front and a double car garage.
Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488
F EATURED HOME
7448 Birch Bay Dr. • $369,000
2-story well-maintained home has wrap around deck with beautiful view of the bay! Open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, spacious family room and each bdrm has its own bath and its own view. Fabulous deck with unbelievable view of ocean, sunsets with additional back deck viewing Terrel Creek and wildlife. Situated on large lot. Directly across from beach access. Perfect for vacation getaway or full time living!
Randy Weg 360-305-5704
Paul Holtzheimer 360-303-4444
working for you!
If you want your house in this spot,
AND WANT IT SOLD, call Hugh today! 5-ACRES BELLINGHAM Possible Owner Contract!
150,000 OBO
$
SEMIAHMOO MARINA SLIP 36’ Marina Slip
!
LD EXCEPTIONALLY WELL BUILT SO BBV HOME! $250,000
8208 Quinault Rd. . MLS# 638462
Upgrades & built-ins. Brand new hardwood floors & more! A MUST SEE!
Best Price, Best Location
BUILD YOURinDREAM HOME! g d BirchllBay Lots Available PenVillage ! A Lots $ AT 60,000 8394 Harborview Rd. • Birch Bay STARTING
New Listing - Fabulous View! 8869 Semiahmoo Dr. • $769,000
Spectacular Semiahmoo area craftsman home! Unobstructed, west-facing views of White Rock and Boundary Bay. 3-BR +den, media room, 2.5-BA, 2 fp, 3,822 +/- s.f. of living space, main floor mstr, full-sized sports court, deck, RV parking. Undivided share in a private beach access. 2 championship golf courses plus Semiahmoo golf & country club, tennis court and swimming pool minutes away.
Leah Crews 360-305-4747
leah.crews21@gmail.com
3.9 ACRES - COMMERCIAL
Possible owner contract or joint venture.
375,000
$
All pending feasibility. Amenities: 24/7 security, marina, boat launch, tennis, golf, club house & more!
Call Hugh - 24 years experience helping buyers & sellers. 2930 Newmarket St. #111 • Bellingham CallHugh.com
Make your NEXT move the BEST move Don’t hesitate, ask me what your home is worth today!
Ruth Skeete 360-358-5075 Ruth.Skeete@century21.com
The web address to your next address...
www.C21BayProperties.com
Rentals - Rooms BEDROOM IN newer house. Private bathroom, WiFi, cable TV, laundry facilities, and kitchen privileges included. Available April 1. $450/month. 206-398-9335. FURNISHED ROOM includes amenities. NS, pet friendly, from $500.00 + deposit. 360-3323449.
5657 Whitehorn Way • $379,900
Impeccably maintained rambler in the Pt. Whitehorn neighborhood of Birch Bay. 3-BR, 2-BA, master with jetted tub, open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, spacious gourmet kitchen, dining room, 2-car garage, private fenced garden. Enjoy watching the eagles soaring from you living room with filtered views of Birch Bay. Private beach access rights for residents. Minutes walk to the State Park and Whitehorn Marine Park. Ten minutes drive from I-5 to this wonderful neighborhood.
1388 Bayview Ct. #4 • $164,900
Step inside this nicely appointed condo in the heart of Blaine. Within walking distance to schools, downtown, 2 parks and the ocean. 3 big bedrooms, 2 with walk-in closets. Updated with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops in the kitchen and both bathrooms. Newer higher end laminate flooring was installed within the last year. This is the ideal home for a full time person, investor or as a weekend getaway.
Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488
Pat Brown 360-739-2643
www.windermere.com
Now is the time to SELL!... Open HMoaurcshe7 day, CALL HUGH! 360 371.5800 Satur1 - 3 PM 25 years experierce www.CallHugh.com
IST EW L
N
Single-level, 2-BR, 2-BA craftsman cottage in newer Birch Bay community, The Tides. Highlighted with stainless steel appliances, stone gas fireplace & vaulted ceiling. Situated on a sunny private hillside overlooking the Bay which includes pool, hot tub, storage & clubhouse. Excellent location, close to all Birch Bay amenities, minutes walk to the beach and close to Canada/US border and 2 hours from Seattle. Perfect for vacation or fulltime living!
In case of inclement weather, please call agent to confirm open houses.
ING!
OPEN SUNDAY, MARCH 15 • 12-2
FAK
4750 Tidal Way, 101N • $206,000
5328 Canvasback • $799,000
VIEW! VIEW! VIEW! Walls of windows capture snowcapped mountains, city lights, saltwater, spinnakers, and sea breezes! Primary living on one luxe level, new floors, new kitchen. Luxe fireplaced master suite w/ balcony & tavertine bath. 3 add’; bedrooms, 2 more baths, 2 offices (one currently serves as 4th guestrm), 2 garden level multi-use rooms. Tons of storage. 3-car side entry garage. Outdoor living space galore. Huge deck, patio, gracious backyard.
Linda Kiens 360-815-6640
IND!
O ONE
OPEN SUNDAY • 2-4
The web address to your next address...
www.C21BayProperties.com
Rentals - Rms (Cont.)
Homes for Heroes program in Whatcom County!
If you're a school teacher, firefighter/ EMT, military veteran, school employee, law enforcement officer, doctor, nurse or medical personnel or a State & Federal Government employee and would like to own your own home, the “Homes for Heroes” program offers discounts to heroes, for low to no down-payment programs. Call for more info: 360-961-1718, or go to www.homesforheroeswa.com, please include best time to call back. Find more details at the website. Drew Rosser, local contact, Windermere Real Estate. Rentals - Commercial
HigH Bay WareHouse with office for lease.
Over 5000 sf., Attractive rate. Call 360-332-5276 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.
HiBay WAREHOUSE AVAILABLE NOW
2275 s.f. at 1667 Grant Ave. Office & WArehOuse short or Long Term Leases NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave.
Don Nelson (360) 332-2743 www.nelsonbuildings.com
Rentals - Residential CHARMING, COZY 1-BR, 1-BA, downtown Blaine $650/ mo. includes water/sewer. No pets, no smoking. 360-2246014.
BIRCH BAY / CUSTER
3-BR, 2-BA Birch Bay Village. Family Room, 2 car gar. Enjoy all amenities of Village. Central gas heat, W/D, D/W, stove/ refrig., $1375/mo. 3-BR, 2-BA. Large kitchen, W/D, D/W, stove/refrig. Quiet Location, large rear deck $1250/mo. 2-BR, 1-BA. Large corner lot, 2 blocks to beach. D/W, stove/refrig. Shed. Quiet street near “C” Shop $795/mo.
BLAINE 3-BR, 1.75-BA. 1325 s.f. rear deck, carport, new W/D, stove, quiet street, easy border access $1100/mo. 3-BR, 2-BA Condo. View of harbor, W/D, D/W, stove/refrig, jetted tub. 55 & older. Garage, gas fireplace, private patio $1250/mo. 2-BR, 1-BA Older Home. Basement, large yard, greenhouse, gas fireplace. W/D, 1209 Hughes Ave. $975/mo. Updated 650 Sq. Ft. Commercial Space available. Downtown location, includes new ADA approved bath w/ shower. Ground level entrance, parking. Close to banks, Canadian access $795/ mo. www.townsquareblaine.com N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,
CALL FOR DETAILS!
Classifieds are online at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds 360-332-3166
16
The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
Birch Bay looking for love in all the right places By Steve Guntli The tiny parish of Kilcar in northwest Ireland is known for its fishing, fine knitted clothes and beautiful scenery. One Birch Bay resident is hoping to make the quiet seaside community Birch Bay’s sister community. Kelvin Barton, owner of several rental cottages in Birch Bay, first suggested the idea on his last trip to Ireland. Barton’s family immigrated to the United States from Kilcar in the early 1900s, and he still has strong family ties in the region. “I was there in October, and I brought the idea to the Kilcar Parish Council,” he said. “I thought we could get something together for St. Patrick’s Day, and they liked the idea.” Sister city programs first began after World War II as a way to strengthen relationships between international communities. Sister cities may have similar populations, exports, scenery or even names (for example, the city of Dull, Scotland is a sister city with Boring, Oregon). Once paired, the communities build a relationship through cultural education programs and business exchanges. Sister city programs are particularly popular in Ireland. “There’s a saying that Ireland’s biggest export is their children,” Barton said. “So Ireland is big on keeping in touch with
Letters ... From page 5
government. A democracy will exist until the people (and their leaders) discover they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on the majority votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury. The democracy collapses over loose fiscal policy. Even more frightening is what follows: dictatorship. How close are we to collapse in our country? Susan Blondell Kaplan Bellingham The Editor: A very important special election is happening next Tuesday, March 10. In it, incumbent Larry Helm, a Whatcom County small farmer is running for re-election to the conservation board within the Whatcom Conservation District. Many people are unaware of this election. But it is extremely important, not only because of the mass of Whatcom Conservation District expenditures from our governor’s $700 million conservation budget that
O B I T U A RY Theodore “Ted” Philip Sowers
March 3, 1933 - February 19, 2015 Theodore “Ted” Philip Sowers Jr. (81), resident of St. Maries, ID died February 19 at St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham. He was born March 3, 1933 to Theodore and Alice (Wert) Sowers Sr. in Indianapolis, IN. On February 16, 1955, he married Elinor Mae Ireland in Indianapolis. They lived in Blaine for 30 years before moving to St. Maries in 1996. As an adult, he attended Western Washington University. He worked as an electrician for Intalco Aluminum, and retired there. Ted enjoyed collecting guns and new adventures such as kayaking, scuba diving, bowling, crossbow, archery, canoeing, fishing and hunting. His love for life will be missed by his family. He died in Whatcom County where many of his children and grandchildren were able to spend time with him before his passing. Ted is survived by his wife Elinor, Bellingham, daughters Debra (Rollie) Raper, Bellingham, and Mavis (Daniel) Dean, Spokane, and sons Troy (Susan) Sowers, Custer, and Craig (Kimberley) Sowers, Blaine. Also surviving are his brother Ronald Sowers of Freedom, IN and 12 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by brother Allen Sowers and sister Vickie Farris. At Ted’s request, there will be no services.
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the people who left.” Birch Bay and Kilcar parish are similar in size, though Birch Bay has a much larger population. Kilcar Village has a population of less than 300, while the parish itself has about 4,000 people. Both regions have rich fishing histories and beautiful waterfronts. The nonprofit organization Sister Cities International handles all sister city applications. Naming an official sister city can be a long process, but the first step is establishing a common interest between the two communities. Barton hasn’t submitted an official application just yet. “We don’t know if it will go any further than this, but we thought it would be a fun activity for St. Patrick’s Day,” Barton said. “In some cases, the government will pay for a represen-
tative from a sister city to fly out and visit, but we’re not sure if that’s going to happen yet. We’ll wait and see.” Barton and officials from Kilcar plan to share photos of their respective St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on a common website. Barton is hoping to use krontel. com for the photos, but he’s still setting it up. Barton and a small group of friends celebrate St. Paddy’s Day each year by strolling down Birch Bay Drive. “We walk from business to business and see what kind of trouble we can get into,” he said. “We’ll stop in and eat or sing traditional Irish songs. It’s a lot of fun, and I’m hoping we can get more people involved this year.” The walk will begin at the Will’O Pub at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 14.
are being deliberated, but also because of the barrage of conservation regulations currently threatening our farms, small ones especially. I’m a former Alaska fish cop and I know this guy. His own pollution sensors monitor the stream adjacent to his property. No one’s more qualified in such a position to protect both fish and farms countywide than Larry Helm. By all means, if at all possible, please drive to the Whatcom Conservation District Office at 6975 Hannegan Road between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 and give him your vote. Terry Montonye Bellingham
knowledgeable about which products are best for each patient’s specific medical needs. MMJ dispensaries have private rooms to provide confidentiality and time to talk about medical issues and products, essential for many patients who require anonymity due to their jobs or positions in the community. MMJ products are high quality and clearly labeled for use on different types of illnesses. MMJ will be too expensive for many lower income patients if it is taxed at the same rate as recreational marijuana. Medication should be as affordable as possible, not a moneymaker for the state. MMJ patients should be able to grow their own medication to control their own quality and strains. Studies about using MMJ for cancer, epilepsy, wasting diseases and PTSD are showing the quality of life someone can have without the side effects of traditional medications. Don’t let the state devalue this useful medicine by selling it recreationally to patients. Call now or they will be combined. Amy Glasser Bellingham
The Editor: Please contact your state congressman and tell them to keep medical marijuana (MMJ) separate from recreational marijuana. As a mental health therapist, I strongly believe that the use of MMJ is far more beneficial and less dangerous than many drugs and should be available exclusively at MMJ dispensaries for the following reasons: Appointments can be made at MMJ dispensaries. MMJ “budtenders” are professional and
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Police Reports February 19, 1:56 p.m.: Police were dispatched to the high school on a report that a teenager had been smoking marijuana on the campus. An officer collected and impounded a personal-use amount of marijuana as evidence and interviewed witnesses. He completed a case report for minor in possession of marijuana for review by the juvenile prosecutor. February 26, 7:10 a.m.: A resident found a loose dog with no ID wandering the neighborhood, tied up the friendly animal at home and called police. An officer contacted the finder and arranged for the humane society to collect the critter. Several hours later the officer located the animal’s owner, informed her of the leash and license laws and how to collect her pet. February 26, 9:48 a.m.: A resident called police for help when he discovered a deceased deer in his yard, and explained it looked like the animal had been attacked by something. An officer responded to investigate. He was not able to determine whether a predator had killed the deer or if scavengers had happened upon the remains. Animal Control was contacted and agreed to remove the deer from the landscaping. February 26, 4:07 p.m.: Po-
lice were called when passersby saw a man walking on D Street under the I-5 overpass dragging a large fishing net full of belongings. Officers arrived and spoke with the young Blaine resident about his burden. He explained that he had fashioned a raft from several plastic bins and fishing net, and had just taken it for a test ride in the nearby harbor. He was headed home with the handmade boat to tell his doubting relatives of his success. February 27, 1:05 a.m.: Police received a report that a tavern patron had refused repeated instructions to leave the premises, and arrived to find the man had gotten the message and was now in the back alley. An officer interviewed him; he said he had gotten into an argument but no physical violence had occurred. He promised to not go back inside, and no further calls were received. February 27, 6:30 a.m.: An anonymous caller reported a person was wandering down the 400 block of Cedar Street clad only in underwear. Police and border patrol searched the neighborhood but did not locate any shivering pedestrians, and received no similar calls. February 27, 8:13 a.m.: Police were contacted by a resident asking for help with a
Crossword
ACROSS 1. “A Nightmare on ___ Street” 4. Not honored 10. “A jealous mistress”: Emerson 13. Certain surgeon’s “patient” 14. Sartre novel 15. ___ constrictor 16. Face-to-face exam 17. Flowering plant’s reproductive organ 18. Certain digital watch face, for short 19. Fir tree seed producers 21. Australian runner 23. “Come in!” 24. Weightlifting maneuver 27. “I” problem 28. Bull markets 31. Of more dubious character 32. Note prolongation 34. Bamboozles 35. Unwanted item (2 wds) 38. Lentil curry 39. Sudden outburst
problem that appears to be civil. The person reported they have their home on the market for sale, but person living nearby keeps contacting prospective buyers and might be trying to keep the home from selling. The actions did not yet rise to criminal harassment and the reporting party was advised to contact a civil attorney. February 27, 9:22 a.m.: Blaine Police were dispatched to a report of an elderly confused man stumbling down H Street Road. Border Patrol agents assisted in locating and contacting the victim, and advised he was possibly suffering from dementia. Blaine officers arrived and interviewed the man. An aid crew was dispatched to check his health, and his wife and caregiver were called and arrived a short time later to drive him home. February 27, 9:30 p.m.: Blaine police removed an unruly passenger from an Amtrak train at the request of Amtrak personnel. The person appeared to be suffering a mental problem. He was transported to hospital for an involuntary commitment evaluation. This report is provided by the Blaine police department. A full listing of the week’s police report can be found at thenorthern light.com.
DOWN
surprising 5. Indian bread 6. “No problem!” 7. Federal agency for mail delivery (abbrev.) 8. Formerly known as 9. Lead sulfide 10. Ritual hand washing 11. ___ v. Wade 12. Bit 13. Pith hat 20. Salad oil holder 22. Like the Marx Brothers 24. Woodworking tool 25. Copper 26. “48___” 29. Favor 30. Common sense? 31. About 1.3 cubic yards 32. Entering a legal document into public record 33. C.S.A. state (abbrev.) 35. “That was close!” 36. Main house on a ranch (Spanish) 37. “Faster!” 38. “Silent Spring” subject (abbrev.) 41. Pauper 43. Loathsome 44. Wife of a rajah (pl.) 45. Allowances for waste after deduction for tare 48. Beginning 50. Qualm 51. Apple spray 52. Anger, with “up” 53. Makeup, e.g. 54. “Sesame Street” watcher 55. “___ to Billie Joe” 57. “___ moment”
1. 2. 3. 4.
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(hyphenated) 40. Logarithmic unit of sound intensity 42. “To ___ is human ...” 43. Crumb 46. One who twists threads 47. “M*A*S*H” role 49. Baby carrier? 50. Telephone circuit connecting multiple subscribers (2 wds) 54. Elephant’s weight, maybe 56. Masked man with a stick 58. Keats, for one 59. “That’s ___ ...” 60. Chronicles 61. Colors 62. Oolong, for one 63. Wish undone 64. Balaam’s mount
Astray Shack (hyphenated) Donnybrook So unusual as to be
Tides March 6 – March 12 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 6
6:07 am 8.9 12:06 pm 3.5
5:48 pm 8.0
Sa 7 12:03 am 2.0 6:31 am 8.9
12:40 pm 3.1 6:30 pm 7.9
Su 8 12:35 am 2.6 7:53 am 8.8
2:12 pm 2.7 8:14 pm 7.8
Mo 9 2:07 am 3.3 8:17 am 8.6
2:46 pm 2.4 9:02 pm 7.7
Tu 10 2:41 am 4.0 8:41 am 8.5
3:24 pm 2.0 9:58 pm 7.5
We 11 3:19 am 4.7 9:05 am 8.3
4:08 pm 1.8 11:00 pm 7.4
Th 12 4:03 am 5.4 9:35 am 8.2
17
4:58 pm 1.5
Weather Precipitation: During the period of February 19 to February 25 there were 0 inches of precipitation. The 2015 year-to-date precipitation is 6.72 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 59.6°F on February 21, with a low of 32.1°F on February 23. Average temperature for the week was 44.5°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
First Friday Entertainment: Friday, March 6, 5:30 p.m., Lummi Gateway Center, 4920 Rural Avenue, Ferndale. New York steak and snow crab dinner, entertainment to follow. $14 per person. Info: 933-4211. Gluten Free 101: Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Explore the challenges facing those diagnosed with celiac disease or choosing a gluten-free diet. Info: 305-3637. Soccer Basics: Saturdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28, noon–1 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. For kids ages 7–10. Improve your soccer skills. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Volleyball Basics: Saturdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28, 1–2 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. For kids ages 7–10. Improve your volleyball skills and have fun playing the game. Register early, class limited to 20 kids. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Pizza and Pizzazz Community Talent Show: Saturday, March 7, 5 p.m. See local talent perform and enjoy fresh baked all-you-can-eat pizza, Caesar salad, drinks and dessert pizza. Door prizes. Adults $10, students $5, children 5 and under free. 2015 Organized Bride Spring Bridal Show: Sunday, March 8, 11:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Ferndale Events Center, 5715 Barrett Road, Ferndale. Meet with vendors, try food from local caterers and enter for free giveaways. Info: simplyorganizedbride.com. AGAPE Concert: Sunday, March 8, Blaine PAC, 6 p.m. Grace Lutheran Church invites you, your family and friends to be a part of the AGAPE concert. Admission is a suggested $5 donation per person. Info: hiphopoutreach.com or 961-1685. United States Citizenship Class: Mondays through March 30, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Prepare for your citizenship interview and study U.S. history and government for the examination. Five free classes taught in English. Register online or contact the library. Registration is required and class size is limited. Info: 305-3637. Playful Learning: Wednesday, March 11, 11 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn while you play with these fun times designed for preschoolers and their adults. New equipment this week: play-doh and tools, road map carpet and more. For ages 3-5. Info: 305-3637. Dahlias: Wednesday, March 11, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how easy it is to have these colorful long bloomers add beauty to your yard and garden. Info: Kelle Sunter, 332-7435. Blaine Senior Center St. Patrick’s Dinner: Wednesday, March 11, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. A St. Patrick’s themed meal will be served, along with live Irish music from Up in the Air and much more. Admission by donation. Proceeds will help provide meals to seniors in Whatcom County. Info: wccoa.org. Save Birch Bay/Power Past Coal Monthly Meeting: Wednesday, March 11, 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Fire Hall, Birch Bay-Lynden Road. All are welcome. Info: savebirchbay@gmail.com. Kindergarten Registration: Thursday, March 12, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Blaine Primary School, 820 Boblett Street. Your child is eligible to enter kindergarten for the 2015-2016 school year if he/she is turning 5 years old on or before August 31. To register your child you need a copy of your child’s birth certificate and updated immunization records. Info: 332-1300. Recreation Northwest Expo: Thursday, March 12, 4–8 p.m., Lakeway Inn, 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham. Connect with local and regional outdoor recreation professionals. Speakers, exhibitors and prizes. Free. Info: recreationnorthwest.org. MS Living Event: Thursday, March 12, 6 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. Hear from MS experts and others who are living with MS. A meal will be provided. Info: mslivingevents.com. Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival: Friday–Sunday, March 13–15, various Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo locations. Festival opening reception Friday, 5–7 p.m. at Semiahmoo Resort. All-day birding expo Saturday. Kids’ activities, expert wildlife speakers, live raptor presentations, photography workshops, wildlife boat cruises and more. Info: wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. Blaine Senior Center Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, March 14, 8–11 a.m., 763 G Street. Pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy or French toast with fruit, scrambled eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. Cost: $6 adults, $4 children. Info: 332-8040. Seed Saving with Krista Rome: Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn the basics of preserving rare and heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO seeds, and which plants are easiest to get started with. Isolation distances, inbreeding vs. outbreeding, threshing and seed cleaning techniques will also be explored. Info: 305-3637. Energy Types – Personality, Chakras and Balance Workshop: Saturday, March 14, 1:30–4:30 p.m., Lions Camp Horizon, 7506 Gemini Street. Info: sagebutterfly.com. Bellingham St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Saturday March 14, noon. Parade runs along Cornwall Avenue from Ohio Street to Chestnut, ending at Boundary Bay Brewery. Honors firefighters, law enforcement and public safety personnel. Info: stpatsbham.com. Irish Stew Dinner: Saturday, March 14, 4:30–7 p.m., Custer United Methodist Church, 2996 Main Street, Custer. Adults $9, Kids 6–12 $6, under 6 free. Info: 366-5181. Haynie Opry: Saturday, March 14, 7 p.m., Haynie Grange, 3344 Haynie Road. Featuring Roosevelt Road bluegrass group plus Matt Audette and the Circle of Friends Band. Tickets $10 at the door. Info: 366-3321. 8th Annual Spring Business Showcase: Thursday, March 19, 4–9 p.m., Sliver Reef Hotel Casino Spa. Whatcom County’s business to consumer trade show. Free admission, food, beer and wine tasting, prizes. Sponsored by Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Info: bellingham.com. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
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The Northern Light • March 5 - 11, 2015
HEALTH
& WELLNESS
Keep your “eat local-motive” on track By Jess Scott Wright, RDN Consumers committed to eating local food, aka “locavores,” should know “local” has many different meanings and organic isn’t one of them. The nearness of a food says nothing about how it was grown. Local food may very well be organic – but it isn’t always. Food labeled as organic is held to clearly defined standards for production methods, e.g. prohibiting the use of GMOs and synthetic pesticides. Although “local” implies food was grown within the vicinity, definitions for near and far are subject to interpretation. Therefore, consumers should clarify what “local” means to them and understand how it is defined within their community. Food philosophy often paral-
lels the complexity of religious or political beliefs, only it is more complicated because once food lingo enters the mainstream marketplace, definitions become diluted and confusing. The USDA website confirms no geographical parameters exist to officially define what is “local” and suggests farmers markets fulfill the eat local concept. But what happens when local food is sold beyond the farmers market at bigger box stores? Upon relocating to Washington a few months ago, I was immediately impressed by widespread support for the “eat local” movement throughout the northwest. I began to wonder if local had its own meaning in Whatcom County: Does local mean the same thing at the co-op as it does at Haggen? What about
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ter, on the other hand, limit “local” to 35 miles. “Everyone defines what it means for themselves,” said Adrienne Battis, outreach manager of the Community Food Coop in Bellingham. “Some organizations define local to be within the continental U.S., so it is up to the consumer to do research.” The Community Food Co-op is one of the many local businesses that acknowledged the loose boundaries for “local,” and wants customers to easily identify the Co-op’s criteria. “We have recently adjusted our logo to be more transparent about what local means to us,” Battis said. Generally, locavores feel a smaller farm-to-table geograph-
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ical area minimizes the carbon footprint, yields fresher and more nutritious food and keeps money circulating within the economy. Organic advocates argue production methods are more threatening to the carbon footprint than any environmental detriment caused by transport. With all variables from seed to harvest being equal, purchasing the food grown closer to you seems most sensible to me. However, this is not always the case. The biggest difference in local and organic is that organic has a firm definition and is held to the same expectations regardless of where it is sold. Although supporters of both
Illustration by Jess Scott Wright
Mondays & Wednesdays
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Cost Cutter in Blaine or The Market at Birch Bay? How far is too far to be considered “local?” Where does the “northwest” start and stop on a map? Where is Cascadia? As a not-yet-local Texan in transition, I wasn’t sure. Actually, I discovered multiple meanings for “local” within the community itself: Haggen, for example, elects to tell consumers where local items come from instead of defining a maximum radius for local products. The Markets and Cost Cut-
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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015
HEALTH
& WELLNESS Encouraging happy, healthy lives!
Local ... From previous page
you want to be true to your food philosophy. Maybe you aren’t quite sure what your food philosophy is, but you want to explore what it might be. Here are some ideas for where to start: Explore the resources available in your community and feed your life with what feels right to you. Sustainableconnections.org and the local co-op have phenomenal websites and printed materials. Get to know your farmers as the markets start to open in April – the ability to meet them is a
huge advantage for local foodies. Test your taste buds: Conduct an experiment at home with your family to see if you can detect a difference in organic or local foods. Choose a fruit or vegetable that is in season. Purchase three varieties: a. Organic, not local b. Local, not organic c. Both local and organic Label three plates a, b, and c, so only you know which one is which. Let the games begin.
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local and organic food producers share values for the environment, economy and health, the proximity of a food source says nothing about how it was produced. As a supporter of both organic farmers and my community, when I can’t have both, I feel somewhat torn to choose one over the other. After talking with several local businesses, I realized I am not alone. There is a definite line of separation for businesses prioritizing local and others who value production standards associated with organic above all else. Regardless, from the B.C. border to the edge of Bellingham, many options and resources are available. The Whatcom Farm and Food Finder, a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to know about local food sources, was sort of my Holy Grail for how to eat local in Whatcom County. In the case that your food philosophy goes beyond that of locality, this free guide also highlights which farms utilize organic and/or sustainable methods, making it easy to connect with farms sharing your values. It is important to understand how others define food lingo if
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