The Northern Light - February 26, 2015 by Point Roberts Press

Feb. 26 - Mar. 4, 2015

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Blaine man sentenced for stealing rare coins, page 2

Wings Over Water festival takes flight

Wrestlers win at Mat Classic, page 6

PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230

Home and Garden special section, pages 8-10

Made in Blaine

By Steve Guntli The Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival is returning to Blaine and Birch Bay bigger and better than ever. The bird-watching festival has been an annual tradition since 2002. Each year, bird watchers travel from all over to observe a huge variety of seabirds. Blaine and Birch Bay are located on the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory path for hundreds of species. The National Audubon Society recognizes Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Bay as Important Bird Areas, and are considered vital habitats for bird conservation. The three-day event will include a wide range of activities from bird-watching tours of the Salish Sea to lectures from birding experts. The festival starts off at Semiahmoo Resort on March 13. From 5 to 7 p.m., the resort will host a wine tasting. The reception will also include a display of wild bird photography and a presentation by featured artist Lorna Libert. New this year is a birding cruise aboard the Salish Sea, a 50-foot vessel that will take passengers on a two-hour tour of local waters on Saturday, March 14. Naturalists will be onboard to point out various species of birds and aquatic animals. The ship will make two trips, one at 10 a.m. and another at 12:30 p.m. The Salish Sea can carry 56 passengers. Tickets cost $47.50, and are available at wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. On Saturday, an all-day birding expo will be held at the Blaine Middle School and Performing Arts Center and will features seminars, workshops, field trips and exhibitions. Guest speakers include Paul Bannick and David Hancock. Bannick is a renowned (See Wings, page 15)

s From l.: Mark Seymour, Steve Seymour, Mayor Harry Robinson and Eric Johnson cut the ribbon on the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company’s new storefront at 677 Peace Portal Drive on February 23. Read the full story on page 3.

Photo by Steve Guntli

City takes concrete action on Marine Drive playground By Steve Guntli The city may not have all the money it needs, but it has more than enough to allow it to order equipment for the planned Marine Park playground. On February 18, deputy community planner Alex Wenger submitted a pur-

chase order to Portland, Oregon-based Buell Recreation, LLC and is tentatively scheduling a July 1 ribbon cutting. He has hopes that the playground could be ready a little sooner than that. “You can’t be 100 percent certain with any construction project,” Wenger said. “But we’ve met with contractors who

Birch Bay woman guilty for complicity in attempted murder By Steve Guntli After more than a week of deliberation, a Whatcom County jury has found Lesley Villatoro guilty of helping her boyfriend in an attempt to murder a Ferndale woman. Villatoro, 29, was found guilty on February 20 for complicity in six felonies: at-

tempted murder in the first degree, three charges of kidnapping in the first degree, burglary in the first degree and theft of a motor vehicle. In May 2014, Villatoro drove her boyfriend, Chad Horne, 34, to a home located at Patriot Place in Ferndale. Horne forced his way at gunpoint into the 39-year-old

mother of three’s home. Horne then bound her hands with zip ties, slit her throat with a 7-inch blade and fired a shot from a .45 caliber pistol at her. The bullet missed, and Horne fled the scene in the woman’s Chevy SUV. The victim managed to get to her

think they could do it by mid June.” The city set a budget of $450,000 for the playground and is still short by about $40,000. “It’s not something we’re concerned about,” Wenger said. “We’re (See Playground, page 2)

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Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Coming Up . . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

(See Verdict, page 3)

...and the merchants of Blaine and Birch Bay the 2015 Whatcom County Math Championship Students and Families FeBruary 28 Providing energy and improving lives.

welcome

The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Not Just a Flower Shop!

Birch Bay child molester sentenced to 28 months

Gift Baskets Made-To-Order

A Birch Bay man charged with molesting two underage girls in 2013 has been sentenced to 28 months in prison. Randall Lloyd Benson, 51, was arrested in March 2013 for sexually touching the two girls, both of whom were under 10 years old at the time. Benson has already served two years awaiting trial. Despite pleading guilty last

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December, Benson maintained his innocence at his trial. He claimed he’d been using an electronic massager to ease one of the girl’s leg pains when the massager “got away from him” and slipped inside the girl’s underwear. He also claims to have accidentally touched one of the girls inappropriately during a wrestling match.

Benson’s story conflicts with the one the girls told detectives. The girls claim that Benson sexually touched them while they slept on his living room floor. Superior court judge Charles Snyder passed down the 28-month sentence on February 24. Benson will have to register as a sex offender upon his release.

Blaine man must repay parents for stolen coins A Blaine man has been ordered to pay more than $75,000 after stealing his parents’ rare coin collection. On February 19, a Whatcom County Superior Court judge ordered David Ryan O’Dell, 29, to pay his parents $75,651 for the stolen items. O’Dell’s parents, David and Lynn, reported the coins and some jewelry stolen from their

home in Blaine last May. Detectives found 19 of the missing items had been pawned between October 2013 and May 2014, mostly outside the county. O’Dell was booked into Whatcom County Jail on June 10 for first-degree theft and second-degree trafficking. He admitted to the theft, and said he received about $5,000 for the pawned items.

Among the stolen items were 25 rare Morgan dollars, two 1962 World’s Fair dollars, $7,000 in silver trade dollars and $42,000 worth of gold coins, according to the charging papers. The court ordered O’Dell to undergo chemical dependency treatment for six months and serve two years of probation without using illegal drugs.

Playground...

always hold off on things like benches and picnic tables. We can always put those in at a later date.” Timing of the purchase order was important as the supplier had agreed to lock in 2014 prices for the equipment, but only if the city committed by late February. Funding came from community donations totaling $51,000, a $200,000 grant from Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 with another $160,000 from the city of Blaine. The playground will feature a 30-foot model ship and a smaller lighthouse-themed play set. There will be sidewalk improvements and an increase in parking stalls. The city is still accepting donations from the public. Donors can purchase bronze plaques that will be installed in the playground. The plaques depict different ocean creatures and range in cost from $250 for a sand lance to $10,000 for a great blue heron. “The big fundraising push is

essentially done, but we’ll keep accepting plaques until there’s no more room on the wall,” Wenger said. “And even then, we’re considering spreading them out to the sidewalk. We’re hoping now that if people can see this is definitely happening they’ll want to invest in the park.” Parks board members greeted Wenger’s February 19 announcement with enthusiasm. Chair Sandie Miller praised both Wenger and fellow board member Angie Dixon for their work on the project. Dixon has been a driving force behind the fundraising efforts since the playground was first announced last summer. “We really couldn’t have done this without you guys,” Miller said. Wenger is hopeful about the possibilities the playground presents. “This is just so great. This is something we can use as a marketing tool to promote the city and draw people here,” he said. “It feels like the beginning of something really neat.”

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From page 1

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February 26 - March 4, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com

Drayton Harbor Oyster Company opens store in Blaine By Steve Guntli When Steve Seymour first started oyster farming in Drayton Harbor in the 1980s, he dreamed of one day turning his passion into a family business. On February 23, his dream became a reality, as he and his son, Mark, cut the ribbon on their new store in Blaine. The Drayton Harbor Oyster Company has been alive in some form or another since the early 1900s. Seymour and some partners purchased the company in the ’80s, and farmed a 150-acre plot for years. By the mid-1990s, the water quality in the harbor had became so poor that Seymour had to halt production. His partner, Geoff Menzies, took over operations and converted the company into the Drayton Harbor Community Oyster Farm, a non-profit community supported aquaculture (CSA) organization. Seymour went to work for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, where he stayed until he retired in 2013. Thanks to the work of local citizens, the Whatcom County health department, the Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District and the Washington State Department of Ecology, the water quality in Drayton Harbor gradually improved. Shortly after

Seymour retired, Menzies gave him the opportunity to take over Drayton Harbor Oyster Company again. “Geoff has done so much to improve the water quality here,” Seymour said. “He had his hands full with all his different projects, so he asked if I could take over the oyster business. My son had just moved back, so the timing was perfect.” His son, Mark, had just returned to Washington after working in southern California as a fish biologist. Mark and his three siblings had grown up working on the oyster farm and he leapt at the chance to go into business with his dad. Today, the Seymours have a 30acre lease and a reefnet barge in Drayton Harbor. The company sells oysters to restaurants and markets from Blaine to Seattle, and provides Semiahmoo Resort 40 dozen oysters every week. The company grew 400,000 oysters last year, and currently has about 750,000 oysters growing. Steve’s grandson, Eric Johnson, has also been an integral part of the operation. Johnson sells oysters at the Bellingham Farmers Market and does promotional work. “I like to say three generations are working here, even though that makes us sound like an older company than we

are,” Steve said. The Drayton Harbor Oyster Company store sells shucked oysters by the dozen, and has raw oysters for sale in the store. The shop doesn’t have a kitchen, but Steve said the company is getting permits in place to grill oysters on the sidewalk on warm days. Mark Seymour said he and his dad picked the perfect time to get back into oysters. “There’s a bit of a raw oyster craze among foodies at the moment,” he said. “Down in Seattle, you’ll see people paying up to $45 for a dozen at some of the more high-end restaurants. Based on that, we think we offer a heck of a good deal.” Drayton Harbor Oyster Company charges $12 a dozen. They also offer what Mark calls a “watershed discount,” giving residents within the local watershed a $2 discount. “We feel it’s the least we can do. We recognize that everyone around here contributes to our company because we all pay to keep the bay clean. We couldn’t do it without the community.” The store has already gained positive reviews. At the Bite of Blaine on February 15, voters awarded the 2015 Best Bite award to the fledgling company, largely on the strength of its oyster stew. Steve said they are planning to

sell the stew in the store. “The Bite was awesome,” Steve said. “People came up to us and said how much they supported us and wanted this to happen. That was when I first thought, ‘Man, we could pull this off.’” While the company halts harvesting from November to January, the Seymours are hoping to keep the store open year-round. “We think we might try to bring in some outside product during those months so we can keep selling stew and keep ourselves busy,” Mark said. By that time, the Seymours hope to have turned the small storefront into a community hub. “We want to be the kind of place where people can come in to shoot the breeze and talk about what’s going on around town,” Steve said. “We love this community and want to stay involved.” Drayton Harbor Oyster Company will be open Wednesdays through Saturdays, from noon to 6 p.m.

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Congresswoman DelBene to honor Blaine Food Bank founder Just weeks after winning national recognition for his work with the Blaine Food Bank, Bert Isackson will be honored once again. On Saturday, February 28, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene will present Isackson with a U.S. Congressional Record. The record certifies his receipt of the National Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Isackson was presented with the national award on January 23, in recognition of the work he did with the Blaine Food Bank for

nearly 50 years. Isackson is the first person in Whatcom County to receive the award. In addition to the presidential recognition, the Volunteer Center of Whatcom County gave him the first-ever Bert Isackson Award for outstanding community service, and mayor Kelli Linville declared January 23 Bert Isackson Day in Bellingham. Blaine mayor Harry Robinson will present Isackson with a similar accolade: February 28 will now officially be Bert Isackson Day in the

city of Blaine. Congresswoman DelBene will stay in Blaine for the day after the ceremony. She plans to take a tour of the city and attend the Whatcom County Math Championship at Blaine Middle School. The awards ceremony will take place at Good Samaritan Society - Stafholt from 10 to 11 a.m. RSVP by Thursday, February 26 by calling 543-9982 or emailing Debbie Harger at dharger@cityofblaine.com.

Verdict ...

ning to go to Olive Garden to celebrate Horne’s birthday. Villatoro also claimed she left the park early because her babies were getting fussy. She returned to Birch Bay, where she and Horne were staying with Horne’s sister. Over the course of the twoweek trial, county prosecutor David McEachran argued that not only did Villatoro know what Horne was intending to do, she also provided him with a “murder kit” and was going to help him cover up the crime. The most damning evidence, according to McEachran, came from a trip to Wal-Mart Villatoro made in late April in which she purchased a duffel bag and a gas can. The duffel bag was found in the Tahoe next to Horne’s body, containing a hunting knife and zip ties. McEachran said the couple planned to get away by dousing the Tahoe in gasoline and burning

it to destroy evidence. Police also found a blue backpack, a change of men’s clothes, a police scanner and the gas can in Villatoro’s Honda Civic. Freyer argued that Villatoro was ignorant of Horne’s intentions and that the couple was planning to move back to Arizona in June. Freyer said Villatoro believed the gas can was for spare fuel for the trip. Security footage from a gas station showed Horne filling up the gas canister, but Villatoro was not with him at the time. McEachran believes the crime to have been a paid murder-forhire. Police have issued more than 70 search warrants for the man they believe contracted the killings. So far police have not found any evidence tying the suspect to Horne. Villatoro will remain in Whatcom County Jail to await her sentencing.

From page 1

neighbor who called 911, and paramedics were able to save the woman’s life. During the subsequent manhunt, Blaine police chief Mike Haslip spotted the suspect vehicle and rammed it with his police cruiser, forcing it off the road. Haslip called for backup but Horne shot and killed himself before officers could take him into custody. According to Villatoro’s attorney Thomas Freyer, after she dropped him off at the crime scene, Horne instructed Villatoro to take the couple’s twin babies to a nearby park and wait for 30 minutes. Villatoro claimed she thought Horne was meeting up with a coworker from Home Depot to smoke pot and said the family was plan-

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The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Opinion

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, 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 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 Creative Services 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 Emily Hirsch, Jasmine Fritsch, Janell Kortlever The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XX, No 37 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Mar. 5 Ads due: Feb. 27

Cheers to the Blarney Baloney Stone

s From l., Patrick Alesse, Kelvin Barton and Andrew Weightman raise pints of Guinness to the Blarney Baloney Stone, which will reside in the Will’O Pub in Birch Bay through St. Patrick’s Day for those in need of some Irish luck.

Photo by Ian Ferguson

The Editor: Hmmm. Let’s see if I can predict the findings of a $20,000 study about retail sales in Blaine. I suspect it will take getting more traffic off the freeway in order to cultivate any retail sales in Blaine. Hundreds of thousands of cars drive by Blaine annually on the freeway, and with nothing to lure them into Blaine, why should they stop? How many times do we need to study retail sales in Blaine? How much traffic could Blaine lure off the freeway with an open and operating Amtrak Station? Would a different selection have solved two problems with the same $20,000? Elle Tracy Blaine

The Editor: I would like to add my voice to those supporting the Lummi Nation in its request to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to stop the proposed GPT coal port at Cherry Point. I believe the many negative effects of this project would greatly impact the treaty rights of the tribe, as well as the rest of us living in this beautiful region. I urge everyone to investigate the probable consequences of transporting, storing and shipping coal in our area. The document “The Proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal (GPT) Facts and Impacts” compiled by volunteers at Save Birch Bay is available at the library and bookmobile. Please get informed. Pat Vavrick Blaine

The Editor: This letter is an expression of gratitude to my community for passing the Blaine school district bond. As a graduate from Blaine High School and a current senior at Stanford University, I know how exceptional the education at Blaine is for being a smaller public school, and how dilapidated the physical facilities currently are. Besides the pure need for a school that doesn’t leak every time it rains, the passing of this bond shows that the community believes Blaine students are worth the investment. It shows that they are worth more than these leaky roofs and outdated facilities. It makes my heart swell with joy to see my community believe and invest in the abilities of our students! Passing this bond provides students with the tools and support they need to be successful not only in high school but also in community college, technical school and even universities like Stanford. Martell Hesketh Blaine

The Editor: Here in Blaine, I see coal trains traveling to Canada. They have been doing this for years without any problems. It seems that using our deep water at Cherry Point to ship coal and other products to Asia is just common sense. We need the export dollars and the traffic comes through here already, so why not have it stop at Cherry Point, the place we have set aside for heavy industry? I hear some people think we should phase out the businesses at Cherry Point that have been good neighbors and great community citizens for many years. These businesses employ many people and pay taxes to support our schools and our community. New businesses that might think of coming to Whatcom County won’t be interested if we chase away the good ones we have. Right now people are studying everything under the sun related to this project. I hope the Gateway people don’t get discouraged. More people support this project than not and trust that the process will do what it’s supposed to – look at impacts and find ways to resolve them. It can be done, and it has been all over this country. Jobs and

environment can exist together. I ask people here to stay open-minded and focus on reason, not scare tactics. Let’s find a way to bring this new opportunity to Whatcom County so everyone can benefit, not just the fortunate few. Linda Roll Blaine The Editor: Has anyone else in Blaine noticed a change in our local U.S. post office? Over the last six to 12 months it seems as though the quality of customer service has declined and the general atmosphere is not as friendly as in the past. I have been a customer since the days when the post office was where the police station is located and there were no cluster boxes or two zip codes. Previous USPS staff never lost a package addressed to me. In the past year they have lost two. In both cases the tracking indicated that the packages were received in Blaine (one of them contained medication) and both were finally located. In the past year, I picked up my “hold mail” and did not receive all of it because I did not provide my complete address. I was distressed to receive an item labeled “Do Not Bend” that was ruined by being bent to fit into our PO Box. When I had a question or request, the response from certain recent employees at the Blaine Post Office was most unpleasant. Continued on next page

Clarification:

In last week’s story “Community rallies behind family after injury,” Crystal Lowery organized the fundraiser. Tracie Notar suggested the idea. 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.

February 26 - March 4, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com

Letters ... From previous page

Since I am not treated this way in other customer/business situations, it seems fair to assume the problem is not mine. Recently I filed a complaint form on uspsoig. gov. Perhaps other residents who have had similar problems would like to do the same. Larry Van Wanseele Blaine The Editor: Although The Northern Light is a wonderful newspaper, it is lacking something; something so vital and relevant that it needs to be considered. I believe The Northern Light should include comics. Even if it only includes a few comics it would drastically improve our newspaper. Comics not only bring happiness and laughter to adults but more importantly attract young readers. I love the fact that our newspaper includes the police reports, which are often very humorous and great for adults, but we need something that children will be attracted to. With today’s use of social media by young people it is crucial that we find ways to attract them to global issues and issues pertaining to the city of Blaine. If more young people were educated on the issues going on around them, the community would run smoother and positive change would happen faster. Most of us probably remember digging through a newspaper as a young person to find the comics that brightened your day, but you didn’t just read the comics, you also read headlines that made you curious and then you asked questions and learned about current issues. As a community we should be providing this same happiness and education for our young people that we were provided with as children. Alicia Allison Blaine The Editor: They let the newscaster Brian Williams go because he lied in a news broadcast. How hypocritical can everyone be? As if people in general don’t lie about one thing or another. The people who lie are the busiest pointing fingers at everyone else. I remember when President Clinton had an affair with Monica Lewinski and the government and news went crazy focusing on Clinton’s affair. As if people in the federal government (and elsewhere) weren’t having affairs themselves.

At the time, there were so many major issues facing the government that needed to be addressed. But no, they made Clinton’s affair the most important. It’s like everyone focusing on a freckle on someone’s face, while the rest of his or her face is decaying with cancer. Parents teach their children how to lie. This may sound insulting to parents, but hear me out. Children lie in order to avoid punishment, because they are afraid of being hurt. Who can blame them? Who wants to endure physical or emotional abuse? What is needed is for a child to feel compassion for others and have a natural feeling of guilt and hurt inside if they hurt someone else. Guilt is enough punishment. Take punishment out of equation of raising your children and foster trust and communication based on mutual respect and dignity, and the child will have no need to lie. Sandra Kisska Birch Bay The Editor: It seems reasonable to me that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers declined to stop the review process for the Gateway shipping terminal. As leaders in our community, the Lummis should be willing to talk with the Gateway people and work together to find ways for the project to benefit everyone, including members of the Lummi Nation who need work. Whatcom County supports the casino and other tribal business ventures, and it seems only fair that they do the same for new businesses that want to come here. I’d like to add that the employment this terminal will provide goes far beyond jobs at Gateway. Hundreds of new spin-off jobs (food, transportation, entertainment and housing) will be added as a result. New jobs mean more disposable income for families and more taxes to support our schools, police, fire and roads. Just like the industries now at Cherry Point, Gateway will lift up Whatcom County and secure family-wage jobs for decades to come. One more thing to consider is, instead of buying products made in China and other countries, let’s support American jobs right here in Whatcom County. This terminal will ship American products overseas, employing our own people who grow or manufacture

our own products. Our county, state and country will all benefit as a result. It’s time to get this project moving. Bob Jones Bellingham

after our best interest, but instead he is in big oil’s back pocket. Ericksen’s bill (SB 5057) is weak at best on the issue of financial responsibility, full disclosure of risks, proactive preventative measures and a solid accident response. Meanwhile, he is refusing to give a stronger bill a public hearing. When Doug Ericksen needed our votes last November, he promised to take a stronger leadership role on this issue and get it done. Just a few months later Ericksen is playing politics with our safety again. Nancy Orlowski Bellingham

The Editor: Oil companies and carriers who ship oil by rail through our community are willing to take risks with our property, health, economy and lives just to make a big profit. With an increase in oil by rail traffic, we’ve seen an increase in oil train accidents – three in February alone. The resulting explosions would be devastating in a populated area. As chair of the Senate energy and environment committee, Doug Ericksen should be looking

CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public.

Thursday, February 26, 7 pm Planning Commission meeting – Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Rescinding Cannery Hill and West Semiahmoo Planned Unit Developments, and Public Hearing - 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update Pipeline Urban Growth Area Monday, March 2, 4:30 pm - Study Session – Interview Applicants for City Council 5:30 pm – Special Council Meeting and Executive Session to discuss qualifications of Candidate for appointment to elective office per RCW 42.30.110(1)(h)

(See Letters, page 15)

Tuesday, March 3, 4 pm Blaine Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting Monday, March 9, 5 pm – Study Session – Shoreline Master Program 6 pm - City Council meeting

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U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

8105 Birch Bay Square Street • Suite 102

www.BirchBayTaxAndAccounting.com

www.cityofblaine.com

NOTICE OF FLUSHING

Volunteers Needed!

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.

Become an advocate, change a life.

The purpose of ﬂushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.

Our next advocacy counselor volunteer training is

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.

March 31 - April 23 To sign-up: www.dvsas.org/volunteer 360.671.5714

24-hour helpline: 360.715.1563 1407 Commercial St. Bellingham, WA

Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at 332-8820.

Se habla español.

Leroy Dougall, Blaine Public Works.

Blaine & Birch Bay

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Full automotive repair Foreign & Domestic

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360.332.9534

The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Sports

migration Law Firm Law Firm The Immigration

• U.S. green cards / naturalization • U.S. green cards / naturalization • Work / investor visas • Work / investor visas • Denied entry waivers • Denied entry waivers • Removal hearings • Removal NEXUS appeals hearings • NEXUS appeals

360-332-7100 360-332-7100

By Ian Ferguson

ation.com www.blaineimmigration.com •www.blaineimmigration.com 435 Martin St., Suite 2010 •••435 Blaine, WA St., Blaine,WA WA 435Martin Martin St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine,

rd D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law

15+ years experience

PUBLIC WORKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE The City of Blaine is currently seeking four citizens to serve on the new Public Works (PW) Advisory Committee: Two members will serve one year terms ending December 31, 2015, and 2 members will serve two year terms ending December 31, 2016. All subsequent terms will be for two years and members may serve two consecutive two year terms. Applicants must have lived in the City of Blaine for at least two years. The PW Advisory Committee will meet monthly or as required by the workload of the PW department. Members receive no financial compensation, but the payoff is great. Members meet other residents with similar interests, they learn about the City, and they help shape the future of Blaine! Being on the committee does require a personal commitment, so applicants should consider their ability to commit their time and personal energy before applying. If you are interested in serving on the committee, applications and descriptions of duties are available in the Administrative Services office at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin St., Suite 3000, or online at www.cityofblaine.com. For additional information, please contact PW Director Ravyn Whitewolf at 332-8820 or rwhitewolf@cityofblaine.com. PleASe SuBMIT youR APPlICATIon By 4:30 PM on Friday, February 27, 2014. The City will continue to accept applications until vacancies are filled.

Per Blaine Municipal Code (BMC) 2.08.028, concurrent service on more than one board or commission is precluded.

A T H L E T E H OF THE H

MONTH

Breanna Chau Senior • Basketball

Breanna is an important part of the girls postseason play. She scored 20 points in the 4th quarter against Lynden to send the game into overtime. Breanna continues to lead on the court as our point guard running the plays and making incredible passes to her teammates. She is a wonderful example of a student athlete. SPONSORED BY

FERNDALE

™

Six Borderites win medals at Mat Classic XXVII

Exit 262 off I-5 1731 LaBounty Rd.

360-380-4660

Battling through stacked weights and tough draws at the XXVII Mat Classic, the Borderites carried on the tradition of excellence the Blaine wrestling program is known for, with six wrestlers bringing home state medals. Last year’s team set the bar as high as it goes by winning the 1A state title, but this year the Borderites had to compete against larger 2A schools and each other. Six Blaine wrestlers competed in three of the most competitive weights – the middle weights of 126, 132 and 138 pounds. Given the tough odds, six wrestlers earning medals is a huge achievement, said Hall of Fame head coach Craig Foster. “I feel great about the team’s performance,” Foster said. “We had a tough situation with a lot of guys in the same weights. It made for a challenging year, but under the circumstances, I think getting six medalists at state is the best we could have done.” Five of those state medalists will be returning to the team next year, a fact Foster couldn’t be happier about. “I think that will be the most returning state wrestlers we’ve ever had, which is exciting,” Foster said. Caleb Frey (145) wrestled his way to the finals, winning a couple of close matches on his way to a second-place finish. In quarterfinals Frey wrestled to an overtime 3–1 decision, and in semifinals he beat Nathan Patterson from Woodlands High School after a hotly contested 3–5 decision. Frey lost the championship match to Zach Folk from Fife, falling at 1:29. It was short of his goal of a state title, but an impressive performance nonetheless. “He did a great job winning those close matches. Those one-point matches are pressure-packed, and you have to wrestle smart. Luckily, he’s won a lot of them this season, so he knew what to do in that situation,” Foster said. “It’s always ex-

s Caleb Frey stands on the podium after placing second at 145 pounds in the state Mat Classic wrestling tournament on February 22. Photo by Jasmine Fritsch

citing for the team to get a guy into finals.” Although he was the only Borderite to make it to finals, Frey’s performance wasn’t the only one to turn heads towards Blaine. Sophomore Colton Economy, who was ranked eighth in the state for 2A wrestlers at 113 pounds heading into the tournament, knocked off the third-ranked wrestler in his class before falling to numberone-ranked Spencer Clegg from Clarkston. Then, bouncing back from the loss, he defeated the second-ranked wrestler to earn a third-place medal. “His whole tournament was unbelievable,” Foster said of Economy’s battle at the state tournament. “He kind of had a fire in his belly. It says a lot for him to be able to bounce back and outwrestle guys ranked higher than him.” Two other Blaine sophomores also outdid themselves at the Mat Classic. Riley Fritsch lost a quarterfinal match to Fred Green from Orting, who would go on to win his fourth straight cham-

pionship, but Fritsch recovered from the loss and wrestled his way to a fifth-place finish with a 5–3 win over Toppenish’s Andrew Saaverda. “He got his second state medal as a sophomore, which is pretty incredible,” Foster said. Derreck Camba, who suffered a collarbone injury in the regular season, wrestled to a seventh-place finish at 126 pounds. “Camba did a good job coming back from a collarbone injury. It’s really exciting to know you’re going to have those sophomores for a couple more years,” Foster said. Like Fritsch, Anthony Frey also earned his second state medal. Anthony pinned Darion Green from Hudson Bay at 1:59 for the seventh-place medal at 132 pounds. Gage Lott earned his first state medal with an eighthplace finish at 126 pounds. “Anthony and Gage both wrestled tough; it was good to see them earn medals,” Foster said. “As a team, we had a great Continued on next page

FEBRUARY Boy and Girl of the Month

Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, Blaine Branch

Ethan Brasfield

Ethan is no stranger to being a Youth of the Month at the Blaine Clubhouse. He comes to the Club regularly and is always willing to help staff run programs. He is always willing to help younger members with anything they need and can be found having fun whether he is outside during our games time or doing something inside the Clubhouse. Ethan sets a high standard for what a Club member should look like and we are so proud of what an amazing young man he is.

Nevaeh Hester

sponsored by

Locally Owned and Operated

Nevaeh is relatively new to the Blaine Clubhouse, but has made her mark in her short time here. She has a quick smile and a caring nature and likes to spend time with her friends attending programs like art, I-Stride and out outside games time. Nevaeh has a positive attitude and is always quick to ask if she can help staff. We are proud to have her as our Youth of the Month.

360-332-1700 1733 H St. Blaine

February 26 - March 4, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com

Girls take third in district tournament By Ian Ferguson The Blaine girls basketball team is on its way to the regional round of the state tournament after taking third place in the 2A district 1 tournament. Playing four games in seven days, the Borderites lost only one of them – the first game of the tournament against Lynden, who would go on to become the tournament champions. After losing to Lynden, the Borderites beat Anacortes, Shorecrest and Sehome. The Shorecrest game February 19 was the team’s biggest test, with the loser leaving the tournament and the winner getting a bid to the regional round of the state tournament. The Borderites won 54–48 thanks to an outstanding effort in the fourth quarter. For head coach Ryan Pike, it was too close for comfort. “I grew a couple more gray hairs. I think coaching girls basketball is going to take 10 years off my life,” Pike joked. With sharp perimeter shooting and strong post defense, Shorecrest maintained a narrow lead through three quarters. Blaine guards Breanna Chau and Mandy Hayes worked hard to consistently break a tenacious full-court trap, but in the second and third quarters, Shorecrest center Uju Chibuogwu thwarted almost all attempts to drive to the basket.

Wrestling... From previous page

tournament and I’m happy with how everyone wrestled. We won a lot of really close matches.” In her fourth trip to the Mat Classic, Olivia Adams earned her second state medal, finishing at sixth place in a tough

Still, a textbook zone defense on the other end of the court kept the Borderites in the game. Hayes and Taylor V’Dovec produced enough on offense to match the Scots almost point for point. By the end of three quarters, it was 36–34 Shorecrest. By sheer power of will, the Borderites made it rain in the fourth quarter. Back-to-back threes from Chau and V’Dovec gave the Borderites a two-point lead. Kiana Gray scored on an impressive reverse layup. Hayes got a steal and breakaway that Chau rebounded for two points. With less than two minutes to play and down by four points, Shorecrest started fouling, and Hayes and V’Dovec hit seven of seven free throws from that point on. Afterwards, Pike said his team’s brilliant fourth quarter performance was due to “heart, determination and will to win. It was tough being behind in the fourth quarter, but the girls wanted to win, and they went out there and did it.” Although it looked like strong shooting won the day for the Borderites, V’Dovec knew the real reason for the win was solid defending. “Our defense stepped up. In the first quarter we were rebounding really well, but we let off on that in the second quarter. At halftime we had a good talk and came back out rebounding,”

V’Dovec said. With the win, seniors V’Dovec, Hayes and Chau sealed a bid to their fourth consecutive state tournament. “It feels pretty fantastic,” V’Dovec said. The hard-fought game against Shorecrest prepared the Borderites well for a seeding game against Sehome February 21. Blaine won the game 55–39. This time, a fourth quarter switch on defense made all the difference. “We were tied at 29 at the end of the third quarter, and we went from a zone defense to man-toman. The girls responded really well,” Pike said. Chau led the team with 13 points, and Hayes and V’Dovec each scored 12. Makayah Veliz scored six points. The win secured a higher seeding for the Borderites, who will now face White River at Puyallup High School on Saturday, February 28 in the winner-to-state, loser-out regional round. The Borderites lost to White River 81–50 in December, and White River is now ranked third in 2A statewide. “I think we’ve improved a lot since we played them. Anytime you can play a team you faced earlier in the season, that’s an opportunity. We’re looking forward to the challenge, and hopefully we can win this time,” Pike said. The game begins at 2 p.m.

135-pound bracket. Adams won her first two matches with ease before losing a 5–2 decision in the semifinals to Mariah Horton, the defending state champion from Kelso High School. “She was disappointed because her goal was a state championship, but I’m really proud of her and the way she battled and wrestled hard for four years,” Foster said. “It’s not

easy to be the only girl wrestler on a team, and she proved herself every time she went out on the mat. She now has two state medals.” Looking ahead to next year, Foster reiterated that the team would benefit from the leadership of five returning state medalists. “Those guys will be the core of the team. I think we’ll be strong next year,” he said.

Get outside! Pick up the Spring edition on newsstands now

s Josie Deming drives to the hoop in a district tournament game against Sehome February 21. Blaine won 55-39.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

Community Chamber of Commerce

Member of the Month Circle of Trees Art Studio & Homestead Blaine, WA 360-332-8082 Number of employees:

PACIFIC ADVENTURES IN THE

NORTHWEST

Two - Owners Ron Snyder and Cathy Taggett

SPRING 2015

Description of business:

SAY YOUR PRAYERBakSer’s

30 years of Mt. Slalom Legendary Banked

SON TRAIN FOR RACE SEA RHEAD SPEA THE SE VER TRA GET ON YER BIKE!

Major Accomplishments: Helped to start the following Blaine activities: Blaine Gardeners Market, Blaine

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LIGHT

Photo: Justin Kious

RIENCE.COM MOUNTBAKEREXPE

or visit

The Circle of Trees Art Studio and Homestead is a family-operated business. Ron and Cathy have been selling veggies at the Blaine Gardeners Market, teaching gardening and food security classes, producing and selling art regionally, teaching art classes, participating in the journeys of their G’ana’k’w Canoe Family, and doing community service in Blaine for ten years. At this time, the majority of what they do is community service. Their mission statement is “We are building community for a better tomorrow" and vision statement is “Preparing for tomorrow today.”

www.MountBakerExperience.com

Community Sailing School, Blaine Winterfest Art Shows, Blaine Mother’s Day Studio Tour, Coordinators of the 2015 G’ana’k’w Canoe Family journey to Blaine, 2010 winner of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year, and the winner of two Blaine Builder’s Awards.

Future Plans: Partnerships are the best way to move our community forward. Our goal is to participate in ventures that help to make Blaine the best possible community for all of its citizens.

Featured businesses are selected randomly from the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce membership.

This is a monthly feature sponsored by the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce www.blainechamber.com • (360) 332-4544 • Join the chamber today ... membership has its privileges!

Home

The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Garden

A monthly special section in The Northern Light

Spruce up your lawn with native plants B y E m i ly H i r s c h

s Native Oregon grape plants.

Photo by Emily Hirsch

$100 ReBate*

EnErgy Smart STYLE February 1 to April 25, 2015

on any of the following purchases

4 Duette® Honeycomb Shades* (plus $25 rebate each additional unit)

2 Silhouette® Window Shadings* (plus $50 rebate each additional unit)

Bellingham (360) 738-8175 www.LorrainesWindowCoverings.com * Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 2/1/15 – 4/25/15 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2015 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

Spring has arrived early, and it’s time to make your garden and yard part of your life once again. What plans do you have this spring for your garden or landscape space? Are you looking for affordable plants that require little care or do you want to enhance your space with plants that will attract songbirds? Do you need plants that will grow in a shady or wet spot? Maybe you have a conservation purpose in mind. From large to small trees, and shrubs to groundcovers, native plants may be the answer. Native plants help improve water quality in our watershed and provide needed shade to keep salmon-bearing streams cool. Their roots help to control soil erosion and soak up rainwater. Best of all, they help to expand wildlife and pollinator habitat in areas where original forests are no longer intact. Native plants are as low maintenance as it comes, because

they have been adapting to our region for thousands of years. Their close relationship with our region’s soils and climate means native plants are hardier and less susceptible to disease and pests than imported plants. Once established, they require little water and minimal care, saving you time and money. Whatcom Conservation District’s (WCD) Annual Native Plant Sale and Expo is a great source for native plants. This year’s sale will be held Sunday, March 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Whatcom Community College’s Roe Studio. Around 40 native species will be available. New this year are inside-out flower, wild ginger and red columbine. Many native species are excellent for creating wildlife habitat in your own backyard. Cascara trees have white flowers and dark purple berries and are a favorite among many native butterflies and birds. Snowberries are an excellent winter forage food for resident birds because

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their fruit persists long into the winter months. In the late summer through early winter, Pacific crabapples are a popular food source among purple finches and black hawthorn berries are a hit with cedar waxwings. Baldhip rose, oceanspray, and red osier dogwood are also available and can form shrubby thickets that help provide safe habitat for nesting. Most of the plant species offered at the sale are bare-root, conservation-grade plants, which means they are graded on their ability to survive rather than their appearance. The plants are on average of one to two years old, under 24 inches tall and can easily fit into any vehicle or even on a bike. Grown by local and regional nurseries, individual plants range in price from $0.85 to $3 each. A wildflower seed mix, compost and bamboo stakes are also available for purchase. Recycled plant protectors or “blue tubes” will be available free as supplies last. The purpose of WCD’s annual plant sale is to provide Continued on next page

Register now for BBWARM rain barrel workshop Registration is now open for a rain barrel workshop. Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District and the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District (BBWSD) are sponsoring the workshops. Collecting rainwater from your roof is a cheap and effective way to water a garden, build a reserve water supply and save money on summer water bills. Participants in the workshop will receive a free 55-gallon rain barrel made from recycled plastic. BBWARM will hold two workshops: Wednesday, March 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District, and Saturday, March 28 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Blaine Senior Center. Space is limited to 20 households per workshop. Visit bbwarm. whatcomcounty.org to register.

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Local couple helps dispose of unwanted junk Any homeowner can lament on how quickly junk can pile up around the house, but a new local business can help them get rid of that mess. Mandy Snow and her husband, Tad Shetler, started Junk Removal Solutions about a year ago, but only started advertising it recently. Together, the two haul garbage, lawn debris, construction materials, scrap metal and sometimes broken-down vehicles. Snow and Shetler sort through the materials they pick up and determine where best to dispose of them. “If we get a lot of scrap metal, we make sure to recycle it,” Snow said. “If things are still in good condition, we’ll clean them up

and donate them to Goodwill or the Salvation Army.” Junk Removal Services’ rates vary based on what’s being hauled out. Snow also offers a housecleaning service for $20 an hour. Snow, a Blaine native, and Shetler, from Acme, have lived n Blaine for about five years. In addition to the junk removal business, Shetler works doing landscaping in the area. The couple hopes to be able to work the junk removal business full-time. “We eventually want to grow it until it’s a full time job,” she said. “And we want it to be a family business for our two kids.” To contact Junk Removal Services, call 483-7623.

Home and garden show coming to county fairgrounds Coming Friday through Sunday, March 6–8, the Whatcom County Home and Garden Show will highlight the latest advances in home and garden care. Sponsored by the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County (BIAWC), the event is held at the Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center in Lynden. The event is the largest home and garden expo north of Seattle. More than 200 vendors are scheduled to display products. In addition to the vendor displays, the weekend will be packed with seminars on a wide range of subjects. Everything from integrating technology into your home, raising your own backyard chickens, the basics of pest control and practical solu-

tions to conserving energy will be discussed by a panel of local experts. On Saturday, March 7, a series of entertainers will help close out the evening’s festivities. At 6 p.m., Bellingham’s a cappella troop, The Honey Bees, will perform a selection of standards from the 1920s through the 1960s. Improv performers from Bellingham’s The Upfront Theatre will provide some laughs on the Banner Bank stage at 7 p.m., and singer/songwriter Ryan Sandholm will perform in the garden at 8 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, participate in local beer and wine tastings. Tickets are $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and free for kids 16 and younger. For a full schedule of events, visit biawc.com.

Continued from previous page

attendance. Food will be provided by Meridian High School FFA boosters. For a full list of native plants for sale, visit whatcomcd.org. Emily Hirsch is the resource specialist for the Whatcom Conservation District.

education and promote environmental stewardship in our community. The sale is a family-friendly event with face painting, music and one free native plant for every child in

February 26 - March 4, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com

Rawls Tree Service Tips: Winter Season! Most popular things to do:

Health & Safety Inspection – Free inspection of your trees on your property to Identify immediate tree concerns. Prepare Yard – Prepare trees for winter time. Includes large trees over home, cars and walkways for safety. Wind Preparation – Properly prune tops of large trees to allow more wind, less chance of falling. Structure Prune – Properly prune large canopy, remove crossing limbs causing damage for improved health of tree. Separation Prune – Properly create space between large trees that are growing into each other, damaging each other for health. Hazard Prune – Properly prune large trees over home driveway and walkways for pro-active safety and damage control. Deadwood – Remove large dead limbs over home, cars and walkways for safety. Snow Load Preparation – Prepare large trees for winter time. Pro-active preventive maintenance. Dangerous Removals – Remove large trees in difficult areas. Involves technical rigging, low impact. Full Clean Up – We specialize in finishing large tree jobs with full clean up. We are currently doing Tree Work in your area!

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CONTINUED ON

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The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Home

&Garden

Top home upgrades that offer long-term value Home upgrades cost time and money but certain projects can actually save you money and improve your home’s resale value, while making it more beautiful and livable now. When it’s time to replace wornout roofing, doors and trim, ensure you’re getting good value on your investment. Here are some guidelines for making durable, long-lasting upgrades. Roofing The roof is an integral part of a house’s curb appeal. It’s also a vital protective layer between the elements and your family. Roofing should be impact, fire and severe weather-resistant, as well as beautiful – especially as extreme weather events are growing more common across America. A new roof can pay off, according to Remodeling magazine, which cites a 71.6 percent recoup

of costs in their 2015 cost vs. value study. Skip over bargain-basement-priced roofs, even if you’re on a budget. What’s important is finding a roof that will be virtually maintenance-free for years to come. You may pay more out of pocket now, but you’ll save big on repairs, inspection and maintenance in the long run. Natural slate and shake roofing materials evoke images of traditional charm and long-standing durability. However, they have an inherent tendency to degrade as they age. Check out manmade materials, such as polymer slate and shake roofing tiles, which offer the authentic look of natural materials but are more resistant to chipping, flaking and splintering. Some polymer roofing options can even help you get a break on homeowner’s insurance.

Trim Boost curb appeal, as well as interior style, with millwork, moulding and trim. While these elements don’t always serve a functional purpose other than to add beauty and value to your home, it’s important that they resist humidity, moisture and insects all the same, so you don’t experience warping or decay. Many manufacturers are turning to polyurethane to create varying textures for millwork, from smooth to stone to wood grain. These design pieces can help emphasize your house’s architecture, reflecting the style of your home and furnishings. Entryway Your home’s entryway should be welcoming, beautiful and energy-efficient. To better insulate against cold and heat and improve long-term performance, consider

File photo by StatePoint

upgrading to a fiberglass door. It’s a cost-effective home improvement project with true value. In fact, the Remodeling magazine study finds a 72 percent cost-recouped rate for new fiberglass doors, and a solid fiberglass door can be up to four times more ener-

gy efficient than solid wood. If you’re going to the trouble of making home upgrades, opt for projects with lasting value that can improve your comfort and safety. StatePoint

Ypf@Y£If@YfYp¤i@YfYp¤i@YIf@YfYfYp¤iYIf@Y

New WCD Tote bags

March 28th 9am-2pm @ Whatcom Community College

Over $10,000 in Prizes Given Away!

Wheelbarrow raffle!

by DeWaard & Bode and KAFE 104.1FM One prize per day of the show

(with purchase)

Evergreens, trees, shrubs & more! Local nurseries, exhibitors, food & fun!

Beer & Wine Tasting!

Ypf@Y£If@YfYp¤i@YfYp¤i@YIf@YfYfYp¤iYIf@Y

Friday & Saturday Night!

Friday is DATE NIGHT!

Phone: 360-526-2381

Cooking Demonstrations & Prizes

Email: wcd@whatcomcd.org www.whatcomcd.org

Blaine Lawn & Landscapes

The Upfront Theatre - Improv & Live Music.

If you don’t want it… We’ll take it! Garbage • Yard Waste • Lumber Construction Clean-up Metal • Household Items House cleaning services available

For all your lawn & landscape needs!

Saturday is LOCAL LIVE Ciscoe Morris

Sunday, March 8 • 2:00pm

The Building Industry Association of Whatcom County’s 36th Annual

Home & Garden Show 2015

Call Steve Today!

360-393-0473

Junk Removal Solutions 360-483-7623

Where your project begins March 6, 7 & 8

Home by

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Build your own home

Friday 11-9 • Saturday 10-9 • Sunday 11-5 •Adults 16+ $8 • Seniors 55+ $7 • Under 16 Free Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, Henry Jansen Ag Building • Free Parking

DIRECTORY

Tracy Booth, Founder Serving Whatcom County

See us at the Home SHow! Booth 326

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MARCH 2015

and enjoy an hour of free music from local musicians. March 4: Jacqui Martin (classical guitar) March 11: Sylvia Bos (piano) March 18: Emily Bailey (violin) March 25: Doris Mae Bajema (piano). Begins at noon. Free. Spring Juried Exhibit Reception: Thursday, March 5, 6–8 p.m. Live music by Darla Bradshaw Lobb and Walt Burkett in the piano lounge. Free admission.

Ongoing Events

By Kitty King Featured Artist: Lauren Kordas “I had a lot of fun creating this charcoal piece because we had just learned how to lay out portraits in class. The process was fresh in my mind and the drawing flowed. I didn’t think very much about it and just focused on incorporating what I had learned onto the paper until I stepped back and was happy with what I had done.” - Lauren Kordas, Blaine High School

Around Blaine March 21: Throwback Dance – Come as you were! Music by The Atlantics. Dance, dinner and auction to benefit Blaine’s Drayton

Harbor Music Festival. Bring your high school photo and dress for the decade to win prizes. 6–9 p.m. Tickets $40, draytonharbormusic.org. Presented by the Pacific Arts Association.

At the Jansen Art Center New! Wednesday lunchtime music in the piano lounge. Grab a Panini and cup of homemade soup or salad at the Firehall Café

Jennifer Bowman: Through Saturday, March 28. Vibrant paintings show an appreciation of the quality of light and are an investigation into how light plays off everything around us. From Dusk to Dawn – Twilight and Night Skies Exhibit: Through Saturday, March 28. This juried exhibit celebrates more than 20 regional artists’ views on the morning and night skies. Spring Juried Exhibit: Through May 30. Featuring the work of nearly 30 artists from Seattle, Vancouver and Whatcom and Skagit counties. Acrylic Painting Class with Jennifer Bowman: Saturday and Sunday, March 14–15, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Two-day painting class that explores color, value, composition and light. $175 plus $25 for materials, or bring your own. Tickets, events, classes and workshops: jansenartcenter.org or 354-3600.

The Know: Call for artists for the International Art Festival

at Peace Arch Park, June 26–28. Apply at zapplication.org, majorarts@comcast.net or 332-9862. The deadline is Sunday, March 15. Blaine Harbor Art Gallery’s 10th Annual Springfest Art Tour is coming up in May. A few spots for artists may be left. Check out blaineharborartgallery.com.

Dining Guide

Breakfast Lunch Dinner 360-778-3826

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Sunday-Tuesday 7am-3pm Wednesday-Saturday 7am-8pm

332-3540 234 D Street, Blaine

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Birch Bay Café & Bistro On The WaTer • Open 7 days 360-778-2570 • 7829 Birch Bay dr.

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The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Coming up

Police Reports February 18, 9:45 p.m.: A resident concerned about an elderly person he has twice encountered walking in the roadway late in the afternoon on H Street Road near Valley View Road contacted police. In each instance the pedestrian first waved at the motorist as if attracting attention but when the driver went to stop, the man began motioning as if ordering him to drive away. The caller was concerned a vehicle might hit the gentleman. The witness will call if he sees the man again, and officers were advised to watch for him as well. February 18, 10:25 p.m.: A couple operating a home business in Blaine noticed that both sets of keys to their new car were accounted for, but the vehicle itself was gone. One owner called police to report the auto stolen from their driveway while the other owner set out on foot looking for the vehicle. The searcher returned a few minutes later to report finding the car, safely parked and locked at a business nearby. It appears someone on the payroll had borrowed the car to run an errand, forgot they had driven and walked back to work. February 20, 3:45 a.m.: An officer on patrol spotted and contacted a person on Marine Drive who appeared to need as-

sistance. The pedestrian turned out to be a newspaper motor carrier who had hopped out of her car a few minutes earlier to drop off some papers. As she stepped away from the vehicle she heard a click, and looked back to see that her delivery assistant, a grinning miniature dachshund, had locked her out of the car. The officer was able to unlock one of the doors so the grateful driver could return to training her apprentice. February 20, 12:20 p.m.: A man came into the police department to request assistance finding his wife, who suffers dementia and had taken off on foot on the truck route. Officers located the lady and transported her back to the police department to her husband. The officer left a message with her assigned physician. February 20, 6:32 p.m.: Police were dispatched to a report from a business that an intoxicated man had refused to leave their property and was now undressing in the parking lot. Arriving officers discovered the inebriate was a passenger in another customer’s car, and had apparently decided to change his clothes somewhere safe, well lit and populated. The stranger’s actions were determined not to be a danger. The driver completed his business

Crossword

ACROSS 1. A lot 6. Hot spot 10. ___ Cooper, Am. actor 14. An inverted circumflex diacritic mark 15. ___ vera 16. Fencing sword 17. Foe 18. Pink, as a steak 19. H.S. class 20. Measure of antiknock properties of gasoline (2 wds) 23. Chocolate trees 25. Successful runners, for short 26. Type of beds with curtains and canopy (hyphenated) 30. Halo, e.g. 31. Chill 32. Bean counter, for short 35. Clash 36. Domestic animal skin disease

38. At liberty 39. ___ el Amarna, Egypt 40. Bite 41. Back 42. Certainly 46. Have a sudden inspiration? 49. Leisurely walks 50. Irish version of burgoo (2 wds) 54. Aquatic plant 55. Palm berry 56. Blotto 60. Chowder morsel 61. Detective’s need 62. Quench 63. “For Your ___ Only,” Bond film 64. Coastal raptor 65. ___ Island National Monument

DOWN 1. “___ Loves You,” Beatles song

and the pair departed. February 20, 7:30 p.m.: A motorist noticed a white newer Cadillac parked on the side of Yew Street. Her passing observation turned to concern when she saw a man walk up, hop into the fancy car’s trunk, and close the lid on himself. The Caddy took off down Yew Street as she called police. Officers searched the area but did not locate the car, and have not yet received any possibly related missing person reports. February 21, 10:45 p.m.: Police were called when a pedestrian fell in front of a business on D Street. The arriving officer discovered the lady was very intoxicated and staying in town. She refused medical attention and other assistance, and officers made sure she made it safely back to her friend at their motel room nearby. February 23, 4 a.m.: An officer performing a security check of the skate park found that someone had spray painted graffiti on the concrete retaining wall of the facility. The public works and parks departments were notified and are repairing the vandalism. 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.

2. Jail, slangily 3. Trick taker, often 4. Member of Obama’s party 5. Airline porter 6. Ride, so to speak 7. Brio 8. Elders’ teachings 9. Bad look 10. Affect (2 wds) 11. Fourth month 12. Controls, symbolically 13. Burglar 21. “___ bad!” 22. ___ line (major axis of an elliptical orbit) 23. Two-door 24. Acoustic 26. Certain protest 27. Argentine dance 28. Baby carrier? 29. Morgue, for one 32. Belief 33. Rings 34. Ethereal 36. “Gee whiz!” 37. “Go on ...” 38. Voluntary 40. S. Am. Indian of Brazil and Paraguay 43. Advantages 44. Dracula, at times 45. ___ fly 46. Channel cut by heavy rainwater 47. Pond buildup 48. Putdowns 50. Defensive spray 51. Battering wind 52. Maple genus 53. Indian bread 57. Amigo 58. Schuss, e.g. 59. “Absolutely!”

ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

11:30 am 8.3 7:13 pm 0.8 12:36 pm 8.0 8:09 pm 0.7

Su 1 3:45 am 8.5 9:00 am 6.1 1:42 pm 7.8 8:59 pm 0.7

Mo 2 4:21 am 8.7 9:50 am 5.6 2:40 pm 7.8 9:41 pm 0.7

Tu 3 4:53 am 8.8 10:28 am 5.1

3:32 pm 7.9 10:19 pm 0.9

We 4 5:19 am 8.9 11:02 am 4.5

4:20 pm 7.9 10:55 pm 1.1

Th 5 5:45 am 8.9 11:36 am 4.0

Playful Learning: Wednesday, March 4, 11 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn while you play for preschoolers and their adults. Activities vary from week to week. For ages 3–5. Info: 305-3637. CATS: Wednesday, March 4, 1:15–2:15 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Make a cat toy. Make a toy cat. Talk about your cat. Cat stories and cat crafts. For grades K–5. Info: 305-3637. Whatcom Literacy Council Presentation and Discussion: Wednesday, March 4, 2:30 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 4th and Clark streets. March fourth for literacy. Learn about the work of the Whatcom Literacy Council and ways to participate in Blaine. Info: blaineucc.org. Fun with Snap Circuits: Wednesday, March 4, 3–4 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Explore the basics of electronics while you build exciting projects such as a flashing light, an alarm, a doorbell and more. For ages 6 and up; limited to the first 12. Weekly. Info: 305-3637. Cain Creek Project Information Meeting: Wednesday, March 4, 6–7 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn ways to keep our waters clean and safe. Info: 332-8820. 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. 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. Audition forms in Blaine High School office. Auditions February 25–27. 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.

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.

Sa 28 2:55 am 8.2 7:52 am 6.4

United States Citizenship Class: Mondays, March 2–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.

February 27 – March 5 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

Fr 27 1:51 am 7.9 6:22 am 6.4

Garden Design: Saturday, February 28, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn to look at your yard as a landscape designer. Where are the best places to plant fruit-bearing trees, bushes and vines? A Blaine CORE program presented by George Kaas. Info: 332-7435.

Tides DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

LEGO Mindstorms Club: Thursday, February 26, 6:30–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to program the Raptor and the Gripper to do cool stuff! For ages 10 and up. Bimonthly. Info: 305-3637.

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.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

Blaine Primary School Game Night: Thursday, February 26, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Middle School. Games, Bingo, pizza, popcorn, and prizes.

5:04 pm 8.0 11:29 pm 1.5

Weather Precipitation: During the period of February 12 to February 18 there were .29 inches of precipitation. The 2015 year-to-date precipitation is 6.72 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 60.1°F on February 13, with a low of 35.4°F on February 17. Average temperature for the week was 47.3°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Lynden Craft and Antique Show: Thursday and Friday, March 19 and 20, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Northwest Washington Fairgrounds. Cost $6. Info: lyndencraftantiqueshow.com.

Ongoing Birch Bay Activity Center Events: 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Zumba Fitness, Zumba Toning, Zumba Step, Pickleball, line dancing and more. Visit our website for days and times. Info: bbbparkandrec.org or 656-6416. AA Meetings: Monday–Thursday, noon; Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, 7 p.m. (women only); Saturday, 11 a.m., United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street, Blaine. Dance Classes at Dakota Creek Center: Dakota Creek Christian Center, 8732 Blaine Road. Youth classes for preschool to high school students on Monday. $10 registration for the series. Info: 820-4349. Supervised Kids Games: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 2:30–5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Ages 7+. Basketball, volleyball, soccer, kickball, etc. Free. Registration required. Info: 656-6416. Al-Anon Meetings: Tuesdays, 1–2 p.m., Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt, 456 C Street, Blaine. Open to all. Info: 332-8248. Alzheimer/Dementia/Memory Loss Caregiver and Care Partners Support Group: First Tuesday of the month, 1:30–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street, Blaine. Info: 671-3316. Reading Help: Tuesdays and Thursdays after school, Grace Lutheran Church, 702 G Street across from Boys & Girls Club. Special help for dyslexic students. Adjustable fee of $2 per session. Info: 371-3978 or whatcomlearninglab.org. Community Meals: Wednesdays, 5–6:30 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. No charge for meals; donations accepted. Everyone is welcome. Info: communitymealsblaine@gmail.com. Basketball Open Gym: Wednesdays, 7–9 p.m., Saturdays 2–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Ages 13 and older. $2 drop-in fee. Info: nwparkandrec.org. Beginners’ Genealogy Class: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Senior Center. Class is free but Senior Center membership required. Info: 332-7562. Karaoke: Friday and Saturday nights at 9 p.m. Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Info: 332-4045. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

February 26 - March 4, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com

Wings ... From page 1

wildlife photographer and speaker. His work has appeared in dozens of publications, including the New York Times, Sunset Magazine and Nature’s Best Pho-

tography Magazine. Hancock is p.m. Sardis, based out of Fernan author, conservationist and dale, is the largest bird-of-prey lecturer. He has written books center in the Pacific Northwest. on a wide variety of topics, from The center rehabilitates injured bald eagles to indigenous cul- hawks, owls, falcons and eagles. tures of the northwest. This presentation will allow visiRepresentatives from the tors to get up close and personal Sardis Raptor Center will make with birds of prey. TSOB_2015Postcard_109232_proof2.pdf 1 12/18/14 2:30 PM a presentation from noon to 1:30 On Sunday, the focus shifts to

Birch Bay beginning with a Breakfast for Birders at CJ’s Beach House. A full buffet and presentation by writers and photographers Craig and Joy Johnson will cost $15. Photographers Wayne Diaz and Eric Ellingson will head up a wildlife photo shoot tour of Birch Bay while bird expert Paul Wood-

cock will lead a bird-watching tour of Birch Bay State Park and Terrell Creek. The festival will conclude with a talk about indigenous species of Terrell Creek at the BP Heron Center. For a detailed schedule of events, visit wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.

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Letters ... From page 5

The Editor: How do you feel about the possibility of having North America’s largest coal terminal in Ferndale? There is something you can do if you find this prospect offensive. The Lummi Nation has sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stating their objections and asking them to deny a permit. The Lummis have asked for support in their stand. What can you do? You can write to our elected officials and ask them to support the Lummis. Contact information for U.S. senators Patti Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. representatives Suzan DelBene and Rick Larsen can be found at re-sources.org (on left side of page, click on “Clean Energy” then “Take Action”) or you can search each official’s website. The Lummi Nation is fighting for clean waters, sustainable fisheries and an environmentally sound community. Ask our elected officials to support their efforts. It would protect the Lummi way of life and strengthen our environment. It is the right thing to do. Naomi Murphy Ferndale

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The Northern Light • February 26 - March 4, 2015

Taylor Justason, 12th grade

Taylor V’ Dovec, 12th grade

Taylor is a leader in AP Chemistry class. He is self-motivated with a superlative work ethic. He is a creative thinker who is quick to understand challenging topics. I have high hopes for his future and the future of the world because of him and his accomplishments. It’s a pleasure to have him as a student in class.

Sydney Thrall, 7th grade Sydney is a very positive person who always has a smile on her face. She is an incredibly hard worker who is constantly pushing herself to do better. She is supportive of her classmates and serves as a role model to those around her.

Cameron Saunders, 3rd grade Cameron is a delightful student. He is always working his hardest, showing an amazing work ethic. Ask anyone and they’ll tell you - he is a funny, energetic, wonderful young man. Cameron is a joy to have in class.

Taylor is an outstanding student with a great moral character. She is one of the hardest workers I have had in class. Words like disciplined, dependable, determined, trustworthy, kind, and caring come to mind. That makes for a pleasurable semester for any teacher.

Supreet Jhutty, 7th grade Supreet always has a smile on his face and is excited to be at school. He gets involved in classroom discussions and shares his ideas and insights. He has a strong work ethic and stays focused on assignments. It is a pleasure to have Supreet in class!

Skylar Cruson, 1st grade Skylar is a kind and sweet student. She works very hard on class assignments and is focused and on task. Because of this, her math and reading skills are showing improvement. Skylar is a friendly and helpful girl. She makes friends easily and is respectful when playing. Her smile brightens our classroom!

We are pleased to present a monthly look at a few of the many local youths in the Blaine School District who enhance our society and our lives, as selected by their teachers or school staff.

Lauryn King, 4th grade Lauryn is a sterling student and wonderful young lady. She works extremely hard to make academic gains and sets a good example for her classmates by making good choices. Lauryn understands the importance of school and gets the most out of each day.

Luke Rockwell, 1st grade

Luke is a fantastic student. He is positive, energetic, and enjoys his school work. He likes a challenge and is able to think beyond our topics and issues to bring his own understanding to class discussions. Luke is polite and cooperative and has many friends in class. It is a joy to be his teacher!

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