May 14 - 20, 2015
FREE
Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer
IN THIS
ISSUE
Citywide recycling day deals with toxins, page 3
Birch Bay to get tsunami warning system
Park and Recreation special section, pages 9-12
Birch Bay cartoonist introduces Marley, page 13
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Field trip in Drayton Harbor
By Steve Guntli Phillips 66 has donated $50,000 to fund an emergency warning system for Birch Bay. The company is teaming up with the Whatcom Community Foundation and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office division of emergency management to install the warning system. The all-hazard alert broadcast, or AHAB, will be used to notify Birch Bay residents of natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. AHAB is a single unit or network of warning sirens used to warn those who are outside or in close proximity to a siren. It has a range up to 1.5 miles. AHAB sirens cannot always be heard when people are inside or asleep. It is being used in addition to existing warning sirens already in place at Sandy Point, Point Roberts and other locations throughout the county. Kent Catlin, deputy director for the division of emergency management, said his staff is currently looking into suitable locations for the AHAB system. “We are looking for public locations,” he said. “Currently the state has a contractor running tests on the best locations. These locations include areas within Birch Bay State Park and property owned by the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District.” Catlin expects the system will be up and running next year. The AHAB system is one of several public safety projects funded by Phillips 66. In addition to the AHAB system, Phillips 66 gave $25,000 for security upgrades for the Boys & Girls Club of Whatcom County, and $41,000 to United Way to fund programs for child and spousal abuse prevention. The company also donated $50,000 to the Northwest Straits Foundation, which will use the grant to remove derelict fishing gear from the Salish Sea.
s Fifth grader Leland Olson leans out the window of the Plover ferry during a rainy trip in Drayton Harbor. Olson and his classmates were on a field trip to the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company’s oyster barge as part of Gardens of the Salish Sea, an educational program that teaches kids about conservation and the local ecosystem. See more photos on page 18.
Photo by Alyssa Pitcher
Dakota Creek bridge shuts down for six months By Steve Guntli The Dakota Creek Bridge on Portal Way has been closed for the next six months to allow the county to update the structure. Work on the bridge began May 12 and is expected to take until December to complete. Truck traffic will be rerouted onto I-5 while local traffic will be detoured
onto Blaine Road and Loomis Trail Road. On April 14, Whatcom County Council approved staff’s recommendations to allot $4,048,604 for the project, an increase of more than $400,000 since the project was last budgeted in November. The bridge will receive a seismic retrofit, which will protect the bridge in the event of an earthquake. The need for the retrofit was first recognized in a 2010 structural assessment, but the project
Kenyan politician helps local charity in education bid By Steve Guntli A Whatcom County nonprofit is helping bring changes in Kenya’s education system. Whatcom County residents Dr. Debra Akre and Jeana King are the founders of Tembo Trading Education Project. The nonprofit is helping provide education to impoverished rural areas of the
country, and the project is beginning to build momentum. Honorable James Rege, a member of parliament from the Karachuonyo constituency in western Kenya, visited Bellingham on May 4 and 5. Rege is collaborating with Tembo on an ambitious project that will integrate technology into the educational program in Rege’s district and beyond. Rege met with Akre and King to discuss
plans going forward, and held a successful meeting with representatives from Microsoft’s 4Afrika program to bring the project to the next level. “We just confirmed that Microsoft is going to contribute,” King said. “We don’t know all the details yet. They’re going to help us with access and power to certain regions, and they’re making arrangements (See Tembo, page 8)
did not make it before council for funding until February 2014. Built in 1928, the retrofit will preserve the original design, making the bridge safer without significantly affecting its historical significance. The project was first estimated to cost $3 million. That amount increased in November to $3,598,604 to account for environmental and archaeological issues (See Bridge, page 2)
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The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
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Birch Bay rec center adding summer movie nights By Steve Guntli Coming soon to an activity center near you: Friday night movies at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Beginning Friday, May 15, the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD) is hosting free movie nights at the Birch Bay Activity Center in Bay Horizon Park. The screenings will run throughout the summer, showing a variety of family-friendly features each week. The series will kick off with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” and conclude on
Lots of In-Season Vegetable Starts!
Including:
SNACKER VEGGIES
KETCHUP ‘N’ FRIES
8210 Portal Way, Blaine, WA Exit 270 just north of Birch Bay Square
HERB PLANTERS
September 4 with a screening of “Tangled.” The rest of the summer will feature a full slate of minions, Muppets, pirates, princesses and everything in between. As an added bonus, four of the films will correspond to special theme nights, where moviegoers will be encouraged to dress up and enjoy themed snacks. The first theme night, video game night, will take place on May 22 to correspond with the evening’s movie, “Wreck It Ralph.” Joshua Davies, who is organizing the movie nights for the BBBPRD, said the staff is encouraging visitors to dress as
their favorite video game characters or bring their favorite toys and games. “We haven’t decided if we’ll have prizes for costume contests yet or not, but I think it’ll just be fun to have everyone come out and participate,” Davies said. Davies is also planning a pirate night, a princess night and a “crazy character” night to go along with the showing of “Alice in Wonderland.” Davies said he and his volunteers are planning to set up around 8:30 p.m. and start the movies around 9 p.m. For more information, contact BBBPRD at 360/656-6416.
Bridge ...
project opened on March 10, 2014 with the lowest bid received coming in at $413,000 over the initial budget. Unforeseen costs included special-ordering steel column jacket retrofits for the bridge. The price of fabrication, availability of the steel and cost of installation could not be determined at the time the initial budget was drawn up, according to county bridge and hydraulics manager James Lee.
From page 1
that arose during the planning phase. The federal Bridge Replacement Advisory Committee (BRAC) will provide $3 million, which is the maximum amount BRAC is allowed to contribute. The county’s road fund will cover the remaining cost. Construction bidding for the
KIWANIS Chocolate Wine Music & Art • May 16
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In Support of Growing Veterans Help Us Build a Human Flag Live Music! Badd Dog Blues Society. Sign up now! Barbeque $15 • Spirits & Brews • Lawn Games
BBQ Tickets & Flag Reservations available at bellewoodfarms.com 6140 Guide Meridian (360)318-7720
this weekend in BLAINE! May 15 - 17 Old Blaine Airport Grounds Truck Route & Boblett Street (enter from Boblett Street)
All Day Ride Pass $25 Family Packs $24 and $40 Single Tickets $1.25 FEATURING
Moonraker • Gravitron Sizzler • Ferris Wheel • Games Mirror Maze • Kiddie Rides Cotton Candy • Funnel Cakes Giant Slide • Octopus • Merry Go Round Davis Amusement Cascadia
May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
City recycling day helps clear toxic junk By Steve Guntli Time to clean out your garage: recycling day is coming Saturday, May 23. City Recycle Day will take place at the Blaine Public Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is open to all residents of Blaine and Birch Bay. The event is an opportunity to dispose of toxic chemicals, old electronics and trash in a safe and environmentally responsible way. Three organizations are coming together to facilitate the event. The Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Program will help dispose of toxic chemicals. Safe and Easy Recycling will take electronics and Sanitary Services will accept scrap paper
and plastic bottles. The event is free of charge, but there is a limit of one truck bed-load of recyclable items per household, and there are restrictions on which items can be recycled. For example, the toxics program will accept oil-based paints, garden chemicals, car
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District Presents
Picnic In the Playground
batteries and antifreeze, but cannot accept latex paint, medical waste, explosives or any waste in drums. The event is for recyclable products only, and no household garbage will be accepted. For a full list of acceptable materials, visit ci.blaine. wa.us/813/City-Recycle-Day.
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Celebrate “Kids to Parks” Day
Pulled Pork Sliders!
Only $3! Comes with a side of cole slaw,
chips & a drink.
“Mission Impossible”
Family Fitness Challenge! Compete against other families for cool prizes from the Mariners, Sounders, Seahawks, Bellingham Bells and Blazers!
Try a POUND Fit Class! Demos at 11:30 &
12:30. “POUND combines traditional Pilates and barre method-inspired exercises with rapid drummer-based movements to help you lose pounds like a rock star.” – Fitness Magazine
“Every Hero Has A Story”
Learn about the Blaine Library’s Summer Reading Program. Wear your favorite hero costume and you will be entered to win a Birch Bay Waterslide day pass.
Spring is Here!
“A Whale of a Place to Go!”
Open Weekends
CANDY SHOP, CAFE & PIZZA Fri 3-10pm Sat & Sun 11am-10pm Victoria Day & Memorial Day 11am-6pm 4825 Alderson Rd
360-371-2070 www.thecshop.com
Birch Bay Public Market Open Weekends
FUN ON THE FARM DAY-TO-DAY DANCE & WHATCOM FITNESS PRESENT
FIND US ONLINE!
OPEN MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND! SAT. & SUN.
BUY ONE ADMISSION, GET ONE 50% OFF!
I-5 Exit 270 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers
Valid on regular price, full-day admission of equal or lesser value.
Expires 6/21/15.
New Family-Friendly Food Policy See website for details!
Open Weekends May 23 - June 14 • Open Daily June 20 - Labor Day
7:00 pm Saturday, May 16, 2015
360.371.7500 • www.BirchBayWaterslides.net
Tickets at the door: $8 Adults • $3 Children ages 2 & up • Door prize!
I-5 Exit 270, 3 minutes west
BLAINE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Written & Directed by Sabrina Gomez-Vanelli Choreography and Staging by Devon Caperton & Sabrina Gomez-Vannelli Portion of the proceeds benefits SustainableConnections.org For more information visit: www.daytodaydance.com
4874 Birch Bay Lynden Road • Birch Bay
Every Friday and Saturday night Throughout the Summer!
Odd days at Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, Even days at Loomis Trail Golf Course Kicking off on Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23: We invite kids 11 and under to play complimentary on this weekend!
FootGolf will be available for play starting at 6PM on Friday and Saturday nights through the end of October. We now offer 18-holes of FootGolf at both Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, and Loomis Trail Golf Club. Rates for Adults is $16 and Juniors (18 and under) $12. Soccer ball rentals are available for $3. Contact Seimahmoo Golf and Country Club Pro Shop for details:
1.800.231.4425 ext. 3
9565 Semiahmoo Parkway • Blaine
HOURS OF OPERATION: Packers 7 days 11:30am – 10pm Pierside Kitchen Breakfast: Mon.-Fri. 6:30am – 11:30am Pierside Kitchen Brunch: Sat.-Sun. 6:30am – 2:00PM Pierside Kitchen Dinner: 7 nights per week, 5pm – 10pm
www.semiahmoo.com • 360.318.2000
4
The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
The Northern L ght Staying afloat 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
s Commodore Al Oakley, l., presents Captain Richard Sturgill with a $1,000 donation from the Semiahmoo Yacht Club during the Boating Season Opening Day luncheon at the Loomis Trail Club House. The money will go towards operational expenses for the Plover ferry.
Editor Steve Guntli steve@pointrobertspress.com
Letters
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 Alyssa Pitcher, Lorrie Conyac, Jack Kintner The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XX, No 48 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: May 21 Ads due: May 15
Publisher Note: In the May 7 issue of The Northern Light, a letter written by Christine Westland addressed, in part, the health hazards of coal particles that are inhaled into our lungs. As submitted, the sentence read: “Over time, these particles cause disease.” Due to a proofing error, the sentence was changed to read: “Over time, it seems reasonable that these particles cause disease.” It is the policy of this newspaper to run letters as received with no changes other than to correct errors of grammar or spelling. We apologize to Ms. Westland and have reviewed the importance of this policy with staff. The Editor: I want to take this opportunity to send my thanks and appreciation to Christine Westland for her letter in the last issue. I support her vision of GPT and its ramifications. So many of the letters bring thought-provoking discussion to our homes and community. That is one av-
enue to building/maintaining a healthy civic environment. Carole Tabb Blaine The Editor: I attempted to buy some coffee at the Arco Station off Slater Road in Ferndale. They had a staggering array of pouring machines advertising Columbian this and that, but no mention of what I was after: coffee. I do not equate the word “Columbian” with the substance “coffee.” Should I? What’s going on here? I can imagine a farmer sending off for 50 tons of corn to feed his herd. Eventually a big truck came by with a big load of “Hasty Feed.” “Didn’t you order 50 tons of Hasty Feed?” “No, I ordered corn.” Tom Kimberly Birch Bay
Photo by Colleen Hardman
The Editor: Over the last few months I have had the opportunity to eat at the three Subway restaurants in Blaine, and was surprised to learn that none of them recycle their plastic products. I asked each of the store employees why they do not recycle and was told that they don’t bother and that I could just throw my plastic bottles in the regular garbage. In most states recycling is mandated by law, and I would expect it would be true for Washington. We all have a responsibility to take care of our planet, regardless of whether we are a business or private citizen. Donna Wendt Blaine
Continued on next page 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.
May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
Letters... From previous page
The Editor: I am sorry that I don’t remember your name, but you were so kind to my grandson Paul Flores and me. You came by with cookies and even a Mexican dinner when we were not feeling well enough to cook. Paul loved it and ate every bite. You even dropped off $100, just because, when you heard we may have to replace our entire sewer system. You were so kind to us and we would like to thank you. You never intruded on our life, just added to it with kindness. I hope you will stop by to visit, if only to remind us of your name and we can say thank you again in person. Paul and I would very much like that. Nancy Cook Blaine The Editor: Consider these facts from the Pacific International and Gateway Pacific Terminals permit application and the PUD #1: • 1.9 billion gallons yearly taken from the Nooksack River, mostly needed during the dry summer months. • At full operation provide 257 permanent jobs. • Environment negatively affected by more than 3 million pounds of coal-dust emitted into the air yearly. • Uncovered coal piles if laid end to end would run 2.5 miles, six stories high. • Six Ferndale schools are within 5 miles of these piles.
• 19 1.5-mile long trains passing through our area daily increasing diesel emissions. • Trains would create increase in traffic and block traffic near RR crossings causing delays in emergency responders. • An increase in vessels shipping coal in our local waters would negatively impact our fishing industry that provides us over 2,000 local jobs. It is proposed that Ferndale school district would receive $1.4 million annually in taxes from GPT, but due to the state-dictated formula, Ferndale won’t receive any additional funds. According to school superintendent Quinn, “It isn’t going to cause an influx of money into our school system.” For more information, check out powerpastcoal.org and re-sources. org/ppc. These are just two organizations that have spoken out against the GPT project. Now your voice needs to be heard protecting Whatcom County and our environment. We can do better. Naomi Murphy Ferndale The Editor: • The second substitute House Bill 1885 once again palms off on counties in Washington state what should be the state’s responsibility. The bill, which originated in the Democratic-controlled House, will force counties to house repeat offenders. This was accomplished by lowering the jail time of third-time car thieves from 17 to 22 months in state prison to a “possible” 60 days in county jail. Third-time burglary
City of Blaine Recycle Day Saturday, May 23 • 10 am – 3 pm Behind the library, 610 3rd Street While similar events have been conducted in the past, this event will ONLY be accepting recyclable materials.The event is free of charge. However, there will be a one truck bed load per household limit on the amount of recyclable items you can bring. The following services will be provided to residents of Blaine: • Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Program • Safe and Easy Recycling • Sanitary Services Common substances accepted by Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics include cleaners, lawn & garden chemicals, used oil and fuels, fluorescent lamps, and other hazardous materials. Safe and Easy Recycling accepts electronic items that include computers, printers, keyboards, alarm clocks, LCD screens, cell phones, hard drives, and others. Sanitary Services accepts scrap paper, newspaper, bottles, cans, and plastic containers. If you are unsure whether your items will be accepted by Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics, Safe and Easy Recycling, or Sanitary Services, please visit the City Recycle Day page on the City of Blaine’s website. The link for this page is included on the Calendar of Events, News Flash, and under the Community Events tab. If you visit the City Recycle Day page on our City’s website and you still have questions regarding the event, please contact City Hall at 360-332-8311.
will get a whole 30 days in county jail. Previously that had a 12- to 16-month state prison sentence. And get this: Democrats in your Washington State House of Representatives can offload prisoners into our county jails by lowering jail sentencing guidelines for state
judges. That is what second substitute HB 1885 will do. Your state judge will just lower the sentencing of car thieves, ID thieves and burglars to under 12 months, which makes those individuals the responsibility of our county.
Why our legislators have not informed our county executive and the public about this is beyond comprehension. If the state intends to offload its felons, the public deserves to know. Mark Nelson Bellingham
CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public.
Thursday, May 14, 7 pm
Planning Commission meeting Tuesday, May 19, 3 pm
Blaine Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting
Buds • Edibles • Waxes Oils • Topicals Deal of the Week
PREMIUM OUNCES starting at $200 See store for details. Tax not included. Not valid with other offers.
Open Mon-Sat 9-9 • Sun 10-8 922 Peace Portal Drive, Downtown Blaine 360-332-8922 Must be 21+
Canada U.S.A. D Street H Street
Thursday, May 21, 9:30 am
Park and Cemetery Board meeting
e Po
rtal
Saturday, May 23, 10 am - 3 pm
Recycle Day – Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics, Electronics, and Recycling of Cardboard, Paper, Glass, Plastic, Cans Location: Behind Blaine Library (610 3rd Street) See City website for more information Monday, May 25
Blaine Pea c
5
City offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day Dr.
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 of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
Free!
U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.
www.cityofblaine.com
Free!
Household Hazardous Household Hazardous Waste Waste Collection event in Blaine Collection ina.m. Blaine Saturday, May event 23 10:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Public Library, 6103:00 3rd Street Saturday,Behind MayBlaine 23 10:00 a.m. to p.m.
Behind Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street ACCEPTED: Oil-based paint, ACCEPTED: solvent, gasoline, Oil-based paint, oil, garden solvent, gasoline,chemicals, fertilizer, antifreeze, oil, garden chemicals, household cleaners, fertilizer, antifreeze, acids, bases, household cleaners,aerosols, lamps, acids,fluorescent bases, aerosols, batteries (non-alkaline), fluorescent lamps, etc.(non-alkaline), (50-gal. max per batteries household) etc. (50-gal. max per household)
NOT ACCEPTED: paint, ammo, NOTLatex ACCEPTED:
asbestos, Latex explosives, paint, ammo, biomedical waste, explosives, asbestos, radioactive biomedical waste,waste, waste in drums. radioactive waste, waste in drums. *Cardboard and Curbside Recycling also available *Cardboard Curbside Recycling County also available Questions?and Contact the Whatcom Disposal of Toxics Program: 360-380-4640
Sponsored by Whatcom County, with support from City of Blaine and Stericycle
6
The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
Sports Simple Will $95 08
Grace Lutheran Preschool Teaching age-appropriate academics with Christian values and love since 1972.
Now accepting applications for September enrollment. New 3-hour classes Kids ages 3½ - 5 s Olivia Adams, r., passes the baton to Kieya Villars at a home track meet earlier this season.
Located at 702 G Street, Blaine
Photo by Janell Kortlever
For more info call 332-6589
Track and field athletes set personal records By Ian Ferguson
PLANNING COMMISSION VACANCY
Competition is heating up as track and field heads into the postseason, and several local athletes are vying to advance through districts and make a run at the state tournament. Day two of the 2A Northwest Conference (NWC) sub-district meet is this Friday, May 15 at Civic Stadium in Bellingham. Blaine athletes are up against athletes from seven other schools, all of which have significantly bigger teams. “Overall, with the move to 2A we’re expecting fewer athletes to make it through the district tournaments and move on to state,” said Blaine coach Carey Bacon. “The schools are bigger and the competition is tougher, but we still have a number of athletes who could make it to state and a couple who stand a good chance of medaling at state.” Last week, the Borderites had a meet against teams from Meridian and Bellingham. The girls team took second behind host Meridian and the boys came in third. “The girls beat Bellingham,
The City of Blaine is currently seeking a member for the Planning Commission to fill a vacancy for a term that ends December 31, 2018. The Planning Commission regularly meets at 7:00 PM on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month for about two hours. 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 this commission does require a significant 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 Planning Commission, applications and descriptions of duties are available in the City Clerk’s office at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin St., Suite 3000, or online at www.cityofblaine.com. PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION BY 4:30 PM ON FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015. The City will continue to accept applications until the vacancy is filled.
Per Blaine Municipal Code (BMC) 2.08.028, concurrent service on more than one board or commission is precluded.
which is encouraging because Bellingham always has a strong program,” Bacon said. Four Blaine athletes set or tied personal records at the meet. Sophomore Riley Fritsch posted his first sub-12 second 100m sprint, taking third place with a time of 11.89 seconds. Freshman Sophia Dwyer ran her fastest 800m, taking first place with a time of 2:30.48. Senior Elle Moore set a personal record in the 4kg shot put, throwing a distance of 33 feet, 6 inches to take first place. And Gage Lott tied his personal best in the pole vault, clearing 12 feet, 6 inches for second place. The slew of personal records is typical for this late stage of the season, and a positive sign for coaches, Bacon said. “That’s what you want to see, and it’s always a major theme for us to see rapid improvement at the end of the season,” Bacon said. “It’s when all the training and competition start to come together and pay off.” In addition to being at their peak fitness, athletes have weathered a season of meets,
which helps prepare them for the mental challenge of stiffer competition. “I’ve been talking to the team about how things get more intense at this point. The seniors are used to it, but the younger players haven’t experienced it yet. They’re starting to get into the right frame of mind,” Bacon said. A total of 26 Blaine athletes are competing at the sub-district tournament. Bacon said he expects all the relay teams to advance to the district tournament, as well as several individuals. From here on out, advancement comes down to each individual performance. “It doesn’t matter what you’ve done before. It’s all about how you perform at that moment, and sometimes you have a good day, sometimes you have a bad day. Having a competitive mindset can be really important in the postseason,” Bacon said. Friday’s action at Civic Stadium begins at 4:30 p.m. The twoWe are know day 2A Northwest District 1 meet is Wednesday, May 20 and Friday, wit ultra-gentle May 22.
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May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
The Immigration Law Firm Law Firm The Immigration
Baseball wraps up strong season By Ian Ferguson The Blaine baseball team may have ended the season on a losing streak, but when taken as a whole it was the strongest season of Borderite baseball in years. After losing their last five games of the season, the Borderites ended up with a season record of 5–7 in the Northwest Conference (NWC) and 8–12 overall. They won more conference games than in their previous three seasons combined (one in 2014, none in 2013 and two in 2012). Although they fell short of their goal of making it to the postseason, head coach Larry Hoffman said he was proud of the team’s work ethic. “A lot of our success this year was the hard work they put in playing in the off-season and working to improve throughout the season. I think the program is going to see a lot of success in the next two to five years. Unfortunately, the seniors who have led this team with all their hard work
• 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
www.blaineimmigration.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,
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Birch Bay Computers
s Seniors on the Blaine baseball team thanked their parents at the senior game May 6, the last game of the season.
Photo by Janell Kortlever
won’t be able to reap the benefit,” Hoffman said. It became clear the Borderites wouldn’t make the cut for the postseason after they lost to Sehome 4–1 in an away game April 30. “I thought our kids played really hard that game,” Hoffman said. “Their pitcher was good, and we struggled at bat and a little on defense with fielders not used to playing on turf.” John Starcer pitched against Sehome and hit 2 for 4 with a double. Rudy Nolasco hit 1 for 3 with
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a double and an RBI, and Jalen Kortlever went 1 for 3. Starcer, a junior, shared pitching duties this season with senior Cody Gobbato and sophomore Anthony Ball. Nolasco, Kortlever and Josh Fakkema also saw time on the mound. “Our pitching all year has been flat-out great,” Hoffman said. The Borderites lost a home game against Meridian 2–0 May 4, and ended their season with an 8–1 loss to Ferndale at home May 6.
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s From l., Jeanna King, Dr. Debra Akre and the Honorable James Rege of Kenya.
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for us to meet with other leaders in Kenya to help us roll out the program.” The project involves what King and Akre call a “classroom in a box.” Engineer Mark Knittel designed a pocket-sized server called ARES (African
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Ruggedized Education System). When used with a tablet and a small projector, the system can provide up-to-date educational tools for teachers and research materials for students. The entire system costs less than $700. The ARES servers are currently in two schools in Rege’s district: a primary and a high school. This July, Akre and King will travel to Kenya to bring the servers to four more schools. Those first six are just the tip of the iceberg. 4Afrika executives want to eventually have ARES servers in 22,000 schools throughout the country. “It’s pretty scary,” Akre said. “When we first heard 22,000, we thought, ‘Can we actually do this?’ But it’s moving along quickly and I think it’s been very successful.” “What’s nice about the Honorable Rege is he has an IT background,” King said. “He’s chairman of the country’s telecommunications and communications division, so he has a lot of clout. He can help us figure out what needs to be done.” Akre and King have been working with rural schools in Kenya since 2003. The pair noticed a huge disparity between urban and rural schools in Kenya, and feel the new digital system will address that.
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“You can find gorgeous schools in some places and others that have dirt floors, broken windows and no teaching tools whatsoever,” Akre said. “And yet those children are expected to complete the same exams.” The Kenyan education system requires students to pass a national exam at the end of eighth grade. If students don’t pass, they cannot move on to high school. Rege said education is the highest priority in his country. “I’ve known families who would sell everything they have, their very last piece of land, to make sure their children are educated,” he said. “They will do anything.” Kenyan officials recognize the importance of education for combating poverty. “The majority of the country’s budget actually goes towards education, but when the country has a small budget, it’s still not enough,” Akre said. Last year, the country spent 2.3 billion shillings (roughly $24 million) on math textbooks for first and second graders, but Akre said this is an impractical approach. “That’s a lot of money, and those textbooks are going to be outdated in just a few years,” she said. “Oftentimes, it’s so hot the glue melts and the books fall apart. It’s easy for them to get torn or dirty or lost, so when money is already a struggle and an issue, why not go digital? That’s what the country wants.” King said the project still has a few challenges to address. Power and Internet access to some regions are either intermittent or nonexistent, and the cost-effective system may still be too much money for impoverished regions. But the group is optimistic, and Rege said they have already made a positive impact. “Since their arrival many kids have benefited,” he said. “We look forward to even more success.” For more information or to donate to the project, visit tembotrading.org.
Full service lawn care & landscaping 360-220-2916 • www.BirchBayLawnCare.com
Pirate Daze Saturday, August 1
Movie Nights
Friday nights at sunset in the gym
Arts & Crafts, Dance Classes drama improv, painting, ballroom dance
Get Fit at the Activity Center
ZumbaÂŽ, pickleball, dancing, basketball, badminton, POUND Fit
Movin’ Mondays & Waterslide Wednesdays kids activities all summer long - see inside for details
www.bbbparkandrec.org
**NOTE: PROGRAM SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Skateboard Demo Day: Calling all Groms (6 - 12 year olds) and experienced skateboarders! Come learn some new tricks with Zac from the Unknown Board Shop. DATE: June 13 TIME: 10 - noon COST: FREE LOCATION: Blaine Skateboard Park, 635 4th Street, Blaine
12th Annual Go Skateboarding Day: Travel around Whatcom County
for cool skateboarding opportunities. For more info, contact the Unknown Board Shop in Bellingham at (360) 671-7425. DATE: June 21 TIME: Call for Details AGES: All ages COST: FREE LOCATION: Whatcom County
Waterslide Wednesdays: NEW this
year! Spend a day at the Birch Bay Waterslides with the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Rec. Space limited so register today at bbbparkandrec.org. DATE: July 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12, 19 and 26 TIME: 10 - 5 pm AGES: Grades 3 - 11 (must have finished Grades 3 - Grades 11 in June 2015) COST: $10 LOCATION: Birch Bay Waterslides, 4874 Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Birch Bay.
Drama & Improv Activities:
Become more comfortable speaking and moving about within a group. Learn basics of acting through a variety of improvisational acting activities. DATE: Tuesday, June 16 TIME: 1:30 - 3:30 pm AGES: 7 - 16 COST: $12 Minimum 8 kids for class to be held / Maximum 15. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: TBD
Exploration of Technique with Acrylic Paint: Create and explore a
couple of art techniques with acrylic
ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS paint. Students will have a chance to complete several designs using the techniques learned. DATE: Tuesday, June 30 TIME: 1:30 - 3:30 pm AGES: 7 - 16 COST: $12 Minimum 8 kids for class to be held / Maximum 15. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: TBD
Exploration of Technique with Watercolor: Explore art techniques
with watercolor paint. Students will have a chance to complete several designs using the techniques learned. DATE: Tuesday, July 7 TIME: 1:30 - 3:30 pm AGES: 7 - 16 COST: $12 Minimum 8 kids for class to be held / Maximum 15. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: TBD
Cut Paper Art: Using paper,
paste, and scissors, students will create unique paper art. Colorful construction paper is a fantastic medium for anyone who loves making art. DATE: Tuesday, July 28 TIME: 1:30 - 3:30 pm AGES: 7 - 16 COST: $12 Minimum 8 kids for class to be held / Maximum 15. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: TBD
Children’s Dance Series: Parent/Toddler Creative Dance Ages Walking to 2 ½ with Sabrina
Gomez-Vannelli You and your child will explore BrainDance movement activities. This playful movement learning environment will include the use of music, props and rhythm instruments. Activities learned can also be explored at home. Clothing: Adults: comfortable, non-restrictive clothes, bare feet. Children: dance or play clothes (leg-
gings, t-shirts, etc.), bare feet. DATES: Saturdays, July 11, 18, 25, Aug 1 & 8 TIME: Noon - 1 pm AGES: Walking - 2 1/2 COST: $70 Minimum 3 kids for class to be held / Maximum 10. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Parent/Child Creative Dance Ages 2 ½ to 4: with Sabrina
Gomez-Vannelli You and your child will explore BrainDance movement activities. This playful movement learning environment will include the use of music, props and rhythm instruments. Activities learned can also be explored at home. Clothing: Adults: comfortable, non-restrictive clothes, bare feet. Children: dance or play clothes (leggings, t-shirts, etc.), bare feet. DATES: Saturdays, July 11, 18, 25, Aug 1 & 8 TIME: 1 - 2 pm AGES: 2 1/2 - 4 COST: $70 Minimum 3 kids for class to be held / Maximum 10. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Hip Hop For Kids Dance Camp:
with Sabrina Gomez-Vannelli Kids will discover this fun and exciting dance style that moves and grooves to dynamic tempos and rhythms. Dancers will have fun discovering the smooth and sharp, strong and light, and high and low feel of this dance style. They will also learn about the history of Hip Hop dance and culture and its movement vocabulary from breaking, locking and popping. Clothing Girls: dance clothes such as leotards, footless tights, dance skirts, etc., t-shirts, leggings, sneakers, or dance
sneakers. Boys: sweat pants/shorts, t-shirts, sneakers, or dance sneakers. DATES: August 3 - 7 TIME: 2:30 - 4:30 pm AGES: 7 - 10 COST: $180 Minimum 3 kids for class to be held / Maximum 10. Must be pre-registered week prior to start of class. LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Dog Days: Families! Bring your
leashed canine friend to the park. Your dog will enjoy fun activities which build confidence and burn lots of mental and physical energy through scent detection and agility training. A photographer will be on hand to capture these precious moments. DATE: July 11 TIME: 10 - noon AGES: All Ages COST: FREE LOCATION: Skallman Park - Off Leash Dog Park, 1190 Yew Ave, Blaine (Behind Blaine Public Works Office)
Family Movie Nights: Free movies
for the whole family. See Next Page for details. TIME: Sunset. Gym will open at 8:30 AGES: ALL COST: FREE. Bring your blanket or lawn chair. LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Movin’ Mondays: Games for fun
and fitness for kids. DATES: June 1: Kids Play June 8: Kids Play June 15: Video Game Theme June 22: Zombie Day June 29: Trail Walking Day July 6: Video Game Day July 13: Super Hero Theme Day July 20: Hockey Day July 27: Pirate Day August 3: Teddy Bear Picnic (Lincoln Park, H Street, Blaine) August 10: Video Game Day August 17: Flag Football August 24: Squirt Gun Day TIME: 2:00 - 4:00 pm AGES: 6 & up COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
2015 EVENTS Birch Bay Activity Center 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay June 26 - 28
International Art Festival at Peace Arch Park
July 4
Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration Parade & Fireworks
July 5 - 11
Drayton Harbor Day Music Festival
July 11
Art 2 Jazz Street Fair
August 1 - 2
Drayton Harbor Days
August 2 - 29
International Concert Series
Sundays 2 pm, Peace Arch Park
May 22 September 6
Fri., Sat., Sun. Plover Ferry Passenger Rides & A.P.A. Museum
Saturdays
Blaine Gardener’s Market
(June - Oct )
H Street Plaza
Daily
International Sculpture Exhibition – Peace Arch Park
(May - Oct)
10 am – 2 pm
Community funded recreational and activity programs for all ages, reflecting our northwest lifestyles and spirit for life. Our mission is to provide recreational opportunities, maintain sites that enhance our quality of life and preserve the natural and recreational resources of the district. Elected Commissioners: Jeff Carrington, Chairman Doug Robertson, Treasurer Sheli Moore Richard Sturgill Katy Montfort Staff: Heidi Holmes, Program Manager Brenda Gelwicks, Joshua Davies Activity Coordinators Leila Humphrey, Support Staff Ted Morris, Director
www.bbbparkandrec.org
Pirate Daze: Kids will dress up in
pirate costumes and join in the fun as we play pirate games, listen to pirate music, join in a treasure hunt including a ride on the Plover and attend the pirate costume contest at the Drayton Harbor Days Festival. Snacks provided. DATE: Saturday, August 1 TIME: 10:30 am - 3:30 pm AGES: 3 & up COST: FREE. Kids ages 5 - 12 can pre-register for the Treasure Hunt and Plover Ferry ride. Space is Limited so go online to bbbparkandrec.org to reserve your passage! LOCATION: Marine Park Playground, Marine Drive, Blaine.
Kite Festival: Kite making and flying on the beach in Birch Bay. Sponsored by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. DATE: June 20 & 21 TIME: 10 am - 5 pm AGES: All COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay Skimboard Lessons and Demo:
Learn techniques of skimboarding from local Skimboard enthusiast Jeff Blotsky. Bring your own board or ones will be available for trial use. Boards are available for purchase. DATE: June 20 TIME: 1 - 3 pm AGES: All COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay
Teach Me Golf - Youth: Give your
kids a summer they’ll remember by signing them up for golf lessons with Keith Henderson, PGA Professional. Beginning youth group golf lessons will be taught at Rodarco Golf Range. Parents must participate! DATES: Jun 27, Jul 11, 18, & 25, Aug 1, 8. TIME: 10 – 11 am AGES: 8 - 15 COST: $85 for 6 lessons. Includes golf balls and use of clubs. Must be
Gym Rental $25 / hour Great for parties: Basketball Parties Volleyball Parties Dodgeball & more! Call today and reserve the gym for your next event! 360-656-6416 Birch Bay Activity Center
7511 Gemini Street Birch Bay, WA
Open Gym: Join us in the gym for
ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS pre-registered by June 20. Minimum 3 kids for class to be held. LOCATION: Rodarco Golf Range, 8020 Kickerville Road, Birch Bay
G’ana’k’w Canoe Family Celebration: Full Circle Canoe Journey
DATES: July 24 - 25 TIME: Friday, 1 - 4 pm Welcoming Ceremony and Tribal Displays Saturday 10 am - 4 pm Native Arts & Crafts, Canoe Family TIMES: 1 - 2 pm Tribal singing, dancing, storytelling & music 8 pm Family style campfire. Bring your own chairs and marshmallows. AGES: All COST: FREE admission, Free parking LOCATION: Marine Park, Telescope Beach, Blaine, WA Boat Safety Day: Learn basic Boat Safety rules. Picnic lunch to follow as we welcome the G’ana’k’w Canoe Family to shore. Food provided. DATE: Friday, July 24 TIME: 10 - 2 pm AGES: Ages 5 & up COST: FREE LOCATION: Blaine Boating Center, Marine Drive, Blaine.
Geocaching 101: Thinking about
joining in on the planet’s biggest real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game? Find out what it takes to go geocaching and, go find your first geocache at this event! Whether you’re looking for a new activity to do with the kids, or planning this summer’s PNW hikes, geocaching is a simple way to add a bit of outdoor adventure and intrigue to your life. The class will be taught by Geocaching HQ employee Alex Dolk. Current geocachers are welcome—come share with folks why you use million-dollar satellites to find tupperware in the woods! Please bring a GPS or smartphone, a pen, and optionally some small fun items to leave or trade in a geocache
basketball, pickleball, badminton or volleyball. DATE: Fridays TIME: 5:30 - 8:30 pm AGES: All COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay
(no food). DATES: Saturday, July 25 TIME: 10 am - noon AGES: Ages 5 & up COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center.
Chinese Kung Fu Hero Classes:
In this week long class, students will learn basic etiquette, basic hand, basic stance, punching/pushing, combinations, kicking, basic tai chi, movements of coordination and form. DATE: August 3 - 7 TIME: 9 - 11 am AGES: 4 - 10 COST: $50 LOCATION: BP Heron Center, Birch Bay State Park. Discovery Pass needed for parking. DATE: August 10 - 14 TIME: 9 - 11 am AGES: 11 - 18 COST: $50 LOCATION: BP Heron Center, Birch Bay State Park. Discovery Pass needed for parking. ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Blaine Taiji Academy Wushu Expert, Jody, has been learning Chinese martial art since his childhood and has received over 20 championships on Chen Style Taijiquan, weapons as sword, stick, also on boxing, Taiji sword, Taiji Push hands, and more. Jody graduated from Shanghai Sport University in 2014 and has been teaching Chen Style Taiji and Children Wushu in Canada at Kenlow Chinese Martial Art School and Blaine Academy in the USA.
$10
KILMER PARK 700 “B” St.
SALISHAN PARK 1275 Blaine Ave.
BLAINE SKATE PARK 635 4th St.
BAY HORIZON PARK
7511 Gemini St., Birch Bay
BRICKYARD PARK 980 Clyde St.
PEACE PORTAL TRAIL
Between Cherry St - Bayview Ave.
SEMIAHMOO SPIT TRAIL Semiahmoo Pkwy.
MONTFORT PARK 2200 Dodd St.
MARINE PARK 200 Marine Dr.
LINCOLN PARK 1800 “H” St.
BIRCH BAY STATE PARK 5105 Helwig Road, Birch Bay
PEACE ARCH STATE PARK 19 “A” St.
Waterslide Day Passes
Blaine-Birch Bay Park & Recreation is teaming up with the Birch Bay Waterslides this May & June! Passes valid in May & June. Offer for Blaine & Birch Bay Residents only. (ID required) Purchase passes at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Limit 5 passes per day. For more info, call 656-6416
May 15th: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone PG **May 22nd: Wreck It Ralph PG - Video Game Theme May 29th: Maleficent PG June 5th: Spongebob Squarepants 2: Sponge Out of Water PG June 12th: The Fast and the Furious PG-13 **June 19th: Alice In Wonderland PG - Crazy Character Theme June 26th: Aladdin G July 3rd: Independence Day PG-13 July 10th: The Muppet Movie G July 17th: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets PG July 24th: Despicable Me PG **July 31st: Pirates of the Caribbean Curse of the Black Pearl PG-13 - Pirate Theme August 7th: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off PG-13 August 14th: 2 Fast 2 Furious PG-13 **August 21st: Princess Bride PG - Fairy Tale Theme August 28th: Toy Story G September 4th: Tangled PG **Special Theme Nights -
Sponsored by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Sign up today by calling 360-656-6416
**NOTE: PROGRAM SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Discover Birch Bay Race: How well
do you know Birch Bay? Test your skills! DATES: Sunday, August 30 TIME: 10 am - 2pm AGES: All COST: FREE LOCATION: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Discovery Days Event.
Run to the Border: Kids 1-mile
dash, 5k race. Sponsored by Let’s Move Blaine. DATES: Saturday, August 1 TIME: 8:30 am AGES: All COST: Visit www.letsmoveblaine.org LOCATION: Marine Park, Blaine, WA
Shotokan Karate: A unique school of self-improvement through rigorous and focused training. Our training emphasizes karate as an art and not a sport. We remain true to the traditional methodology handed down from master to master and generation to generation. Eric Henry, Nidan DATES: Tuesdays and Thursdays TIME: 4:30 - 6 pm AGES: 7 & up COST: $5 drop in, $40 monthly individual, $100 family rate LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center ZUMBA® Fitness: Every class feels
like a party! Join Brenda Gelwicks as she leads you through the fun dance moves! Just move your body and follow her lead! It’s easy! Summer Schedule May - August Mon: 9:00 am Zumba® Fitness Tues: 6:15 - 7:15 pm Zumba® Fitness Wed: 9:00 am Zumba® Toning Fri: 9:00 am Zumba® Step Sat: 9:00 am Zumba® Fitness COST: $3 drop-in fee
Hikes Around Whatcom County and Beyond: Explore the beauty of
Whatcom County – These fun day hikes are meant to challenge your inner couch potato! DATES: JUNE 17: White Rock, BC: Cross Border Fun. Meet at 10 am by the American Kitchen at Peace Arch Park. Passport or enhanced driver’s license required. Meet at Peace Arch Park,
Pickleball Open Gym: Pickleball is a
ACTIVITIES FOR ADULTS cross the border into Canada, walk along Beach Road to Marine Drive in White Rock. Stroll the White Rock Promenade, have lunch and return to the U.S. JULY 18: Oyster Dome. Moderate 7.2 mile hike. AUGUST 22: Pine & Cedar Lake. Moderate 6 miles hike. SEPTEMBER 12: Squires Lake & Alger Alp. Moderate 6 mile hike. COST: FREE, bring a sack lunch Meet at Birch Bay Activity Center at 9 am for carpooling unless otherwise specified.
Beginner’s Running Class: This
9-week beginner’s 5K training will include warm-up, training run, stretching for runners and weekly training tips. BBBPRD2 staff will prepare you for the Run to the Border 5K to be held on August 1 starting at Marine Park. DATE: Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting June 2 TIME: 7:30 - 8:30 am COST: $50 Minimum 3 people for class to be held. LOCATION: Blaine Boating Center, Gate 2, 235 Marine Drive, Blaine
Teach Me Golf - Adults: It’s never
too late to learn to play golf or simply improve your swing! Beginning adult group golf lessons will be taught at Rodarco Golf Range on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; PGA instruction will be taught by Keith Henderson, PGA Professional. DATES: (2 sessions to choose from) Tues: Jun 23, 30, Jul 7, 14, 21, & 28 Wed: Jun 24, Jul 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 TIME: 6 - 7 pm COST: $120 for 6 lessons. Includes golf balls and use of clubs. Must pre-register by June 19. LOCATION: Rodarco Golf Range
Ballroom Dance: This 4-week class will teach you the basics of ballroom dance. A new dance move taught each month. Instructors Megan and Wendy Bloom will teach you the basics. Having a partner is not required.
Wendy and Megan have over 19-years of dance and competitive ballroom dance experience. DATE: Tuesdays, June, July & August TIME: 7:30 - 8:30 pm COST: $50 per month LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay Min. 8, Max. 16 /Age: 16+
POUND Rockout Workout: Chan-
nel your inner performer & rock your body with this modern-day fusion of movement and music. Using RipstixTM - weighted drumsticks engineered for exercise - POUND transform drumming into an effective full-body workout. DATE: Mondays, June 8 - July 13 TIME: 4 - 4:45 pm COST: $30 Minimum 10 people for class to be held. Childcare provided. LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Line Dance:
DATE: Thursdays TIME: 9:30 - 10:30 am DATE: Mondays TIME: 5:30 - 6:30 pm COST: $3 drop in fee LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
cross between tennis and badminton using a lower net with a whiffle-type ball and short paddles. DATE: Mondays 10:30 - 1:30 pm, 6:30 - 8:30 pm Tuesdays: 11:30 - 2:30 pm Wednesdays 10:30 am - 1:30 pm Thursdays 10:30 am - 1:30 pm (advanced ratings only) Fridays 10:30 am - 1:30 pm Saturdays 10 am - noon COST: $2 drop-in fee LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Badminton Open Gym:
DATE: Sundays TIME: 4 - 6 pm COST: $2 drop in fee LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
Yoga - For Body, Mind & Spirit:
Enhance flexibility & balance, Increase peace of mind and lower levels of stress, bolster overall health & immune system through movement & stretching. DATES: Tuesdays, 10 - 11 am Thursdays, 6:15 - 7:15 pm COST: $5 drop in fee LOCATION: Birch Bay Activity Center
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO REGISTER OR LEARN MORE INFO ON OUR PROGRAMS www.bbbparkandrec.org
Saturday, August 1 10:30 am - 3:30 pm Blaine Marine Park Ages 4 & up Cost: FREE Pirate accessories • costume contest • prizes Participate in a treasure hunt & pirate games. Ride the historic Plover on a high seas adventure! Register today for the Plover, space is limited! call 360-656-6416!
Skimboard & Skateboard Lessons & Demonstrations Learn how to ride by land or by sea!
Skateboarding with Zac Jun 13, 10 - noon
Blaine Skateboard Park
Skimboard with Jeff Blotsky Jun 20 1 - 3 pm B i rc h B a y D r i v e
•
Saturday, August 1
•
Kids Run 8:30 am
•
5k Race 9:00 am
•
Marine Park, Blaine WA
•
to register: letsmoveblaine.org
May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
13
Birch Bay family has big hopes for cartoon dog By Steve Guntli Birch Bay resident Steve Ryan has dedicated a large portion of his life to the exploits of a cartoon dog. Now, with the support of his family, he’s hoping to make it a full-time job. “Marley,” a comic strip Ryan has written and illustrated since
1997, features the adventures of the titular border collie, who has moved from comedy clubs to ski slopes to the beaches of Birch Bay. So far, Ryan has had to settle for producing “Marley” strips on an irregular schedule, sketching out the loveable pooch when he isn’t working at his construction job in West Vancouver. With the help of
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gggggggg gggggggggg
gggggggg Having trouble making ends meet? Is your mortgage payment becoming a real burden?
Courtesy Steve Ryan
a Kickstarter.com account, Ryan wants to dedicate much more of his time to his dream project. The Kickstarter account has a goal of $10,000. That money would allow Ryan to replace his old computer, purchase software to help produce animated “Marley” shorts and publish an 80page “Marley” compilation book. If the fundraiser exceeds its target goal, Ryan will use the money to supplement his income so he can spend more time working on the comic. His long-term goal is to be able to produce the comic strip full-time. Ryan first developed the character when he started working at the Laff Stop, a popular comedy club in Houston. It was also where he met his wife, Susie. “It was a great place to be, a great place to build a comic strip,” Ryan said. “We were accepted amongst all the comedians. Even though I never did stand-up my-
gggggggg
Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa Event Center
self, I was doing the same thing in a different medium. They were great and they got involved in it. The cast members in the strip are all comedians, and they still contribute jokes.” In those days, Marley the dog worked in the comedy club and struggled in vain to forge a career as a comedian. When the family moved to the mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado in 2004, “Marley” really began to take shape, adopting a ski bum persona. “Breckenridge was where we were most productive,” Ryan said. “I was putting out three or four comics each week.” In 2010, their son Charlie was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, a lung disease that can affect children living at high elevations. In order to treat the rare disorder, the family had to leave the high-elevation (11,400 feet) town of Breckenridge and move to Birch Bay.
Every parent knows: Good stuff in. Good stuff out.
When the Ryan family relocated from Colorado to Birch Bay, Marley moved with them, the dog’s priorities shifting from skiing to boating. However, the stress of the move and a number of other setbacks forced Ryan to cut back on his cartooning almost completely. Shortly after arriving in Washington, Susie fell ill, leaving Steve as the sole provider for the family. His job requires him to make a three-hour daily commute to Vancouver, where he often puts in 12to 13-hour workdays. To make matters worse, the diminishing value of the loonie has the effect of a nearly 25 percent pay cut. With all the family has been facing, it seems an odd time to try to revive their dream project. But with extra encouragement from his twin sons, Charlie and Terry, Ryan has decided to go for it. “Marley has been a part of the boys’ lives since before they were born,” Ryan said. “They insisted it was something we get back into.” The boys contributed their technical know-how. Charlie taught himself to use Adobe Dreamweaver through YouTube videos and built the comic’s website, Marley.net. Terry built a corresponding Facebook page and set up a store through Café Press. Regardless of how the Kickstarter campaign pans out, Ryan intends to stick with “Marley,” and is planning on making more Blaine and Birch Bay-specific comics. “We’re just going to take things as they come and see where it goes,” Ryan said. “We’re just going to keep at it and hopefully the popularity will spread.” For more information, visit kickstarter.com/projects/marley-net, or visit Marley.net to read comics from throughout the years.
The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
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to stop by the Jonothan Baer Table Saturday, 5/23 at the Blaine Gardeners Market. Steve Croft’s books are $15. We hope to see you there. Books are also available at Blaine Bouquets.
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SEASONAL HELP Whatcom County Parks & Recreation is seeking Temporary Seasonal Help to work at Point Roberts park locations.
For details visit our website at www.whatcomcounty.us/jobs or call 360-676-6802.
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360 325.3581 • Home Repairs • Remodels • Kitchen & Bathrooms • Roof Repairs • Doors & Windows • Drywall & Texture • Painting • Fencing
Honest, Affordable, Small jobs welcomed! Contact us for a free quote:
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PAINTING INTERIOR and exterior. Reasonable rates, 31 years experience. Licensed, bonded and insured. Call Doug 360-371-9094. Lic#DOUGLPP066KL.
Wanted Horseshoe Coins & Antiques We BUY, SELL & TRADE
Coins, Stamps, Gold, Silver, Currency, Jewelry, Mining/Nautical, etc.
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BELLINGHAM • FERNDA BIRCH BAY • SEMIAHMOLE • CUSTER O • BLAINE POINT ROBERTS
4152 Meridian, Suite 201 Bellingham, WA 98226
At our Blaine Location, we are in need of:
360-734-2457
BAY CENTER Market hiring FT stocker/cashier. Must be flexible for scheduling, available on weekends, holidays and 21 y.o. or older. Pick up application at 8050 Harborview Road, Birch Bay. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Natural Play Therapy/interaction with 14 year old boy with autism. No experience necessary. Call 360-778-2465, 360-4410908, or for program info go to naturalplaytherapy.com.
Lic.# EDGEIEI901KF
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FULL TIME: Inventory/Shipping/ Receiving/Customs Broker Responsible for ALL Shipping and Receiving duties as well as U.S. Customs paperwork & Inventory. FT Benefits: Paid time off, Holiday pay, health/dental/ vision/life, 401k w/ company match. 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
We’re Growing! Due to continued strong growth, Pacific Customs Brokers is presently looking for:
• Full time Customs Broker • Full time Office Assistant for brokerage operations • Full time Customs Release Agent Positions may include afternoon and/or weekend work, so flexible schedule is a must. • High school graduate or higher • Strong keyboarding skills needed • Ability to handle tight schedules and competing priorities • Background check required
PCB offers competitive pay, comprehensive medical benefits, 401K, career development, and more. Visit www.pcbusa.com/careers.cfm for more details. Check back periodically for new openings.
May 14 - 20, 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 OPEN SUNDAY 1-4
S E MIAHMOO OPEN HOUSES OPEN SUNDAY 1-3
OPEN SUNDAY 1-4
OPEN SUN 12-2
LYNDEN OPEN HOUSES OPEN SATURDAY 11-1
OPEN SAT 12-2
SANDY POINT OPEN HOUSES OPEN SUNDAY 1-3
ED
EDUC
ER PRIC
5437 Tanager Lane $345,000
5404 Quail Run $629,000
8617 Great Horned Owl Ln. $624,900
9505 Semiahmoo Parkway C7A $449,000
Charming home wows with soaring ceilings and upper clerestory windows that flood the open plan with natural light. Island kitchen, main floor master suite & den, private upper guest suite & finished bonus room. Hardwood floors & classic white millwork. TOUR: StonehavenCharm.com. St. Andrews Green Gate #3.
Curb appeal galore on Semiahmoo’s wide par 5 Fairway #1. Traditional floorplan “flows” beautifully for entertaining. Large, west-facing, sun drenched deck, perfect for evening barbecues. 2 offices. Opulent master suite. 3 guestrooms. 3 car side entry garage. Quiet, stately neighborhood of well tended homes.
Picture perfect location for stunningly well-built home. Exceptional design, attn to detail. Exterior stonework, hardwood flooring & tile detail. 3 fp, furniture-grade cabs, eat-in kitchen, breakfast bar, covered patio. Spacious main floor master—lux spa bath! 4-BR home.
No bank waterfront condo Beachwalker Villas. Views the lights of White Rock, Drayton Harbor & Mt. Baker. Upper 3-BR fully furnished. Short drive to golf course, min walk to the Inn at Semiahmoo & marina. Membership to golf club and health club available.
Brenda Mills 360-319-0072
Linda Kiens 360-815-6640
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
OPEN SUN 11-2:30
B LA IN E O P E N H O U S E S OPEN SUN 1-4
OPEN SUN 1-1:30
9141 Gleneagle Dr. #5 $290,000
210 W Grover Dr. $227,500
4162 Sucia Dr. $599,000
Tastefully updated. Large gourmet kitchen w/upper end appliances, maple cabinets, silestone counters. Lrg master bdrm overlooking private pond, lux master bath, upstairs laundry, 2 extra bedms. Private outdoor space for entertaining with a spacious deck and patio and double car garage.
Charming home in ideal location.Remodeled home, fenced back yard, garage. Character you would expect; hardwood floors and closet storage. Ideal updategreat mudroom laundry. Well built/well maintained. Mixed usecommercial zoning! Light shines thru the well-placed windows. Opportunity Abounds!
Views at Sandy Point Shores! Contemporary 3-BR, 2.5-BA, 2644 s.f. great room, FP, upscale kit, SS appls, master private bath, radiant floor heat, walk-In closet, 2nd W/D, family rm. 1344 s.f. 3-car garage w/ add’l shop/ hobby space & dumbwaiter. 3 decks+patio, Low maint home/ yard.
Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488
Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
Randy Weg 360-305-5704
OPEN SUN 12-4
BIRCH BAY OPEN HOUSES OPEN SAT 1-4
OPEN SAT 10-12
FEATURED HOME
!
RONT
RF WATE
435 8th Ave. $259,000
Walking distance to all amenities. Stately home on fully-fenced corner lot. Gorgeous vinyl fencing, appears “brand new” w/stunning granite counters, dark cabs & SS appl. Main floor bdrm is perfect for an office. Oversized garage, poured concrete patio enhances outdoor living. One-of-a-kind custom home and location!
2140 Bayview Ave. $329,900 8104 Birch Bay Dr. $560,000
955 Third St #201 $169,000
Waterview condo with a great floor plan makes this a win, win. Granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances along with great finishing, a place to call home.
Gerry Allen 360-920-0563
Lorraine Hoving 360-961-2407
Short stroll to the water, lush trails & parks. Minutes from freeway, tranquil dead-end road. Stunning sunsets, peaceful, well manicured & fully fenced backyard w/total privacy. Granite w/custom backsplash, hrdwd floors, tons of storage & 3-car garage. Enjoy water views from your colossal master suite w/ huge walk in closet.
Lorraine Hoving 360-961-2407 Paul Holtzheimer 360-303-4444
In case of inclement weather, please call agent to confirm open houses.
ICE!
NEW PR
Amy Bremer 360-961-0620
Amy.Bremer@Century21.com
The web address to your next address...
www.C21BayProperties.com 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. LOT/MEMBERSHIP Birch Bay Leisure Park. Quiet, good view. Concrete with front grass. Ideal for motor home/park model. Club houses, pool, playgrounds, sports. $60,000 U.S. Add a 35’ Class A motorhome for $10,000 more. 604-385-1154.
NEW! View lot in Birch Bay Village
GORGEOUS LAKEFRONT, MT. BAKER VIEWS
ONLY $118,000
2 acres Coastal and Birch Bay view property on Fingalson Creek Dr. Ferndale Schools comes w/ watershare and has all services! Possible owner terms MLS #779908
$14,000 SEMIAHMOO 36’ MARINA SLIP Best Price, well located.
GOOD PRICE FOR A LOT ON A LAKE!
2.1 ACRES - COMMERCIAL & 1.8 ACRES - RESIDENTIAL 7 Residential Bldg Sites 2 Water Shares
350,000
$
Possible owner contract or joint venture.
Birch Bay at its finest. Walking the beach, clamming, crabbing, boating, tennis & golf nearby. Recent remodel along with high ceilings, wall to wall glass and the Mt. Baker view makes this a must see condo. Don’t forget to look at the indoor pool, racquetball court, tennis court, all part of Jacob’s Landing.
Gerry Allen 360-920-0563
I will do the leg work! • I can do the research! I have the resources! • I understand your needs!
I WANT to help!
PEN DING !
8103 KISPIOX
Call Ruth Skeete at 360-358-5075 Experienced real estate professional since 2003
Ruth.Skeete@Century21.com
OPEN SUNDAY 12-3. Semiahmoo, 9043 Gleneagle Dr. Unit 28. 3-BR, 3-BA, 2258 s.f. w/babbling brook in the back yard off the patio. 3 en-suites and the large master suite is on the main floor. MLS #761281 $299,000. Brian Southwick 360815-6638. Windermere.
Every edition online: thenorthernlight.com
Rentals - Residential
Rentals - Rooms
3-BR, 2-BA in BBV. Large kitchen, W/D, D/W, stove, refridg, Quiet location. Large Deck $1150/mo.
$270,000 Over 2000 sq. ft.
thenorthernlight.com
1388 Bayview Ct. #2 $159,900
Condo in the heart of Blaine. Walking distance to schools, downtown, 2-parks and ocean. 3-bdrms, 2-w/walk in closets. Updated stainless steel appliances, granite counters. Newer laminate flooring was professionally installed This is the ideal home for a full time person, investor or as a weekend getaway.
Pat Brown 360-739-2643
We’ve Got You Covered
BIRCH BAY / CUSTER
3-BR, 2-BA, duplex. Garage, W/D, D/W, Stove/Refrig., fenced yard, Great Location, $975.00 Per Month. 2-BR, 2-BA Townhouse. Garage, W/D, S/R, Super near border location. $850/mo .
Reach 2.7 Million Readers Choose a Region or Go Statewide One Call One Payment
360/332-1777
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.
Rentals - Commercial
BLAINE
plus full bastment. EXCEPTIONAL Solarium, basement, workshop, secure room, built green.
Call this Newspaper for Details
www.C21BayProperties.com
NEWER BIRCH-BAY 2400 s.f. Classic, New England design. Huge master, “dreamsuite.” 3-BR, 2-BA, laundry upstairs; Den or 4th BR w/ bathroom downstairs. Separate living, family rooms. Deck, AC, oversized garage. Near waterfront. Owner/builder. $359K. 360-366-9363.
Call Hugh - 24 years experience helping buyers & sellers. 2930 Newmarket St. #111 • Bellingham CallHugh.com
Open House
Gerry Allen 360-920-0563
Let me “Make your NEXT MOVE the BEST MOVE.”
$139,000
4751 Birch Bay Lynden Road #1 $109,000
8174 Comfort Ln. $130,000
One of a kind Birch Bay cottage located on a sunny lot and minutes to the beach. Well cared for, it is a must see. Now is the time to create your Birch Bay memories, crabbing, sailing or just walking the beach. Don’t miss this opportunity... sunsets from the patio included at no extra cost.
HELPING SELLERS AND BUYERS MAKE IT HAPPEN
years experierce .com 25working for you!
Latitude 49 – 365 day lot!
7806 Birch Bay Dr. #808 $146,500
www.windermere.com
CALLCallHugh HUGH! 360 371.5800 www.
Newly remodeled home in Latitude 49 on a 365 day lot! Beautifully remodeled kitchen, added bath, new flooring throughout, fresh paint, updated electrical, newly installed furnace and more. Great vacation get-away or full time residence. Gated community, close to the sandy beaches of Birch Bay, a great place to call your own! One year Home Warranty!
Saltwater Vistas. Cathedral ceilings, massive window walls; 4-BR +loft. 3-BA, custom cabs, large owner’s suite. Floor to ceiling antique brick fireplace. Wraparound sundeck. Double garage, tideland ownership. Dir: I-5 to Exit 270; W on Birch Bay Lynden Rd., to L on Harborview to R on Birch Bay Drive; waterfront address on right.
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Duplex. Like new, garage, quiet street $1050/mo. N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,
CALL FOR DETAILS!
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
FOR LEASE large attractive Blaine office. Central location. Marvelous marine view. Mel Fitzgerald, 360-393-7829.
Place your ad in
360-332-3166 FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!
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16
The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
The Indoor Report: What to read, watch and listen to this month By Steve Guntli With the summer season upon us, it seems nearly every movie, television show and Broadway production these days is based around some kind of costumed hero or another. While superheroes are great, comic books and graphic novels go far beyond capes and explosions, and their influences can be felt even in music. Book: “My Friend Dahmer” (2011) By John “Derf” Backderf Would we know evil if we saw it in our daily lives? That’s one of the questions posed in John “Derf” Backderf’s strange, touching illustrated memoir, “My Friend Dahmer.” Backderf attended the same high school in rural Ohio as future serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer in the late ’70s. The two were casual acquaintances who bonded over Dahmer’s bizarre sense of humor and willingness to do anything for a laugh. As they got older and Dahmer grew stranger, the two drifted apart. Backderf went on to have a normal adolescence, made lifelong friends and went on to college. Dahmer grew more isolated, his thoughts increasingly dominated by his dark obsessions. In the early 1990s, when details of Dahmer’s horrific crime spree started making the news, Backderf began to reflect on the strange kid he went to high school with, wondering if he ever saw the darkness within him and if there was anything he could have done. This isn’t a true-crime narrative or tabloid exploitation. The details of Dahmer’s horrific crimes are largely left out of the story. What gives “My Friend Dahmer” its power is the way it casts banal interactions into stark relief. The simple, cartoony artwork captures the style of the era, while making the creepier elements all the more effective. Movie: “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (2010) Directed by Edgar Wright “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” represents the perfect confluence of a director and a source material. Edgar Wright, best known for bringing a kinetic energy and brilliant structure to British comedies like “Shaun of the Dead” and “The World’s End,” was the absolute perfect choice for Bryan Lee O’Malley’s graphic novel series. Scott (Michael Cera) is a shiftless 20-something musician looking for love in Toronto. When he meets Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), he knows he’s found his soul mate. The only problem is, she comes with baggage: namely, seven evil exes who he must face in a series of increasingly ridiculous showdowns. The battles include a skateboarding challenge against a cocky movie star, a Bollywood-inspired dance number and a Godzilla-like showdown between two gigantic monsters made of music. The movie is every bit as crazy as it sounds, but it’s incredibly fun to watch. Taking his visual cues from comic books and early ’90s video games, Wright packs every frame with visual innovation. The nerdy,
gangly Cera makes a surprisingly compelling action hero, and for all the chaos onscreen, the movie shows a surprising amount of insight into maturity, relationships and perseverance. Album: “Demon Days” (2005) By Gorillaz Plenty of music has been inspired by comic books characters, but only one band can actually claim to be comic book characters. Gorillaz is the brainchild of Blur front man Damon Albarn and comic book artist James Hewlett. The pair felt pop music had become so artificial they could create an animated band and no one would know the difference. Seven platinum albums later, and their hypothesis appears to have been confirmed. But while the group may have been founded as a cynical experi-
ment, they’ve had surprising longevity and have shown a strong level of artistic growth. The band’s second album, “Demon Days,” remains their best. Powered by the ubiquitous, unstoppable hooks of “Feel Good, Inc.,” the album took the group beyond the novelty of its creation and into the realms of pop legitimacy. Built on a failed script idea for a Gorillaz movie, the album has a loose storyline, charting the group’s travels through a post-apocalyptic wasteland. But the danceable rhythm and hip hop hooks (courtesy of collaborator Del the Funky Homosapien) offset the grim thematic material. Each of these titles is available through the Blaine Public Library. To reserve a copy, visit the library or go to wcls.org.
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
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WHATCOM COUNTY Proud supporters of the Blaine Community! Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Modern Equipment • Safety Checks • Locally Owned & Operated
360 332-3121
Fill your bottles - Easy RV access
2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine
• Certified Health Department O&M Inspections
“Marina” opening soon
• Multiple House Discounts Owned & Operated by Blaine Resident Certified Septic Contractors
• Local Full Service Septic Company
ALL OF WHATCOM COUNTY • (360) 671-1307
septicplus@comcast.net
This space can be yours for only $37 per week. 13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve. s “Marina, a musical based on life in Blaine at the turn of the last century, opens Thursday, May 21 at the Mount Baker Theatre. Here Marina (Katherine Strohmaier, l) speaks to Angus (Clark Hightower), while show creator Sandy Wolf looks on. For tickets go to mountbakertheatre.com.
Photo by Jack Kintner
Dining Guide
OBITUARIES C elebration
of
l ife
Please join us for a gathering to honor the life of
Monty Henderson at the home of Rex Wayne, 763 D St. Blaine. Saturday, May 30, commencing at 2:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served please call (360) 922-0898 if you have questions.
Farm Market • Bistro • Distillery Fresh Farm Lunch in our Bistro Local Cider, Wine & Spirits 10 - 5 Daily • 6140 Guide Meridian
26th Anniversary
BIG SALE
24th Anniversary
MAY 16 & 17 BIG SALE OPEN 9 AM - 5 PM
* MAY 4 & 5 * MAY 11 & 12 * Six *Greenhouses • 300,000 Flowers OPEN 9:00AM - 5:00PM *
Vegetables & Baskets
Coco-Coir® Products
Six Greenhouses Grown in our Intrepid Coco-Coir Premium Organic Potting Soil Open to the pubic ONLY 2 weekends! 300,000 Flowers 1.5 miles east of Grandview exit 266 • Follow signs to Vegetables & Baskets 7020 Dahlberg Road • Ferndale ®
® Grown in ourSorry, Intrepid we do notCoco-Coir accept credit cards. Premium Organic Potting Soil
Shop early for best selection
Mark your calendar! Open to the public ONLY 2 weekends!
360-318-7720
BellewoodFarms.com
Breakfast Lunch Dinner 360-778-3826
4823 Alderson Road, Birch Bay
Open 7 Days A Week
Sunday-Tuesday 7am-3pm Wednesday-Saturday 7am-8pm
Via
332-3540 234 D Street, Blaine
Birch Bay Café & Bistro On The WaTer • Open 7 days 360-778-2570 • 7829 Birch Bay dr.
Gluten-free options available!
7608 Birch Bay Dr. • 371-5409 www.BirchBayCafe.com
Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 332-4045
May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com
Coming up
Police Reports May 8, 10:45 a.m.: An officer was dispatched when members of a church arrived to discover someone had apparently entered the building during the night. Officers were meeting the reporting parties in the church parking lot when the male transient who walked out of the sanctuary to join them confirmed their suspicions. The 29-year-old traveler had entered the church overnight seeking shelter and food and appeared to have other challenges including several arrest warrants, one of them from Blaine Municipal Court. The officers concurred with the church members about the exigent circumstances and did not arrest the man for burglary, and passed on a trespass warning to visit only when regular church functions are in progress. He was however arrested on the warrants and transported to receive food and lodging at the jail. May 8, 11:33 a.m.: A resident on Hughes Avenue spotted two vehicles, one a small tan car and the other a black SUV, cruising through the neighborhood, stopping in turn at each set of rural mail boxes on the street. The resident spoke with the occupants, who claimed they had been hired to clean out all the newspaper-delivery boxes
in the area. The resident called the newspaper, who called back about an hour later to confirm the resident’s suspicion that they had not hired anyone to do that. The homeowner called police as it was possible the people had actually been emptying mailboxes. The suspects had left the area by that time and were not located in town, and all patrols were advised. May 9, 6:35 a.m.: Police responded to a residence on Alder Street on a call that a domestic violence assault had occurred there the previous evening. They found a woman had been beaten over the head, back and arms in the attack. She was in so much pain the following morning that she went to the hospital, and called police for help after being treated and released. The investigating officer arrested the woman’s husband for domestic violence assault and booked him into jail. The victim was placed in contact with a domestic violence advocate and provided information on available resources. May 9, 10:30 p.m.: Blaine Police assisted U.S. Border Patrol agents contacting a man observed trespassing along the railroad tracks near Marine Drive. The 60-year-old resident from West Virginia was wanted on an outstanding felony war-
rant held by the U.S. Marshal’s Office. He was arrested and booked into Whatcom County Jail. May 10, 10:30 p.m.: Officers assisting rangers with after-hours patrol of Semiahmoo Park found a large night-time party in progress on the beach on the west side of the facility. Several adults there were consuming alcoholic beverages around a campfire while a gaggle of small kids played around another fire nearby. They were advised that the park closed at sunset, open fires were not permitted on the beach, and consuming alcohol in public was illegal. The group apologized and explained they’d not known about the regulations. No pre-arranged designated drivers were in attendance, and an officer provided portable breath tests to those who wanted to make sure they were OK to ferry their families home. After everyone had departed, the officer policed the beach, made certain the fires were fully extinguished, secured the garbage that had been left behind and returned to patrol. 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.
Crossword
ACROSS 1. Relay mail delivery 4. Quamash (var. spelling) 10. Egg on 14. Always, in verse 15. Functional 16. Coastal raptor 17. One of three equal parts 19. “Darn it all!” 20. “___ on Down the Road” 21. Santa’s reindeer, e.g. 22. Auditory 23. Undetectable bomber 25. Do, for example 26. Cantankerous 27. “I do,” for one 30. Persia, now 31. Complain 34. In perfect condition 35. Encyclopedia, e.g. (2 wds) 39. The “B” of N.B., Latin 40. Bow 41. “Cast Away” setting 42. Calypso offshoot
43. Certain tribute 48. Attempt 49. Scottish wind instrument 51. Fine-grained sedimentary rock used as fertilizer 52. Cold shower? 55. Length x width, for a rectangle 56. Advocate 57. Science of liquids in motion 59. Caddie’s bagful 60. Upper-story bay windows supported by brackets 61. Deception 62. “B.C.” cartoonist 63. Be a snitch 64. “Absolutely!”
DOWN 1. 2. 3.
Can’t stand Freshen Indonesian dagger with a scalloped edge
4. Nod, maybe 5. English race place 6. Sports event in which teams compete to win 7. Not much (2 wds) 8. ___ gin fizz 9. Cast 10. Famous Am. Apache Indian chief 11. Handel bars 12. Designed for defense against armored vehicles 13. Downward slope 18. Accommodate 24. Harp’s cousin 27. Any of various periwinkles 28. “___ bitten, twice shy” 29. Garden intruder 32. “-zoic” things 33. Eat like a bird 35. Stop on the way (2 wds) 36. Equipment that makes a photo bigger 37. Weakest 38. “Lulu” opera composer 39. Atomic number 83 44. Girasol, e.g. 45. In a jaunty manner 46. Coin 47. Come-ons 49. Military wear 50. Ever (2 wds) 52. Attempt 53. Vega’s constellation 54. Cut, maybe 58. “It’s no ___!”
FIND CROSSWORD ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
4:47 pm 8.0 10:00 pm 4.2 5:49 pm 8.8 11:00 pm 4.8
Su 17 4:30 am 9.5 11:35 am -1.6 6:45 pm 9.4 11:58 pm 5.3
Mo 18 5:08 am 9.3 12:19 pm -2.0 7:37 pm 9.8
Tu 19 12:54 am 5.7 5:48 am 9.0
1:01 pm -2.1 8:27 pm 10.0
We 20 1:48 am 5.9 6:28 am 8.5
1:43 pm -1.8 9:15 pm 10.0
Th 21 2:44 am 6.0 7:08 am 8.0
North Cascades Concert Band Spring Concert: Friday, May 15, 7:30 p.m., Whatcom Community College Syre Hall, Cordata Parkway and Kellog Road, Bellingahm. Headliner Preston Hardage, trombonist with the U.S. Marine Band. Classical, jazz, showtunes and marches are featured. Picnic in the Playground: Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Bay Horizon Park playground, 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. “Mission Impossible” family fitness challenge, Pound Fit demonstrations at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., learn about Blaine Library’s summer reading program. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org. Boy Scout BBQ Lunch Fundraiser: Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 6200 Portal Way, Ferndale. Slow-smoked pork sandwich on a homemade bun, coleslaw, baked potato salad, gourmet beans, cornbread and lemonade. Cost: $10 per person or family of four $35. All proceeds go to Blaine Boy Scout Troop 4014. Spaghetti Dinner 4H Fundraiser: Saturday, May 16, 5–7:30 p.m., American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive, Blaine. All you can eat spaghetti. Cost: $8. Chocolate, Wine, Music and Art: Saturday, May 16, 6–9 p.m., BelleWood Acres, 6140 Guide Meridian. Kiwanis celebration, Odin microbrews, chocolates, cheese, chocolate fountain and dippers. Piano by Jon Mutchler and artist exhibit and sale. $25 tickets at bellewoodfarms.com. Info: 3187720. Beyond the Beach: Friday, May 16, 7 p.m., Wildlife Theater, Birch Bay State Park. Discover what lies beyond the beach in the Birch Bay watershed. Learn about the unique landscapes within this 17,000-acre watershed and upland locations to explore, as well as what the community is doing to protect the Birch Bay watershed. Info: fobbsp.org. Movie Mania–Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: Friday, May 16, 8:30 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for a free movie in the gym. Free popcorn. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org. The G’anak’w Canoe Family Journey to Blaine: Monday, May 18, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn about the upcoming fiveday canoe journey to Blaine and the resurgence in native culture and its relationship to canoe culture in the Northwest. Presented by local residents Ron Snyder and Cathy Taggett.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 Community Meeting: Thursday, May 19, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road, Birch Bay. Have your say about future projects and programs. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org.
Sa 16 3:50 am 9.5 10:51 am -0.8
Carnival: Friday, May 15–Sunday, May 17, old Blaine airport grounds, near the truck route and Boblett Street. Friday, 4–11 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m.–until the fun ends. Fun amusement rides and food.
May 15 – May 21 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
Fr 15 3:10 am 9.5 10:07 am 0.3
LEGO Mindstorms Club: Thursday, May 14, 6:30–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Help build the second Gripper! New members welcome. For ages 10 and up. Bimonthly. Info: 305-3637.
Tides DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT
Birch Bay Free Community Garden: 4144 Bay Road, Birch Bay (near corner of Bay and Kickerville roads). Now open. Info: 366-1043.
Learn to Play Chess: Tuesday, May 19, 6:30–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Chess has been proven to enhance creativity, problem solving, memory, concentration, intellectual maturity, self-esteem and more, and it’s fun! For grades K-12 and parents too. Info: 305-3637.
49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
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2:25 pm -1.3 10:03 pm 9.8
Weather Precipitation: During the period of May 5 to May 11 there were .12 inches of precipitation. The 2015 year-todate precipitation is 14.61 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 75.4°F on May 9, with a low of 43°F on May 7. Average temperature for the week was 55.7°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Movie Mania–Wreck It Ralph: Friday, May 22, 8:30 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Video game theme night. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for a free movie in the gym. Free popcorn. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org. City of Blaine Recycle Day: Saturday, May 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., behind Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. City residents may bring materials to recycle. Info: cityofblaine.com. Dodgeball: Saturday, May 23, noon, Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Kids ages 7–10. $5 for the month or $2 drop-in fee. Limited to 20 kids. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org. Family Flag Football: Saturday, May 23, 1 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church soccer field, 4460 Bay Road. Learn to play flag football. $2 per person drop-in fee. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org. Lummi Island Artists’ Studio Tour: May 23–24, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Lummi Island. A self-guided tour with more than 40 artists offering their work at more than 23 locations around the island. Info: 360/758-7121. Amphibian Adventure: Saturday, May 23, 7 p.m., Wildlife Theater, Birch Bay State Park. Whatcom County Amphibian Monitoring Project (WCAMP) is the host of this fabulous frog frivolity. Learn about the collected data of amphibian species in Whatcom County and how to identify amphibians through their lifecycles. Fun for the whole family. Info: fobbsp.org. Eagles: Sunday, May 24, 7 p.m., Wildlife Theater, Birch Bay State Park. Join Roger “The Eagle Guy” Rickett on a journey into the life of our local eagles. Info: fobbsp.org. Memorial Day BBQ: Monday, May 25, 12–5 p.m., BelleWood Aces, 6140 Guide Meridian. In support of veterans. Help build a human flag, live music with Badd Dog Blues Society and lawn games. Tickets $15. Info: bellewoodfarms.com, 318-7720. First Aid at Sea Course: Wednesday, May 27, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Port of Bellingham, Squalicum Harbor, 722 Coho Way, Bellingham. Coast Guard-approved training for recreational boaters and commercial fishermen. Learn about patient assessment, hypothermia, cold-water survival, near-drowning, shock and more. $50 for commercial fishermen, $100 for others. Pre-registration is required. Info: Sarah Fisken, 206/543-1225. Movie Mania–Maleficent: Friday, May 29, 8:30 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for a free movie in the gym. Free popcorn. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
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The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
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758 Peace Portal Drive Blaine • 332-4045 www.pasodelnorte.net
s Clockwise from top left: Fifth graders Joshua Evenstad and Kenly Olinger-Stirrat chest bump after securing their lifejackets on Monday, May 11, at Blaine Harbor. Their class was preparing to board the Plover ferry for a field trip to an oyster barge in the harbor, part of the Gardens of the Salish Sea educational program.
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Jase Tucker examines perhaps one of the world’s largest oysters. The oyster was planted in the 1980s and is in the running for a Guinness World Record for largest oyster. Mark Seymour with Drayton Harbor Oyster Company shares oyster expertise on his oyster barge in Drayton Harbor.
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Classmates Jonathan Puha and Briseya Nolasco learn about oysters by inspecting their insides at the Blaine Harbor boathouse.
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May 14 - 20, 2015 • thenorthernlight.com entertained. We will have hamburgers, baked beans, coleslaw, watermelon and ice cream. And don’t forget the cake! While you enjoy lunch, we will provide a down-home, foot-stomping good time with Howard and Sandy Andreason playing some of your favorite country tunes. You are invited to sing along and even dance to the music, if you feel the urge. I want to take just a moment to thank all the people and busi-
Young at heart: May B y L o r r i e C o n ya c Spring has sprung and we at the Blaine Senior Center are charging forward at full speed. Each Friday in May members of the Senior Center are invited to join us for Bingo at 12:30 p.m. Bring a dollar to contribute towards the prizes, or just bring something valued at a dollar to add to our eclectic mix of prizes. On May 29, our Bingo fun is open to the public. Be sure to mark your calendars to play EZ Bingo at 12:30 p.m. and you could win cash. The cost is $10 for eight games with three cards each game. If you would like, your kids are welcome to join the fun. If you are coming to play Bingo, please consider coming early to enjoy lunch with us. Our lunch is open to the public and is part of our nutrition program. Do you know a senior that would benefit from a well-balanced meal but is unable to drive? Bring them to lunch at the Senior Center. To help keep our lunch program going, we ask for a donation of $6 from those who can afford to contribute. Our main focus is to ensure that the elders in our community receive one nutritious meal per day that contains a third of their daily needs. See our menu on our web-
site at blaineseniorcenter.com. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Grab your hat and come to the birthday picnic on May 28 at 11:30 a.m. Are you having a birthday in May? Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate and be
nesses that have supported the Blaine Senior Center this year. I think we have the best community in Whatcom County supporting our seniors. Your involvement in our programs, events and fundraisers has been wonderful; we couldn’t do it without your help. Speaking of support, thanks to the Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, you can put on your dancing shoes and learn to line dance for free. This
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is a beginner class that meets at the Senior Center on the third Tuesday of each month, 10:30– 11:30 a.m. We are currently learning “Cut a Rug” and “Achy Breaky Heart.” Don’t worry, they’re both easy to learn and it’s a great way to get in a little aerobic exercise. The Blaine Senior Center is located at 763 G Street and our staff can be reached at 360/332-8040.
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The Northern Light • May 14 - 20, 2015
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