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January 7 - 13, 2016
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IN THIS
ISSUE
New Year in Birch Bay, page 2
Ericksen calls for repeal of trans-friendly locker room rule
Health and Wellness special section, pages 7-9
More of Blaine Police’s best reports, page 10
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Diving into the new year in Birch Bay
By Steve Guntli
s Hundreds of people charged into the icy waters of Birch Bay on January 1 as part of the Polar Bear Plunge. See more photos on page 2.
Photo by Steve Guntli
2015
year in
REVIEW A LOOK BACK
2015 Year in Review, Part 2
July • A number of amendments to the Whatcom County Charter were included on the ballot. The most significant measures called for district-only voting and splitting the county into five voting districts. • Property developer Ken Imus announced plans to revive his renovation projects in Blaine. The developer, best known for revitalizing Fairhaven in Bellingham, is starting by renovating the old Goff’s Department Store building on Peace Portal Drive. The building will hold retail spaces on the ground floor and condos on the upper levels. • The G’ana’k’w Canoe Family, the Lummi Nation and the Semiahmoo Nation used Marine Park as the final destination in a five-day ceremonial canoe journey. The event was marked with traditional native songs, dances and food. • Bellingham resident Autumn Veatch, 16, made national headlines after surviving a plane crash in Okanogan County. The wreck claimed the lives of Veatch’s grandparents and left the teenager stranded alone in the woods for two days. She eventually made it to a highway, where she was picked up, taken to a hospital and treated for minor injuries.
August • Birch Bay launched its first-ever Roll Back Weekend, a celebration of classic cars and 1960s culture. • Steve Ibarra was charged for a drive-by shooting near Blaine’s Golden Nut factory in 2011. Ibarra, who had been since 2012 serving a prison sentence for another crime, was formally charged when his previous sentence ended. • Governor Jay Inslee visited Blaine and took a ride on the Plover Ferry. Inslee was in town to discuss ecological issues related to the Drayton Harbor watershed. • Whatcom County legislators Vincent Buys and Luanne Van Werven added their signatures to a letter from other state Republicans, calling for an investigation into Planned Parenthood. The letter was in response to a series of viral videos that purported to show Planned Parenthood officials negotiating the sale of aborted baby parts. While the videos were widely discredited, they remain controversial. • A massive, unexpected windstorm wrought havoc throughout the county on August 27. Winds reached speeds of more than 50 miles per hour, causing damage to trees. Flying debris killed two people in Washington, and people reported millions of dollars in property damage. In Whatcom County, several outdoor festivals were
canceled or cut short, including the newly rebranded Discover Birch Bay Days and Crab Fest. • Red tide poisoning shut down crab fisheries all along the Pacific Coast. The increase in toxic algal blooms was likely related to the increased temperatures in the ocean. • The Lummi Nation refused further negotiations with SSA Marine over the Gateway Pacific Terminal, instead calling for a quick rejection of the company’s permit by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The (See Review, page 3)
INSIDE
State senator Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale) has called for a repeal of new rules that would allow transgendered people access to restrooms and locker rooms of their identified gender. The Washington State Human Rights Commission adopted the new rules (WSR 15-11-104) on December 26. The commission is a state agency that monitors discrimination and human rights violations. The commission introduced the new rules in May 2015. The rules would require schools and businesses with more than eight employees to allow access for transgendered individuals to the restroom facility that fits their gender identity, regardless of whether they have undergone a gender reassignment surgery. According to the rules proposed in May, transgendered use of locker room facilities in schools will be addressed on a case-by-case basis by applicable school districts. Gender-neutral facilities should be made available for students who chose to use it, but transgendered students will not be forced to use those facilities. The final guidelines for these rules have yet to be posted online. “Parents have a right to expect that when their children go to school, the boys will use the boys’ locker room and the girls will use the girls’ locker room,” Ericksen said. “This case offers a powerful example of a state agency overstepping its executive rulemaking power. For political reasons, the commission overturned a sensible and deeply ingrained cultural tradition without informing the public, telling the legislature or even issuing a press release.” The issue has been contentious nationwide, with LGBT activists and conservative lawmakers taking opposing stands. Washington representative Graham Hunt (R-Orting) recently told The Daily Signal that the new rules open the floor for men who want to “take advantage” by posing as women. Hunt promised to push an amendment to the rules that would bar transgendered people who are pre-operative or non-operative from entering restrooms that don’t align with their genitalia. LGBT activists reject this interpretation, as it implies transgendered individuals are faking their gender identity for a chance to peep in restrooms and locker rooms. Ericksen said the commission offered little notice to the public before the legislature made the decision, and that he will be working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to repeal the new rules when this year’s session begins.
Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Coming Up . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
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The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
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3
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
Review ... From page 1
tribe asserts the GPT would infringe on their federally protected fishing grounds and violate longstanding treaties. September • Steelhead LNG announced plans to revive a liquefied natural gas pipeline project that would cut through Whatcom County. The pipeline would transport gas from mainland B.C. to Victoria, traveling in the U.S. from Sumas to Cherry Point. • Canadian health officials lifted the ban on importing poultry from Washington state. The ban had been in place for more than a year. • North Whatcom Fire and Rescue named William Pernett its new fire chief. Pernett, who moved to Whatcom County in 2014, had been serving as interim chief since Ron Anderson resigned in May. • The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) seized more than 700 illegal crab pots from Boundary Bay and Semiahmoo Bay. The WDFW conducts sweeps every few years. October • Point Roberts Press, Inc. took home a record 21 awards from the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association. • After several delays, the Marine Park Playground had its grand opening on October 26. • Developer Ken Imus began preliminary work on a planned shopping plaza on Peace Portal Drive and F Street. Though the city has yet to permit the project, Imus hopes to build a seafood restaurant and public restroom facility. • Gregory Jason Walker robbed U.S. Bank in Blaine, and then waited outside for police to arrest him. Walker’s crime was similar to that of a Bellingham man, Richard Gorton, who on three separate occasions robbed a bank and waited for police. Gorton said he did it because he was facing homelessness and preferred to stay in a jail cell than live on the streets. November • Proposition 2015-1, which would impose a 0.2 percent sales tax to help pay for a new Whatcom County Jail, failed by a nar-
2015
year in
REVIEW
A LOOK BACK
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ments to the Whatcom County charter, including district-only voting and a new five-district electoral map. • After saying no to a proposal to rename G Street Plaza after Bruce Wolf, city council voted to honor the former city councilmember with a commemorative plaque. Wolf died in December 2014 after being struck by a car while walking his dog. • Struggling Bellingham-based grocery store chain Haggen announced plans on November 9 to auction off their core Whatcom County stores. The company faced bankruptcy after an ambitious expansion throughout the West Coast fell apart. • Alcoa reported plans to idle production at its Ferndale Intalco plant in 2016. The company will lay off 465 people, as well as another 415 workers from its plant in Wenatchee. The company cited poor prices for aluminum on the international market as the reason for the work stoppage. • After a disastrous 2014 season, the Mount Baker Ski Area opened for business on November 19, the first ski area in the state to open for the season. Road repairs along the Mount Baker Highway caused some traffic delays for commuting skiers and snowboarders. • Three kittens were abandoned near the Peace Arch border cross-
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tential cash payouts on the crab derby – maybe more! Coming up in 2016, we have applied with the Guinness Book of World Records to attempt to break the world record for the longest line of Subaru cars on March 19. We are also in the developmental stages of the Captain Vancouver/Lummi Nation Unity Weekend on June 18–19, so plan to anchor your boat out in the bay that weekend, enjoy the entertainment and celebrate our local history and culture. The chamber would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our volunteers. None of these events
can happen without those citizens who contribute just a little time helping out along the way. If you could spare even an hour or two chipping in to help us create one of these events for our community, please contact me directly at randy. parten@birchbaychamber.com. Most importantly, we couldn’t do anything without the support of our local businesses. In turn, let’s support them. Please make a point to shop local and patronize our Birch Bay and surrounding businesses. We are all in this together and great things can be done when we all work together! Onward and upward!
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4
The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
Letters
The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Steve Guntli steve@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Kara Furr kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Ferguson ian@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@thenorthernlight.com Office Manager Amy Weaver info@thenorthernlight.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Janet McCall Catherine Darkenwald sales@thenorthernlight.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@thenorthernlight.com Contributors In This Issue Randy Parten, Emily Hagin, Jennifer Cheek, Jessica Scott Wright, Kathy Berg
The Editor: I am writing to let our community know that we are in danger of losing a very important resource in our town, Weight Watchers! I have been attending our local meeting off and on for over nine years. I get started and lose weight then I think, “Oh, I can do this on my own; I don’t need to go pay someone to help me with this,” so I quit going and then, lo and behold, I gain everything back, so back I go. Everyone there is always so welcoming and most importantly non-judgmental! We have men and women, young and old, just a great bunch of people from all walks of life who share their struggles. We all problem solve together and exchange ideas – it’s great. Weight Watchers has said we have to increase our weekly attendance or they will close our meeting (we are all aware of budget issues in this day and age) and I for one don’t want to drive to Bellingham to find a meeting. I have to continue losing weight for my health and I am determined this time, no matter how long it takes, to reach my goal. Once I reach goal, the meetings are free and I can continue to go for the support and education. Registration is free, weekly meetings are $15 or, do like I do, pay a monthly fee of $44. I have had more doctors tell me this is a smart plan to be on and the best thing for me is that there are no “forbidden” foods. I can eat what I want, write it down or not, use technical gadgets to assist me or stick with pencil and paper, it truly is made to be your plan. If your New Year’s resolution is to get healthy this is a great way to do it. As Oprah says, “If not now, when?” Come join us Thursday nights at C and 6th streets. Check in at 5 p.m., meeting starts at 5:30. Laurie Hart Blaine The Editor: “All the News That’s Fit to Print” is the guiding principle for The New York Times. I believe that principle guides any newspaper committed to journalistic integrity, and I would like to consider The Northern Light to be such a newspaper. That’s why I was so deeply disappointed with your decision to print the interview, “State rep talks GPT, rail issues” with state representative Matt Manweller (R-Ellensburg) on December 31. To anyone with actual knowledge of the proposed GPT operation, Mr. Manweller’s assertions became increasingly absurd as the interview progressed … revealing his false claims to be merely “talking points,” provided to him by corporate promoters, not credible facts. I appreciate that you interjected editor notes to correct Mr. Manweller’s gross misrepresentations of facts pertaining to coal dust emissions from rail cars as well as his failure to even acknowledge the risk of wind-blown coal dust from the proposed 80-acre, 60-feet high, uncovered open coal stockpiles, when he preposterously claimed
there wouldn’t even be piles of coal. But, as one who has carefully studied the official GPT project proposal document, I believe editor notes could have (or should have) been interjected following most of Mr. Manweller’s false or misleading interview responses regarding other matters, including: projected numbers of jobs, potential tax benefits and relative shared costs from taxpayers and BNSF for grade-separation crossing infrastructure improvements. As your editorial staff knows, the official GPT application proposes only 257 permanent jobs (after an estimated 10 years of operation). Your staff also knows that the financial responsibility for grade-separation infrastructure improvements, typically, ends up being covered 5 percent by the railroad company and 95 percent by taxpayers. I ask that, in the future, when someone contacts The Northern Light offering to talk about anything that potentially impacts the health and safety of our local residents as well as our environment and the overall quality of life in our community, please adhere to that guiding journalistic principle, “All the News That’s Fit to Print” before release. Or, in Representative Manweller’s case, give your readers some advance warning with a title such as: “State rep fantasizes GPT, rail issues.” Michael Crum Birch Bay The Editor: Over the holidays, the Lynden Tribune ran a Northwest Jobs Alliance (NWJA) editorial entitled, “We Need Cherry Point’s Working Class Jobs,” in which the authors seemed ungrateful for the many jobs, taxes and charitable donations provided by Lummi Nation’s Silver Reef Casino. They did not express gratitude for the effort Lummi leaders have put into working to provide our county government with suggestions for ways to protect our precious resources here in this gorgeous area. For me, NWJA and SSA Marine/PIT/ GPT are one and the same, since Craig Cole is both director for NWJA and a paid spokesperson for the Gateway Pacific coal terminal. If coal interests want to endear themselves to us in favor of their project, it strikes me as a crazy strategy to chastise our fellow Whatcom County community members as they have been doing. Wouldn’t you think they would want to demonstrate how much they support putting the quality of our air, lands and waters first, for example, by writing comments advocating these top priorities and adequate regulations to protect them in our county’s comprehensive plan, as the LIBC and Lummi planning department has? Luckily, if SSA/PIT/GPT and NWJA won’t do it, we citizens have the opportunity to stand up for our treasured Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo areas and the rest of this wondrous county when the public hearing for the comprehensive plan update takes place on January 26 at 6:30 p.m. at Whatcom County Council chambers in Belling-
ham. We can tell our council, planners, local representatives and businesses that we want clean bays and harbors, good smelling and healthy salt air, untainted rivers, aquifers and lands to grow foods to keep us alive and flourishing. Let’s let them know we want to support businesses that keep our area life-supporting and beautiful, and that will create jobs for all sectors of our population. Dena Jensen Birch Bay The Editor: I would like to give a big “Yeah!” to all of the wonderful members of our Blaine Thursday evening Weight Watchers meeting! Our members ended 2015 with a loss of 531 pounds. I am honored to be able to “journey” with each member attending a meeting over the last nine years. As you begin to consider a New Year’s resolution to lose weight, think “baby steps” as you are really beginning a lifestyle change. Anne Freeman Blaine The Editor: Last week’s article, “State rep talks GPT, rail issues” exemplifies how poorly Americans are served when politicians get all their information from corporations and newspapers publish it as “news.” Representative Manweller, head of the Washington State Rail Caucus, omits the most basic fact of railroad crossing financing: by law, taxpayers are required to pay 95 percent of all costs for railroad underpasses/overpasses/ street grid changes and the railroad pays only 5 percent. If built, GPT’s 18 daily coal trains (on average one every 80 minutes of the night and day) would cause delays at dozens of railroad crossings in Washington state likely necessitating dozens of $100 million over/ underpasses. It would take 10 years for GPT’s approximate $11 million in annual state and local taxes to pay for just one overpass/underpass. Basic arithmetic and an ounce of integrity are all it takes to know that GPT would be a tremendous new tax burden on taxpayers. Manweller falsely claims people are trying to stop passenger trains when in fact they’re trying to stop coal trains – the most polluting of all trains. It’s malignly absurd for Manweller to deny that coal trains pollute: BNSF data show each train car releases approximately 500 lbs. of coal dust, so a typical 135-car coal train would release 67,500 lbs. of coal dust en route. And stopping GPT wouldn’t add more semi-truck traffic to our roads, it would prevent adding 18 daily coal trains. It’s not economically feasible to replace a train Continued on next page Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Eloisa Townsend, Jodi Sipes The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXI, No 30 Circulation: 10,500 copies
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Next issue: Jan. 14 Ads due: Jan. 8
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 Office, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org.
North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 7 p.m. Blaine Fire Station. Info: nwfrs.net.
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
CITY OF BLAINE
A LOOK BACK
Whatcom County Public Works has announced that it is on schedule to begin construction in fall 2016 on the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project (the berm). This project is the single most important capital improvement/ implementation project for Birch Bay, to restore 1.5 miles of the shoreline to natural conditions and functions, provide protection to public and private prop-
2015
year in
REVIEW A LOOK BACK By Jodi Sipes 2015 was an active and fun year at Blaine Senior Center. Every month has a pancake breakfast, Bingo, birthday lunch, holiday celebrations, movies, outings, entertainment and education. Every day has exercise, games, meals and community fellowship, and always lots of laughter! We have more than 700 members 50 years and older, including over 100 valued volunteers and 10 very active and involved board members. Our main fundraisers are the April Rummage Sale, May Spring
Letters ... From previous page
hauling coal, a cheap heavy bulk cargo, with 250 semi-trucks traveling more than 2,000 miles roundtrip. Manweller provided phony job numbers while omitting the fact that GPT’s official project application documents say 257 is the most permanent jobs GPT ever would provide. Manweller says SSA didn’t provide him any information about GPT coal storage. But GPT would have 2.5 miles of 62’ high uncovered coal piles. Wind and rain would spread GPT’s toxic coal dust to nearby communities – endangering people’s health, life and property. So please, The Northern Light must provide readers with accurate information about GPT – it’s important and we’re depending on you. Paula Rotundi Blaine
FIND US ONLINE!
erty and allow public access to the shoreline. Wolf Bauer originally suggested the project to the Whatcom County Planning Commission in 1975, which was then involved in a robust public process from 2000 to 2004 by the Birch Bay Steering Committee until it was adopted by the Whatcom County Council in 2004. Bauer (born 1912) retired at age 63 from a productive career designing factories, and became a self-taught shoreline consultant. As a self-taught, self-described
“hydro-geologist,” he changed conventional thinking about how moving water affects the land. He believed artificial barriers such as bulkheads eroded beaches, while porosity, usually in the form of added gravel, could save them. His ideas were eventually applied to a dozen beaches in Seattle and nearly 20 more elsewhere around Puget Sound. It was, he said, “always a fight against the bulkheads” – a fight he often won. “Those values which people of the future will prize most
highly, namely those found in the natural scene, are yet retrievable here by giving nature a second chance,” Bauer said in the 1975 Shore Resource Analysis – Birch Bay. For more detailed information on this project, go to the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project – Berm page at birchbayinfo.org or the Whatcom County Public Works webpage at whatcomcounty.us/522/ Birch-Bay-Drive-Pedestrian-Facility-Proj.
Thursday, January 7, 3:30 pm
Park and Cemetery Board meeting Monday, January 11, 5 pm – Study Session –
Board and Commission Interviews 6 pm – City Council meeting Thursday, January 14, 7 pm
Planning Commission meeting and Public Hearings: Drayton Reach Lot 25 Variance, and Blaine High School Expansion Conditional Use Permit and Variance Monday, January 18,City offices will
be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Blaine Senior Center Tea, Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast, October Spaghetti Feed and December Homemade Arts and Crafts Bazaar, all bringing at least 150 people. Some draw over 600! These are open to the public and are highly anticipated community gatherings. Strength training classes are offered for use of our Cybex gym with 10 cardio machines. The gym has constant use, but is never overcrowded. It is included with our $35/year membership – a great value for our members. This year we also added air conditioning! Helpful information delivered
(Pub. Note: Many of the points raised in Rotundi’s and Crum’s letters have been covered by this newspaper in the past and undoubtedly will be in the future. As chair of the state rail caucus, Representative Manweller is in a position of power and influence and we believe readers should know his beliefs and opinions as stated in the interview. An added benefit is that publishing such interviews allows readers to write in and raise countervailing arguments.)
Monday, January 25, 6 pm
City Council meeting
from our stage included topics such as Medicare 101, long-term care insurance, hearing loss, police canine demonstration, memory loss, identity theft, aging at home, medical alert systems and Mended Hearts. Balance assessments, injury assessments, blood pressure checks, haircuts and memory screenings are some of the great free services we brought our members. A variety of music including blues, banjo, Dixieland, ukulele, jazz, swing, the Norwegian Male Chorus and school children provided entertainment.
Supper Club is our popular group that visits restaurants, and other groups play games including Bridge, pinochle, bunco, Wii bowling, pool and Ping-Pong. We are looking forward to expanding games and events with the use of the new pavilion in 2016. Blaine Senior Center is a venue for Whatcom Nutrition Program lunches, Meals on Wheels, community meals, AARP tax help, driving class and the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 line dance and ballroom dance classes. We are happy to be such an active part of the Blaine community!
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The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
Sports 2015
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Year in review: Blaine High School sports
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A LOOK BACK
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B y I a n F e rg u s o n Borderite athletes put on an exciting show in 2015, with many outstanding performances and several deep drives into the postseason. Blaine sent four teams and 18 individual athletes to state-level tournaments and meets, an impressive accomplishment for one of the smallest schools in 2A. The girls basketball, wrestling, track and field and cross-country teams all made it to state. While there were no champions this year, several individuals were top-three finishers in wrestling and track and field. Let’s take a
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NOTICE OF FLUSHING
The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system. During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at 332-8820. Leroy Dougall, Blaine Public Works.
look back at the year, season by season. Winter: • Coaches had high expectations for the girls basketball team, which had a strong core of senior players. The team made it to the state tournament, but fell short of the final eight when they lost an elimination game to White River. Taylor V’Dovec was later invited to play in the allstate senior game. • The defending state champion wrestling team continued its dominance, sending 10 athletes to the 2015 Mat Classic where six athletes earned medals. Caleb Frey earned a second place medal at 145 pounds, and Colton Economy wrestled to a third place finish at 113 pounds. Olivia Adams placed sixth at 135 in the girls tournament. • The boys basketball team had a rebuilding year, going 5–15 overall and 3–9 in conference. Spring: • Softball had a big turnout, but struggled against larger 2A opponents. The Borderites went 2–10 in conference and missed out on the district tournament. • The baseball team, under new head coach Larry Hoffman, had its best season in years. The Borderites ended up with a season record of 8–12 overall, but went 5–7 in conference and fell short of the postseason. • Both boys and girls golf teams had small turnouts, but saw improving scores throughout the season. The tennis team went 2–7 in conference and 2–13 overall. • The boys soccer team suffered a few injuries to key players and struggled in the second half of the season. The Borderites went 3–11–2 overall and 0–10–2 in conference. Fall: • Football had a strong start in 2015. The postseason looked possible, but fell out of reach when the Borderites lost to Sedro-Woolley and Burlington-Edison in the second half of the season. Conference powerhouses Squalicum and Lynden brought the final two losses, and the Borderites ended up 2–5 in conference and 4–5 overall. • The boys cross country team
s April: Lyric Berry pitches in a game against Burlington-Edison. Photo by Janell Kortlever
had a strong leader in Parker Morris, who ran his way to the state meet and earned 54th place with a time of 16:53.6. The girls team had too few runners to qualify as a team, but individual runners improved their times throughout the season. • The girls soccer team had a few bright moments, with big wins against Nooksack Valley
and Mount Baker, but overall it was a rebuilding year. The Borderites went 2–9–1 overall and 4–10–2 in conference. • A highlight of the volleyball season was a flawless 3–0 win over Nooksack Valley late in the season. The Borderites improved throughout the season and ended up 3–9 in conference and 4–10 overall.
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s February: Mandy Hayes pulls up for a jumpshot in an away game. Photo by Janell Kortlever
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
Body, Spirit, Mind
7
HEALTH & WELLNESS Encouraging happy, healthy lives!
Resolution solutions for a happy and healthy new year By Jess Scott Wright, RDN The New Year’s Resolution – whether you have one, none or a list longer than Santa’s, there are a few simple strategies to get the most out of 2016. A Forbes article points out that although more than 40 percent of Americans traditionally set resolutions every new year, only 8 percent succeed at keeping them. According to a Nielsen survey, the most popular resolutions are to “stay fit and healthy” and “lose weight.” Yes, leading a healthier life definitely begins with intention, but experts recommend setting goals that are specific, realistic and measurable. According to John Norcross of the University of Scranton, “…vague goals beget vague resolutions.” Define vs. Describe Instead of describing your goals with statements like “I want to lose weight” or “I want to exercise more,” elevate your resolutions with a definition – (See New Year, page 8)
We are pleased to welcome Pediatrician Dr. Julie Cheek. Healthy Kids Bright Futures
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MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOUR CHILD TODAY (360) 676-6177
8
The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
Body, Spirit, Mind
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Encouraging happy, healthy lives!
New Year ... From page 7
something you can follow. Be realistic If you want to exercise more in 2016, think about how you can best accomplish that. A more specific goal is “I will exercise every day,” but every day is a big commitment. Look at your schedule: figure out which days you have extra time. Are you more likely to exercise in the morning or at night? If you say, “I will go to the gym for an hour every Monday and Wednesday after work,” it provides you with more direction to hold yourself accountable to a resolution that is achievable. Resolutions can be revised If life’s happenings are getting in the way of your resolution, don’t chalk it up as a failure. Go back to the drawing board and make adjustments so that you can succeed. It is unrealistic to predict the next 365 days will not throw a curveball in your schedule. Expect it, but stay intentional. Break the year down into chunks. Take your resolution a step further: “I will go to the
gym for an hour every day Monday and Wednesday after work for six weeks.” Set up an incremental reward system. Decide how you will reward yourself. After six weeks have passed, treat yourself to something that fuels your willpower and supports your resolution, such as a new pair of sneakers or a session with a personal trainer.
positive effects endurance exercise may have on heart health, “recent reports suggest that prodigious amounts of exercise may increase markers for, and even the incidence of, cardiovascular disease” in certain individuals. Does this mean you shouldn’t ever exercise because it’s bad for you? No, but a new year’s resolution is an investment in your-
self. Rather than having a resolution that anyone can follow, customize it for you. There’s always your birthday A friend once told me new year’s resolutions are for everyone, but birthdays are your own personal new year. Even if you haven’t set a resolution about exercise or health, remember it’s
never too late to start or restart. Acknowledge yourself for valuing your health Regardless of the role a calendar has on your decision to take a personal inventory and set health and wellness goals, may 2016 be a year full of greatness for you. Have a happy and healthy New Year!
Define your why Why do you want to exercise more? What are you trying to accomplish? To be healthier, yes, but maybe you want to lower your blood pressure or improve your resting heart rate. Do some research or utilize an expert to learn what type of exercise can best support your unique goals. This will give purpose and understanding to your actions. For example, some people believe that the longer and harder you exercise, the better. This is not necessarily the case. Depending on your state of health and desired goals, you may benefit more from a shorter, high-intensity interval workout than running at a slow and steady pace on the treadmill for an hour. In fact, a recent review by the American Physiological Society acknowledges that in spite of the
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Your family won’t wait. Neither should your health. So when you are feeling under the weather and just can’t wait for an appointment, walk in to PeaceHealth’s Same Day Care Clinic. We’ll help you get back on your feet, fast. Walk in, no appointment necessary.
PeaceHealth Medical Group Same Day Care 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday – Saturday 3015 Squalicum Parkway – Suite 140 peacehealth.org/SameDayCare
9
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
Get Healthy and Get FIT Now!
Keep kids active and healthy this winter By Dr. Jennifer Cheek For many of us in Whatcom County, winter means trips to the snow to ski, snowboard, snowshoe or throw snowballs. Winter sports are one of the things that make our region special. But the short, wet winter days of the Pacific Northwest can seem better suited to curling up under a blanket with a good book than getting out in the cold. Staying active in the winter months can sometimes be a challenge. There are many ways, however, to get the exercise physicians recommend for you and your kids. As a pediatrician, I follow the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and advise my patients that children ages six and older get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. Only about one-third of children reach this threshold. Meanwhile, kids spend an average of seven hours per day with electronic devices or watching TV. The result of inadequate exercise combined with a poor diet is approximately one in three
children in the U.S. is either overweight or obese. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, overweight teens have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight or obese adults. The key to keeping kids active is to make exercise fun. Active play and spreading physical activity throughout the day are the most effective ways to establish healthy habits. As little as 10 to 15 minutes of activity several times a day may make exercise easier to do. Just by limiting screen time, your child will naturally be more likely to get moving. Whatcom County has the advantage of having a wealth of community programs and facilities where kids can be active. Low-cost options include ice-skating at the Bellingham Sportsplex, roller-skating at Lynden Skateway and swimming at the Arne Hanne Aquatic Center, in addition to the wide variety of activities available through Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Check out your local park department and the Whatcom Family YMCA for other indoor winter recreational opportunities.
But you don’t need to participate in organized recreation to keep your kids active. A jump rope is a great way to get kids moving. Or turn on some music and dance! Play hopscotch or read a story with a bit of action and ask them to act out the scenes. Anything that gets their heart rates up and involves jumping, balancing, hopping, stretching, resistance or running works. You can model healthy habits as well by going out as a family for an evening walk or playing catch together at a park. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you provide a safe environment for your children’s play. They should dress for the occasion, with clothing suited to the activity. And remind your kids that exercise should never hurt. If it hurts, they might want to slow down or choose another activity. Finally, when starting any exercise program, it’s always a good idea to make an appointment with your health care provider before getting started. Most importantly, have fun! Dr. Jennifer Cheek manages the pediatric program at Unity Care Northwest’s clinic in Bellingham.
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take out, are generally loaded with fat, salt and empty calories. Cooking and eating even the simplest of meals at home and controlling portion size can help your whole family be healthier. Stress disappears. Sharing a meal gives you an excuse to slow down and connect with your loved ones at the end
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The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
2015
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Best of the Blaine Police Reports, Part 2
A LOOK BACK
June 15, 5:50 p.m.: A bicyclist blatantly ran a stop sign in view of a passing patrol car, but when the officer tried to contact him the rider took off pedaling for all he was worth. When he realized his efforts were not worth what he had hoped, the man ditched his bike and tried running instead. This did not work any better for him, as the officer was in better shape and motivated by serious curiosity. The foot race was intense but short, and the man came in second. He was allowed to recuperate in an air-conditioned patrol car while computer checks disclosed he was wanted on a felony warrant for escape following a felony assault conviction and had misdemeanor warrants outstanding as well. He was booked into jail to exercise his rights to due process. July 13, 3:44 p.m.: Police responded to a report of a possible domestic violence crime at a residence. Officers arrived
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and separated the husband and wife, who each said they were only having a verbal argument. The husband only had his underwear on, and went inside to get dressed. He then sneaked out through the back door and ran away. The reason why became clear when the officers found there were protection and no-contact court orders in place between the husband, wife and son. A search of the neighborhood for the man was unsuccessful, and a report was filed with the prosecutor recommending order violation charges against him. July 17, 11:19 a.m.: A resident out for a bike ride encountered a box turtle nonchalantly strolling across the busy 700 block of D Street. The cyclist carried the turtle out of harm’s way and kept it safe until police arrived to take custody of the runaway. Word of the recovery spread quickly on social media and a short time later the animal’s owner recovered Ella, the adventuresome turtle. July 19, 9:31 p.m.: A resident called police to report that three people were roller blading down his street at 3:45 a.m., all in single file as if they were training for an Olympic-style event. The team was pretty good, as they had silently disappeared into the night by the time an officer arrived shortly afterward. July 29, 7:57 a.m.: Police were dispatched to a report of two people in a parked car smoking marijuana. Public consumption of cannabis is unlawful and officers located the vehicle but before they could watch it the occupants alighted to meet them. The visitors explained they come to town to geocache nearby when a passerby accosted them saying the police and federal authorities had been called because they were smoking marijuana. The couple was taken aback by the allegation, as the weed they were smoking was tobacco and not hemp, and they decided to stand by and meet the incoming swarm of
officials. The officers thanked them for their patience, and then contacted the reporting party and provided information on the fascinating and relaxing hobby of geocaching. August 2, 8:18 a.m.: An officer on patrol was stopped at the intersection of Bell Road and Peace Portal when he saw a vehicle come southbound on Bell Road and try to turn into the gas station from Bell, only to discover no driveway entrance was there. The car then continued wrong way south on Bell to Portal, then wrong way south to Portal until it was able to enter the parking lot. When the officer contacted the driver to discuss the creative though illegal lane use, the gentleman admitted he had no driver’s license in his possession and his privilege to drive was probably suspended in California. This was confirmed, and the 49-year-old was arrested, cited and released with a mandatory court date for the criminal license violation and an infraction for the improper lane use. His passenger was a licensed driver and took the helm of the vehicle. August 6, 1:45 a.m.: A concerned resident called to ask police for assistance checking the welfare of a neighbor after hearing an alarm sounding at the person’s home. The arriving officer found that the reporting party could hear the piercing screech of the smoke detector so well because its owner had placed it outside. The officer silenced the detector and made sure the residence was alright. August 7, 7:14 p.m.: Police were dispatched to a report that multiple people including children and a dog were trespassing on a boat anchored in Drayton Harbor. With assistance from the Customs and Border Protection Marine Unit, officers contacted the purported pirates. They explained that their own boat had broken down and they had rafted up to the anchored boat to keep from drifting while
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their engine cooled. There was no apparent criminal intent to the trespass and the group accepted a warning to respect the property rights of other boaters. September 10, 10:30 p.m.: Police responded to help a very intoxicated woman who was pounding on the front door of her home and demanding to be let in. The frustrated, disheveled lady slumped over on the front steps as officers arrived, complaining that the people inside would not let her in and were preventing her from getting to her apartment on the second floor. This explanation helped not a whit, as the porch and locked door she was assaulting were attached to the side of a darkened single-family, single-story house. Fortunately the lady had a cell phone and the officers reviewed it to find and call her roommate. He walked over from their house and guided his friend safely home. September 21, 5:55 p.m.: Passersby called 911 when they heard a woman’s loud screams of pain and alarm and sounds of a fight coming from an apartment on H Street. The arriving officers also heard the cries inside and they received no response except more yelling when they announced themselves at the doors. Upon entry, the officers discovered a man and woman in the bathroom locked in a no-holds-barred battle with their cat. The sodden creature did not want to be bathed and was clawing its way through its captors to freedom. The officers made sure no bandages or veterinarians were needed then went back outside to reassure the worried neighbors. September 23, 6:35 p.m.: Emergency personnel from Blaine Police, U.S. Border Patrol, Washington State Parks, RCMP and Surrey, B.C. fire department converged on the border to rescue a big strapping Canadian youth who had become trapped in machinery at Peace Arch Park. It took them about half an hour to cut down and pull apart the apparatus to extricate the lad. His only lasting injury is the certain knowledge that his family will never forget the time he got himself stuck inside a toddler-sized playground swing set. September 28, 8:05 a.m.: A resident flagged down an officer to report that her dog had escaped and was running loose. A short time later another person reported seeing the pit bull in front of city hall. An officer arrived and found the dog calmly sitting in front of the building, staring inside, patiently waiting for someone to let him in. He came when called and happily jumped into the back of the police car and was reunited with his owner. October 14, 1:57 p.m.: A business reported a suspicious (See Police, page 12)
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
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The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
Police ... From page 10
incident. A man came to the business and said he was a federal agent and asked to enter the business. The employees did not believe the man and did not allow him to enter the business. The man then asked to have a free coffee because he was a federal agent. The employee informed the man that real police and federal agents are not allowed to accept free items. The man paid and left on foot. The employees were told to call police the next time the man arrived. October 29, 1:30 p.m.: Police responded to a motel on a report that a guest was refusing to pay his bill. When they arrived the manager explained the problem tenant was refusing to vacate his lodging. The officers went to the patron’s room to get his side of the story, but had to shout through the closed door to converse with him. The man claimed he was unable to depart because the door lock was broken and he had in fact been trying to get out of his room since the previous day. The tenant of a unit nearby noted that she had heard the guy the night before, yelling about being trapped in his room. Ultimately the manager
pried off the lockset and got the door open. After taking in some fresh air and having a face-toface conversation the gentleman gathered his belongings and departed. November 19, 5:25 p.m.: On a night when temperatures dipped below freezing, U.S. Border Patrol field agents were alerted when a car with two occupants stopped briefly in a secluded area near the international border, removed something from the auto and then drove away. Blaine Police responded with the agents and together they determined that the car’s occupants had dumped three kittens out into the underbrush. The agents and officers set up a perimeter and the agents were able to capture one of the critters, but its sibling climbed about 30 feet up a huge tree. A North Whatcom Fire and Rescue crew responded and went out on a limb to assist in a rescue. The third kitten evaded the team and nearby homeowners were alerted to watch for it. The two rescued kittens were given food and a warm box in the police station writeup room, and turned over to the Whatcom Humane Society the following day. Meanwhile the officers identified and contacted the two adults who had tossed out the litter. A charging
s November: Mercedes and Tesla, two kittens abandoned near the border on a cold night, were rescued and rehabilitated at Whatcom Humane Society.
Photo by Steve Guntli
case report on each of them for three counts of animal abandonment has been forwarded to the prosecutor. November 24, 6:07 p.m.: A motel owner observed smoke coming
from one of his occupied rooms, and discovered the resident inside had started her curtains on fire after smashing the glass out of all the pictures on the walls. U.S. Border Patrol agents responded to assist
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January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
2015
year in
REVIEW A LOOK BACK
Pacific Arts Association
By Eloisa Townsend What a remarkable year 2015 was for the Pacific Arts Association! Throughout the year, we rolled up our sleeves to organize Blaine’s annual Drayton Harbor Music Festival. Thank you to all of our donors, sponsors and volunteers who made this weeklong summer event a success. Our music festival brings world-class musicians to Blaine to teach youth during the day and perform for the community at night. This summer we had 60 students who experienced an intense and rewarding week of instruction by professional faculty. Meanwhile, music lovers were treated to free outdoor concerts
2015
year in
REVIEW
A LOOK BACK
B y E m i ly H a g i n In 2015, the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District worked to secure future water supply by conducting a groundwater study. The district partnered with the city of Blaine, Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) and the Washington State Department of Health to drill a monitoring well. The district and city are currently monitoring the well’s productivity and water quality. The district continued collaboration with the Blaine Community Assistance Program to offer assistance to low-income customers. In 2015, 75 customers were able to keep their water service with this assistance program. The district won its sixth con-
at lunchtime and evening performances at the Blaine Performing Arts Center during festival week. PAA’s fundraising efforts this year included a spring auction with dinner and dancing featuring Bellingham’s The Atlantics band. We also held our Big Band Benefit during the festival where students and supporters enjoyed a lively performance by local musicians and faculty. The 2016 Drayton Harbor Music Festival will be July 10–16. We look forward to our 15th year of inspiring young artists and bringing exceptional music to the Blaine community. Another highlight from 2015 was the establishment of the Bruce Wolf Endowment Fund.
Bruce was a founding member of the Pacific Arts Association (PAA), and he devoted his life to giving back to his community. As this endowment fund grows, it will benefit arts programs in the Blaine community. To contribute to the endowment fund, please visit whatcomcf.org. Thank you for your contributions to the Bruce Wolf Endowment Fund. Our first 2016 event is our annual general meeting on January 9. Please RSVP to eloisa. paa@gmail.com to receive meeting details. Additional events are being planned. Stay tuned for details by subscribing to our online newsletter on draytonharbormusic.org.
Birch Bay Water and Sewer District secutive Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award for the year 2014 by the DOE. Birch Bay is one of only two wastewater plants in Whatcom County serving 4,000 people or more that have won the award 13 or more times in the last 18 years. The district and the city of Blaine were also awarded first place in the Northwest subsection of the American Waterworks Association’s (AWWA) 2015 Best Tasting Water Contest and second place in the Pacific Northwest Regional Water Tasting Contest. A panel of five judges sampled water from the 12 winning AWWA subsection entries in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. The district continued active membership in the Whatcom
Water Alliance, a regional water conservation group seeking to promote water conservation among local government water purveyors by coordinating public information efforts and related activities. For 2015, the Alliance supported a voluntary odd-even watering schedule to reduce summer outdoor water usage and support rain barrels as a conservation activity. In 2016, the district is looking to increase transparency in governance by implementing software that will publicly maintain board meeting agendas, minutes and handouts online for citizen access. The district will also replace the aging water line on Blaine Road and install new fire hydrants in congruence with the project.
OBITUARIES Noal Gobin Wood, Jr.
September 24, 1930 - December 20, 2015 Noal Wood, 85, died at St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham on December 20, 2015. Noal was born September 24, 1930 in Glendale, CA to Noal Wood, Sr. and Helen Esterline. Noal graduated from Glendale Union Academy and attended La Sierra University and Pacific Union College. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War as a dental technician. In 1956, Noal worked as a chemist at Lever Brothers in the City of Commerce until he retired thirty years later. In retirement, he lived in Mariposa and St. Helena, CA before moving to Port Ludlow, WA to pursue his desire to live by the water and passion for sailing. He chose the lovely community of Blaine to build his last house and stay awhile. The kind and generous staff at Stafholt Good Samaritan Center provided a home away from home for him until his death. Noal is survived by his children Cherie, Steven, Katherine, and Linda, and his grandchildren Jessie, Cora, Savannah, and Julia.
Ralph Theriault
December 25, 1921 - December 9, 2015 Ralph Theriault passed away on December 9, 2015. He was born in Waterbury, CT on Christmas day 1921 at 12:05 a.m. A funeral mass was offered by Fr. K. Scott Connolly, Thursday, December 17 at Church Of The Assumption, 2116 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held Saturday, January 16, 2016, 12 noon – 4 p.m., in the Birch Bay Village Clubhouse, 8055 Cowichan Rd., Blaine, WA 98230. Please share your memories on-line at www. sigsfuneralservices.com.
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Whatcom County sheriff’s reports, Dec. 24-29 December 24, 11:31 a.m.: Serve warrant on Pacific Highway. December 24, 2:05 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Hall Road. December 24, 4:39 p.m.: 911 hangup on Birch Bay Square Street. December 25, 5:08 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Birch Bay Drive. December 25, 7:11 a.m.: Alarm audible on Charel Drive. December 25, 3:58 p.m.: Shots on Forsberg Drive. December 25, 9:40 p.m.: Assist agency on Pacific Highway. Ferndale man, 24, arrested for a controlled substance violation. December 26, 10:44 a.m.: Vehi-
Dining Guide
cle abandoned on Leeson Drive. December 26, 2:21 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Oakridge Drive. December 26, 10:01 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Zell Road. Ferndale man, 18, arrested for furnishing alcohol to a minor. December 26, 11:13 p.m.: Shots on West Badger Road. December 27, 8:35 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Kayak Way. December 27, 10:31 p.m.: Serve warrant on H Street Road. Burien woman, 26, arrested for controlled substance manufacture/ delivery/possession with intent to distribute. December 28, 6:13 a.m.: Suicidal
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14
The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
Coming up
Police Reports December 29, 12:09 p.m.: Police were dispatched to the 100 block of 10th Street for a report of an injured coyote in the area. An officer responded and located a three legged coyote searching for much-needed food. Wildlife Rescue was contacted and advised of the animals location and condition. They advised they would respond the next day. December 30, 6:28 a.m.: Police responded to the Peace Arch port of entry when U.S. Customs located an elderly driver from Lacey who was a missing and endangered person. An officer and fire department medical aid crew determined he was OK but exhibiting symptoms of dementia. The officer made arrangements for the man to wait in Blaine for his family. They arrived and took custody of the man and his vehicle about four hours later. December 31, 9:23 a.m.: Officers responded to a report of a vehicle blocking traffic on northbound I-5 at mile marker 276. Police located the van parked perpendicularly, partially blocking two lanes of the interstate and on-ramp. An officer assisted the motorist in pushing the van to the shoulder of the freeway while a tow truck was dispatched to clear the road. State Patrol was ad-
vised of the resolution. January 1, 12:15 a.m.: A resident on Allan Street called police to report what sounded like either a large firework or a shotgun blast in the neighborhood. An officer responded and remained in the area for some time and no further blasts occurred. The officer did note the remains of an ICBM-size firework rocket in the street, but no evil dictators stepped forward to accept responsibility. January 1, 2:29 a.m.: A patrol officer intercepted and attempted to stop a pickup truck speeding at 79 mph in the 35 mph zone on Peace Portal Drive. The driver refused to stop and instead tried to elude police in an adjacent neighborhood. It did not work, and the 21-year-old Blaine resident was arrested for reckless driving, negligent eluding, driving while suspended and driving under the influence. His vehicle was impounded and he was booked into jail, ensuring a safer and happier New Year for everyone. January 2, 11:30 p.m.: An apartment complex resident called police to report that a stranger was setting up camp on the stairway landing of his building. Police contacted the visitor and learned he was a transient seeking shelter on a
Crossword
ACROSS 1. Stickers 6. Soccer ___ 10. Beanies 14. ___ squash 15. Husk 16. “O” in old radio lingo 17. Across the nation 19. Fall follower 20. Distribution of Linux 21. Eccentric 22. Chinese dynasty 23. Fairy tale character 25. Crush 26. Andy’s radio partner 30. To make fuller or more complete 32. To orbit a point 35. Dispute 39. Bologna home 40. Sacred beetle of ancient Egypt 41. Set the boundaries of 43. Sights 44. Indicate
46. 47. 50. 53. 54. 55. 60. 61. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68.
Ballet move Flip, in a way Certain tribute ___ du jour “Tarzan” extra Officers Bit Relating to machinery “___ does it!” Jewish month Grottos All there Brewer’s need Taste, e.g.
DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Boston or Chicago, e.g. Palm berry Decomposes Cantab, for one Belt Big mouth Brooks Robinson, e.g. Common expression across instruments
9. Coaster 10. A common rabbit 11. Dislike, and then some 12. Theme of this puzzle 13. Bulrush, e.g. 18. “___ any drop to drink”: Coleridge 24. “___ to Billie Joe” 25. Beginning of a conclusion 26. Bone-dry 27. Allocate, with “out” 28. Elliptical 29. Not liquid or gas 31. Ask 33. British sailor (slang) 34. Conceited 36. Coastal raptor 37. “Roots,” e.g. 38. Cookbook abbr. 42. Sink 43. Caribbean, e.g. 45. Work boot feature 47. Cheeky and bold 48. ___ Bowl 49. “Paradise Lost” character 51. Marienbad, for one 52. Hammer’s partner 54. Asian nurse 56. Euros replaced them 57. Clickable image 58. Be-boppers 59. “... or ___!” 62. “48___”
FIND CROSSWORD ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
freezing night. An officer transported the man to the Lighthouse Mission. January 4, 4:36 p.m.: Police received information from another city department about a resident who was possibly in need of assistance ensuring that a property line disagreement with a neighbor remained civil and orderly. An officer interviewed both parties, helped them find the boundary markers for their adjacent yards and resolved the problem. January 5, 6:40 p.m.: Police were dispatched to the Peace Arch port of entry when customs officers intercepted a possible custodial interference in progress, involving a mother who appeared to be fleeing the U.S. with her kids. An officer brought the family to the police department and conducted an investigation. The children were placed with their father for the night and both the mother and father were advised to consider following up with their lawyers and family court to explore amending their parenting plan. Investigation continues into the possible custodial interference. 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.
Tides
2:52 pm 8.9 10:25 pm -1.0
Sa 9 6:03 am 9.6 11:02 am 6.8 3:34 pm 8.9 11:03 pm -1.4
Su 10 6:37 am 10.0 11:50 am 6.6 4:20 pm 8.7 11:41 pm -1.5
Mo 11 7:11 am 10.3 12:38 pm 6.3 5:08 pm 8.5
Tu 12 12:21 am -1.3 7:45 am 10.4 1:26 pm 5.8 6:00 pm 8.2
We 13 1:01 am -0.8 8:21 am 10.4
2:16 pm 5.2 6:56 pm 7.7
Th 14 1:43 am 0.0 8:55 am 10.4
Remix YouTube Mashup: Tuesday, January 12, 3:15–4:45 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn to create video remixes using YouTube and original videos. Collaborate with friends to make a video to enter into a statewide contest offering prizes. For grades 6–12. Info: 305-3637. Kombucha and Fermentation: Wednesday, January 13, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Sample this popular bubbly, fermented beverage, and make some to take home with you in this informative workshop. Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Community Orchards for Resources and Education). Info: Kelle Sunter, 332-7435. Save Birch Bay/Power Past Coal Monthly Meeting: Wednesday, January 13, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Birch Bay Fire Hall, Birch Bay Lynden Road. All are welcome. Fun with LEGO Robotics: Thursday, January 14, 6:30–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to program motion and color sensors on the robots and see what happens! For ages 10 and up. Bimonthly. Info: 305-3637. Arts and Jazz: Saturday, January 23, 7 p.m., Blaine school cafeteria. Enjoy live and silent auctions, with performances by Blaine High School jazz band and chamber choir, with displays by the art and drama students. Proceeds benefit the Blaine schools arts. $5 admission. Info: Dorita Gray, 380-1634.
Ongoing Birch Bay Activity Center Events: 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Pound Fit, Zumba Fitness, Zumba Toning, Zumba Step, pickleball, yoga, line dancing and more. Visit website for days and times. Info: bbbparkandrec.org or 656-6416. Afterschool Activities: Weekdays, 2:30–5:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Kids ages 5 and up. A different theme each week, organized games as well as board games. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
AA Meetings: Monday and Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, noon; Wednesday, 7 p.m. (women only); Saturday, 11 a.m., United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street, Blaine.
Free Home Education Seminar: Saturday, January 9, 12:30–5 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Washington State Housing and Finance Commission’s first mortgage programs, down payment assistance and loan programs, and is accepted by all affordable housing loan programs as meeting educational requirements. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at wcls.org or call the library at 305-3637.
49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
5:29 am 9.1 10:12 am 6.9
Mason Bees – Alternative Pollinators: Saturday, January 9, 10 a.m.– noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to identify these native pollinators, protect them and even establish a colony in your yard. Presented by the Blaine CORE. Program repeats on Saturday, January 16 at 10 a.m. Info: Kelle Sunter, 332-7435.
Sit and Knit: Monday and Friday, 3–5 p.m., Beach Basket Yarns and Gifts, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: 371-0332.
Fr 8
Scouts Christmas Tree Pickup: Saturday, January 9, 8 a.m., Blaine and Birch Bay residential areas. Local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts will pick up trees. Trees should be left curbside, with decorations removed, no later than 8 a.m. Donations accepted. Info: Tina, 441-5654 or blainescouttreepickup@gmail.com.
January 8 – January 14 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT
First Friday Entertainment with Swil Kanim, HonorWorks: Friday, January 8, 7 p.m., Te’Ti’Sen Center (formerly Lummi Gateway Center), 4920 Rural Avenue, Ferndale, exit 260. Enjoy music, stories and complimentary light hors d’oeuvres. Info: 306-8554.
3:10 pm 4.4 8:04 pm 7.1
Weather Precipitation: During the period of December 28 to January 4 .01 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2016 year-to-date precipitation is .01 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 45.3°F on January 1, with a low of 22.4°F on December 25. Average temperature for the week was 31.2°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Toddler Time: Tuesdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Stories, songs and more for very young children. Preschoolers are welcome, but content is aimed at 1–3 year-olds. Info: 305-3637. Al-Anon Meetings: Tuesdays, 1–2 p.m., Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt, 456 C Street, Blaine. Open to all. Info: 332-8248. Shotokan Karate: Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30–6 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. $40 for the month. Info: 656-6416. Meditation Gathering: Tuesdays 5:30–6:15 p.m., Blaine Chiropractic Center, 245 H Street. $5 drop-in fee. Info: Maureen, 920-1125. Cribbage Tournament: Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m., The Beach at Birch Bay. Cash to top three finishers. Double elimination. Birch Bay Toastmasters Club: Tuesdays 6:30–7:45 p.m., Windermere building, second floor, Birch Bay Square, 8105 Birch Bay Square Street. Learn leadership and communication skills. Info: toastmasters.org. Learn to Play Chess: Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. For K–12, and parents too! Info: 305-3637. Play and Learn Drop-in: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn while you play with these fun times designed for preschoolers and their adults. For ages 3-5. Info: 305-3637. Midweek Music Meditation: Wednesdays, noon–12:30 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 855 4th Street. Info: Mary Rankin, 332-5665. Community Meals: Wednesdays, 5–6:30 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Dinners free; donations accepted. Everyone is welcome! Info: communitymealsblaine@gmail.com. English Conversation Class: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. All levels. Free. Info: 305-3637. Connections Café Karaoke: First and third Fridays of the month, 7–11 p.m., Dakota Creek Christian Center, 8732 Blaine Road. Info: 656-6781. Karaoke: Friday, 9 p.m. Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Info: 3324045. Live Music with J.P. Falcon Grady and Special Guests: Saturdays, 7–10 p.m., Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Info: 332-4045. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
January 7 - 13, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
This Past Week’s
Jackpots DECEMBER 28TH BELLINGHAM, WA $6,340
DECEMBER 31ST BELLINGHAM, WA $23,052.38
WARRIOR LEGACY
PLATINUM QUICK HIT
DECEMBER 28TH BELLINGHAM, WA $18,189.89
DECEMBER 31ST BELLINGHAM, WA $5,100
COPPER DROPPER
DECEMBER 28TH BELLINGHAM, WA $9,100 FREEDOM PAYS
DECEMBER 30TH BLAINE, WA $8,578.33 DRAW POKER PROGRESSIVE
EAGLE’S HERITAGE DECEMBER 31ST ABBOTSFORD, BC $14,810.84 88 FORTUNES
DECEMBER 31ST DELTA, BC $5,481.42
EAGLE’S HERITAGE
CASH & CHEESE
DECEMBER 31ST LANGLEY, BC $20,000
DECEMBER 31ST FERNDALE, WA $30,000
FREEDOM PAYS
DECEMBER 31ST FERNDALE, WA $16,135 TOTAL MELTDOWN ($1)
Jackpot Winners This Past Week
279
DECEMBER 30TH BLAINE, WA $40,040
FREEDOM PAYS
DECEMBER 31ST CHILLIWACK,BC $5,547.36 DRAW POKER
JANUARY 1ST FERNDALE, WA $12,129 TOTAL MELTDOWN
JANUARY 2ND SURREY, BC $10,496.92 QUICK HITS (RED)
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16
The Northern Light • January 7 - 13, 2016
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