The Northern Light_October 6 by Point Roberts Press

October 6 - 12, 2016

FREE

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Blaine high schoolers return to class, page 5

New Blaine program offers help and hope

Local historian has a knack for sports recordkeeping, page 6-7

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

SeaFeast attracts a hungry crowd, page 12

Skaters get some air at newly renovated park

B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e

(See Roots, page 17)

s Blaine skaters celebrated the reopening of the newly renovated skate park, located behind the library on 4th Street, on September 30. The city of Blaine closed the park in mid-July to install new ramps, rails, ledges and quarter-pipes. Photo by Oliver Lazenby

Student homelessness programs are off to a busy start By Oliver Lazenby Blaine School District’s Family Service Center provides low-income and homeless students with a variety of supplies and services to relieve the stress of not having what they need. Rows of backpacks, jackets, and stacks

of spiral notebooks, colored markers, scissors and other school supplies add a burst of color to one corner of the center’s office behind the middle school. “I think most of us remember coming to school on the first day with a new backpack and new school supplies. Well, some of these kids don’t have anything,”

Anatomy of an Exclusion: How it happens B y P at G r u bb Engraved on the International Peace Arch are the words, “May These Gates Never Be Closed.” For a few unlucky individuals, these gates have effectively clanged shut, possibly for the rest of their lives. Recently, a number of Canadians have found themselves “excluded” by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) from traveling to the U.S. after they admitted to past drug use, usually marijua-

na. Anticipating marijuana legalization in Canada and knowing that the drug is legal in Washington state, these Canadians have been surprised to learn that marijuana is still considered illegal by the federal government and have been sent packing home. This is how it happens… Under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, travelers are ineligible to enter the U.S. if they have been found guilty of, or admit to, violating any laws of the United States or a foreign country

OCTOBER 8 & 9

relating to a controlled substance. Once an individual has admitted using marijuana or another controlled substance, it is tantamount to having been found guilty in a court of law. The usual suspects Driving up to the border, Canadians looking forward to shopping south of the border or going to see a Seahawks game or whatever else draws people south of the line suddenly find themselves looking (See Exclusion, page 14)

said Jessie Burton, family coordinator and homeless liaison at the center. “They’re literally coming to school with nothing.” The number of kids using the center’s services is on the rise. The number of homeless students – as defined by the (See Students, page 19)

INSIDE

Beginning this week, all are welcome to participate in Roots, an outreach program that supports families coping with the aftermath of trauma. The program was developed by the staff at Rebound, which launched as an independent nonprofit in 2006 to serve individuals with trauma backgrounds in Whatcom County. Through a variety of community programs, Rebound aims to foster growth and positive change for those who’ve experienced abuse, neglect, poverty and other forms of trauma. Roots began in Bellingham and serves hundreds every year. Wednesday, October 5 marked the first day the program expanded to Blaine. Each Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Rebound will offer Roots programming to parents and children at Blaine Elementary School following the weekly Community Meals Program operated out of the Blaine Senior Center. At $50 per quarter, anyone can join in on a variety of engaging and educational opportunities. Each week at Roots, parents and children are separated into groups. Parents are invited to participate in a sequential enrichment course led by trained facilitators with help from volunteers and sometimes participants from past programs. The courses cover topics about financial literacy, healthy living and parenting, just to name a few. Kids are divided into three groups: pre-K/nursery, elementary and middle school. Program facilitators lead a variety of activities, including a discussion period where kids learn about making choices, dealing with family challenges and developing their emotional and social skills. For Bellingham resident Danielle Good-

Coming Up . . . . . 18 Classifieds . . . . . 15 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 18 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 18

TheNorthernLight.com TheNorthernLight

BlaineChamber.com

FALL FUN • ART • FOOD • BEER • MUSIC

@TNLreporter

@PointRobertsPress

The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

SATURDAY

& SUNDAY

OCTOBER 8 & 9

FALL FUN • ART • FOOD • BEER • MUSIC

Saturday, October 8 DOWNTOWN BLAINE

BLAINE COMMUNITY CENTER & PAVILION

10 am - 5 pm Gardener’s Market

8 - 11 am Harvest Pancake Breakfast

H Street & Peace Portal

8th & H Streets

Enjoy the season’s bounty plus local crafters and artisans.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast - Adults $6, 12 & under $4

10 am - 1 pm Kids’ Pumpkin Patch FREE

9 am - 5 pm Art-Oberfest

Games, scavenger hunt, pumpkin painting and pumpkin smashing.

Shop for artwork & gifts by 23 local artists

12:30 - 4:30 pm Horse-drawn Hay Rides FREE

LIVE MUSIC: Polka Dots 1-3 pm, Soul Shadows 3-5 pm

Ride between downtown festivities & Art-Oberfest

1, 2 & 3 pm Oysterfest Grilling Competition

KIDS ZONE: Indoor bounce house, hot dogs, baked goods and treats, supporting the Blaine Band to Japan.

Sponsored by Drayton Harbor Oyster Company

2 - 4 pm Pizza Dough Tossing Contest

Sponsored by Pizza Factory Kids ages 3-16 put their skills to the test and win a free pizza!

1 - 8 pm Ambulance Pub Crawl

Hitch a ride to local pubs and take a picture in Lederhosen! Donations accepted to Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

SEMIAHMOO 1 - 5 pm Alaska Packers Cannery Museum Experience local maritime history in an original Alaska Packers Cannery building.

BEER

Sunday, October 9

DOWNTOWN

SEMIAHMOO

8th & H Streets

1 - 5 pm Oktoberfest at Semiahmoo Resort, Golf, Spa

Experience traditional German fare, beer and music $25 or $35 with a beer glass.

1 - 5 pm Alaska Packers Cannery Museum

1 - 5 pm Ambulance Pub Crawl

Hitch a ride to local pubs and take a picture in Lederhosen! Donations accepted to Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

BLAINE COMMUNITY CENTER & PAVILION 11 am - 5 pm Art-Oberfest

Experience local maritime history in an original Alaska Packers Cannery building.

Shop for artwork & gifts by 23 local artists

1 - 4:30 pm Plover Passenger Ferry Rides

LIVE MUSIC: Polka Dots 1-3 pm, Soul Shadows 3-5 pm KIDS ZONE: Indoor bounce house, hot dogs, baked goods and treats, supporting the Blaine Band to Japan.

Foot passenger ferry rides between Blaine Harbor and Semiahmoo Resort.

1 - 5 pm Limousine Service sponsored by Smuggler’s Inn Ride between Art-Oberfest festivities and the Plover Passenger Ferry.

FALL

in love with Downtown Blaine! Whimsical Scarecrows & fall displays. Restaurants featuring specials. Vote for your favorite scarecrow and display!

Art-Oberfest Coloring Contest

for kids of all ages! Sponsored by Blaine Harbor Art Gallery

Pick up at Art-Oberfest or many local Blaine businesses. Entries due at Pavilion by 5 pm Sunday.

For details visit: www.BlaineChamber.com

Or call:360-332-4544

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

◀ Blaine’s Art-Oberfest happens

October 8 - 9. The event is hosted by the Blaine Harbor Art Gallery. Pictured left is a piece by Debbie Haggman. It’s one of the many that will be for sale at the Community Center Pavilion, located on 8th and H Street in Blaine. Art-Oberfest will feature a fall exhibition, live music from The Polka Dots and an all-ages coloring contest. To learn more, visit www.blaineharborartgallery.com. Photo courtesy of Linda Marshall

Oktober-FIESTA! BUY ONE COMBINATION MEAL (Lunch or Dinner) WITH PURCHASE OF 2 DRINKS & GET 2ND COMBINATION MEAL (of equal or lesser value)

1/2 PRICE!

Open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner! 758 Peace Portal Drive Downtown Blaine

DINE IN ONLY. Not valid with any other offers. • Exp. 10/20/2016

332-4045

Blaine Pavilion

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OKTOBERFEST

Corner of 8th & H Streets

THIS WEEKEND!

Saturday 10 am-5 pm Stop by for FRESH produce, HANDMADE crafts and other LOCAL goodies!

Experience Authentic Thai Cuisine with Waterfront Dining

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Prime Rib Friday Nights

BURGER SPECIAL Wed, Thurs & Sat Nights

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Authentic German Food

746 Peace Portal Drive, Downtown Blaine

360-332-3512

7878 Birch Bay Dr. Birch Bay 360-746-8775

Schnitzels • Bratwurst • Smoked Pork Chops • Sauerkraut

Oktoberfest Bar Specials

Schnitzel Champignon

on a Pretzel Bun $5

Mon-Tue 7-3 • Wed-Sat 7-8 • Sun 7-2

www.BigAlsDiner.com

Oktoberfest

Giant Bratwurst

OPEN AT 7am

332-3540

Steak House

638 Peace Portal Dr. Downtown Blaine 360-306-8342

Every Sunday at 2 pm Must be 21+ to play

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 10/13/16

234 D St., Blaine

Gruss Gott & Auf Wiedersehen

Noon-8 pm • Dine-in Only

No Limit Poker TOURNAMENT

Vendor space available Call 360/332-4544

u 360-332-3267

Breakfast (served all day!) Lunch • Dinner

At Blaine’s H Street Plaza

$14.95

Wine

Draft Beer

Pint $4 • Pitcher $11

Happy Hour Blitzkrieg

Celebrate Oktoberfest

at Semiahmoo Resort, Golf & Spa on

Sunday, October 9 from 1- 5 PM

Enjoy Traditional German Fare! $25/pp

$35 with beer glass.

Reservations Encouraged. Call 360.318.2044

Take the Plover Over & Stretch your Oktoberfest fun!

Enjoy both sides of the harbor on Sunday, October 9, during Blaine’s Oktoberfest Celebration and ride the Historic Plover Passenger Ferry between Blaine Harbor & Semiahmoo Resort.

Riesling & Gewurtraminer Glass $4 4-5:30 pm

VERY

BIG

Annual Fall

SALE! OCTOBER 8 & 9 8AM-5PM •

Loomis Trail Golf & Country Club & Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club Start your holiday shopping early!

CELEBRATE

Canadian Thanksgiving at Semiahmoo Resort with specialty menus Friday, October 7 through Monday, October 10.

Discover Your Semiahmoo Experience. 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway • Blaine • www.semiahmoo.com • 360.318.2000

The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

Opinion

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. 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

Determined walkers raise money for Blaine school

s Blaine elementary school PTO held a walk-a-thon on September 28 to raise funds for field trips, technology upgrades, class supplies and more. This year, the PTO intended to raise $20,000 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the walk. At press time, the PTO had raised more than $13,000 and expects to raise more next week. Approximately 450 students participated in the annual walk. Photo by Molly Ernst

Letters

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Stefanie Donahue stefanie@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Kara Furr kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@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 Sarah Sharp The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXII, No 17 Circulation: 10,500 copies

The Editor: As a member of the BHS Class of 1966’s 50th reunion committee, I would like to thank Christy and her crew at the Pastime Pub and Eatery for hosting our Friday night “Meet and Greet” event. The food was wonderful and the service was fantastic. We really appreciate the time you took helping us plan the menu and making our event such a great success. If any other committees or organizations are looking for a place to meet, you need look no further than the Pastime Pub and Eatery right here in Blaine! Steven Baker Blaine

I support state representative Luanne Van Werven because she not only supports fully funding K-12 education but reforming the system so every student can reach their full potential. She understands that money alone will not fix all the problems within our education system. Vote to re-elect Luanne Van Werven because she has been and will continue to fight to carry out this paramount duty of the state legislature – to provide every child with a quality education in the schools of Whatcom County and across our state. Elinor King Ferndale

The Editor: Fully funding K-12 education is the paramount duty of the state legislature. According to the McCleary court decision, four years ago, Washington state legislators were failing in their duty. Since then, K-12 education funding has increased by over 36 percent. And in the current 2015-2017 operational budget, $18.2 billion or 48 percent of the operating budget goes to fund K-12 education.

The Editor: I was pleased to hear that state representative Luanne Van Werven was appointed to the “Sunshine Committee.” This is an important committee established by the state legislature in 2007 to ensure transparency and accountability for public disclosure requirements. Luanne is dedicated to the cause of open government and we are fortunate that a local representative will be a watchdog on this important committee.

Open public records and public meetings are fundamental to a transparent government. A vote for Luanne Van Werven will ensure the state’s Open Public Meetings Act remains strong and successful. Karen Brown Bellingham The Editor: As a Birch Bay beachfront property owner I support the berm project. I was dismayed and frustrated to read that the project has been delayed for another year. My reaction was not due to the delay, but to the conflicting information coming from the county. According to the story, negotiations with property owners were blamed for the delay; county project engineer Kevin Thomson stated that eight right-of-way easements had been obtained, with 30 more to go. Yet a month earlier, county special (See, Letters, on next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Civic Meetings

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Oct. 13 Ads due: Oct. 7

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.

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Students return to class after power surge forces closure By Oliver Lazenby Blaine High School students returned to class on a “transitional basis” on Wednesday, October 5, after four days off following an explosion that damaged the school’s electrical room and left the high school campus without power. High school students met in the Performing Arts Center at 8:20 a.m., and participated in group activities throughout the day. Students were not allowed on any part of the high school campus that has been without power, according to the district’s website. The district planned to switch on power to the high school and perform safety tests to communications and fire suppression systems throughout the day. At press time, the district was hopeful that students would return to normal classes in the high school on Thursday. “We’re moving forward anticipating that we will have school tomorrow,” district administrative assistant Tina Padilla said on Wednesday. The power surged late last Wednesday, September 28, damaging the school’s main electrical room and adjacent walls. School was canceled for all students the following day. Everyone but high (From, Letters, on previous page) projects manager Roland Middleton said only 12 agreements needed to be finalized and that the easement negotiations were “not even a substantive issue” – the main issue was the process for appraising the properties. The implication is that the county was initially unaware of the federal guidelines requiring external property appraisals, and did not initiate the external appraisal process soon enough. On March 29, I received an email from right of way consultant Dana Abney stating we would receive an offer letter in about two weeks. On July 29, I followed up and received a return email that “appraisals are still two to three weeks out.” Why are property owners being blamed for the delay when some have not received offer letters or outreach for negotiations from the county? Finally, while the overall project budget is $11.5 million, about one-half has already been spent on permitting, planning, easement negotiation, etc. I don’t believe that construction projects use half their budget on items indirectly related to construction. Somewhere, something’s off track. I urge the newspaper to seek answers to the questions I have raised. Answers would clarify and provide transparency regarding this project, which is vital to address erosion and road damage in Birch Bay. Chuck Kinzer Birch Bay Editors note: an unedited version of this letter can be seen at www. thenorthernlight.com

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

Thursday, October 6, 10 am Public Works Advisory Committee meeting Location: 1200 Yew Ave. 1:30 pm - Special Council meeting and Executive Session to discuss purchase of Real Estate pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(b) Monday, October 10, 4 pm - Study Session – Semiahmoo Seasmoke Zone 3 Planned Unit Development and Preliminary Plat 6 pm - City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 11, 8 am Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee meeting

Photos courtesy of the Blaine school district

schoolers returned to school on Friday, September 30. City engineers, experts from the district’s insurance company, and contractors investigated, but hadn’t determined a cause by Wednesday morning. They had ruled out problems with wiring in the electrical room, and suspected the problem originated

with the wiring that supplied power to the room, Padilla said. Crews routed a new electrical supply line to the school over the weekend and early this week. On-campus activities that were canceled during the outage, including the primary school open house and a volleyball game, will be rescheduled. Students will

Dog-tober Fest Saturday, October 8 • 2-4 pm Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini St. (off Alderson Rd.)

Bring your leashed canine friend to Bay Horizon "Bark" Featuring Canine Divine Spa, Brittany’s Mobile Pet Service & Animal Acupressure Training Academy

have to make up one day at the end of the year, but the district plans to ask the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to waive the extra days high school students missed.

Thursday, October 13, 9:30 am – Park and Cemetery Board meeting Canceled – Planning Commission meeting U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

Simple ways YOU can give back to the library

• Tell your friends to sign up for a card • Join the Friends of the Library • Like us on Facebook - Friends of the Blaine Library • Do the Book Brain Challenge! whatcom county

library system

BLAINE LIBRARY

Paid for by Friends of Blaine Library

610 3 rd Street 360-305-3637

Enjoy fun activities and games with your dog

Costumes encouraged for your pets! Dynamite Images will be on hand to capture these precious moments “Yappy” Hour specials at The Beach! Sponsored by

Birch Bay & Blaine Candidates & Issues Forum

Thursday, October 6 at 7 p.m. Birch Bay Bible Community Church 4460 Bay Road ( NE corner of Bay & Blaine Roads) ALL are welcome to attend. Candidates will answer questions and discuss their platforms and visions for the future. Citizen organized and sponsored by: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, The Northern Light and Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

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The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

Sports Whatcom County high school football historian uncovers milestones Anderson has been collecting statistics for every football team in Whatcom County since the mid-1990s, but his records go back even further. After nearly a decade of Saturdays at the Bellingham Public Library looking through old Bellingham Herald issues on microfilm, he’s pieced together a nearly complete record of Whatcom County high school football stats dating back to 1975. In the last few years, Anderson has been publishing lists and other statistical findings on his Facebook page and website, whatcomcountyfootball.com. Anderson compiles stats and lists and asks himself, “Is anyone going to care about this?” It turns out a lot of people do. He’s developed a following of thousands of fans who find out about achievements that would otherwise go unknown, and former players who get recognized for the forgotten moments of their high school careers. Anderson gets requests on his Facebook page for stats so obscure even he doesn’t, or can’t, keep track of them. On its best days, his website gets thousands of views. His Facebook page is a gathering place for local football fans, where people discuss videos of plays that happened decades ago. “It’s just so cool seeing the comment threads on Facebook, the reminiscing and the nostalgia between guys who may have been knocking each other’s heads in 30 years ago on a September night,” said Christopher Ames, who runs statewidestats.com, a crowd-sourced site with Washington state high school football

By Oliver Lazenby When Blaine Borderites wide receiver Anthony Ball caught a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter of the Borderites’ season opener, it’s safe to say no one realized he had broken the team’s record for career touchdown receptions. Whatcom County’s self-appointed football historian, Tyler Anderson, didn’t know either, but he had a feeling. “I had this hunch, like, he’s got to be close,” he said. The 37-year-old Blaine resident’s personal collection of Borderites statistics confirmed the milestone. Ball’s three touchdown receptions in that game put him at 21 in his high school career, one more than Todd Bird of the class of 2011. The following week, Anderson may have been the only person to realize when Blaine quarterback Jalen Kortlever reached a Borderites milestone of his own by throwing four touchdown passes in each of the first two games of the season, another team first. Anderson, who has short cropped hair and glasses, carries a flip phone and works in the shipping department at Totally Chocolate in Blaine, posted both findings on his History of Whatcom County High School Football Facebook page. That turned them from obscure statistics to achievements that Blaine football fans celebrated digitally with likes and shares. “I want these kids to know that they’re doing something really cool,” Anderson said. “All I did was publish it and it goes viral.”

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s Local football historian Tyler Anderson shows off his website, whatcomcountyfootball.com at The Northern Light office.

Photo by Oliver Lazenby

overtime against Blaine in 1995. “He was a good kid. He worked hard and took his craft seriously,” said his coach, current Mount Baker coach Ron Lepper. “Kickers often have a different perspective on stuff, and he fit that mold.” Anderson started keeping spreadsheets of Mount Baker Mountaineers’ stats in eighth grade, but his obsession with stats started even earlier. He watched Seahawks games in the 1980s with paper and pencil and recorded stats. When the paper came the next day, he’d check his work against the box score. Anderson turned 11 in 1990. In eighth grade, Anderson discovered that the Bellingham Herald also printed a box score that looked just like an NFL box score but with people in it that he knew. He started typing those stats into a spreadsheet program on his parents’ chunky Macintosh computer. He later printed out stats for the whole season and brought them to Mount Baker head coach Duane Rilla, who asked him to do it for the whole county to see how other teams were doing. Rilla for retired a few years later, We are known being but Anderson kept the spreads Anthony Ball reaches for a touch down in the game thatultra-gentle gave him with sheets our up topatients! date. the team’s record. “I thought, I’m just going to Photo by Janell Kortlever keep doing it because I know these kids and I want to see how they do,” Anderson said. After high school, Anderson spent a year as a PA announcer for the Mount Baker Mountaineers. After that, he filled in as a freelancer at the Bellingham Herald, covering sports from 1999 to D Street 2004, keeping up on his spreadsheets all the while. 276 At a certain point, he felt like F St. he had to keep going because he FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY already had such a large collecG St. Bryan Chen, DDS tion. Christopher Ames’ stateH Street 310 Martin Street, Blaine • 360-332-9534 wide stats website launched in 2004, and gave Anderson an outwww.BlaineFamilyDentistry.com Martin Street let for his collection. He plugged • Keep teeth clean & cavity free about 30,000 entries into the fledgling site. • Friendly & caring dentist & staff “He was just so excited that • Convenient location and appointment times there was a place that took this • Gentle care from knowledgeable dental professionals kind of stuff seriously and that he could contribute, because he has such a passion for this stuff,” stats going back to 2004. Christopher Ames is the son of Bob Ames, Meridian High School’s longtime head football coach, and was a standout football player at Meridian in the early 1990s. “Guys my age and older, we have kids now. It’s so cool to be able to show your son, I actually did a few things way back when,” Ames said. In addition to his appetite for statistics, Anderson has a memory that allows him to make com-

parisons between current high school football players and players of yore, as he did in a series of season previews he wrote this year for each county team. He’s been called both Yoda and Rain Man for his memory. “I can visually see a lot,” he said, and adds, pointing at his head, “the ’90s are right here.” That’s partly because he lived it. Anderson was a kicker for the Mount Baker Mountaineers in high school. His career highlights include a 30-yard field goal in

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(Continued on next page)

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com (Continued from previous page) Ames said. “He’s doing it for a very pure reason: because he loves it.” Anderson started his Facebook page in 2013, partly to combat all the negativity he saw in the world with positive stats. He started his website in April 2014, and to help launch it he created a list of the top 500 players in Whatcom County history using a statsbased mathematical model. He started with number 500 and counted down, posting three players a day, until he got to number one, Jake Locker, five months later. “It just got bigger and bigger and bigger and when number one was unveiled, that day my website had 140,000 hits,” he said. At that point, Anderson thought he might be able to make money off his site, but he hasn’t pursued that yet. “I’ve never made a cent off this. It’s just strictly passion. And I work a full-time job, it’s not like this is what I do.” He also has two dogs at home, one of which is paralyzed, and takes a lot of his time. He feels bad that the project has taken time away from his girlfriend, especially this summer when he was working on writing season previews for each team. That people appreciate his

work so much keeps him going. When his computer died in 2014, Ames and a friend, Corbett Hanson, started a GoFundMe page that raised $1,300 in two hours. “I was in tears. People really respond to this,” Anderson said. “The relationships I’ve made from this are amazing, and I’m kind of antisocial. I’ve never had a drink in my life. I’m scared of large crowds. I put on my green hoodie and just kind of watch the games. “I’ve been over to people’s houses for dinner. To me these former players are not like superheroes or legends or anything, but they’re kind of mythical,” he said. “These are people I never thought I’d meet.” Anderson began the night on September 9 at Civic Stadium watching the Squalicum vs. Sehome game. At half time he drove 15 minutes north to Meridian High School to catch the second half of the Meridian vs. Blaine game which he correctly guessed, would be the closer of the two. He goes alone, and roams the sidelines in a green hoodie and green shoes. He doesn’t record stats during the games, but takes some video. That’s a typical autumn Friday night for Anderson. If possible, he tries to catch four Whatcom County teams in one night.

Though Anderson played for couldn’t find stats – to his collecMount Baker and now lives in tion. What’s it like to fill in holes Blaine, he doesn’t have a favorite to an otherwise perfect collection? Whatcom County team. “Every time a Whatcom Coun“Oh, it’s the best,” Anderson ty team goes against a Skagit team said, throwing his arms up. I’m always going for Whatcom County,” he said. For all your If Anderson moved to Sheboylawn & gan, Wisconsin, or even King landscape County, he doesn’t think he’d needs! care to keep statistics for the local football teams. That’s partly because Whatcom County has a rich football history populated with football families, he said. After high school, he kept filling out his spreadsheets because he SteveLawrenson1@gmail.com still knew the kids’ last names. And that’s still the case today. “At first it was all about, ‘I know these kids. I have science class with him and he’s a 1,000yard rusher. That’s really cool,’” • U.S. green cards / naturalization Anderson said. “But the connec• U.S. green cards / naturalization tions never end. Jalen Kortlever’s • Work / investor visas • Work / investor visas dad was an amazing running • Denied entry waivers • Denied entry waivers back in Blaine. Kyle Sentkowski is a great kicker. Well, his brother • Removal hearings • Removal NEXUS appeals hearings • NEXUS appeals is a great kicker, his dad is a great kicker. For so many of these kids, their dad or uncle played locally.” 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, Anderson used Blaine names in Leonard D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law this interview, but he could tailor his responses toward any team in the county. Anderson has always loved sports and stats, but his record-keeping obsession for stats hasn’t crossed over to other leagues or sports. “High school football is so cool. You’re trying to win a state chamIn stock, same day or next day service! pionship with kids you went to Your one stop shop for all your automotive needs. kindergarten with,” Anderson said. “Nobody cuts anyone in football, so some kid who’s not a great athlete at all but busts his butt in practice gets to play with Riley Fritsch going for a state championship.” If Anderson could time travel, 365 D STREET • BLAINE, WA • (360) 332-7018 he said he’d go back and watch HOURS: MON.-FRI. 8 AM — 5:30 PM every football game in Whatcom County history. Thanks to his website, he’s come pretty close to doing that. In June 2013 he started asking coaches for old game films, and many of them turned over whole boxes of VHS tapes. The tapes allowed Anderson to fill in some of the holes – a few games in the ’90s for which he

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s Tyler Anderson had an early interest in sports statistics. He started building spreadsheets detailing local sports stats in eighth grade. Photo courtesy of Tyler Anderson

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Local football historian predicts big year for Blaine By Oliver Lazenby Tyler Anderson, who runs whatcomcountyfootball.com, thinks he surprised people when he predicted Blaine Borderites would end this season with an 8–1 record. Blaine’s record was 4–5 last year. “When I predicted that, I think a lot of people went, ‘What?’ Because Blaine has not been a traditional powerhouse,” Anderson said. “But I saw Jalen Kortlever, Riley Fritsch, Anthony Ball, Kyle

BHS sports recap

Sentkowski and those linemen – they’ve been playing since they were sophomores and I just knew that this was the year they were going to make some noise.” Five games into the season, the Borderites are 4–1, and 2–1 in 2A Northwest Conference games. Kortlever, Ball and Fritsch are all statistical leaders in the county, and maybe in the state. Though they’ve already lost one game, Anderson thinks the team is still on track to finish 8–1.

The Borderites’ loss came against the Sedro-Woolley Cubs, who won the state 2A championship game two years ago and made it to the state semifinals last year. “I figured the one loss was going to be Sedro,” he said. “I just thought for sure they were really going to take a huge step up this year. His predictions would put the Borderites in a three-way tie for first in 2A Northwest Conference with Sedro-Woolley and Lynden.

September 28-October 4

Volleyball: October 4: Borderites beat Sedro-Woolley 3–2 away

Soccer: September 29: Borderites lost to Lynden 5–2 at home.

Football: September 30: Borderites beat Anacortes 28–21 away.

September 27: Blaine beat Nooksack Valley 3–0 away.

October 4: Borderites lost to

Sedro-Woolley 5–0 away.

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The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

HEALTH & WELLNESS Encouraging happy, healthy lives!

Blaine police chief chimes in on new study about officer fatigue By Sarah Sharp There’s one suspended state of consciousness we can’t escape. Drugs, alcohol and other mind-altering substances can warp daytime reality, but eventually we all succumb to the same hormone-induced trance at bedtime. Oh, sweet sleep. With school back in session, sleep schedules are bound to go amiss, and shift workers must often make do with inconsistent z’s. But perhaps most alarming are the health and safety implications of fatigue for those sworn to protect and to serve. Blaine police chief Mike Haslip shed light on the importance of well-rested officers, and the department’s approach to health and wellness. The issue of officer fatigue has recently emerged as a subject of international concern. A study published in August

found that about 92 percent of Indian police officers face mild to severe fatigue due to erratic work hours, according to the Times of India. The study, “Research Study on Fatigue in Police Personnel: Causes and Remedies,” was conducted by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD). North American officers also share in the sleepless nights. A 2011 survey of 4,957 U.S. and Canadian police officers found more than 40 percent screened positive for sleep disorders – twice the 15–20 percent estimated rate of sleep disorders in the general population, according to the National Institute of Justice. Even among those who did not screen positive for a sleep disorder, the researchers found excessive fatigue was widespread. While Haslip said rare emergencies still require an “all hands

on deck, buckle down and get it done effort,” what’s more typical is the department’s expectation that all officers remain alert and focused each minute of their shifts. “Public safety personnel need access to the right tools to do their job safely,” he said. “Schedules that provide adequate time off for proper rest are one of those tools.” Over a 24-hour period, Haslip said he strives for a minimum of six hours of “rack time” each night, but those hours might not be all at once. His duties as police chief require working a variety of shifts, from fulfilling his management role during weekdays to coming home and changing socks for a night or weekend patrol shift. “It depends on the needs of the service,” he said. His outlook on sleep has shifted over the years. Back in the

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“If you don’t, your circadian “old days,” he said, rest was not acknowledged as a necessary rhythm gets thrown off. Your component of the workplace, just body doesn’t know when to sleep,” Moore said. as police officers “If you’re consiswere not required tent, you’re trainto wear ballistic ing your body and vests and fireyour mind to fall fighters entered asleep at the same burning buildings time every day.” without breathTo reduce the ing apparatus. stress of psycho“Way back logically taxing when, as in a work that can generation ago, creep into officers’ working stupidhome lives, relaxly long hours ation can ease the was one way transition to sleep. that some of us Moore’s remedy showed we were for stress includes committed and soaking in a hot hard-working. bath and drinking ‘I’ll sleep when chamomile tea, she I’m dead’ was one said. of our mottos. Dark colored Chalk some of sheets and a sooththat up to youth, ing shade of paint and some of it in the bedroom, to lack of educa– Blaine police chief, such as a light yeltion,” Haslip said. Mike Haslip low or green, can “We were kidding also create a better ourselves. We did environment for not know how sleep. Moore said critical adequate the effect of experisleep is to physical and mental health, to effective encing true rest for the first time performance and to sound deci- in years is nothing short of life altering for patients with previous sion-making.” Sue Moore, supervisor of op- sleep trouble. “When you get good sleep, you erations for the pulmonary and sleep clinic at PeaceHealth St. feel like a million dollars,” Moore Joseph Medical Center in Belling- said. “Your life becomes less ham, says it’s not true that some chaotic when you get adequate people are biologically blessed sleep.” The officer wellness and safewith the ability to function optimally on three to four hours of ty pillar of President Barack Obama’s Task Force on 21st Censleep. “There’s really no scientific tury Policing aims to improve ofproof,” Moore said. “What we ficer safety and reduce the chaos know is that the average per- exacerbated by inadequate sleep. son needs at least seven to eight More than the risk to officer safehours of sleep. There are special ty posed by criminals, the task occasions when some people can force found a larger proportion of do well on six hours of sleep, but officer deaths and injuries resulted from poor nutrition, inadeit’s rare.” She recommends shift workers quate sleep, substance abuse and – police officers included – keep poor overall health. “Yet these the same sleep schedule on their causes are often overlooked or given scant attention,” the report days off whenever possible. states. The consequences can be dire, sometimes leading to depression

“Public safety personnel need access to the right tools to do their job safely. Schedules that provide adequate time off for proper rest are one of those tools.”

(Continued on next page)

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HEALTH & WELLNESS Encouraging happy, healthy lives! (Continued from previous page) and suicide – and ultimately impacting their relationships with loved ones. “Sleep deprivation affects a person’s ability to be emotionally present and participative in relationships,” Haslip said. “This creates negative stress for officers and their families off-duty, which can feed back negatively to their work.” As a result, the community

also suffers in cases of officer fatigue – even when the responder interacting with the public has followed every other aspect of protocol, Haslip said. “Experience and dogged professionalism cannot reliably fill the sleep gap created by an over-tired responder, leaving him or her less able to find and implement the best solution to a problem,” he said. “When the problem is routine an error may be only inconvenient, but when

a problem suddenly escalates an error can be catastrophic.” The policing task force’s final report also recommends administrative changes such as reducing work shifts and the implementation of mental health strategies that can diminish the potential for long lasting trauma. To promote healthy sleep schedules, the Blaine Police Department’s employee schedule provides a minimum of 12 hours off between shifts.

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The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

First Responders A Special Publication of The Northern Light Newspaper

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue ODELL STATION 61

NWFR Staff, not pictured s Chief William Pernett. s A shift - FF Tom Kettman, FF Rob Mulrooney, Lt. Joel Nielsen.

s B shift - FF Jason Donnelly, Lt. Jon Ahrenholz, FF Mark Wohlrab.

s C shift - FF T.J. Holert, Lt. Adam Smith, FF Gina Ball.

s FF Russ Briskin, Lt. Leslee Smith, FF Micah McConkey.

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s A shift - FF David Hancock, Cpt. Craig Johnson, FF Daniel Jensen.

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October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

A salute to those who protect and serve our local community! Blaine Police Department

s Chief Mike Haslip.

s Officer Wayne White with Primary school children.

s Officers Tim Richardson and Michael Munden.

s Officer Jake Farrer “arrests” Cindy Leffel for the library’s Book Brain Challenge.

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s Officer Brent Greene. s Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo.

s Top row, from left: Joe Zaccaria, Kelly Kiniski, Hoyt Hatfield, Bob Johnson, Rob Sipes, Nick Thweatt, Chris Doutre. Bottom row, from left: Stan Schmidt, Bill Bullock, Fred Bell, Joyce Kiniski, Margaret Prior, Heather Anderson. Not Pictured: Bruce Prior, Drew West, Kathy Adams, Paul Greenough, Richard Coons, Roger Ledig, Steve Adams, Terrylee Harrington, Tom Thweatt.

Photos courtesy of the Blaine Police Department

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s Birch Bay neighborhood deputy Mike King.

Jon Landis, Andy Anorbes and Jason Torgeson. s Officer Ryan King.

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SeaFeast celebrates local maritime heritage Seafood fans from throughout the county attended the first-ever Bellingham SeaFeast last weekend on September 30 and October 1. The event kicked off at Marine Heritage Park, located on West Holly Street, on Friday and then Zuanich Point Park at Squalicum Harbor on Saturday.

Visitors were invited to compete for prizes in an international salmon grilling competition, take part in a multitude of maritime tours, and most importantly, munch on freshly-cooked seafood. More events took place throughout the weekend. The event received $75,000 in funding from Bellingham’s lodg-

ing tax in May. Since then, staff and groups from throughout the county came together to organize the community festival. To end the celebration, the public was invited to take part in the Grand SeaFeast Finale. At $90 a plate, the meal choices offered about 80 different types of seafood.

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“I see that you crossed the border a few months ago in the same car as Joe Blow. Is Joe a friend? Have you smoked marijuana with Joe?” Anxious to appear co-operative, the friend says yes. Now it’s Joe’s turn. He arrives at the border and the computer screen lights up – Joe is sent in. If he has entered the Blaine sector, the questioning begins with a series of questions that have been carefully vetted by the U.S. Department of Justice in Seattle. Initially, the questions are intended to determine whether Joe has a claim to U.S. citizenship or residency based upon his background. It is probable at some point that Joe will be told CBP either has reason to believe or has proof that he has used or uses controlled substances. He’ll be cautioned that it is a felony to lie to a federal officer and that if he lies, he will at the very least be banned from entering the U.S. forever. As an attorney, Saunders cautions clients not to lie to officers and to admit if they have been arrested or have a criminal conviction. However, he says an individual is under no obligation to volunteer whether he or she has used illegal drugs. “A person can tell them that they’d rather not answer that question. The worst they can do is to send them back to Canada which is better than being permanently excluded for admitting to using marijuana,” he said. B.C. resident Ted Gilliat was stopped and sent in for secondary examination on August 21 in Point Roberts and described the situation this way: “If I had to use one word to describe the experience, I’d say entrapment. That is exactly the word that comes to mind. They made me say stuff that I shouldn’t have said. They got me so worked up to get me to answer the way they wanted me to answer. They’re not nice about it. It’s an interrogation, it’s like you’re going to jail so you give answers so you won’t go to jail,” Gilliat said. Another B.C. resident was traveling south to her cabin in Point Roberts in August when she found herself flagged for secondary inspection. “I had some prescription medicine in my purse and [the officer] started asking me about controlled substances,” she said. The officer then told her CBP had reason to believe and proof that she had used marijuana and said if she refused to answer, or lied, then she would be arrested. “I couldn’t understand why he would say that but he kept asking me if I knew that marijuana was legal in Washington state, implying that it wasn’t any big deal. I finally told him that I had tried it two or three times in high school but never really felt anything from it,” she said. “The treatment was unbelievable, it was like a third world country,” she said. Under the border search exception doctrine, it is permissible for CBP to examine the contents of phones or computers without a warrant. Photos, text messages and contacts are all fair game. Individuals are not, however, required to provide your password if asked. Recent Federal court decisions have held that the government cannot compel you to pro-

vide passwords to allow it access to your device’s contents. If you refuse, CBP will most likely confiscate your device for a period of time. If your device has touch ID or finger print sensor, they can ask you to unlock it. However, most devices now offer two-step verification; touch ID and password are required upon device restart. Only in America? It doesn’t just happen to Canadians. Americans going north can find themselves in a similar bind should they run afoul of Canada Border Services Agency rules. Recently, one couple (who asked not to be named) found themselves in double jeopardy. Both 31 years old, the couple met two years ago at the Subdued Stringband Jamboree in Deming. Last year they got engaged at the festival and this August got married at the same venue. The man is Canadian and works as a carpenter foreman in B.C. while the woman, an American from La Conner, just graduated with an education degree. After the wedding, the couple honeymooned in Hawaii for three weeks and on their return the husband went back to work in Canada while the wife began her search for a teaching job. Although she has entered Canada on many occasions, she was refused entry on September 9 after a computer search turned up convictions for a DUI and reckless driving back in 2009. Under the Canadian criminal code, anyone who has a foreign conviction that is the equivalent of a serious offence in Canada is inadmissible to Canada. Foreign nationals may apply for a waiver to enter Canada after five years have elapsed. Making matters worse, the man came down to Birch Bay in early September to meet his wife at property they had recently purchased. It turns out that a friend had recently come through the border and was sent in for secondary inspection; text messages on her phone referred to using drugs. As the friend had previously come south in the same car as the new husband, she was asked if she had done drugs with him to which she replied in the affirmative. On his trip south, the Canadian man was flagged for inspection and underwent six hours of examination. Warned that he would be permanently excluded if he lied, he admitted to prior drug use and was permanently excluded from the States.

The couple are beginning the legal process that would allow them to at least visit their partner’s country. In the meantime, they meet at a picnic table in the middle of Peace Arch State Park. Asked to comment on the recent spate of exclusions at local borders of travelers who have admitted using marijuana in the past, CBP spokesperson Renne Archer responded in writing to The Northern Light. “The United States has been and continues to be a welcoming nation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection not only protects U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents in the country, but also wants to ensure the safety of our international travelers who come to visit, study and conduct legitimate business in our country. “Our dual mission is to facilitate travel in the United States while we secure our borders, our people and our visitors from those who would do us harm like terrorists and terrorist weapons, criminals, and contraband. CBP officers are charged with enforcing not only immigration and customs laws, but they enforce more than 400 laws for 40 other agencies and have stopped thousands of violators of U.S. law. “We are the agency charged with determining admissibility of aliens at ports of entry. Under U.S. immigration law [Section 291 of the INA [8 USC 1361] applicants for admission bear the burden of proof to establish that they are clearly eligible to enter the United States. In order to demonstrate that they are admissible, the applicant must overcome all grounds of inadmissibility. Entry requirements for international travelers wishing to enter the United States are governed by and conducted in accordance with U.S. federal law, which supersedes state laws. Currently, marijuana possession is against U.S. federal law and U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforces those laws as appropriate. “Under existing U.S. federal law, an individual convicted of or admits having committed certain crimes or violations of laws relating to a controlled substance can be found inadmissible to enter the United States.” Asked to provide statistics comparing exclusion rates at local borders with other northern crossings, Archer replied that the newspaper would need to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. The CBP response rate to FOIA requests can range from a few months to a few years.

s Peace Arch State Park will be the only view the newly married couple will be sharing for the foreseeable future. Photo by Pat Grubb

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

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STATE AUDITOR

Mark has been a champion for efﬁcient, effective, and ethical government his entire career—getting his start auditing Boeing contracts in the Air Force.

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Community Newspaper of Blaine, Birch Bay & Semiahmoo

The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 360.371.5100 8105 Birch Bay Square St., I-5 Exit 270, Blaine BELLI NGHAM OPE N H O U S E

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

B LA IN E O P EN HOUSE

OPEN SUN 1:30-3

SEMIAHM OO OPEN HOUSES

OPEN SAT 11-1

WATER & PARK VIEWS!

OPEN SAT 2-4

CUTE REMODEL

444 S. State St. #211 • $339,900

OPEN SAT 2-4

NEW CONSTRUCTION FEEL!

421 C St. • $239,900

9023 Gleneagle Dr. • $417,500

OPEN SUN 2-4

LARGE LUXURY TOWNHOMES

CAPE COD CHARM

9021 Gleneagle Dr. #17 • $419,000

9062 Shearwater Rd. • $564,000

Sought after $45K freshly remodeled Spinnaker Reach Condo. New kitchen cabinets, quartz counters, s/s appliances, laminate flooring, dual bathroom vanity. Outdoor saltwater pool, BBQ area, rec room & easy access to Boulevard Park.

Cute remodel and shop building with RM.6 zoning. 2-BR, 1-BA, utility rm, nice site with alley access. Newly resurfaced oak hardwood floors, new bathroom. New Trane natural gas furnace. Shop w/dual sliding doors. Ample parking.

4-Br, 2.5-BA 2450 s.f. w/master on main. Great rm concept w/ vaulted ceilings. Modern kitchen with granite, ss, slate, bar seating, natural gas, great cabinets. Lots of parking. Gated community within the Resort Semiahmoo community.

In Gleneagles III. Vaulted great room w/fp. Granite & stainless kitchen. Solid Kempas hardwood flooring. brand new carpet., spacious master suite. 2 large upper level guest rms & full bath. Main floor (4th) bdrm. Semiahmoo amenities.

Large wooded site abt 700’ from Boundary Ridge beach access stairs. Renovated kit; granite, beach pebble backsplash, s/s appliances, warming drawer! Wood floors. Organic beadboard. 3 living areas. 2 suites + 2 guest rms.

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

Julie Brown 360-255-3727

S E MIA H MO O O P E N H O U SES OPEN SAT 11-1

CUSTER OPEN HO USE

OPEN DAILY 12-5

ON THE BEACH AT SEMIAHMOO

OPEN SUN 12:30-3

GATED WATERFRONT RESIDENCE

9535 Semiahmoo Pkwy B203 • $579,000

SANDY POI NT OPEN HOUSE

Semiahmoo Shore

OPEN SUN 1-3

NEW CONSTRUCTION! 7882 Ham Rd. • $539,000

WELL-BUILT VIEW HOME 4209 Saltspring Dr. • $575,000

On the beach at Semiahmoo, stellar west-facing single story 2-suite nearly new “Marin” condo. Gorgeous maple floors w/radiant in-floor nat gas fired heat. Espresso hued maple cabinets, granite, stainless, subway tiles. Sumptuous master, impeccably well maintained.

Gated waterfront residence. Brand new artisan quality construction w/designer interiors & high end appliances, fixtures & appointments throughout. Quartz counters, hardwood & tile flooring. Private, covered oceanside patio, sunny open concept, attached dbl. gar. Trails.

One level home w/bonus rm over garage, 2670 s.f. 3-BR, 2.5BA, office, bonus rm & 3-car garage on 2.36 acres. Elevated home site with southern exposure. Open floor plan with great room concept. Bamboo, Hardi, stainless, granite, tile, spacious walk-in closet & so much more.

100’ private dock fronting on the canal at Sandy Point. Westfacing location with great access to the San Juan’s. Double lot-extra room, well-built view home. Floating balcony from second story master. Main floor kit open to great room w/ easy access to deck & dock.

Linda Kiens 360-815-6640

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951

FERNDALE OPEN HOUSE OPEN SUN 12-4

BIRCH BAY OPEN HOUSE

OPEN SUN 12-4

SUNNY LINDAL CEDAR HOME 6101 Church Rd. • $449,900

L OOMIS TRAI L OPEN HOUSE

OPEN SUN 12-2

BEAUTIFUL LINDAL CEDAR HOME 6101 Church Rd. • $449,900

FEATURED LI STI NG

OPEN SUN 2-4

BIRCH BAY VILLAGE 5464 Salish Rd. • $249,000

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION 8648 Ashbury Ct. • $674,000

NEW LISTING! 4466 Castlerock Dr. • $389,900

On large corner lot with Mt Baker views! Cathedral ceilings, gourmet kit, dining, living room with gas fireplace and large master bdrm. 3-BR, 1.5-BA, 2nd kitchen with ss appls, living rm all are included in detached shop with 3 bays.

On large corner lot with Mt Baker views! Very sunny and bright! Vaulted ceilings, gourmet . More living space and kit in detached shop with 3 bays. Shop is 40x40, 220. Fully enclosed deck and beautiful mature landscaping.

Located in the private gated community of Birch Bay Village. Community features private beaches, marina, golf course, swimming pool, sports courts and much more. Single level 3-BR, 1.75BA, recently remodeled! 1,406 s.f.

3-suites! Loomis’ best location: 130’ of fairway along #13. Lake, clubhouse & Mt. Baker views. Southside neighbor: 60’ of open space. Vaulted great rm & office. 10’ ceilings, 8’ doors. T&G floors. Nutmeg stained alder cabs, solid granite.

Peaceful living from wonderful location on nature preserve/wetlands. One story floor plan, spacious master w/ outdoor access, good sized family room/kit w/ eating nook. 2-BRs on opposite end of house w/ a shared bath. 2-car gar.

Paul Holtzheimer 360-303-4444

Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838

Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224

Linda Kiens 360-815-6640

Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488

In case of inclement weather, please call agent to confirm open houses.

If you want your house SOLD, CALL

HUGH TODAY!

360.371.5800

www.CallHugh.com NEW FINANCING OPTIONS!

26 years experierce working for you!

7806 Birch Bay Dr. #504 2-BR, 1.5-BA, Jacob’s Landing Condo. 2 decks, water views, furnished. Great price! Quiet location.

SALTWATER VIEWS $159,950

SEMIAHMOO MARINA 44’ BOAT SLIP - $29,500

www.windermere.com 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

NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave. Blaine

HiBay Warehouse Call for Available Space Yard Space is Available Truck • RV • Boat • Vehicle Parking/Storage

Don Nelson 360-332-2743 www.NelsonBuilding.com

We get the word out! FOLLOW US ON

facebook.com/thenorthernlight

9540 Semiahmoo D-7 • Possible Owner Financing

Excellent Location for Home-Based Business! 1924 Farmhouse $365,000 • 3143 Grandview, Ferndale

Want to find a new home?

On 5 acres. Heated Shop/Barn. MLS #967953

BBV LAKEFRONT LOT • $105,000

Chehalis Rd. #40 • 30’ Lake front • Mt. Baker views

Rentals - Residential

Rentals - Rooms

You’ve come to the right place!

BLAINE

3-BR, 2.5-BA DUPLEX w/partial bay view. 1430 Blaine Ave. Like new, garage N/P $1250/mo. W/D. appliances. Avail now.

BIRCH BAY

Stunning views. Mariner Cove condo. 2-BR, 1.75-BA fireplace, pool, racquet ball, hot tub. $1150/mo. includes water/sewer. N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,

360-332-3166

ROOM FOR rent in historical home Blaine. Fully furnished, all utilities paid, internet/cable included. Shared kitchen, references required. $450/mo. Call Lajoy 360-223-0811.

Find it in the Classifieds!

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Roots ...

OBITUARIES

From page 1

win, the program has been a breath of fresh air. In 2014, Goodwin fled her home and abusive partner to seek refuge in Bellingham for herself and three kids. Goodwin and her kids were homeless for eight months prior to finding a home with the help of Lydia Place, a social services organization in Bellingham. Roots has made a significant difference for Goodwin and her kids, she said. At Roots, she said, “you don’t feel alone.” Goodwin has three children – Ella, 4, Dylan, 6 and Lucas, 8. Her oldest son Lucas suffers from PTSD due to abuse, she said. Often, Lucas struggles with after school care and Roots is one of the few places where he is comfortable and happy, she explained. “It was Lucas’ first safe space,” she said. “They know how to deal with trauma.” In fact, the Goodwins like the program so much, they’ve become local advocates. Last year, Lucas spoke in front of a crowd of 200 at a Rebound fundraiser, she said. He shared his story of abuse and the importance he places on the Roots program, she said. To say the least, she’s proud. “Lucas says, ‘If you’re having trouble, they don’t leave you,’” she said. “For him to trust people, that’s big.” Goodwin considers the program crucial in providing her and her kids with a community that is both supportive and knowledgeable about the issues they face on a daily basis. Beyond the courses, they’ve all been able to build trusting relationships with the program staff, she said. Since moving to Bellingham, she’s been able to find a home, graduate with a degree in legal administration from Bellingham Technical College and become a part of Rebound’s tight knit community. “I’m so excited for [Roots] to be in Blaine,” she said. “This is such an important program.” Rebound’s executive director Tyler Michel said the organization is still looking to recruit volunteers. Transportation will be provided from Bellingham. Volunteers can apply online or by fax, mail or email. “We’re really trying to empower kids,” he said. “It’s designed to be really supportive.” To learn more about Rebound, visit reboundfamilies.org or call the office at 360/714-0700.

William “Bill” Lee Goff

February 4, 1936 – September 22, 2016 Bill Goff passed away at his home in Blaine, WA. He was born in Bellingham to Clark and Margaret Goff of Blaine. He is survived by his wife, Marcia and his son Clark (Kyla), and brothers Thomas and Murray (Kathryn). He is preceded in death by his sister Lois. Other survivors include step-children Rebecka Fowler, Rachell Huerta, Rose Fowler (Mario Trujillo), Retha Montoya, Robin Murphy (Benjamin), and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In his youth, Bill attended Baine schools, graduating in 1954. He went to Everett Community College and then jointed the US Air Force where he was an MP stationed in Morocco. In the 60’s he was a Blaine Police officer and later had a career at Intalco as foreman of the cast house. After retirement from Intalco, his businesses included BGNW (smoked salmon and artisan cheese distribution), and Border Brew coffee shop. As part of the Blaine community, Bill was a volunteer fireman for many years, city council person, Senior Center member, Northwest Steam Society member and district fire commissioner. As a yacht club officer, he was instrumental in bringing covered moorage to Blaine harbor. Though infamous for his brusque manner, Bill’s big heart and talents were awesome. There were few mechanical, electrical or technological challenges that he was not able to meet, including helping to restore pipe organs, building a set of oxygen tank wind chimes, and repairing all manner of engines/motors for friends and family. Life was, “damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead,” and he displayed this with his passion for marathon bridge games, devotion to Great Danes, water skiing, boating and fishing, love of model trains and airplanes, hours of reading, delight in firing his cannons and fondness for anything that flamed or went boom. A celebration of life will be held in memorial on October 15, 2016 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Semiahmoo Park, Cannery Lodge, 9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine. Memorials can be made to the Bellingham Alzheimer’s Society, 1301 Fraser St., Suite A-1, Bellingham, WA 98229.

Reverend Richard Donald Madden

October 7, 1937 – August 19, 2016 Reverend Richard Donald Madden, 78, died on Saturday, August 19 at his home in Birch Bay. He leaves his wife of 59 years, Marilyn Madden; his daughter Becky, son Ryan, daughter Jennifer, daughter Christy, 6 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Richard was born in Chicago and graduated from Kelly High School where he met his wife Marilyn in 1956. After a stint in the military, he attended Michigan State University and graduated in 1960 with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife. In 1964 Richard graduated from the University of Chicago with a Master’s Degree in Psychology, and then graduated from McCormick Theological Seminary a year later with a divinity degree earning the title of Reverend. Richard served as a Presbyterian pastor in Indiana, Oregon, Alaska, Washington, California and Arizona. He retired at the age of 65, and in 2002 he and Marilyn moved to Birch Bay. Richard’s sermons were noted for powerful and inspirational oratory along with compelling stances on the controversial issues of the day. Richard was an avid outdoorsman and wildlife artist who also loved fly fishing, hunting and golfing. He had many adventures throughout his life but he was most associated with Alaska where he travelled throughout the state for the ministry, and enjoyed the wonders of the north country. A memorial service will be held Sunday, October 9, at 3 p.m., at St. James Presbyterian Church, 910 14th St. in Bellingham. The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be made to St. James Presbyterian Church and Whatcom Hospice.

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Report: September 26-29 September 26, 2:41 a.m.: Suspicious

on Treevue Road.

vehicle on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

September 26, 10:40 p.m.: Aggravat-

September 26, 7:41 a.m.: Alarm au-

ed assault on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

dible on Willeys Lake Road.

September 27, 7:22 a.m.: Alarm au-

September 26, 9:58 a.m.: Civil prob-

dible on Seavue Road.

lem cold call on Forsberg Drive.

September 27, 7:59 a.m.: Traffic

September 26, 10:50 a.m.: Traffic

problem cold call on Birch Bay-Lyn-

problem on Custer School Road.

den Road.

September 26, 11:13 a.m.: Burglary

September 27, 10:41 a.m.: Burglary

on Forsberg Drive.

cold call on H Street Road.

Photo by Danielle Goodwin

Claudia Aguila Morrison

December 24, 1922 – September 26, 2016 Claudia Morrison, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2016 at Providence Hospital in Everett, WA with family at her side. Claudia was born in Panama on December 24, 1922. In 1946, she immigrated to the United States, living in San Diego, CA with her beloved aunt and uncle, Harold and Natividad “Tia Nati” (Aguila Otero) Dresser, proudly becoming a citizen in 1952. Later, as the wife of a Navy man, she travelled across the United States with her husband, Donald Edmund Morrison, whom she married in 1950. Don and Claudia eventually settled in Blaine, WA where they lived until Don’s death in 2008. Claudia then moved to Arlington, WA and spent the remaining years of her life joyfully living with her son Timm and daughter-in-law Corrie, and their family. Claudia’s passions in life have always been her love of God, her family and watching sports. She was an active volunteer at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Blaine for over forty years. To Claudia, St. Anne’s was her responsibility and she worked tirelessly with a loving team of parishioners to make St. Anne’s a wonderful house of worship. She trained altar servers, cleaned the church, drove to Ferndale each weekend to pick up doughnuts for the coffee social after Mass, served as an altar server, and much more. She made countless lifelong friendships at St. Anne’s and cherished every one of them. It was these friendships and her love of God and family that gave her peace through her last days. However, Claudia’s departure was unforgivably hastened by the late season collapse of the Seattle Mariners. Evidently, witnessing yet another year without her beloved Mariners making the playoffs was more than she could bear. Claudia’s 3 children and their families were her priority in life. She would light up at the sight of her children and grandchildren and she would instantly drop whatever she was doing to help them out. Claudia’s joy with her family was heightened in December, 2015 with the birth of her first great-grandchild, Van, given to her by granddaughter Crystal. Van brightened her life and brought a smile to her face every day. It was a household joke that Van got more kisses from Claudia in 8 months of life than all 3 of her children received in a combined 176 years! One of Claudia’s commitments to her family was shown in her cooking. Her cooking talents are renown and a gathering of her grandchildren will nearly always include comments about her fried chicken and apple pie, followed by a pause and blissful looks. Church bake sales included a beeline to her area as people jockeyed for position to get one of her lemon meringue pies before they were all gone. Claudia is survived by her children Terry Morrison of Blaine, Jeanne (Alan) Park of Edmonds, and Timm (Corrie) Morrison of Arlington, her grandchildren Sommar of Blaine, Serena and Adam of Edmonds, Crystal, Tyler and Bailey of Arlington, her great-grandson Van also of Arlington, and Catherine of Tennessee who was just like a grandchild to Claudia. She is predeceased by her loving husband of 58 years Don, and grandson Alex. Claudia was the oldest of seven children and is survived by her brothers Ismael (Ana) Aguila and Franklin Aguila and sisters Dolores Blas and Cita (Jack) Burns. She is predeceased by her brother Ananias “Nano” Aguila, sister Maria Isabel Aguila, parents Juan Bautista Aguila Duarte and Maria del Socorro Aguila Castillo, Tia Nati and Uncle Harold Dresser, sister in-law Yolanda Aguila and brother in-law Angel Blas. Claudia’s love of her family extended to Don’s family also. Her Morrison nieces and nephews were as equally loved as her Aguila nieces and nephews. She is survived by nieces and nephews Cecelia and Graciela, Angelica (Jorge), Angel (Maricela), Lorena, Sandra, Charo (Gary), Einar (Frances), Liza (Michael), John (Laurie), Jeff, Miriam, Bert (Darlene), Cathy (Dick), Bob (Glenda), Brian, David (Sylvia), Keith (Lindsey), Karen (Steve), Neil, and many grand-nieces and nephews. Claudia is also survived by many loving friends from Blaine. There are too many to list but you all know who you are and know you had a special place in her heart. So thank you to Evelyn, Bill and Celine, Marion, Izabelle, Jerry and Grace, Martin and Hilda, Jan, Sue, Eileen and countless others that may have been unintentionally omitted. Claudia loved each and every one of you. Special thanks to Father Tim Sauer of Arlington Immaculate Conception and formerly of Blaine St. Anne, who provided spiritual support and personal friendship to Claudia for many years. As she became unable to attend mass in person, Father Tim would come to her home to visit, pray and offer communion. Father Tim also visited Claudia during her final days to pray and administer the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, ushering Claudia to her rightful place in Heaven. Thank you to Amber, mom’s personal caregiver for the last 2 years. Amber was the recipient of many punchlines and took every one of them with great joy and love. Amber could give it as well as take it, and they forged a bond that will last forever. Claudia grew to love Amber and Amber loved her. Amber took care of mom’s needs each day and sometimes on weekends. Family care of Claudia could not have been possible without the help and support of Amber, and her family is eternally grateful. Thank you to Rose, Janet and the staff at QuilCeda Adult Family Home in Marysville who provided kind, loving and dignified care to Claudia for the last 4 months of her life. Claudia had a sarcastic wit who never met anyone she wouldn’t give a hard time to, and the team at QuilCeda was no exception. If Rose would trip Claudia would ask her if she was drunk. When Janet popped her head into the bathroom to check on Claudia’s shower and ask how she was, Claudia would respond “I’m wet”. The team would tease her right back; she brought life into QuilCeda and truly thought of each person as her friend. At Claudia’s request (demand, firm direction……), no funeral service will be held. In her words, “I don’t want anyone to make a fuss about me.” An announcement will be made at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Blaine, that the regularly schedule Wednesday morning Mass will be a Memorial Mass in her honor. A memorial mass in Claudia’s honor will also be held in Arlington in the coming weeks. Claudia will be buried with her husband, Don, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.

a.m.:

September 27, 11:39 a.m.: Trouble

Non-blocking, non-injury motor ve-

with customer on Birch Bay Square

hicle accident on Drayton Harbor

Street.

Road.

September 27, 4:37 p.m.: Shots cold

September 26, 1:19 p.m.: Alarm au-

call on Haynie Road.

dible on H Street Road.

September 27, 7:01 p.m.: Assist citi-

September 26, 3:41 p.m.: Theft cold

zen on Sea Fair Court.

call on Loft Lane.

September 27, 8:02 p.m.: Serve

September 26, 5:25 p.m.: Alarm au-

warrant on Pacific Highway.

dible on Jess Road.

September 28, 3:52 a.m.: Runaway

run cold call on Elmwood Drive.

September 28, 5:11 p.m.: Alarm

September 26, 7:39 p.m.: Hit and

cold call on Loft Lane.

September 28, 3:43 p.m.: Suspicious

audible in progress on Loomis Trail

run on Birch Bay Drive.

September 28, 11:11 a.m.: Assist cit-

vehicle on Boblett Road.

Road.

September 26, 8:19 p.m.: Welfare

izen on H Street Road.

September 28, 4:15 p.m.: Suspicious

September 28, 6:33 p.m.: Noise on

check on Seafair Court.

September 28, 11:47 a.m.: Assist cit-

person on Holeman Avenue.

Gemini Street.

September 26, 9:25 p.m.: Non-block-

izen cold call on Seavue Road.

September 28, 4:33 p.m.: Welfare

September 29, 5:56 p.m.: Hit and

ing, non-injury motor vehicle accident

September 28, 3:10 p.m.: Hit and

check on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

run on Semiahmoo Drive.

September

s Lucas Goodwin, l., speaks to a crowd of 200 at a Rebound fundraiser in 2015.

26,

11:37

The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

Coming up

Police Reports September 27, 7:20 p.m.: A woman became stranded in Blaine after being denied entry into Canada while trying to make her way back home to Alaska. The woman contacted police for help, because she had very limited resources. After speaking with the woman at length, an officer provided her a ride to the Lighthouse Mission. September 28, 6:30 p.m.: A person reported someone knocked on their door and claimed to be looking for a friend. The homeowner reported the incident to police, because they believed the person may have been involved in a recent burglary at their home and was in fact returning to commit further misdeeds. The homeowner was able to capture an image of the young man along with the vehicle he was in and its other occupants. Their descriptions matched those from other crimes being investigated and brought officers closer to identifying this particular band of criminals. September 29, 6:58 p.m.: Officers on patrol determined that the registered owner of a vehicle passing by had a suspended Washington State driver’s license. The vehicle was stopped, and the driver identified as the suspended vehicle owner. The 27-year-old Blaine

resident was arrested, cited and released with a mandatory court date. A licensed driver was located to remove the vehicle from the roadway. September 30, 3:35 a.m.: A passerby reported two young men at the skate park well after the park’s closing time. The two long boarders were contacted nearby, interviewed and offered a ride to help expedite their return home. October 1, 3:34 p.m.: Blaine police were called to assist Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputies with a combative person in Birch Bay. A Blaine officer arrived and assisted the deputies while the man was safely taken into custody. Officer cleared without incident. October 1, 10:19 p.m.: A passerby reported that an overhead utility line was hanging hazardously low along the south side of D Street east of Lincoln Park, in a position such that it could be touched by someone walking underneath or snagged inadvertently by equipment. An officer responded to identify the owner of the line and arrange for its owner to be notified to effect repairs. October 2, 11:03 a.m.: Officer was dispatched to an H Street business for an adult male who was being held by store security for shoplifting. Officer ar-

Crossword

ACROSS 1. Affirm 5. Healthful retreats 9. High speed 13. Bay 14. Conceal 15. Oblivion 16. Fanciest 18. ___ of roses 19. Antiquity, in antiquity 20. Armageddon 21. Brat 23. Little fellow 25. Receptive part of the brain 27. Apprentice 28. Maple genus 29. Discouraging words 30. Alpha’s opposite 33. Beginnings 36. Set of one’s emotional qualities 38. William Randolph _____ 40. Remarkable or

outstanding 41. Driver’s lic. and others 42. “When it’s ___” (old riddle answer) 44. Speech problem 48. Sweet wine 51. Jerk 53. Like a trumpet 54. Court 55. ___-tzu, Chinese philosopher 56. Lifeboat lowerer 57. Extra piece 60. Agenda entries 61. Afflicts 62. “Little Caesar” role 63. ___ mortals 64. Change states, in a way 65. “Our Time in ___” (10,000 Maniacs album)

DOWN 1. Honor 2. Large number of arrows/ bullets

rived and contacted the adult male suspect who admitted to taking items without paying for them. Officer issued the man a criminal citation for shoplifting and released him with a mandatory court date. October 3, 2:15 p.m.: A man called to report that someone had dumped garbage in the 400 block of G Street. Officer arrived and found an old lawn mower and three rolling chairs along with some other garbage that was thrown to the side of the road. Public works employees were requested to respond and remove the trash. October 4, 8:17 a.m.: A business employee called to report that a man was outside, behaving strangely towards customers and trying to engage them in altercations. She also stated he was holding a large knife in his hand. Officers arrived and contacted a person who said the man had spit in his face and kicked his leashed dog. The man had not swung the weapon or specifically threatened anyone with it. The 54-yearold transient male was arrested for simple assault and released with a court date. 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.

3. One who slips away 4. ___ gestae 5. Excel 6. ___ Piper 7. Infomercials, e.g. 8. Couch 9. Geo model 10. Bartender? 11. Ancient battle vehicle 12. “___ Town Too” (1981 hit) 15. 1968 Chemistry Nobelist Onsager 17. “Comprende?” 22. Sign up 24. Beau 25. Watergate, e.g. 26. Balaam’s mount 28. Back, in a way 31. “___ Doubtfire” 32. Heir’s concern 34. Bubkes 35. Class 36. Jewish holiday in March/April 37. Balloon filler 38. “Get ___!” 39. School 43. Excess equipment thrown overboard a ship 45. Set into surface 46. Rare 47. Particle of light 49. It may be organized 50. Aardvark fare 51. Least good 52. ___ v. Wade 54. Stopping point 56. Faint 58. Pandowdy, e.g. 59. Grand ___ (“Evangeline” setting)

Tides October 7–October 13 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 7

3:49 am 1.2 11:19 am 8.0

4:40 pm 6.0 9:00 pm 7.1

Sa 8 4:35 am 1.3 12:23 pm 8.0

5:52 pm 6.1 9:44 pm 6.8

Su 9 5:29 am 1.4 1:25 pm 8.1

7:12 pm 6.0 10:58 pm 6.5

Mo 10 6:29 am 1.5 2:17 pm 8.3

8:20 pm 5.5

Tu 11 12:32 am 6.4 7:33 am 1.6

2:59 pm 8.6 9:06 pm 4.7

We 12 2:00 am 6.6 8:33 am 1.6

3:35 pm 8.9 9:46 pm 3.8

Th 13 3:14 am 7.2 9:29 am 1.8

4:07 pm 9.1 10:26 pm 2.7

Weather Precipitation: During the period of September 27 to October 3, 0.2 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2016 year-to-date precipitation is 20.3 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 68.6°F on October 3 with a low of 41.6°F on September 30. Average high was 66.7 and average low was 46.8. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Harvest Happens!: Weekends in October, Bellewood Acres, 6140 Guide Meridian. Apple bin train rides, distillery tours at noon and 2 p.m., face painting, corn cannons, pumpkin patch, apple and pumpkin u-pick/we pick, fresh cider and pumpkin patch. Info: bellewoodfarms.com. Needlework at the Library: Thursday, October 6, 6–8 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. If you like to knit, crochet or enjoy other needlecrafts, come be a part of this new gathering to work on your project, socialize and share advice and patterns. Info: 305-3637. Birch Bay and Blaine Candidates and Issues Forum: Thursday, October 6, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Candidates plus proponents and opponents of local issues will discuss their platforms and visions. Sponsored by Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, Blaine Chamber of Commerce and The Northern Light. First Friday with Greg Pitsch: Friday, October 7, 7 p.m., Te’Ti’Sen Center, 4920 Rural Avenue, Ferndale. Music, stories and complimentary light hors d’oeuvres. Also featuring Swil Kanim. Blaine Oktoberfest: Saturday and Sunday, October 8–9, downtown Blaine. Gardener’s market, kids’ activities, oyster grilling competition, horse-drawn hay rides, ambulance pub crawl, pancake breakfast, Art-Oberfest art and gift show, German fare, beer and music. See ad on page 2 or visit blainechamber.com. Art-Oberfest: Saturday, October 8, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday, October 9, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaine Pavilion, 635 8th Street, Blaine. Art and gift show by local artists. All ages coloring contest, kids zone and live music. Info: blaineharborartgallery.com. Whatcom Artist Studio Tour: Saturday and Sunday, October 8 and 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Opening the studio doors of Whatcom County artists for 22 years. Guidebooks available in businesses and restaurants throughout the county or at www.studiotour.net. Writing Local Stories in Historical Fiction: Saturday, October 8, 11 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to research and craft a novel using local history. Award-winning author J.L. Oakley shares how the Pig War, the Civilian Conservation Corps and women hiking the North Cascades figured into her fictional writing. Info: 305-3637. Infant, Child and Adult First Aid, CPR and AED Certification: Saturday, October 8, 1–4:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Cost: $20. Sign up by calling or emailing Rikki Lazenby, 483-8163 or drpepper5313@gmail.com. Dog-toberfest: Saturday, October 8, 2–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Fun activities and games with your dog, “yappy hour” at The Beach. Dog costumes encouraged. Free. Info: bbbparkandrec.com. English Conversation Class: Saturday, October 8, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Note new day and time. All levels, beginners are welcome. Weekly. No sign-up needed. Free! Info: 305-3637. Haynie Grange Breakfast: Sunday, October 9, 8 a.m.–noon, 3344 Haynie Road. Pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy, eggs, ham, orange juice, milk, coffee and tea. Adults $6, kids 5–12 $3, under 5 free. Healing Racial Conflict through Music: Sunday, October 9, 10:30 a.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street. The combined choirs of the Blaine UCC and the Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship bring healing through music to the racial conflicts experienced in our country today. The service, inspired by the Broadway musical, Big River, features guest soloists Gary Giles and Kevin Allen-Schmid. Everyone welcome. Blaine Boys AAU Basketball Tryouts: Sunday, October 9, noon–4 p.m., Blaine High School Ken Waters Gym. Tryouts for boys in grades 4–8 for competitive basketball program. Sponsored by Borderite Youth Hoops. Info: 296-5759. Painting at the Library: Monday, October 10, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Join fellow painters at this new bimonthly painting program facilitated by Maria Monks. Bring your own work, equipment, and supplies including a table cover. All mediums welcome, but no solvents of any kind please. Info: 305-3637. U.S. Citizenship Class: Mondays, October 10 through November 7, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Prepare for your citizenship interview and study U.S. history and government for the examination. Five free classes taught in English, and ELL students are welcome! Register online at wcls.org, or contact the library at 305-3637. Registration is required and class size is limited. Teen Tuesdays - Gaming: Tuesday, October 11, 3 to 4:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Play Magic the Gathering , board games, Wii games, and more. For Grades 6-12. Info: 305-3637. Mask Making: Wednesday, October 12, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Hear a story and make a mask at this all time favorite program! For ages 4 to 11. Info: 305-3637. Blaine Resident and Library Survey Results Meeting: Tuesday, October 11, 6 p.m., City council chambers, City hall 4th floor, 435 Martin Street. All interested stakeholders are invited. Fun with LEGO Robotics: Thursday, October 13, 6:30 to 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. Winter Coat Distribution: Friday and Saturday, October 14 & 15, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Livingston International Warehouse, 270 C St., Blaine. Free winter coats, hats, gloves, and socks for men, women, and children. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program and Interfaith Coalition. Library Closure - All Staff Learning Day: Friday, October 14, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. All WCLS libraries, Bookmobile, and Administrative Services will be closed for training. Regular hours resume on Saturday, October 15. Info: 305-3637.

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

October 6 - 12, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Students ...

Number of homeless children in Blaine School District

From page 1

ONE MINUTE OFF I-5 EXIT 260

1st Friday With Swil Kanim Entertainment Friday, Oct. 7

7-9pm Featuring

Greg Pitsch

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Enjoy music, stories & complimentary light hors d’oeuvres SPONSORED BY

Illustration by Doug De Visser

kids as afar away as South Bellingham and the Mount Baker School District – a 45-minute drive that drivers typically make in the district’s Honda Civic or Chevrolet Suburban. “We find out the address and then find them transportation. Sometimes that can last for two days, other times it can last most of the school year,” Wagelie said. And it can change with less than 24 hours notice. Coordinating that transportation is difficult because different districts often have different start and end times, not to mention the other variables Wagelie deals with, such as constantly changing sports and field trip schedules and a general shortage of bus drivers. A few years ago, a fourth grader moved 12 times during the school year – bouncing from place to place, wherever the parent could find, Burton said. For students like that, the McKinney-Vento Act and associated funding helps anchor a chaotic life. “Because they still had school stability, they at least knew that day they were coming to school and would see the same friends and the same teacher,” she said. “That stability is where I think this becomes super important.” Running on donations While transporting students with unstable housing is funded by grants, much of what the Family Service Center provides comes entirely from donations.

PRESENTED BY Lummi CDFI (Lummi Community Development Financial Institution)

“If we ran out of donations we wouldn’t have anything. All the school supplies, all the hygiene items, ASB fees, P.E. clothes would be gone if we didn’t get donations,” Burton said. “Blaine is amazing and donates quite a bit.” Right now, however, the center’s budget is low, Burton said. Monetary donations, which are tax deductible, help the center fund everything from school supplies and clothes to household supplies, all of which relate to the center’s mission to reduce non-academic barriers to learning. “We’re trying to relieve the stress of not having a home for the six hours they’re here so they can focus,” Burton said. “The awesome thing is that most kids are not missing school because they’re homeless. They’re at school and engaged because they know people here care about them.”

On display through October

A Historic Timeline featuring Lummi Community’s Seafood Harvest Tradition Compiled by Doralee Sanchez, Silowleetsa

Tues - Sat • 11am to 4:30pm

Visit our retail stores!

OUR PLACE CAFE Breakfast & Lunch TRIBAL IMAGES GALLERY & GIFTS ORCA BEADS & THINGS MadFanTickets.com Rural Ave.

McKinney-Vento Act –went from 82 in 2008-2009 to 42 in 20122013. That number is cumulative and grows throughout the school year. The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law that provides federal funding for programs that help homeless students, which it defines as students who are living in emergency or transitional centers, awaiting foster care placement, doubled up with other families for economic reasons, living in motels, campgrounds cars, parks and in other “substandard housing.” Last year, 51 students experienced a housing crisis at some point during the year. So far this year, the number of homeless students under the act’s definition is already at 21. “It’s a leap already,” Burton said. “But then again, you could look at it the other way – maybe more people are aware that the Family Service Center is here. I think it’s a combination of both.” Whatcom Homeless Service Center’s annual homeless census found a similar trend. The count of homeless individuals decreased from 851 to 493 between 2008 and 2012. In 2016, the number was back up to 719. The yearly count’s definition of homeless doesn’t include people who are doubled up, as the school district’s does, and its authors caution that it is just a snapshot that doesn’t capture everyone and may miss seasonal changes. Transportation challenges The hardest service to provide for students who don’t have stable housing is transportation, Burton said. The McKinney-Vento Act requires school district to provide transportation to and from a homeless students “school of origin” – the school they last attended. If a Blaine student moves to transitional or temporary housing in Bellingham, for example, they can still go to school in Blaine. School districts split transportation costs; one district will take the student to school and the other picks them up. Carl Wagelie, district transportation supervisor, is in charge of sorting out the logistics. He has coordinated transportation for

Lummi Te’Ti’Sen Center

Slater Rd.

facebook.com/Te’Ti’Sen Center

Thursdays, Oct. 6, 13 & 20

2 pm - 7 pm

HOT SEATS 2:30 pm - 7:30 pm

8 PM GRAND PRIZES

10,000 • $5,000 • $2,500

Photo by Oliver Lazenby

EXIT 260

Event info: 360-306-8554 • 4920 Rural Avenue • Ferndale

DRAWINGS

s District bus drivers, Sandi Brant, l., and Debbie Violet next to one of the vehicles used to transport homeless students.

Lummi Te’Ti’ Sen Center

C A S I NO• R ES O RT

theskagit.com • On I-5 Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 Must be 21 or older with valid ID. Management reserves all rights. Skagit Casino Resort owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe.

The Northern Light • October 6 - 12, 2016

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 LIVE AT THE EVENT CENTER Doors Open 7PM • Concert 8PM Tickets: $15 • $20 • $25

With Original Heart Members And Rock N Roll Hall Of Famers, Steve Fossen And Mike Derosier