December 22 - 28, 2016
FREE
Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer
IN THIS
ISSUE
A holiday message from The Northern Light, page 4
Blaine City Council contemplates a sales tax hike to pay for transportation projects
Blaine wrestlers bolster season record, page 6
Birch Bay events to ring in the New Year, page 8
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Frigid temperatures didn’t stop Blaine’s shell-ebration
B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e
(See Tax, page 5)
s Despite brisk temperatures as low as the mid-teens, oyster lovers gathered to celebrate the recent lift on shellfish harvesting restrictions on 810 acres of Drayton Harbor announced by the Washington State Department of Health in early December. The “shell-ebration” took place at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company on December 16. For more photos, see page 9. Photo by Kaylee Botting
Survey turns up new possibilities for Birch Bay library By Oliver Lazenby Whatcom County Library System’s (WCLS) recent survey on library use in Birch Bay drew a lot of responses and even turned up two new possibilities for a library location in Birch Bay. The library system conducted an online survey in November and December to gauge interest in a Birch Bay library branch. The number of positive responses
impressed WCLS board of trustees members, they said at a December 19 board meeting, and the board reaffirmed their support for staffing a library location at Birch Bay. “Well over 10 percent of the community responded to the survey, which is a great showing,” said Christine Perkins, WCLS executive director. Of the 994 respondents, 82 percent said a public library building is “necessary or
Blaine Food Bank exceeds December fundraising goal B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e The months-long campaign to raise $25,000 by mid-December has reached an end and folks at the Blaine Food Bank are all smiles. With help from private donors they’ve exceeded their goal by more than $3,000, and the money is still coming in. Staff kicked off the fundraiser in mid-October in the hopes of raising $25,000 to receive matching funds from an anonymous donor. The campaign ended on December
16 and raised more than $28,000. “We did awesome,” said Sally Church, a volunteer with the organization. “We met and exceeded our objective. We’re so very thankful to the citizens of Blaine. This community just really steps up to the plate.” The campaign remains one of the largest fundraising opportunities of the year, said Joan Smith, office assistant with the Blaine Food Bank. She expects the matching funds to come in just before the holidays.
The money will be used to pay for a year’s worth of eggs and milk from Lynden-based Edaleen Dairy. Smith said it may also be used to cover maintenance, likely on a freezer that just stopped working. Donations are always accepted in the form of cash or check, by mail to P.O. Box 472 or in person at 500 C Street in Blaine. Nonperishable foods are accepted on a regular basis. For more information about the Blaine Food Bank, call 360/332-6350.
desirable” in Birch Bay. Some of the rest said they don’t think a library building is “necessary,” but they would like to have one, Perkins said. The majority of respondents also said they would we willing to contribute money toward a library building. Some survey responders brought up possible locations for a library: one in a (See Library, page 5)
INSIDE
Blaine may be the next to join myriad cities throughout Washington with a special taxing district used solely to fund transportation projects for streets, sidewalks and trails. At a special meeting on December 5, city staff recommended the council move forward on a plan to form a Transportation Benefit District, which would allow for an increase in sales tax by up to .2 percent. The tax is estimated to generate $200,000 annually to fund transportation projects for 10 years. A simple majority of voters would have to approve the tax hike and city staff are hoping to see it on the ballot as early as the April 2017 special election. During the special meeting, Blaine City Council voted 7–0 to contract Liz Loomis Public Affairs to kick off public outreach efforts. “I’m not a fan of taxes, as probably most of you are not,” said Eric Davidson, a member of Blaine’s public works advisory committee. “I’m not a fan of more government in my pocket, but I really like this because this is monies that come directly to the city of Blaine, specifically directly to public works to work on my roads and your roads as well as our trails.” A city or county ordinance can form a Transportation Benefit District, and its boundaries can encompass all or portions of land within its jurisdiction. If established, the city council would maintain the role of the district’s board and would be responsible for approving transportation projects, among other things. Transportation districts can
Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 12 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
TheNorthernLight.com TheNorthernLight
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The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
Jan. 1, 2017
34
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Prizes* given for: Best Individual • Best Group • Best Kid (12 & under) • Most Unique Prizes Donated By Local Businesses • *NO Awards for length of time in the water! *Due to health concerns including, but not limited to; hypothermia, the Chamber of Commerce strongly recommends that participants do not remain in the water after the initial plunge. There are NO awards for length of time in the water. Swim at your own risk. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and affiliates are not responsible for any adverse health effects wholly or in part due to the Polar Bear Plunge. By simply taking part in the event, participants agree to these statements.
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Community Newspaper of Blaine & Birch Bay
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
We wish you... Peace & Joy this Holiday Season
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The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 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
Happy holidays from the staff at The Northern Light
s We’d like to inform our readers that The Northern Light office will be closed from Friday, December 23 to Friday, December 30. This will be our final issue for 2016. We hope that you and yours have a wonderful holiday and New Year. Pictured from l.: Louise Mugar, Catherine Darkenwald, Amy Weaver, Doug De Visser, Stefanie Donahue, Pat Grubb, Kara Furr, Meg Olson, Janet McCall, Oliver Lazenby and Ruth Lauman. Not pictured: Molly Ernst.
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 Kaylee Botting The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXII, No 28 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Jan. 5 Ads due: Jan. 2
Letters The Editor: My desire is to preserve the history and memories of Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer area. This will include digitally archiving old Blaine newspapers, personal historical pictures and items of interest. I am also asking people to contact me with their family stories and pictures from the past. I can be reached by phone at 739-1028, by e-mail at jimzellwa@aol.com or face-to-face on our city streets. James Zell Blaine The Editor: What is happening with The Northern Light (TNL)? Suddenly the publisher and managing editor is writing articles? Does it mean reporters do not want to work for TNL? My recent letter commented on the publisher’s article citing his failing to obtain comments from the Homeland Security Border Patrol to include in his original article. The article concerned the admission to the U.S. for three or four drug-related issues. When TNL finally interviewed the Border Patrol it was apparent that they had legiti-
mate reasons for their actions. My letter mentioned that the bigger issue for our local communities is the terrible service being provided by the Blaine Post Office. This matter should be investigated by TNL as it is affecting hundreds or thousands of residents being “served” and not write long articles involving a handful of drug users. TNL would better serve its readers by finding out how Birch Bay residents can have their own post office or have them serviced by Custer or Ferndale post offices which do an excellent job in dealing with its customers. Too bad Birch Bay is not incorporated as that might result in getting our own post office like smaller cities have (e.g. Custer, Everson). Current problems seem to be with its publisher. In his 2015 year-end summary he included Birch Bay Steering Committee, which is no longer active. I sent him information proving my point and he ignored it and refused to confirm with two reliable sources I gave him and one told me he told the publisher before that the steering committee was inactive. More recently I asked him to confirm the
one letter per month policy and he refused to reply. My concern was that certain people (Paula and Sandy) may be allowed to circumvent this policy and I wanted clarification about a publication covering more than one month. In a TNL article on a $50 reduction in taxes, the reporter failed to address the assessed valuation portion of computing taxes. Mine went up for 2017 by $10,000 so my $50 will be reduced or eliminated. Mickey Masdeo Birch Bay The Editor: Relative to this issue of how we are to recognize, and refer to, this coming holiday season. Christmas is a holiday (derived from “holy day”) season that recognizes the birth of Jesus Christ. There is no question of that. There is no question that Jesus Christ (Continued on next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info: bbwsd.com.
Birch Bay Watershed & Aquatic Resources Management District: Third Wednesday, 6 p.m., location varies. Info: bbwarm.whatcom county.org.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Parks Board: Third Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 7 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blaine.wednet.edu.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Chamber 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.
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
(Continued from previous page) was an individual who functioned among us about 2,000 years ago – long after sound historical documentation had been established. His life was very well documented – more so than anyone’s. His impact on the world for the past 2,000 years is unequaled. Most of the world’s calendars are listed as follows, even recognizing years prior to Christ’s birth: BC (Before Christ) and AD (Anno Domini, or “In the year of our Lord,” in Latin). • A number of world holidays are in recognition of Christ, or general Christian beliefs, such as: • Pre-Lent festivals – Last pleasures prior to preparation of Christ’s Passion. • Easter – Death of Christ. • Halloween – Hollowed Eve, in recognition of All Saints and All Souls. Regardless of whether you believe that Jesus Christ was/is deity, there’s no question that his impact on the world has been more significant than any individual. Now if we find it satisfactory to recognize the lives of other great individuals with special days and periods, individually, and by name (could list hundreds, all with far less importance), why is it so problematic to recognize and celebrate the birthday of this most significant worldwide individual, regardless of whether you believe he had/ has a link to deity? December 25 is the day that the world recognizes that Jesus Christ was born, not necessarily the exact day he was born. Why not simply accept the very understandable worldwide recognition of a most special individual? And of course, for Christians, it means much more. Hope you all have a blessed Christmas. Peter Werner Blaine
Tax ... From page 1
generate funds through a number of means including a sales tax, vehicle licensing fees, fuel taxes, bonds and other fees, however, increases to the sales tax and vehicle licensing fees are most often utilized. An increase to the sales tax requires a simple majority by voters, while a hike to vehicle licensing fees requires only board approval if it’s under $50 in Washington state. Public works director Ravyn Whitewolf thinks increasing Blaine’s sales tax is preferable. In all, Blaine receives less than 1 percent of the current 8.5 percent sales tax that is remitted to the state. Whitewolf estimates that 50 percent of sales tax funds generated in Blaine comes from tourists while an estimated 35 percent is derived from P.O. boxes. The tax hike wouldn’t leave the entire burden on Blaine residents and neighboring Bellingham, Lynden and Ferndale are already paying the extra .2 percent, she said. This all comes with the city’s recent approval of the 2017 budget, which acted as a reminder that transportation projects are in need of a stable funding source. Blaine voters approved a 10year property tax levy for street maintenance and improvement back in 1996. The city soon followed by issuing a 10-year bond that amounted to $6.8 million with interest – it’s set to be paid off in December 2017. While the estimated $200,000 per year generated through the prospective tax increase seems minimal in comparison, Whitewolf said it will be used to leverage grant funding to stretch local tax dollars.
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Whitewolf said the transportation district will also help to address needs identified by residents out of the city’s recent strategic economic initiative. Out of the 933 responses derived from citywide surveys, trails and streets were near the top of the priority list. “Good transportation links are critical to economic development, which attracts and keeps businesses in Blaine,” Whitewolf said in a statement released December 19. “It also welcomes people for shopping and tourism, which generates revenue for other city services.” City staff will present an updated list of transportation project priorities to the city council in January, Whitewolf said. Members of the public are invited to chime in on the discussion by emailing TBD@cityofblaine.com. Whitewolf is also accepting letters at 1200 Yew Avenue, Blaine, WA 98230. To learn more, visit ci.blaine. wa.us/903/Transportation-Benefit-District-TBD.
Library ... From page 1
mixed-use building at 4819 Alderson Road, just east of The C Shop, and the other is a vacant lot at 8394 Harborview Road, north of Birch Bay near the Lighthouse Baptist Church. The library system has already looked into the locations and found them to be possibilities, though they both have limitations. The Alderson Road location is central and pedestrian-friendly, but smaller than desired, tucked in the back of the building where it may see limited foot traffic, and it may lack parking. Library staff visited the Alderson Road location a couple of times and found six to eight open parking spaces. More parking may be available half a block away in county-owned property, but that’s not certain. “My first impression is that if there isn’t enough parking we shouldn’t even consider it,” said
5
June Hahn, board vice chair. “That’s something we constantly hear is a problem at Bellingham.” The empty lot on Harborview Road is 3.9 acres – plenty big for a library. Its drawbacks are its location, nearly a mile north of Birch Bay, and the possibility that a sale might already be pending, Perkins said. Meeting attendees pointed out that Harborview Road isn’t as safe for pedestrians and bicyclists as the Alderson Road location just off Birch Bay Drive, which will be even more pedestrian-friendly once Whatcom County finishes its berm and walkway project on Birch Bay Drive. The library system is currently studying another potential library location, a historic house at 7986 Birch Bay Drive, and has allocated $50,000 for a thorough analysis of the property. That location would likely be more expensive than the other two, but trustees like the location and the lot is big enough to allow an expansion to
PHAT PANDA
(See Library, page 7)
CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public.
Thursday, December 22, 7 pm Planning Commission meeting Canceled
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Monday, December 26, city offices will be closed in observance of Christmas Tuesday, December 27, 9 am City Council meeting to approve payables Monday, January 2, 2017, city offices will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day Tuesday, January 3, 3 pm Blaine Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting Thursday, January 5, 10 am Public Works Advisory Committee meeting Location: 1200 Yew Ave.
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The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
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Sports Blaine wrestlers dominate at first home match By Oliver Lazenby After a turbulent start to wrestling season, disrupted by snow days and a canceled tournament, Blaine wrestlers dominated at their first home meet on December 14, improving the team’s Northwest Conference record to 2–1. “Today we did really well. We got our pins when we needed to, we finished matches,” said Blaine head coach Colt Warren. “We wrestled tough and got the results we want.” In team scores, Blaine beat Anacortes 57–12 and Burlington-Edison 54–12. Burlington-Edison and Anacortes both have 1–2 records in conference meets. The performance makes the Borderites the no. 3 team in the Northwest Conference, behind Ferndale and Sehome. Blaine wrestlers won nearly every match, losing points only in weight classes they had to forfeit for lack of wrestlers. For coach Warren, the match-
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up of the night would have been Blaine’s Colton Economy taking on Burlington-Edison’s Ty Peth – 2016 state champion – in the 132-pound weight class. That match was cut short in the second round and Economy won by default over an injured Peth. Economy heard a popping sound and Peth left the mat clutching his chest. “I was kind of disappointed I couldn’t finish it,” Economy said. “I lost to him last year by one point.” Economy said he’s on a path to a state championship and he feels like everything is falling into place so far. That path could put him on a collision course with Peth. “His biggest test for state championship is going to be Ty Peth,” Warren said. “On his feet Colton is one of the most sound high school wrestlers I’ve seen. I have no doubt that he’s going to go far.” Blaine’s many state-level wrestlers beat their opponents, as did some with considerably less experience on the mat. Sophomore Jacob Westfall won two exciting matches, even while wrestling up a weight class. The meet was Westfall’s second at the varsity level. In his first, at the December 10 Spud Walley Invitational at Sedro-Woolley, Westfall took first in his weight class (160).
“He’s making leaps and bounds every day,” Warren said. “I love his attitude and his tenacity. He’s got a level of controlled aggression that you need and it really comes out during matches.” Hammerhead tournament On December 16–17, Blaine placed eighth out of 40 teams at the annual Hammerhead Invitational Wrestling Tournament in Bremerton. Saul Magallon (220) took home first, Derreck Camba (138) placed third, Eric Davis (152) placed fifth and Aiden Button (145) placed sixth. Blaine was the top Northwest Conference team at the tournament. The Hammerhead Invitational was the first of three big tournaments in a row for Blaine. Next, the Borderites head to the Pacific Coast Wrestling Championships on Thursday, December 29, in Vancouver, Washington. After that, they’ll wrestle at the Gut Check Challenge in Bremerton on January 6–7. Despite having most of a week off, Warren said the team is ready for the heart of its season. “We’re probably a little behind conditioning-wise, but I feel confident going into the second half of the season and the big tournaments,” Warren said. The next Borderite home meet is at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4 against Meridian and Squalicum.
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Member of the Month PogoZone Internet Solutions 119 N. Commercial Street, Suite 190 Bellingham, WA 98225 360-686-8772 www.PogoZone.com Number of employees: Three sales representatives; four technicians; three level 2 engineers; two level 3 engineers; three administrative and three principals. How long in business: 14 years as PogoZone Internet Solutions. PogoZone acquired OpenAccess (another local ISP) two years ago to combine forces and offer more competition against the big conglomerates.
s Jacob Westfall goes for a pin against Michael Aydelotle from Anacortes. Photo by Oliver Lazenby
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Description of the business: PogoZone Internet Solutions provides business class Internet, Ethernet and VOIP phone services, as well as residential Internet access. Whether you're in the in the city or rural, we'll get you connected. PogoZone's service supports all users with fast internet connections from downloading work files to streaming videos at home. PogoZone also offers redundant failover connections to enterprises. How the business started: PogoZone got it's name from the owner's daughter playing with a Pogo stick. The spring-loaded toy made ripples in the sand just like signals. Sometimes inspiration can come from our everyday lives, you just have to pay attention to the small details. PogoZone is located in Whatcom and Skagit counties with service and support. We will only provide service in an area where our friendly technicians can get to in a timely manner. We pride ourselves on awesome support and service. Go local, you'll love it! Future goals: PogoZone is focused on continuing our expansion of Internet and phone services to our business and residential customers. We are increasing our footprint monthly while being conscious of being efficient and green. We want to continue to find ways to lower our footprint on the environment by using more solar and (state of the art) low power equipment. Featured businesses are selected randomly from the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce membership.
This is a monthly feature sponsored by the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce www.blainechamber.com • (360) 332-4544 • Join the chamber today ... membership has its privileges!
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Old Fashioned Service
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
With Davis out, boys basketball falls to Bellingham By Oliver Lazenby Off to an otherwise solid start to its season, the Blaine boys varsity basketball team lost 81–45 at home against Bellingham on December 20. A flu-like illness plowing through the team and being bested by Bellingham at its own style of quick basketball contributed to Blaine’s loss. Blaine point guard Ben Adams left early in the first quarter feeling sick. He’s not the only one to catch a stomach illness that swept through Blaine schools early this month. Coaches canceled basketball practice for December 21 because of the illness. Adams’ playmaking and ball handling holds the team together, and the Borderites struggled without him. “I think Ben helps the whole team play well,” said senior Michael Baldwin, a leading scorer December 20. “His driving ability sucks in the defenders, leaving other people open.” Blaine racked up more turnovers than points in the first quarter and had trouble scoring through the second quarter, ending the half trailing 47–14. That’s a performance Baldwin didn’t attribute solely to Adams’ absence.
“Missing Ben hurts the team, but at the same time we really should have been able to get the job done and we couldn’t,” Baldwin said. The Borderites improved in the second half, scoring more points in the third quarter than in the entire first half, but struggled against Bellingham’s quickness. The Borderites are short and head coach Shaun Pile has retooled the team to play a quicker style than in previous years – characterized by fast breaks, scrappy defense and quick ball movement – to make up for struggling to rebound and control the key. It seems to be working, as Blaine’s record so far is 4–2, and 2–1 in Northwest Conference games after Tuesday’s loss. Bellingham is currently leading the conference with a 3–0 record in conference games. Bellingham isn’t a tall team either, though they inch out Blaine, and they play with a similar style. “They play a lot like us, actually, is what we were saying in the locker room,” Baldwin said. “They really moved the ball well and I just don’t think we were quite prepared for their style of play.”
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s Anthony Ball drives to the hoop in the second half of Blaine’s 81–45 loss to Bellingham on December 20. Photo by Janell Kortlever
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DECEMBER Boy and Girl of the Month
Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, Blaine Branch
Verdaan A.
Verdaan has such a positive attitude when ever he comes into the club. He loves to help others and get his homework done in our Power Hour program. He is a great listener and a great role model for others. Stay great, Verdaan!
Serenity B.
sponsored by
Locally Owned and Operated
Serenity has come to the club almost every day after school since September. We can really see the growth that she has had over this time. She enjoys writing in her journal and playing with her friends while she is here. We can’t wait to see what Serenity can do over the next few months!
360-332-1700 1733 H St. Blaine
Great Gifts! s Michael Baldwin on a Borderite fastbreak against Bellingham. Photo by Janell Kortlever
Library ... From page 5
the 2,135-square-foot house. Zervas Architects is partway through an analysis of the property that hasn’t turned up any “red flags,” said Terry Brown, principal at Zervas Architects. Longtime Birch Bay residents Gary and Cindy Lou Vogt offered the property as a library in September for $750,000, instigating WCLS’s research into expanding service in Birch Bay. The Vogts’ original offer had a
January 31, 2017 deadline. The current site analysis will be finished on January 17, the date of the next WCLS board meeting. The Vogts’ real estate agent Pat Jerns said the timeline could still work. “We do have some flexibility,” Jerns said. “We don’t have forever but we do have some time to work with them.” A physical library at Birch Bay would replace WCLS’s current Bookmobile service. It wouldn’t, however, mean a reduction in service at the Blaine library or an end to Blaine’s efforts to expand its library, Perkins said.
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The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
Thousands expected to bring in the New Year at events in Birch Bay January 1 will not only mark the beginning of the New Year, but also the 34th Polar Bear Plunge. The annual tradition brings thousands together as they submerge themselves into the cold,
wintery water of Birch Bay – with a possibility of snow, the 2,500 to 3,000 expected participants might find themselves extra cold this year. The event begins at noon on New Year’s Day at the Birch Bay Beach Park located at 7854 Birch Bay Drive. Volunteers will have
s The McInnis, Simpson and Livingston families band together to take part in the 2016 Ring of Fire and Hope. Photo by Molly Ernst
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays all!
warm beverages and campfires set up at the park for participants to enjoy after they take the plunge. While the event is free and open to everyone, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce encourages individuals to register so they can receive an official “I Took the Plunge” certificate. Registration begins at 10 a.m. New Year’s Day, or in advance online at birchbaychamber.com. A costume contest will begin at 11:30 a.m. Four prizes are available for best group, best individual, most unique and best child costume for under age 12. The contest is being judged by volunteers. Parking will be available behind CJ’s Beach House Restaurant by donation. Funds received will go to Blaine High School’s wind ensemble’s trip to Japan in February. Before taking the plunge, the community will light up Birch Bay during the 12th annual Ring of Fire and Hope. Beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 31, revelers will bring in the New Year early by lighting road flares along the high tide shoreline. Starting at 5:30 p.m. participants can pick up a free flare donated by Mike and Rose Kent on a first-come, first-served basis at the Birch Bay Visitor Infor-
s A crowd taking part in the Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge charge into the icy water in 2016. Photo courtesy of the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce mation Center located at 7900 Birch Bay Drive. The free flares run out quickly so it is strongly recommended that additional spikeless flares are purchased in advance. They can be bought at Pacific Building Center True Value, located at 2677 Bell Road. The Kent family started the Ring of Fire and Hope 12 years ago after visiting family in Roch-
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ester, New York, where they saw flares lighting up the shore of a lake on the Fourth of July. After they saw how beautiful it was, they decided to bring the event to Birch Bay. With the number of participants growing each year, the Kents expect over 1,000 flares around the bay this year. “It is just 30 minutes of a beautiful, serene setting,” Kent said.
Extra DUI patrols scheduled during holiday season B y K ay l e e B o t t i n g In an effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities caused by impaired drivers on the road, Washington State Patrol troopers will conduct extra DUI patrols this holiday season. From December 15 to January 1, state troopers and local law enforcement agencies are teaming up all across the state to target impaired drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The number of fatal crashes involving drivers under the influence has increased over the years. Drivers who pose the greatest risk are those are under the influence of various drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol, according to the Washington State Patrol. The number of fatalities involving drivers under this type of influence has increased by 87 percent in the past five years. With the extra DUI patrols, Washington state troopers are continuing their dedication to reach zero traffic fatalities or serious injury collisions by 2030. They are encouraging drivers to give the gift of life this holiday season by staying off the roads while under the influence. As a reminder, buzzed, high or drunk driving is considered impaired and will result in an arrest. Alternative options to staying off the road are having a designated driver, calling a cab or staying with a friend.
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
9
Historic lift on shellfish harvesting restrictions prompts a celebration A crowd gathered at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company to celebrate the historic lift on shellfish harvesting restrictions for 810 acres of Drayton Harbor. Following the December announcement from the Washington State Department of Health, several local advocates came together for a “shell-ebration” at the popular local eatery on December 16. Despite freezing temperatures, eventgoers spent time celebrat-
ing the community-led effort to restore water quality in the harbor, which has seen continued harvesting restrictions and closures since the early ‘90s. The effort to improve water quality is still ongoing and harvesters are encouraged to check before they dig. Details on the latest harvesting news can be found at doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety. Photos by Kaylee Botting.
School board selects Joan Lotze as next president
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Nailed It! at By Oliver Lazenby Blaine school district board of directors elected board member Joan Lotze to be its new president at a December 19 meeting. The position is selected by a rollcall vote. The president’s duties mainly revolve around planning meeting agendas. The board picks a new president yearly and the position typically rotates among board members. Mike Dodd was board president in 2016 and Lotze was vice president. John Freal will serve as vice president in 2017. Lotze was appointed to the school board in 2014 to replace outgoing member Susan Holmes and was elected in 2015. Her term ends next December.
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The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
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s The setting sun shines against a wave of windows in White Rock.
Habitat for Humanity announces first build day in Birch Bay B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Since receiving a permit in late September, volunteers with Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County have rolled up their sleeves to prep for construction of a home at Leeside Drive in Birch Bay. Formerly a dumping ground for old cars and garbage, the lot is now clear of debris and features
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a freshly poured concrete foundation. Project volunteers – including some from the international Habitat for Humanity program Women Build – will start building from the ground up on Saturday, January 7. Julio Ortiz, his wife Juana Mendoza and their five kids will move into the home, which is slated for completion by the beginning of next school year. Ortiz supports his family as a general laborer and supervisor for on-site equipment at Clark’s Berry Farm in Lynden. Since applying to become a Habitat for Humanity homeowner, Ortiz and his family have committed 500 hours of “sweat equity” with the organization by working on build sites and in the retail store, located at 1825 Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham. The family also has to put down $500 on the home and is expected to pay about $350 per month on the mortgage. Habitat for Humanity finances the home
at 0 percent interest. Holly Harkener, publicist for the Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County, said cold weather won’t get in the way of builders this year. In alliance with Kulshan Community Land Trust, staff with the organization have acquired a warehouse in the Birchwood neighborhood in Bellingham to continue work at warmer temperatures. For those interested in lending a hand, Harkener recommends contacting volunteer coordinator Janet Straka by email at volunteer@hfhwhatcom.org or by phone at 360/715-9170 ext. 1016. Project updates and announcements are also being regularly posted to the Whatcom Women Build Facebook page. “This is just one of many build days to come,” Harkener said. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County, visit hfhwhatcom.org.
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s Julio Ortiz and his wife Juana Mendoza work on the site of their new home with volunteers. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
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Happy Holidays from your local new car dealerships! Be local. Buy local!
The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
Classifieds
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From our family to yours, we wish you a safe & Happy Holiday!
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2-BR, 1-BA Duplex $650/mo. includes water/sewer. 3-BR, 2.5-BA home 1600 s.f., 1-car gar, den/ wet bar, storage, newly remodeled $1295/mo. 1-BR APT $595/mo. W/S/G included. BIRCH BAY
3-BR, 2-BA 1500 s.f. home w/sandstone shower, jetted tub, 2-car extra deep gar, W/D, DW $1250/mo. 2-BR, 2-BA Townhouse w/view $850/mo. N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,
360-332-3166 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.
Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838
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December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
Waterfront professional office space for lease
13
OBITUARIES Charles Laface
July 28, 1945 - December 7, 2016 Charles “Chuck” Laface, 71, of Blaine. WA passed away December 7, in Bellingham, WA. A family graveside service was conducted on December 9 by Bishop Daniel Meaker of the Blaine Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at Enterprise Cemetery, under the direction of Safe Harbor
on Blaine Harbor in a beautiful Cannery-style building with scenic views of marina, Mt. Baker, Marine Park and White Rock. Located 1 minute from Peace Arch border crossing. Fiber optic internet. Space available 750-1500 sf.
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Funeral Services. Chuck was born in Buffalo, NY to Fortunatum and Mary Laface on July 28, 1945. He grew up in Gardena, CA and lived in Cypress, San Jose and Ventura before moving to Blaine after retiring from California Retail Systems as a POS Systems installer/technician in 2008, Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, brother Joseph and sister Connie, and is survived by sister Patty Johnson of Blaine, sister Rosemary Caragio (Bob) of Lake Havasu City, AZ, and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Chuck was a member of the Blaine Senior Center and enjoyed having lunch and playing bingo with the many friends made there. It was Chuck’s desire to stay home as long as possible, and under the care of sister Patty and niece Deanne, he was able to remain home until the pain of his liver cancer made it necessary to have him transferred to St. Joseph Hospital on December 6. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to St. Joseph ER staff and the Bellingham Hospice House Staff for their support and care in his final hours.
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Breakfast Lunch Dinner 360-778-3826
4823 Alderson Road, Birch Bay
14
The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
Coming up
Police Reports December 18, 2:37 p.m.: A father reported concern for his adult son who had reported suicidal thoughts. An officer made contact with the man, who admitted being upset over a recent breakup. The man stated that although he was angry, he had no intention of harming himself. During the contact the officer discovered he had five warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and booked into Whatcom County Jail. December 18, 10:41 p.m.: Officers were dispatched for a second response to 1300 block of 4th Street for a water flow alarm. Upon arrival North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFRS) notified police of their forced entry into an apartment that was currently unoccupied. According to the vice president of the homeowner’s association the homeowner was out of town for an extended period of time. It appears several windows were left open and the heat turned off causing the water lines of the fire system to freeze and burst completely flooding the entire three-floor unit. Officers secured the door the best they could. The homeowners’ vice president was notified of the incident and the rest of the tenants were made aware of the fire suppression being turned off. The homeowners’ associa-
tion will be following up with contractor/repair services and the homeowner of the unit. NWFRS was OK with the current tenants being on fire watch of their own units. December 19, 6:35 a.m.: Police were dispatched to a physical domestic dispute involving an adult son and his stepfather. An officer arrived and contacted the son, who is well known to police. For the safety of all involved, the 18-year-old was escorted to the officer’s patrol car while the crime was investigated. He was ultimately arrested for assault fourth degree domestic violence and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. December 19, 7:14 a.m.: A suspicious vehicle was reported parked on Semiahmoo Parkway near gate 3 of Saint Andrews Green. The only description of the vehicle was a dark in color, possible passenger car. An officer arrived to check on the car at the same time the driver of the broken down car returned to it. Moments later a tow truck arrived to remove the vehicle. December 19, 8:20 p.m.: Officers monitoring the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office radio learned of several bales of hay blocking a lane of travel on I-5. Officers responded to the traffic hazard. Upon arrival officers observed a large amount of hay blocking the right lane. State
patrol blocked a lane of I-5 and officers and troopers cleared the traffic hazard from the road. December 20, 12:30 a.m.: A concerned parent called police to report he found his pickup truck gone along with his adult son who is currently living with him. The man said his son is a recovering addict and may be out looking for drugs. The father requested a welfare check if the vehicle or son is located. A watch for was sent to the surrounding police agencies. December 20, 12:29 p.m.: A man flagged down an officer and requested assistance with a property dispute. An officer spoke with both parties involved about civil property matters and eviction notices. December 20, 5:40 p.m.: A business owner reported that during the snow last Saturday she allowed a homeless man she knows to spend the night inside the business. She believes the man may have taken a spare key while he was there, and she wanted him notified that he was no longer welcome to return. An officer on the night shift made contact with the man, advised him of the trespass and recovered the key. 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.
Holiday Festival of the Arts: Through December 24, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., 4145 Meridian Street, Bellingham. Shop for gifts from local artists. Saturday and Sunday live music, free kids activities and more. Info: alliedarts.org. Christmas Eve at Pierside Kitchen: Saturday, December 24, 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m., Pierside Kitchen, Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Gather with your loved ones and enjoy Christmas Eve dinner at Pierside Kitchen. Info: semiahmoo.com. Christmas Day at Pierside Kitchen: Sunday, December 25, noon–8 p.m., Pierside Kitchen, Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Keep the holly jolly rolling with a three-course meal. $52 adults (glass of sparkling wine upon arrival); $24 children 6-12; children under 5 dine free. Ring of Fire and Hope: Saturday, December 31, 7 p.m., Birch Bay beach. Bring your own flare (without a spike) to end out the old year with a beautiful ring of light around the bay. Flares available at Birch Bay Visitor Information Center courtesy of Mike and Rose Kent. Info: 371-5004. Pastime New Year’s Eve Party: Saturday, December 31, Pastime Bar and Eatery, 658 Peace Portal Drive. Party favors, food and drink specials, toast at midnight. New Year’s Eve in the Semiahmoo Ballroom: Saturday, December 31, 6 p.m.–Sunday, January 1, 1 a.m., Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Reception at 6:30 p.m. dinner at 7 p.m., drinks, and dancing to The Atlantics after 9 p.m. Tickets required. Info: semiahmoo.com. New Year’s Eve at The Beach at Birch Bay: Saturday, December 31, 7 p.m.–close, The Beach at Birch Bay, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Huskies v. Alabama at noon. Wear Husky gear and get drink specials during game. Elvis performance 7–9 p.m., dancing and karaoke 9 p.m.–close. New Year’s Eve at Paso: Saturday, December 31, starting at 8 p.m., Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Food and drink specials in the bar, party favors, Champagne toast at midnight. Info: 332-4045. Polar Bear Plunge: Sunday, January 1, noon, Birch Bay Beach Park, 7900 Birch Bay Drive. Registration begins at10 a.m., awards at 11:30 a.m. and the plunge at noon. Info: 371-5004. Polar Bear Plunge Prefunk and After Party: Sunday, January 1, The Beach at Birch Bay, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Free hot chocolate and coffee before and after the plunge. Food and drink specials. Info: 922-0816. Blaine 2017 Christmas Bird Count: Monday, January 2, 7:30 a.m., Big Al’s Diner, 234 D Street. Annual bird count for Blaine, Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo. Info: 604-576-6831 or wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. Blaine Chamber of Commerce Meeting: Wednesday, January 4, noon, Pizza Factory, 738 Peace Portal Drive. Info: blainechamber.com.
Ongoing
Crossword
ACROSS 1. Hindu princesses 6. Unload, as stock 10. Supergarb 14. Avoid 15. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g. 16. Clickable image 17. Front of the plane 19. Put one’s foot down? 20. “Star Trek” rank: Abbr. 21. “For shame!” 22. Nay-______ 24. Illicit cigarette 26. Provides an upper interior surface to a room 28. Cabernet, e.g. 29. To create a ring 33. #1 spot 36. Dalai ___ 38. A flat sheet of microfilm 39. Defamation 41. Small bag 43. Beverage made with fruit juices
44. Airy 46. Some male dolls 47. Odd shaped fish with elongated snout 49. Crystal meth, in slang 51. Admiral’s command 52. Home decorator Stewart 56. Round lot’s 100 59. Toni Morrison’s “___ Baby” 60. Howard of “Happy Days” 61. Checker, perhaps 62. Not willing to endure 66. ___ vera 67. Dirty coat 68. Enjoy 69. Short for generations 70. Certain surgeon’s “patient” 71. About 1.3 cubic yards
4. Driver’s lic. and others 5. Couch 6. Preserve, in a way 7. Victorian, for one 8. Sue Grafton’s “___ for Lawless” 9. Famous TV collie 10. Fancy person from the big city 11. “God’s Little ___” 12. “D” 13. Aims 18. Turn 23. High up 25. ‘American’ side 26. Video maker, for short 27. Clear, as a disk 30. Advil target 31. Accordingly 32. Congers 33. Dangerous biters 34. Hint 35. Fictional resource of magic 37. Appeared 40. Wild Asian dog 42. Sloth, e.g. 45. Favorite 48. To fight back 50. Fondle 53. A crossbeam 54. Accept 55. Cavern, in poetry 56. Alone 57. Fit 58. Impulse transmitter 59. ___ bag 63. “___ any drop to drink”: Coleridge 64. “For shame!” 65. Backstabber
DOWN 1. Allude 2. Dress style 3. Care for
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Tides December 23–December 29 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 23 1:57 am 6.1 6:04 am 5.0
12:38 pm 9.2 8:13 pm 1.6
Sa 24 3:13 am 6.8 7:12 am 5.8
1:14 pm 9.1 8:49 pm 0.9
Su 25 4:09 am 7.6 8:18 am 6.3
1:48 pm 9.0 9:21 pm 0.3
Mo 26 4:53 am 8.3 9:18 am 6.6
2:22 pm 8.9 9:55 pm -0.1
Tu 27 5:31 am 8.8 10:12 am 6.8
2:56 pm 8.8 10:29 pm -0.5
We 28 6:07 am 9.3 11:00 am 6.8
3:32 pm 8.6 11:01 pm -0.7
Th 29 6:39 am 9.6 11:46 am 6.7
4:08 pm 8.4 11:35 pm -0.8
Weather Precipitation: During the period of December 13 to December 19, .42 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2016 year-to-date precipitation is 35.47 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 42.9°F on December 11 with a low of 15.6°F on December 7. Average high was 36.0 and average low was 22.0. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Birch Bay Activity Center Events: 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Pound Fit, pickleball, yoga and more. Visit website for days and times. Info: bbbparkandrec.com or 656-6416. Zumba, Line Dance and Yoga Classes: Blaine Pavilion, 763 G Street, Blaine. Sponsored by BBBPRD2. For full schedule, visit bbbparkandrec.com. Poker Tournaments: Sundays, 2 p.m., Wheel House Bar and Grill, 746 Peace Portal Drive. No limit. Must be 21+ to play. Info: 332-3512. AA Meetings: Monday and Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, noon; Wednesday, 7 p.m. (women only); Saturday, 11 a.m., United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street, Blaine. Al-Anon Meetings: Tuesday, 1–2 p.m., Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt, 456 C Street, Blaine. Open to all. Info: 332-8248. Alzheimer/Dementia/Memory Loss Caregiver and Care Partners Support Group: First Tuesday of the month, 1:30–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street, Blaine. Info: 671-3316. Pound Fit: Monday, 6–6;45 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Wednesdays 6–6:45 p.m., Thursdays, 10:30–11:15 a.m. Childcare provided. $5 drop-in fee. Shotokan Karate: Tuesday 5–6 p.m. and Thursday 4:30–6 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. $40 for the month. Info: 656-6416. Birch Bay Toastmasters Club: Tuesday 6:30–7:45 p.m., Windermere building, second floor, Birch Bay Square, 8105 Birch Bay Square Street. Learn leadership and communication skills. Info: toastmasters.org. Dart League: Tuesday, The Beach at Birch Bay, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Taking new signups for winter league. Play every game at home – no traveling. Info: 922-0816. Midweek Music Meditation: Wednesday, noon–12:30 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 855 4th Street. Info: Mary Rankin, 332-5665. Semiahmoo Men’s Breakfast: First and third Thursdays, 8 a.m., Semiahmoo Golf Course clubhouse. Breakfast ($15) and a speaker. Toddler Time: Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Let the kids run around. Free. Blaine Weight Watchers: Thursdays, 5–6 p.m., 580 C Street, Blaine. Karaoke with DJ Rudy: Friday and Saturday nights, 8 p.m.–midnight, Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Info: 332-4045. Open Gym: Saturday, 2–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. For families and kids. Free. Info: 656-6416. Buddy Break: Free respite program for families with special needs kids. Second Saturdays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Reservations required. Info: 371-2300. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
December 22 - 28, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com
Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival honored with Mindful Birding Award B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Staff with the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival received national recognition from the Mindful Birding project last week for their success in upholding birding ethics and conservation. The project is a branch of the Morrissey Family Foundation and awards cash prizes to birding festivals of the Pacific Flyway that are known to uphold superior ethical birding practices. While the dollar amount had yet to be disclosed, Wings Over Water is eligible to receive $500 or more. Chuck Kinzer, a member of the Wings Over Water steering committee, said the money will be used to refresh outdated brochures, which still contain the festival’s old name and ethical standards. He and project staff hope to send out the updated materials to chambers of commerce throughout the state once
Christmas banquet supports The Bridge at Birch Bay S Folks at the Dakota Creek Christian Center held their eighth annual community Christmas banquet to support The Bridge at Birch Bay. The event took place on December 18 and featured food, dancers and an ensemble of singers. Pastor at the center, Lee Connors, shared his vision for the Bridge at Birch Bay, located at 4815 Alderson Road. Down the road, he and his wife Rosemary Reuss-Connors hope the facility will develop into a community hub, equipped with a learning center, counseling services and much more.
they’re updated. In the months leading up to the festival, Kinzer and the rest of the Wings Over Water steering committee are busy planning. This year, the three-day event will take place Friday through Sunday, March 10 to 12 in Blaine, Semiahmoo and Birch Bay. To learn more, visit wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival. com or search “Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival” on Facebook.
Photo by Rosemary Reuss-Connors
Christmas Worship Directory
Track Santa this Christmas with NORAD B y K ay l e e B o t t i n g Santa Claus is coming to town, and with help from NORAD you can follow him around the globe this Christmas Eve. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is celebrating its 61st anniversary of tracking Santa’s Christmas journey. The command’s website, noradsanta.org, launched on December 1 and features Santa’s North Pole village. A holiday countdown, games and many other festive activities are featured to help tie over excitement until Santa begins his journey. Official NORAD Tracks Santa apps are also available in the Windows, Google Play and Apple stores so you can count down the days until Santa leaves the North Pole. You can also track Santa on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Google +. Just type “@noradsanta” into each search engine. Beginning at 11 p.m. local time on Friday, December 23, you can watch Santa make his preparations for his flight on the NORAD Santa website. The website will also stream videos from NORAD Santa cams as Santa makes his way around the world. Starting Christmas Eve morning, Santa trackers will be able to find out Santa’s precise location by calling the toll-free number, 1-877-HI NORAD (1877-446-6723) or by emailing noradtrackssanta@outlook. com. Keep your eyes out for Santa’s sleigh this Christmas and don’t forget to leave out milk and cookies.
15
Grace Lutheran Church Blaine
Come Join Us
CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICES
Christmas Eve in the Country Candlelight Service
at 7:30 p.m. & 11 p.m.
Sunday Worship 10 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 24 • 7:30 p.m.
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH Pastor Becky Langholz
SHARE THE GOOD NEWS, ALL ARE WELCOME
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 10 a.m. atat10:30 a.m. Make your Christmas a Blessed one ...
Pastor Bing C. Canlas
Come and Worship - You are welcome!
Custer United Methodist Church 2996 Main Street • Custer
702 G Street Blaine • 332-6589 blaine-grace-lutheran.org
360-366-5181
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP at 5:00 PM Worship Every Sunday at 10:00 AM
A caring country church north of Ferndale 7215 Valley View Rd. • (Between Grandview and Bay) • 360-366-5567
Catholic Mass Schedule for Christmas 2016 Christmas Eve
Saturday, December 24, 4 p.m. - St. Anne, Blaine Saturday, December 24, 7 p.m. - St. Joachim, Lummi Saturday, December 24, 10 p.m. - St. Joseph, Ferndale
Christmas Day
Sunday, December 25, 10:30 a.m. - St. Joseph, Ferndale For St. Joseph Church, 5781 Hendrickson Ave., Ferndale
St. Anne Church, H & 6th Streets, Blaine St. Joachim Church, Kwina & Lummi Shore Rd., Lummi
The Blaine
United Church of Christ Invites you to join us for
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service
Saturday, December 24 • 8-9 pm
Christmas Day Service
Sunday, December 25 • 10:30 am-12 pm 902 Adelia Street, Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-8918 office@bcfcommunity.com www.bcfcommunity.com www.facebook.com/blainechristianfellowship
Christ Episcopal Church
Christmas EvE sErviCE Saturday, December 24 5 pm
Christmas Day sErviCE Christmas Eve: Christmas Story & Carols Service at 7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Reflective Service at 11:30 p.m. Christmas Day: Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Blaine United Church of Christ (Congregational) 884 Fourth Fourth Street, Blaine, WA 98230 • (360) 332-6906 Pastor Sandy Cheatham
Sunday, December 25 10 am
382 Boblett, Blaine christchurchblaine.org The Rev. Dawn Campbell Foisie
16
The Northern Light • December 22 - 28, 2016
At The Event Center
December 31 • 10pm - 1am NO COVER CHARGE!
$1 Champagne Toast at miDnight
Live Music BY MIDLIFE
CRISIS
Party Favors!
SilverReefCasino.com |
866-383-0777 • I-5 Exit 260 • 4 Minutes West
Owned & Operated by the Lummi Nation
Known For Legendary HospitaLity