February 2 - 8, 2017
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Passion, pleas Travel ban provokes Peace Arch Park protest prevail as water-access remedies sought B y M at t S paw , W N PA O ly m p i a News Bureau
(See Water, page 3)
s Peace Arch Park was the site of a protest on January 29 held in response to an executive order signed by President Donald Trump Photo by Jack Kintner concerning immigration. For more photos, see page 15.
Demonstrations break out after rollout of new immigration order B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e The words “May these gates never be closed” inscribed on the Peace Arch monument echoed the sentiment of weekend demonstrators on January 29. A crowd estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 people flocked to Peace Arch Park for a rally held from 3:30 p.m. to dusk in response to an executive order issued by President Donald Trump. The order halts all refugee admission for 120 days, indefinitely bans Syrian refugees from admission and prohibits individuals from seven Muslim-majority countries – Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen – from en-
tering the country for 90 days. The action spurred nationwide protests after travelers were detained at airports across the U.S. Representatives from Washington, including congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), U.S. senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) all spoke out against the orders. Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson initiated a lawsuit against the President, the Department of Homeland Security and other high-ranking officials. “I was feeling really saddened by the orders that were signed last week,” said Bellingham resident Jenn Mason. She helped
Blaine business owner to open wine bar and event space B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e With more than 20 years of experience owning a business in Blaine, one local entrepreneur is looking to expand. Alan Finston, owner of Blaine-based Whatcom Physical Therapy, purchased the former Bank of America building, located at 277 G Street, for $372,500 in an online auction in October 2016. Since then, he’s set his aim at opening a wine bar and event space this spring.
Project plans hinge on approval from Blaine City Council, which will soon be tasked with considering a text amendment to the city’s zoning code to, in part, allow eating and drinking establishments and food trucks within the Town Portal District. Finston’s new property falls within that district’s bounds, which span around Interstate-5, F Street and midway between 3rd and G street. Dubbed a “code scrub” by city staff, the amendment proposal also includes
a variety of changes to the city code to correct consequences of previously approved amendments – all requests were combined due to their relatively minor impact, according to a recent staff report. On January 26, Finston, his business associate and a representative from the Washington Hospitality Association spoke during a Blaine Planning Commission public hearing held to discuss the
organizer Jesse Stanton get the word out using Facebook. Nearly 5,000 were invited to join on the event page. Mason said she’s been a vocal proponent of social justice issues in the past, but the Peace Arch rally was something new. Bellingham City councilmember April Barker and Whatcom County councilmember Todd Donovan attended the event, Mason said. Another Facebook page, “No Ban, No Wall – U.S.,” announces another Peace Arch demonstration slated for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, February 5. At press time, about 450 people had been invited to participate.
INSIDE
Some Whatcom County landowners appeared in Olympia last Tuesday to voice opinions on two bills aimed to relieve water access issues in rural Washington. The bills, SB 5024 and SB 5239, are a response to the Whatcom County v. Hirst Washington State Supreme Court decision, which ruled that counties must determine whether water is legally available before issuing a building permit for properties requiring private wells. The decision means counties must assess the effects water usage would have on aquifers and streams for fish and other uses. Counties previously relied on what the Department of Ecology (DOE) determined was available water, but the court ruling ruled against that method. The ruling resulted in temporary permit moratoriums in Whatcom and other counties, and an impassioned plea from one Whatcom County landowner displayed the intensity of the issue for those now affected by the court’s edict. As he was ending his remarks to the Senate Agriculture, Trade, Water and Economic Development Committee, Zach Nutting rose from his chair, stepped aside, then dropped to his knees to seek the committee’s support in resolving the issues. For Nutting that meant restoring his ability to get a building permit so he could construct his family home on 5 acres near Kendall. He told the committee he had sold his former house and moved onto the acreage to build his new home. After obtaining permits for electricity and other elements related to construction, he was denied a building permit. “We are technically homeless because we are thousands and thousands (of dollars) into this project. We have septic and electric, but we can’t have our building permit,” Nutting said. “I’m going to get on my knees and beg you to fix this.” Whatcom County Council passed the
Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
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The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
s Blaine Planning Commission, from l., Richard May, Steve Hrutfiord, John LeBrun, Calvin Armerding, Ken Ely and Larry Wonnacott. Not pictured: Susan Sturgill. This was the first planning commission for Hrutfiord and Wonnacott, after being appointed by the Blaine City Council on January 23. Photo by Stefanie Donahue
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amendment. All three expressed support, along with more than a dozen others who chose to write letters. After brief discussion, commissioners voted unanimously to recommend approval of the code amendment to city council. “As a business owner of over 20 years in Blaine, I have seen many changes over the years in downtown,” Finston said to commissioners. “The beating heart of any town is its center and towns that thrive have centers that are vibrant and energetic. By comparison, Blaine’s
heart, while not in need of a transplant, is overly due of some stents to improve local circulation.” Finston said he wanted to expand fitness space at his business, Whatcom Physical Therapy (WPT), located at 250 G Street, adding, “I sincerely did not want to see another mailbox store in Blaine,” he said. Finston plans a 1,000-squarefoot studio for use as a group fitness space for WPT and dance and fitness classes taught by third-party instructors. The full 5,300-square-foot space will be available as an event space to lease for local and private functions for up to 300 people, he said.
If eating and drinking restrictions are lifted in the Town Portal District, Finston plans to open The Vault Wine Bar, a joint venture by him and his wife. The two obtained a business license in December and have already hired a general manager. They hope to sell flights, glasses and bottles of wine, locally made beers and food. Evening wine and art classes, live music and trivia nights are also being considered for the space, he said. Blaine City Council will likely vote on the amendment proposal at their next regular meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, February 13 at 435 Martin Street, suite 4000.
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February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
Water ... From page 1
county’s current three-month moratorium on building permits for properties relying on exempt wells on December 6. Other counties in the state have also halted permitting following the Hirst decision. Whatcom County Council members approved the moratorium with a 5–2 vote, with Ken Mann and Barbara Brenner opposing. “I’ve been on the council a long time and I’ve never had an issue depress me as much as this has. I’m very upset about it and it affects a whole lot of people who have played by the rules,” Brenner said in a phone interview. She’s aware of the senate bills, but doesn’t yet have an opinion on them, she said. Dan Eisses, general manager of the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District said he thought few, if any, properties near Blaine and Birch Bay were affected by the Supreme Court ruling. Blaine and Birch Bay have their own water systems, and the Bell Bay Jackson Water Association serves an area east of Birch Bay. “I’m sure there’s some impact between Blaine and Lynden, but there’s quite a bit of agricultural property and not as many people trying to build houses there,” Eisses said. Both bills had supporters and detractors, but SB 5239 received the most passionate support from some who came to testify. The bills’ sponsors are mostly divided along party lines. Sponsors of SB 5024 are all Democrats, while 11 out of 13 of the sponsors for SB 5239 are Republicans. Senator Lisa Wellman, D-Mercer
Island, is the only co-sponsor for both bills. SB 5024 would allow counties to establish an optional program to mitigate surface water impacts for new permit-exempt groundwater withdrawals, such as homeuse wells. Those applying for a well could use county-issued mitigation certificates. These would certify that the county can find water to compensate for water used by the well. The DOE would provide ground and surface water data to county officials developing the programs. Home-use wells use relatively little water – less than one percent of the state’s total water – according to Senator Jim Honeyford, R-Sunnyside. Exemptions to seeking full water rights include domestic or industrial uses not exceeding 5,000 gallons a day, as well as purposes such as stock watering or lawn care. SB 5024 would also create a seven-member committee, which would work with counties, tribes, rural property owners, conservation groups and various state agencies. It would submit reports to the state legislature and governor at the beginning of 2018 and 2019 that describe how groundwater availability would integrate with land-use planning. SB 5239 would allow local jurisdictions to use the DOE’s rules when determining water availability for approving building permits. Counties and cities could also use the department’s rules as part of their comprehensive plans, which are adopted in accordance with the state Growth Management Act. The bill also determines that permit-exempt groundwater withdrawal, usually wells, cannot be deemed to be impairing minimum flow of
s On Thursday and Friday last week, a Whatcom County Public Works survey crew staked future right-of-way and pathway locations along Birch Bay for the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facilities project. Puget Sound Energy and Whatcom County Public Works will review the survey stakes locations to determine if the existing utility poles conflict with the pathway location.
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A major licensing system update left staff with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) more than a month behind schedule in opening the sale of 2017-18 recreational fishing and hunting licenses. On January 24, the agency announced sales were open for the season, which begins April 1. “With the release of our new licensing system last month, we opted to delay selling 2017-18 licenses in order to avoid printing licenses from two separate systems, with slightly different formatting, for a single license year,” said WDFW’s licensing division manager Peter Vernie in a statement. The agency announced that applications for special hunt of big
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s A well driller works on the end cap of a well just drilled. Photo courtesy of Department of Ecology “I have over $81,000 invested in this well and property. It constitutes the bulk of my wealth, which is now valued at zero,” Cardenas told the committee. He had driven to Olympia from Elk, north of Spokane, to deliver his message in person even though the committee had set up a remote hearing site in Spokane. Dawn Vyvyan, representing the Puyallup tribe and Yakama nation, expressed her conditional support for SB 5024. “We like ecology assisting counties and setting up a fund for mitigation. We think mitigation is one of the solutions to finding
water,” Vyvyan said. “However, we would like to see the final determinations on water availability be made by the department. The tribe feels the county does not have the expertise to determine if water is available.” This story is part of a series of news reports from the Washington State Legislature provided through a reporting internship sponsored by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Reach reporter Matt Spaw at matthewspaw@gmail.com. The Northern Light reporter Oliver Lazenby contributed to this story.
WDFW begins selling 2017-18 hunting licenses
Survey stakes go up in Birch Bay
streams. David Danton, an operations manager for Lexar Homes, told the committee this problem is widespread. “We’re seeing home sales decline because people are turning away after seeing all the permits they need. These are impacting thousands of people,” he said. Others who testified said SB 5239 was a poor solution to water issues. Trish Rolfe, executive director for the Center for Environmental Law and Policy, noted that the bill undermines the basic principles of water law and would prevent the DOE from considering permit-exempt withdrawal as damaging to in-stream flow rules. “It makes in-stream flows a lesser water right. It will allow permit-exempt wells to irreparably harm fish and wildlife that rely on in-stream flows, including endangered salmon,” Rolfe said. Dave Christensen, program development manager for the DOE, had problems with both bills. He did not support SB 5024 because of its significant budget impact – $10 million appropriated between June 2017 and 2019 – which is not in the governor’s budget. He also did not support SB 5239 because it gives all permit-exempt users too much freedom from DOE rules. “We can’t support SB 5239 as written because of the blanket exemptions to all permit-exempt uses. There needs to be adequate protection for in-stream resources,” Christensen said. Frederick Cardenas, a Spokane resident who developed a well only to find his county was no longer issuing building permits, also spoke. He worked 60 hours a week for seven years to pay for the property.
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746 Peace Portal Dr., Downtown Blaine
360-332-3512
game species will be available in April. Spring bear hunters can purchase an application for a 2017 permit now and submit preferred hunting choices online between February 15 and 28. Hunting licenses are for sale at 600 locations across Washington.
In Blaine, hunters can buy them at Pacific Building Center at 2677 Bell Road; Bay Center Market at 8050 Harborview Road and Ace Hardware, at 1733 H Street. Licenses can also be purchased online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov or by phone at 360/902-2464.
Why Do We Make Our Steaks So Juicy, So Tender And So Mouthwatering Delicious? The answer is simple: First we procure “AAA” Certified Black Angus beef from Alberta or Nebraska for the highest grade of taste and marbling. This beef is not available in supermarkets or at random wholesale suppliers at any price. We pay up to double for this exceptional product! Next we age our beef 27 days for tenderness, texture and flavor. We cut your steak to order and coat it with our own unique seasoning. A steak from our 650 degree broiler to your table is like none you have eaten before! We at the Black Forest do not compromise. -Jack H. Niemann, founder & Christine Niemann
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The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 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
Business workshop focuses on Blaine’s economy
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com
s The Blaine Chamber of Commerce hosted its third business workshop on January 25 at the Pizza Factory, located at 738 Peace Portal Drive. The evening featured a presentation from city staff about economic development efforts. An open discussion followed, with folks from around the community, including Jim Zell, c., bringing several issues to the table, including the I-274 offramp, the prospect of a railway stop in Blaine and ideas for boosting the local downtown business scene. Photo by Louise Mugar
Editor Stefanie Donahue stefanie@pointrobertspress.com
Letters
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
The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXII, No 33 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Feb. 9 Ads due: Feb. 3
The Editor: Doug Ericksen is Washington State Senator for the 42nd district. He is paid to represent this district by the taxpayers. This January, he accepted a position as communication director for Trump’s deconstruction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Trump and his nominee to head the EPA, Scott Pruitt, have called for “tremendous trimming” of the laws and regulations the EPA uses to protect the environment that all Americans rely upon. Senator Ericksen is all too eager to help with this effort. Ericksen was an early Trump supporter in Washington state and has a long track record of anti-environment efforts. Ericksen has stated that he will not resign his Senate position; instead, he will collect full pay but only dedicate a portion of his time to the real issues of the 42nd district. As evidence, Ericksen did not even show up for a January 24 Senate committee hearing on a terrible bill he sponsored. Instead
he was giving interviews to national media outlets about his new position and how he would be collecting tons of frequent flyer miles for all his travel. Michael Shepard Bellingham The Editor: Last week, 42nd district state senator Doug Ericksen accepted a post in the new president’s administration, but he did not resign from his current job of representing the people of northwest Washington. He claims he will do both jobs, flying back and forth across the country. Already this week he failed to attend a hearing in Olympia for one of his own bills. At that hearing, 51 citizens made the effort to show up, yet he did not. Senator Ericksen chairs the state Senate Energy, Environment and Telecommunications Committee but is not present to run the meetings. And we the taxpayers are still covering his $45K salary plus $120 per diem.
This is unacceptable. As a constituent of the 42nd district, I demand Senator Ericksen resign immediately so that his seat can be filled by someone who will fulfill the duty of representing me and my neighbors. Eowyn Savela Bellingham The Editor: This is a call to all those that believe that the city over enforces the H Street/Peace Portal stop sign. There are days when there is rolling stop tickets written here one right after the other, also the stop sign just south of US Customs on the truck route and no doubt other locations. I’m all for professional police work, they have a tough job sometimes and I believe in enforcement of the law and keeping the (See Letters, page 13) 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.
February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
Guest column: The Affordable Care Act is not dead yet B y U . S . C o n g r e ss m a n Rick Larsen, 2nd
mind about the Affordable Care Act. c o n g r e ss i o n a l d i s t r i c t He wrote, “… to say that my experience changed my ‘RepubLike the “dead” man scene in lican’ heart about the ACA is an the classic Monty Python film, understatement. I have a pre-exthe Affordable Care Act is not isting condition that, if not for the ACA, would otherwise redead yet. In 2009, I voted for the Afford- move me from health insurance able Care Act after hearing from coverage. The drug benefit requirement of the ACA means I more than 15,000 constituents. Largely, the legislation worked am not bankrupt from drug bills as intended. It improved Medi- I could never pay, and the removcare benefits for seniors, banned al of lifetime caps [on coverage] discrimination based on pre-ex- means I will be able to move foristing conditions and expanded ward should my leukemia recur.” And he is not alone. health care coverage for those Retirees like Debra from Maple who need it most. In Washington state, the Af- Falls also benefit. Debra and her fordable Care Act has been ex- husband require daily medicatremely successful. Over 537,000 tion. Debra wrote, “… if we did Washingtonians gained insur- not receive this assistance for my ance, roughly 3 million Wash- spouse – like reduced premiums, ingtonians with a pre-existing assistance with his prescriptions condition gained protection ... we would be living on the from insurance companies un- street.” Last week I concluded a sevfairly dropping their coverage, and 75,000 Washington seniors en-stop Affordable Care Act Tour saved $73 million on prescription of Washington’s 2nd congressional district. medication in 2015 During the tour I alone. heard from more Is the law perthan 200 constitfect? No. uents in public But repealing it forums and met without an immewith hospital diate, comprehenadministrators, sive replacement health care proplan will be a disasviders, insurers, ter and Washingpatient advocaton’s middle class cy organizations families, seniors and members of and individuals on the faith comdisability will bear munity about the brunt of the imhow Congressiopact. – U.S. Congressman nal Republican I asked Washefforts to repeal ingtonians to reach Rick Larsen the Affordable out to me and share Care Act with their stories about how they or someone they know no plan to replace it will affect has benefited from the Affordable Washingtonians. The message I am bringing Care Act. More than 400 individuals have back to D.C. is this: Washingsubmitted stories using (larsen. ton’s health care users and providers are demanding Congress house.gov/shareyourstory). Individuals like one from Bell- show them a replacement plan ingham, who told me his experi- that meets the standards of qualence with leukemia changed his ity, coverage and cost Washing-
“Health care is serious stuff. It is the difference between life and death for millions of Americans.”
NOTICE OF FLUSHING
The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system. During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at 332-8820. Leroy Dougall, Blaine Public Works.
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that the Blaine City Council will hold a public hearing at a special council meeting on Monday, February 6, 2017, at 6:00pm, in the City Council Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000, to receive comment on the City of Blaine’s proposed assumption of such rights, powers, functions, and obligations of the Blaine Transportation Benefit District pursuant to RCW 36.74 et. Seq. Interested parties are encouraged to offer testimony at the public hearing, or submit written comments which will be included in the official record. Written comments shall be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, February 6, 2017. Written comments or questions regarding this notice should be directed to Administrative Services Office, 435 Martin St. Suite 3000, Blaine, WA, 98230 or ClerkRecords@cityofblaine.com. For further information, please contact Public Works Department, 360-332-8820. The meeting location is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the administrative services office no later than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Sheri Sanchez, Administrative Services Director
s US Congressman Rick Larsen tonians have come to expect thanks to the Affordable Care Act. This includes no lifetime caps on coverage and protecting care for individuals with pre–existing conditions. A new report (bit.ly/2jsArcF) from the Congressional Budget Office shows that after the first year of repealing the Affordable Care Act consumer premiums will increase by 20-25 percent and 18 million Americans will lose health insurance – with that number climbing to 32 million by 2026. Health care is serious stuff. It is the difference between life and death for millions of Americans. At my town hall meeting in Mountlake Terrace, I told my constituents that the Affordable Care Act is not dead yet. There is plenty of fight left to be had before repeal takes place, and I am more ready than ever for that fight.
CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public.
Thursday, February 2, 10 am Public Works Advisory Committee meeting Location: 1200 Yew Ave. Monday, February 6, 6 pm Special City Council meeting and public hearing – City of Blaine’s Proposed Assumption of the Blaine Transportation Benefit District Tuesday, February 7, 3 pm Blaine Economic Development Advisory Committee Thursday, February 9, 9:30 am – Park and Cemetery Board meeting – Cemetery Fiscal Sustainability 7 pm - Planning Commission meeting – Semiahmoo County Park Equipment Cover Shoreline Permit Monday, February 13, 5 pm – Special City Council meeting and public hearing – Proposed Ballot Measure 6 pm - City Council meeting and public hearing – Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Wharf District Master Plan U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.
www.cityofblaine.com
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing regarding the approval of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment – the Wharf District Master Plan is scheduled for Monday, February 13, 2017, at 6:00pm, in the City Council
Chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000.
Interested parties are encouraged to offer testimony at the public hearing, or submit written comments which will be included in the official record. Written comments shall be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, February 13, 2017. Written comments or questions regarding this notice should be directed to
Community Development Services Director, 435 Martin St. Suite 3000, Blaine, WA, 98230 or mjones@cityofblaine.com. For further information,
please contact Community Development Services Department, 360-332-8311. The meeting location is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the Administrative Services office no later than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Sheri Sanchez, Administrative Services Director
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Blaine City Council will hold a public hearing at a special meeting on Monday, February 13, 2017, at 5:00pm, in the City of Blaine City Council chambers, Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000, to receive comment on a proposed resolution to place before the qualified electors of the City of Blaine at a special election on or about April 25, 2017, a measure that, if passed by the qualified electorate, would impose up to a two-tenths of one percent (0.002) sales and use tax within the City of Blaine boundaries. Such action will be taken pursuant to RCW 36.73 et. seq., and RCW 36.74 et. seq. Interested parties are encouraged to offer testimony at the public hearing, or submit written comments which will be included in the official record. Written comments shall be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, February 13, 2017. Written comments or questions regarding this notice should be directed to Administrative Services Office, 435 Martin St. Suite 3000, Blaine, WA, 98230 or ClerkRecords@cityofblaine.com. For further information, please contact Public Works Department, 360-332-8820. The meeting location is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the administrative services office no later than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Note: The above referenced public hearing scheduled for February 13, 2017, to be conducted by the City Council for the City of Blaine and the potential approval of the above resolution is predicated on the City of Blaine assuming the Blaine Transportation Benefit District pursuant to RCW 36.74 prior to February 13, 2017. On February 6, 2017, the City Council for the City of Blaine will consider assuming the Blaine Transportation Benefit District following a public hearing that same evening.. Sheri Sanchez, Administrative Services Director
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The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
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Blaine girls lose after starting strong against Lakewood By Oliver Lazenby With the basketball season winding down, the girls varsity team needs to win a few games to have a shot at the playoffs. The last three opponents are all teams that Blaine could beat, but in the first of three final home games on Monday, January 30, Blaine lost to Lakewood 45–34. The Borderites started strong, with Ashley Dickerson scoring four seconds into the game after snagging the tip-off from Josie Deming. But Lakewood’s offense, setting constant screens on the Borderites defense, was soon in control. Blaine trailed 21–11 at half-
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time and fell to 32–16 midway through the third quarter. “Coming back from that wasn’t an insurmountable feat,” said head coach Ryan Pike. “We have a fighter spirit on our team and we’re always going to play hard.” The Borderites brought fans to their feet midway through the fourth quarter after a nine-point scoring rally that Deming kicked off with a three-pointer. The rally brought the score to 37–33. In the final four minutes, Lakewood beat Blaine on a few crucial rebounds, smothering a potential comeback. “If we made some lay-ins that we missed, it could have been a different game,” Pike said. Blaine played aggressive defense as Lakewood tried to stall, but Lakewood’s offense drew fouls and hit free throws, propelling the team to a 45–34 win. Dickerson scored 13 points for Blaine, Deming scored 11 and Brynn Hallberg had five. If they win their remaining two games, the Borderites (5– 13 record, 0–11 in conference games) could still qualify for the post-season. The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association uses a statistical system to seed teams for playoffs, which makes it hard to know ahead of time how a team needs to do to make the cut. The Borderites next game is
s Blaine’s Ashley Dickerson passes around Lakewood’s Jelly Perry and finds Alex’s Hallberg open on January 30. Photos by Oliver Lazenby at 6 p.m. on February 2 at home against Sedro-Woolley (6–11). Their last game of the regular
season is at home on Monday, February 6 against Bellingham (1–16).
World renowned ragtime/boogie-woogie pianist Saturday, March 18, 7:30 p.m. Blaine Performing Arts Center
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s Ashley Dickerson scored 13 points against Lakewood.
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s Josie Demming scored 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.
s Ziyona Ward takes a jump shot during Blaine’s scoring rally.
February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
Blaine wrestlers headed to districts
7
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s Blaine junior Porter Schmidt wrestles an opponent from Sedro-Woolley on Monday, January 23. Blaine wrestlers are going to the district tournament this Friday and Saturday at Sedro-Woolley High School. Each school can send two wrestlers per weight class to the tournament. The top four in each bracket qualify for regionals. Regionals, the qualifiers for the state tournament, will be held at Blaine High School on Saturday, February 11. Head coach Colt Warren said if the Borderites can get healthy, their goal is a top-five team finish at state. Wrestlers battled with minor injuries and the flu throughout January. Photo by Jasmine Fritsch
Two amazing basketball shots land local sixth-grader on national news
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Art work by Senior, Lauren Kordas Arts & Jazz is an auction lover’s delight with live and silent auctions featuring donations from businesses and individuals that believe in our students as much as we do. 100% of funds raised benefit scholarships and experiences beyond the curriculum in the Blaine School District. Arts & Jazz is a community based, family fun celebration of the Fine Arts programs in the Blaine School District and is truly a highlight of the Winter calendar.
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s Blaine sixth grader Carson Lehnert made two halfcourt shots in a tournament on January 21.
Blaine School Cafeteria /PAC Admission - $ 5.00
Photo by Robert Lehnert
By Oliver Lazenby Making a halfcourt shot in basketball is rare enough that when Blaine sixth grader Carson Lehnert made two halfcourt buzzer beaters in consecutive tournament games on January 21, he made national news. His father, Robert Lehnert, sent footage of the shots, in AAU games against Stanwood and Anacortes, to local media and the next day it aired on ESPN SportsCenter’s Top 10 plays. “Carson has taken it all in stride though, and is really
quite humble about it all,” said Robert, a Blaine middle and high school teacher. That may be an understatement. “It was cool because we watch SportsCenter and the Top 10 all the time, so to see myself on there made it more fun,” Carson said about the national attention. Robert said Carson enjoys the challenge of halfcourt shots, and will often try a few after practices. “It’s just fun to him, and he realizes it’s a shot you take hardly ever in a game.”
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The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
HEALTH &
Anatomy of a heart attack – it’s different for women B y P a u l C o n n o r , M D, P e a c e H e a lt h M e d i c a l Group While both women and men can suffer heart attacks, they don’t always look the same. Often they’re not as obvious as portrayed on TV, and that’s truer for women than men. Here’s a look at what makes recognizing a heart attack so important and why noticing subtle signs is especially important for women. What to look for What does a heart attack feel like? Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom for both women and men. The pain may last a few minutes or come and go. Some people say it feels like pressure, squeezing or fullness. It may feel like an upset stomach or heartburn. “But women are more likely than men to have different heart attack signs,” said Paul Connor, MD, PeaceHealth Medical Group Cardiology in Bellingham. Those may include shortness of breath with or without chest pain, nausea, lightheadedness, vomiting, unexplained fatigue that may last for days and back, shoulder, arm or jaw pain.
Women are also at higher risk for silent heart attacks, according to some studies. This is when symptoms of a heart attack are so mild that they go unnoticed or are dismissed as anxiety. “Silent heart attacks are just as dangerous as more obvious heart attacks, though,” said Dr. Connor. “Left untreated, they can cause scarring and permanent damage, raising the risk of other heart problems.” So don’t be too quick to dismiss shortness of breath or lightheadedness as just anxiety. And make sure you tell medical professionals that you think you’re having a heart attack, not an anxiety attack. A supply problem at the pump Despite women’s more subtle symptoms, the mechanics of a heart attack are fundamentally the same for both sexes. It happens when the heart’s blood supply is reduced or cut off, most often when an artery becomes blocked. What usually sets the stage? Doctors call it atherosclerosis. It happens when arteries that bring blood to the heart slowly become clogged with plaque which can sometimes rupture. A blood clot
can form around these ruptures, causing complete obstruction of the blood flow to part or most of the heart muscle. Without prompt treatment, areas of heart muscle may die and eventually be replaced by scars. This damage could leave a heart
attack survivor with a weakened heart. “And a weak heart may not be able to pump blood to the body’s organs like it should, which could result in other quality-of-life issues,” Dr. Connor said. Quick treatment can restore
blood flow to the heart and help prevent damage. So be aware of these warning signs for both yourself and others. If there’s even a slight chance you could be having a heart attack, don’t wait. Call 911 and get to a hospital to give your heart the best chance.
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February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
WELLNESS
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Encouraging happy, healthy lives!
How to tell if you have flu, cold or stomach flu, and what to know Did you know? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most adults can infect others with the flu one day prior to developing symptoms and up to seven days after getting sick. The CDC recommends staying home if you’re sick and staying away from others who are sick. Washing your hands frequently and disinfecting highly used surfaces at home, work and school is recommended.
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While each year millions in the US are sickened during flu season, many can’t distinguish between symptoms of the seasonal strain of the flu, a cold and the “stomach flu.” Knowing the difference, and how to properly treat each virus, can speed recovery. Similar yet different While cold symptoms come on slowly and are limited to the head and upper respiratory system, flu symptoms affect the whole body and come on quickly. Telltale signs of the flu are fever and body aches. However, these are also symptoms of stomach flu, which isn’t related to a flu virus at all. Common viruses that wreak havoc on the digestive system include the norovirus and the rotavirus. Ironically, an immune system weakened by seasonal flu can leave you vulnerable to these so-called stomach flu viruses. What you need to know Although high fever and body aches occur with both seasonal flu and viruses that attack the gastrointestinal system, these symptoms are more prevalent and severe in seasonal flu cases, and are accompanied by fatigue and headache. The norovirus and the rotavirus both get the misnomer “stomach flu” from primary symptoms being watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea or vomiting. Fever and body aches can also occur but are milder. No matter what the cause of a fever, it’s best to monitor your temperature. See a healthcare professional if a fever is too high or lingers for days. Treatment The key is to act quickly when symptoms surface, nipping them in the bud in a way that won’t interact with other medications or cause unwanted side effects like drowsiness. For stomach flu, stop eating solid food for a few hours. This will help settle your stomach. Then – stick to foods that are easy to digest, such as toast, gelatin, bananas, rice and chicken – avoiding fatty or spicy options. Stop eating if nausea occurs. Additionally, ibuprofen may upset the stomach, and anti-diarrheal medications may slow down the elimination of the virus. Trust the body’s natural process. No matter what ails you, Vitamins D and C are important when you are recovering, helping to boost immunity. Remember, antibiotics do not treat viruses and their overuse contribute to the spread of the superbug, a strain of bacteria that becomes resistant to antibiotic drugs. Seasonal illnesses such as the flu, cold and gastrointestinal viruses are not only painful and unpleasant, they can be dangerous. Take precautions to stay healthy, and remember to treat symptoms right away. Courtesy of StatePoint
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10
The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
New Birch Bay deputy sits down with The Northern Light Birch Bay, there’s a new deputy in town. In January, Mike King accepted a new assignment with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office and transferred his Birch Bay role to deputy Todd Damon. Prior to relocating, Damon served as a sheriff’s deputy in Newhalem and Maple Falls. Weeks into his new role, Damon sat down with The Northern Light to talk about his intentions for the future. What brought you to Whatcom County? I’m originally from the Lynnwood area. I came up here when I got out of the military and went to Whatcom Community College. Please describe your experience with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. I’ve been with the sheriff’s office since 1998 – 17 of those years have been on patrol. I worked in the Whatcom County Jail for about a year and a half before I worked on patrol. How many officers are assigned
to patrol Birch Bay? We have just the one position, the Birch Bay neighborhood deputy. That’s me all the time. What are the most pressing crime issues impacting Birch Bay lately? Is theft a problem? We used to have a rash of property crimes on mostly the vacation homes. We’ve cut down on that a lot I think since we’ve had a deputy out full-time in Birch Bay. Before, you’d call 911, get whoever was on that day and then you’d probably never seen that deputy again. As a neighborhood deputy, are relationships with the community important? If so, how have you fostered those connections? We found that people are more willing to contact you and tell you about things when they see the same face all the time – it’s a person, not just the sheriff’s office. I tell people that when communities successfully lower their crime rates, it’s because people take ownership of their community.
If they see problems, they try to come together with their neighbors to solve them. I’m one person out of how many thousands of people in Birch Bay? We can’t solve all the problems so we need people, the community, to police itself in some respects. In my past position, I was on the neighborhood email distribution letter. I always include myself on that so I know what is going on. The citizens live there all the time. They know what looks normal. For a lot of people, their only interaction or experience with a sheriff’s officer or law enforcement is something negative – either they got stopped for a speeding violation or they had a domestic disturbance at their house [for example]. For many people, their interaction unfortunately is only negative. They don’t get to see the good side of law enforcement, so we try to interact with people. When is the right time to call
The Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce is Proud to Present
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Come sample the finest cuisine that Blaine has to offer! Taste food from these 14 different area businesses and enjoy an evening of great tastes and good company while supporting Blaine’s Fourth of July Fireworks!
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s Birch Bay’s new neighborhood deputy, Todd Damon.
Photo by Stefanie Donahue
you, versus 911? If you think you should call 911, you should probably call. That’s how it is. If it doesn’t turn out to be an emergency, that’s fine. I give out business cards telling people you can email me, but I always say for non-emergency stuff. I work four days a week. If I’m not in the area, or really available, the 911 call will go out to whoever’s working the area car. Email is really good because I have the computer in my car. I see that regularly. Typically, I’m only checking my voicemail
once a day. You have to report it. If you don’t tell us, we don’t know. Any final comments? I’m happy to be here. It seems like you guys have a great community and I hope to work together and make it better. How to contact your neighborhood deputy, Todd Damon: Email: tdamon@co.whatcom. wa.us Phone: 360/778-6600
NWFR commissioner censured by district board Following a raucous end to the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) board meeting on January 19, board members held a special meeting at which they voted to publicly censure fellow commissioner Dean Berkeley. Commissioners voted unanimously on January 26 to censure Berkeley, who “is no longer authorized to represent North Whatcom Fire and Rescue at the Cross Border Meetings or any other meetings where he speaks as a representative of the district.” Commissioners also voted to remove Berkeley from all assigned district committees. The action was taken in response to Berkeley’s actions at a regular meeting on January 19, when Berkeley spoke out during a public comment period. “Well, this is going to be interesting,” he said to commissioners.
“I don’t know where to start.” He proceeded to accuse a member of the audience of slander based on comments made at a board meeting in October. “We have a liar in our midst here,” he said. Berkeley then proceeded to engage in a short dialogue with that individual which led to a heated interchange between him and fellow commissioners who then abruptly adjourned the meeting. “There is nothing the four of us can do except what we are currently doing tonight,” said commissioner Bruce Ansell. “Basically what we’re doing tonight is saying [Berkeley] did a bad thing and [he] shouldn’t do it anymore.” Berkeley was not present at the NWFR special meeting on January 26. In a phone call with The Northern Light, Berkeley said he was unaware of the meeting and had no comment.
Bellingham solar company gets $125,000 workforce training grant Bellingham solar panel manufacturer Itek Energy got a $125,000 workforce development grant to train its current workers and up to 40 new hires. Itek currently employees 85 full-time workers The Port of Bellingham secured the grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce, according to a press release from the port. “Itek Energy is a terrific local success story,” said port commission president Dan Robbins in the press release. “Each year they have expanded their workforce creating new job opportunities for the citizens of Whatcom County.” Itek will need the employee training funds as it transitions into
a new 48,000-square-foot warehouse on 2 acres that the company bought from the port last October. The company hopes to be up and running at its new facility at 800 Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham later this year. In addition to training new workers, the grant will help Itek streamline operations, increase efficiency and reduce costs, the news release said. “Workforce development grants are an effective tool for creating and retaining high-skill advanced manufacturing jobs that will keep Washington companies competitive in the global marketplace,” said Brian Bonlender, Washington State Department of Commerce director.
February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
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12
The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
Real Estate NEW LISTINGS COMING MARCH 1ST
SEMIAHMOO SHORE! 1-5 9423 Turnstone Lane SUN OPEN $1,150,000 Semiahmoo Shore gated waterfront residence w/guest Casita. Brand new artisan quality construction w/ designer interiors. Minutes to border, 2 hours to Seattle.
BEST VIEWS IN BIRCH BAY WATER FRONT • WATER VIEW
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838
briansouthwick@gmail.com
lisasprague@windermere.com
BIRCH BAY VILLAGE LOT 0 Chilliwack Road $49,000
Y
SUNN
TE
SI HOME
Homesite w/approx 9,000 s.f. Electricity, natural gas, water & sewer in street. Gated community with 24-hour patrolled security, private marina, golf course, tennis courts, club house, swimming pool.
Laura Marshall 360-303-9434
NEW PRICE! 5507 Maple Way $999,900
OP
T NOO EN SA
500 Fieldstone Loop $295,000
N
IST EW L
ING!
Beautifully maintained home located just across from the clubhouse on Fieldstone. Covered front porch with view of golf course, 3-BR, 2.5-BA, gas fireplace, hardwood floors. A/C, central vacuum. 2-car gar.
S
D OL
!
Billy Brown 360-220-7175 billybrown@windermere.com
N-2
Unbelievable view property! Beautifully crafted custom 2-BR. 2.25-BA Moceri-built 2700+ s.f. home. South facing waterfront overlooking San Juan Is, Georgia Str. Open great room w/walls of windows. Gated, steps to 111’ of private beach.
Randy Weg 360-305-5704
randyweg@windermere.com
lauramarshallteam@gmail.com
OVER 55+ COMMUNITY
BLAINE CONDO! 953 3rd St. #101 $159,900
AFFO
RD
RV WATE ABLE
IEW!
2 bed/1.75 bath condo in the heart of Blaine! Granite kitchen counter tops, Stainless appliances, Master bath with walk-in closet, Covered Patio, and 1 block from water. Easy commute to Bellingham or B.C. Canada. MLS #1054562
Suzanne Dougan 360-920-7733 dougan@windermere.com
COUNTRY LIVING! 4003 Hoier Rd. • $449,500 Creek front, access to the bay, 3-bay shop with loft ideal for anyone who has a hobby that requires a little extra space. Country living with extra elbow room.
Cole Markusen 360-389-3696 cole@windermere.com
Over a century of combined experience with Blaine and Birch Bay Real Estate • 8105 Birch Bay Square • I-5 Exit 270 • Blaine
BIRCH BAY VILLAGE NEW LISTING! 8269 Cowichan
$479,000
SOLD by Jen and Leah in January!
Inventory Levels are LOW. It may be cold outside but the real estate market is HOT! Call/Text us to find out what we will do to get your house sold TODAY! Why wait until Spring to sell when everyone else has the same idea? In this low inventory market, the time is right now. We are ready, if you are! **FREE 1 year buyer HOME WARRANTY if we list your house by 3/15/17**
Jen Freeman 360.815.0803
Leah Crews 360.305.4747
Hugh Sells Homes & Wants to SELL yours!
Rentals - Rooms
Let 27 years of experience work for you!
360.371.5800
www.CallHugh.com
Call Hugh BIRCH BAY VILLAGE $105,000 Mt. Baker views! LAKEFRONT LOT Chehalis Rd. #40 • 30’ Lakefront • Water & Sewer Available Electric, Gas, Hi-speed Internet • Possible Land/Home Package!
3-BR, 2.5-BA brand new one level on the golf course. Architecturally designed & quality construction. Fireplace, 9’ and 11’ceilings, granite counter tops. Sunsets from southfacing deck, lot with green belt area next to it makes this a hard to find property. Designed with large windows to capture the sunlight summer or winter. Master bath has heated tile floor, separate shower and free-standing tub. MLS# 1066406
Gerry Allen 360-920-0563 GerryAllen@windermere.com
Rentals - Residential
DRAYTON HARBOR REALTY
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BLAINE 3-BR, 1-BA, Great older home, spacious, with sunroom. 892 Harrison Ave. $1050/mo.
BIRCH BAY
2-BR, 2-BA home with great views of Birch Bay $1050/mo.
2-BR, 1-BA Bungalow w/carport. Great
location in Birch Bay Village. $895/mo.
3-BR, 2-BA in Birch Bay Village w/outstanding view of lakes, bay and Mt. Baker. $1495/mo. 1-BR Park Model at Latitude 49. $695/mo. N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,
360-332-3166
All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper are subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, All real estate/rentals advertismakes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handing which in this newspaper is subject icap, familial orAct national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This to the Federal Fairstatus Housing newspaper will notitknowingly accept any advertisement for real estate is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby of 1968 as amended, which makes illegal informed that dwellings limitation advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call to advertise anyallpreference, or discrimination on race, color, religion, HUD toll-freebased at 1-800-877-0246. 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.
Waterfront professional office space for lease
Commercial
COMMERCIAL
916 VIRGINIA $250,000 In Sunnyland neighborhood. 2-BR, 1-BA, hardwood under carpet, 1928 charm & 2-car gar. New roof and gutters.
NEW LISTINGS! SCREAMIN’ DEAL!
Semiahmoo Marina Boat Slips • 36’ - 50” $12,500 - $45,000
NEW! 40’ BOAT SLIP ONLY $16,900
SEMIAHMOO MARINA • $29,500 44’ BOAT SLIP 9540 Semiahmoo D-7 • Possible Owner Financing Peaceful & Serene gated community, 64 acres+/-
Northwest Contemporary
8645 Drayton Harbor Lane $750,000
2 acres • Bay & Mountain Views! Call Brian or Linda to explore today!
(360) 815-6638
Linda Kiens
270 C St. • Blaine
$495,000 6000 sq.ft. building along with a 3000 sq. ft. whse for sale Close to I-5 and US/ Canadian Customs-many possible uses.
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION Sam Freeman 360-201-2428 360-332-6400 Find it in the Classifieds!
(360) 815-6640
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.
for more information call 360/332-1777
February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
Letters ... From page 4
peace. That said, the day after Christmas, MLK day and around New Year, a particular officer lays in wait and poaches this intersection at H street and Peace Portal Drive. I’ve had customers from out of town tell me they rarely come downtown anymore, because of these kinds of ridiculous petty rolling stop tickets. Another customer and I were standing in front of my store watching all the police lights one right after the other, and she said, “That can’t be good for business” Exactly, it is real bad for business. The day after MLK day, I had two folks in my shop the entire day. This type of action is helping turn downtown into a ghost town! I am hoping others show up and speak out protesting this over aggressive action. This over enforcement sends a loud message to those visiting our town and is bad for business. Please show support for a successful downtown and come to the meeting at Blaine council chambers on February 27 at 6 p.m. Bill Becht Blaine The Editor: A phone call from a friend reminded me of the severe depression and conflict that has enveloped this country. We seem to have become polarized to the point of constant angst. For perspective, think about the electorate’s 42 percent turnout. Of that embarrassingly small turnout, less than 50 percent actually voted for our President. This small percentage is far less than 1/4 of all citizens, just counting registered voters! Most people in this country are people of good will who, if looking at the economic consequences of knee-jerk policy, understand that citizens all share our ship of state. The Women’s March demonstrated the larger will of the majority, showing once more that a vocal, active, well organized 3 percent of any population can actual-
ly move the total. Lift your spirits, and remember that this country is peopled with steadfast, courageous, caring people, unfortunately many of whom did not vote. As a country, most of us are more concerned with terrorists than immigrants, jobs more than competition for those jobs and the environment more than a quick, short-term, comfortable answer to habits of lifestyle. Take heart – if we will communicate without vitriol, we can do this country and ourselves the justice of the American Way. Donna Starr Blaine The Editor: This letter is in response to one written last week by Mickey Masdeo. Mr. Masdeo made the point that if the California votes were not counted in the presidential elections, then Donald Trump would have won the popular vote. I find it hard to understand the relevance of the comment. Californians voted, as did the people of Missouri, New Hampshire, Texas and all of the other states of this nation. Clinton won the popular vote, Trump the electoral college, by law Trump is President, period. I agree with Mr. Masdeo on that point. But when he goes on to state that “...everyone should support the new President and move on with your lives,” I become confused. Does he mean that we should support Trump the same way that Trump supported President Obama when Obama won the presidency? You remember that, don’t you? Trump suggested that Obama wasn’t a U.S. citizen. He claimed, for years, that Obama was born in Kenya and that he didn’t have a right to be President. He did this even after Obama produced his birth certificate. Should I support him that way? Or should I support him in the same way that you support the U.S. Postal Service? Are you saying, Mr. Masdeo, that it is my duty to support a person whose policies would, I believe, be harmful to the well being of my grandchildren, to the country and to the world? Am I obliged to support some-
one who has bragged about sexually assaulting women and who wants to overturn Roe vs Wade? Someone who thinks we should build up an already over bloated military industrial complex? Someone who claimed that climate change science is a hoax and who wants to get rid of the EPA? Someone who has repeatedly been proven to lie? Someone who wants to build walls, torture other human beings and promote fear? Sorry, I can’t do that. But as you suggest, I will “... get on with my life.” Part of that life will be as Paula and Michael Smith suggested, “Fight for economic, racial, social and environmental justice.” Jim Agnello Birch Bay The Editor and Blaine boating community: It has recently come to our attention that a marine storage and repair facility proposal in Blaine Harbor is being considered. This project is inconsistent with the 2007 Wharf District Master Plan in place at this time. The facility could negatively impact accessibility and use of the Blaine public boat launch. Please stay apprised of the process by Blaine City Council and the planning commission. We as a boating community cannot afford to lose this public launch. City council’s public hearing on the proposal to amend the Wharf District Master Plan is scheduled for Monday, February 13, 6 p.m., 435 Martin Street, 4th floor. David W. Carr Blaine The Editor: As a constituent of Washington’s 42nd Legislative District, I was alarmed to learn that my state senator, Doug Ericksen, is almost entirely absent from his duties in Olympia. He recently took a position with the US EPA, but has declined to resign his state senate seat. That means we are still paying him at the rate of $45,000/ year, and possibly also $120/day per diem, plus travel expenses, while he is working in D.C. for the federal government and collecting a second paycheck there. He has cancelled the majority
Wildlife expert to discuss oil spill prevention, risks to the Salish Sea B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Melanie Driscoll – a wildlife expert who was involved in the response to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill – will lead an upcoming public discussion about oil spill preparedness and prevention as well as risks facing Native Americans and vulnerable communities of the Salish Sea. The discussion, “Deepwater Horizon disaster: How oil spills affect local people and wildlife,” will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, February 15 at the Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room in the Old City Hall building, located at 121 Prospect Street in Bellingham. Driscoll is the director of bird conservation for the Gulf Coast and Mississippi Flyway for the Na-
of his meetings in Olympia and neglected to show up for hearings (even on a bill for which he was the sole sponsor). Ericksen’s team claims this arrangement is legal, but our state constitution seems pretty clear, Article II Section 14 states: “No person, being a member of congress, or holding any civil or military office under the United States or any other power, shall be eligible to be a member of the legislature.”
If Senator Ericksen resigned his senate seat, his replacement would be nominated by the local Republican Party and his constituents would have authentic representation in Olympia. We are paying twice and Ericksen is obstructing progress in our state, wasting the time of other state senators as well. Senator Ericksen should resign. Elizabeth Hartsoch Bellingham
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
DIRECTORY Please visit us at
BlaineHarborDental.com 360-332-2400 • Certified Health Department O&M Inspections
• Multiple House Discounts Owned & Operated by Blaine Resident Certified Septic Contractors
• Local Full Service Septic Company
ALL OF WHATCOM COUNTY • (360) 671-1307
septicplus@comcast.net
WHATCOM COUNTY Proud supporters of the Blaine Community! Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Modern Equipment • Safety Checks • Locally Owned & Operated
360 332-3121
Fill your bottles - Easy RV access
2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine
This space can be yours for only $37 per week. 13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve.
Dining Guide Breakfast Lunch Dinner 360-778-3826
4823 Alderson Road, Birch Bay
s Melanie Driscoll
Wheel House Bar & Grill 746 Peace Portal Drive Downtown Blaine
360-332-3512
Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 332-4045
Photo courtesy of Re Sources for Sustainable Communities
tional Audubon Society. In 2010, she led the organization’s conservation efforts following the BP spill in the Gulf of Mexico — the historic event still stands as the largest oil spill in U.S. water on record. Her upcoming discussion will pull from her years’ of experience sur-
veying and interpreting data from areas impacted by the spill. The event is sponsored by the North Cascades Audubon Society and Bellingham-based RE Sources for Sustainable Communities. To learn more, visit re-sources. org/events.
13
Sunday-Tuesday 7am-3pm Wednesday-Saturday 7am-8pm
332-3540 234 D Street, Blaine
Great weekly SPECIALS! Farm Store & Country Café Open 8 - 5 Wed - Sun 6140 Guide Meridian
360-318-7720
BellewoodFarms.com
14
The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
Coming up
Police Reports January 25, 4:20 p.m.: Officers responded to a physical domestic dispute in progress at a residence. Officers arrived and met with the father and adult son who had been in a physical altercation. Officers determined the son had assaulted the father and was the primary aggressor. The 36-year-old man was arrested and later booked into jail for domestic violence assault fourth degree. January 26, 8:21 a.m.: An officer responded to a reported court order violation that occurred at the high school. The suspect has a valid domestic violence no contact order protecting two current high school students and prohibiting him from being within 500 feet of the school campus. On this particular day he ignored that court order and drove into the high school parking lot to drop off his girlfriend. Officers have probable cause for the 19-year-old’s arrest and are attempting to locate him. January 26, 9:20 a.m.: While at the high school on an unrelated matter, an officer learned a student had been assaulted by her boyfriend the previous day. The officer spoke with the victim, the suspect and two witnesses to the incident and determined an assault had taken place. The 16-year-old boyfriend was arrested for assault fourth degree domestic violence and
booked into juvenile detention. Incidents Summary Report January 2017 January 28, 4:15 a.m.: An officer was flagged down in the 911 Hang Up 4 300 block of D Street by a per- Animal Complaint 3 son wishing to report a domestic Assist Citizen 34 violence assault which had just Assist NWFRS (Aid/Fire) 28 18 occurred. A 10-year-old child re- Assist other Law Enforcement 15 quired medical attention as a re- Building Alarm Code Violations 4 sult of the incident. The suspect Building Burglary 2 fled the scene prior to police ar- Child Abuse/Neglect 1 rival. Probable cause was posted Civil Matter 11 for the arrest of the 35-year-old Collision 5 5 suspect, and police are attempt- Concealed Pistol License Issued Counterfeit Possess/Pass 1 ing to locate him. Disturbing Peace/Disorderly Conduct 9 January 28, 11:53 a.m.: Offi- Driving While License Suspended 17 cers were dispatched to a report Drug Violation 6 of a verbal domestic dispute in DV Assault/Order Violation/Other 9 progress that was possibly turn- Fraud/Forgery 1 ing physical. Officers arrived Harassment 6 and Run 4 and contacted the involved cou- Hit Illegal Dumping 1 ple. Following an investigation, Juvenile Problem/Truancy 3 it was determined the woman Lewd Act 1 13 had been the primary aggressor Maliscious Mischief 6 and had assaulted the father of Mental Health Concern 2 her children. She was arrested Minor In Possession Missing Person/Runaway 1 and booked into the Whatcom Property Lost/Found/Abandoned 9 County Jail. Public Record Request 28 January 30, 1:24 a.m.: A per- Rape 1 1 son was stopped at the Peace Security Check 1 Arch port of entry for having an Suicidal Subject Suspicious Circumstance 21 active Blaine Municipal Court Theft/Shoplifting/Vehicle Prowl 10 warrant. Not only did the person Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1 have a warrant, but the 23-year- Threats 2 old Richmond, BC resident Traffic Complaint (Moving/Parking) 16 2 was also found to be in posses- Transient Complaint 2 sion of several baggies of what Trespass Issued Trespass Committed (Criminal) 1 field tested positive for meth- Warrant/Court Order 23 amphetamine, as well as drug Welfare Check 6 paraphernalia. He was arrestReport provided by the Blaine ed and booked into Whatcom police department. A full listing can be found at thenorthernlight.com. County Jail.
Crossword
ACROSS 1. Chest protector 4. “Dang!” 8. Back talk 12. Coastal raptor 13. Its motto is “Lux et veritas” 14. Grant 16. Covet 17. Barbra’s “A Star Is Born” co-star 18. Car dealer’s offering 19. Barely get, with “out” 20. Drone, e.g. 21. “For shame!” 23. Ale holder 24. Conductor Koussevitzky 26. Cable network 28. Back, in a way 30. Appropriate 32. Buttonhole, e.g. 36. Clash 39. At liberty 41. Conceal 42. ___ and cheese 43. Beat 45. Barbie’s beau 46. ...
48. Banquet 49. Fly, e.g. 50. French door part 51. Golf ball support 52. Car accessory 54. “The Three Faces of __” 56. Relating to algae 60. “Chicago” lyricist 63. Setting for TV’s “Newhart” 65. Convened 67. “___ to Billie Joe” 68. Semisynthetic textile filament 70. Airy 72. “How ___!” 73. Admittance 74. Cost of living? 75. Long, long time 76. Fall (over) 77. Buddy 78. The “p” in m.p.g.
36. 37. 38. 40. 44. 47. 49. 51. 53. 55. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 64. 65. 66. 69. 71. 72.
4. An embankment 5. Pink, as a steak 6. “Aladdin” prince 7. Makeup, e.g. 8. Corporate department 9. A pint, maybe 10. High-five, e.g. 11. Comme ci, comme ca (hyphenated) 12. Lady bighorns 15. All ___ 20. Beseech 22. Away 25. Gangster’s gun 27. ___ Wednesday 29. “How ___ Has the Banshee Cried” (Thomas Moore poem) 30. Cliffside dwelling 31. Hammer part 33. Go for 34. Bad day for Caesar 35. Camping gear FedEx, say Legal prefix Call from the flock Carnival attraction Center of a ball? “Comprende?” Amigo Big ___ Conference Backstabber What records are made of Overcharge Calculator, at times Bottom of the barrel “... ___ he drove out of sight” Billiard cushion Information unit “Cheers” regular Cast A chip, maybe Bauxite, e.g. ___ green 50 Cent piece
DOWN 1. Slow 2. ___ tube 3. “Wanna ___?”
FIND CROSSWORD ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
Tides Febrary 3–February 9 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 3
3:07 am 3.4
9:45 am 9.7
4:48 pm 2.1
11:06 pm 6.8
Sa 4
4:01 am 4.7
10:25 am 9.6
5:48 pm 1.2
Su 5 12:50 am 7.2
5:11 am 5.8
11:09 am 9.5
6:50 pm 0.4
Mo 6 2:22 am 7.9
6:35 am 6.6
12:03 pm 9.4
7:48 pm -0.4
Tu 7
3:30 am 8.7
8:01 am 6.8
1:03 pm 9.2
8:44 pm -1.0
We 8 4:22 am 9.3
9:15 am 6.7
2:07 pm 9.2
9:36 pm -1.4
Th 9
5:06 am 9.8
10:17 am 6.3
3:07 pm 9.1
10:24 pm -1.4
Weather
Needlework at the Library: Thursday, February 2, 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. First Friday Entertainment Featuring Swil Kanim: Friday, February 3, 7 p.m., Lummi Te’Ti’Sen Center, 4920 Rural Avenue, Ferndale. Enjoy music, stories and complimentary light hors d’oeuvres. Sponsored by Lummi CDFI and Lotus Coffee. Info: 306-8554. Saving Your Favorite Fruit Tree by Grafting: Saturday, February 4, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to harvest scionwood from your favorite fruit tree and graft it onto rootstock. Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: Kelle Sunter, 332-7435. Native Arts and Small Business Fair: Saturday, February 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Lummi Te’Ti’Sen Center, 4920 Rural Avenue, Ferndale. Sponsored by Lummi Cultural Arts Association. Info: 306-8554. Yo-Yo Fun: Saturday, February 4, 1–2:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn yo-yo tricks like Gravity Pull and Rock the Baby with Tucker Jensen. Yo-yos available. For all ages. Info: 305-3637. Jumbo Poker Tournament: Saturday, February 4, 2 p.m., Wheel House Bar & Grill, 746 Peace Portal Drive. $100 buy-in. Info: 332-3512. Arts and Jazz: Saturday, February 4, 7 p.m., Blaine PAC and Blaine schools cafeteria. Live and silent auctions with performances by the Blaine High School wind ensemble and displays by the art and drama students. Admission $5. Info: Christy Imperio, 210-4100 or Dorita Gray, 380-1634. Jazz Performance by KODJ: Saturday, February 4, 8 p.m., Pastime Bar & Eatery, 658 Peace Portal Drive. Info: 360-3194. Super Bowl at Paso: Sunday, February 5, Paso del Norte, 758 Peace Portal Drive. Food and drink specials in the bar. Info: 332-4045. Super Bowl Party: Sunday, February 5, Wheel House Bar & Grill, 746 Peace Portal Drive. Food and drink specials plus giveaways. Info: 332-3512. Pastime’s Super Bowl Party: Sunday, February 5, Pastime Bar & Eatery, 658 Peace Portal Drive. Happy hour food and drink specials during the game. Info: 306-3194. Public Hearing: Monday, February 6, 6 p.m., city council chambers, 435 Martin Street, suite 4000. Council will receive comment on the proposed assumption of rights, powers, functions and obligations of the Transportation Benefit District. Info: cityofblaine.com. Pruning 101: Wednesday, February 8, 4–6 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn about the growth habits of trees and bushes, why prune, the right tools, how to get overgrown trees back in shape and how to creatively use clippings. Program will repeat on Saturday. Presented by the Blaine CORE. Info: Kelle Sunter 332-7435. Stuffed Animal Storytime: Thursday, February 9, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Bring your stuffies and cozy up for bedtime stories and music with Dana Cohenour. For ages 3 to 8. Info: 305-3637. Feel the Love Bake Sale: Friday, February 10, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Show your Valentine love a for the library by supporting this Friends of the Library bake sale. Info: 305-3637. Cupcake Wars: A Cupcake Competition: Friday, February 10, 2 to 6 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Create your best cupcake and compete with other bakers for the Cupcake Crown! Entries must be submitted between 2 and 5 p.m. Judging begins at 5:15. Info: 305-3637. Backstage at the Border Presents Kelley Porter and Susan Thomson: Saturday, February 11, 7–9 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street, Blaine. Join Susan and Kelley singing favorite songs as though we were all in our living room. Fundraiser for Community Assistance Program. Life Line Screening: Monday, February 13, American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. Learn about your risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and other chronic conditions. Packages start at $149. Info: lifelinescreening.com. Public Hearing: Monday, February 6, 5 p.m., City council chambers, 435 Martin Street, suite 4000. Special council meeting to receive comment on a proposed two-tenths of 1 percent sales and use tax. Info: cityofblaine.com. Public Hearing: Monday, February 13, 6 p.m., City council chambers, 435 Martin Street, suite 4000. Topic: Comprehensive Plan Amendment of the Wharf District Master Plan. Info: cityofblaine.com. Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Meeting: Thursday, February 16, Bob’s Burgers & Brew, 8120 Birch Bay Square Street. Info: birchbaychamber.com. Bite of Blaine: Monday, February 20, Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. No-host social at 6 p.m., food tasting at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy food from local restaurants with silent and live auctions. Proceeds benefit Blaine’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July. Tickets $30 available at Pacific Building Center and Blaine Visitor Information Center. Info: blainechamber.com.
Ongoing
Precipitation: During the period of January 24 to January 30 .04 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2017 year-to-date precipitation is 1.79 inches.
Birch Bay Activity Center Events: 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay. Pound Fit, pickleball, yoga, Country Heat and Total Barre Basics. Days and times: bbbparkandrec.com.
Temperature: High for the past week was 57.4°F on January 27 with a low of 30.2°F on January 24. Average high was 48.4°12 and average low was 34.9°F.
Al-Anon Meetings: Tuesday, 1–2 p.m., Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt, 456 C Street, Blaine. Open to all. Info: 332-8248.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
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.
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. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
February 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com
15
Images of a protest Continued from page 1
s Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at Peace Arch Park to protest an immigration order signed by President Donald Trump.
s Protesters listening to speakers on January 29.
PHAT PANDA
s Protesters hoist signs in front of a line of drivers on their way into the US.
s Musician Dave Lyon sings to the crowd.
Photos by Jack Kintner
THE PACIFIC SHOWROOM
DON MCLEAN
MARCH 17 & 18 Hits Include: “AMERICAN PIE” “VINCENT”
Buds • Edibles • Waxes Oils • Topicals
CYCLOPS CINDERELLA 99
10 3.5g for $ 34 1g for $
Out the door. While supplies last!
Chocolate Goodies & More for your Valentine!
Expires 2/9/17.
Canada U.S.A. D Street H Street
Blaine Pea c
e Po
rtal
Dr.
Hours: Mon-Sat 9-10pm • Sun 9-8pm
922 Peace Portal Drive, Downtown Blaine 360-332-8922 Must be 21+ This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
Tickets From: $40 Service Charge Free at Casino Box Office
C ASINO • RESORT Owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe
theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 Must be 21 or older with valid ID. Details at Rewards Club. Management reserves all rights.
16
The Northern Light • February 2 - 8, 2017
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$479,985.63
WON THIS PAST WEEK JANUARY 23RD FERNDALE, WA
JANUARY 25TH BELLINGHAM, WA
JANUARY 30TH BURNABY, BC
JANUARY 30TH BLAINE, WA
GONG XI FA CAI
EAGLES HERITAGE
GOOD CENTS PROGRESSIVE
SUPER MONOPOLY MONEY
JANUARY 26TH BLAINE, WA
JANUARY 26TH CHILLIWACK, BC
JANUARY 27TH PHARR, TX
100 LIONS
JACKPOT VAULT
$11,054.81
$10,000.00
EAGLES HERITAGE
$10,000.00
$6,020.00
$7,166.63
$8,330.89
$5,002.50
Owned & Operated by the Lummi Nation
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