The Northern Light_September 27 by Point Roberts Press

Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017

FREE

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Driver dies in crash Suzan DelBene visits Blaine Borderite football team for public forum, page 4 loses to Bellingham, page 6 south of Blaine, page 13

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

Blaine City The Vault Wine Bar and Event Space now open Council appoints new member B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e

(See City, page 3)

s The Vault Wine Bar and Event Space, located at 277 G Street in Blaine, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 21. From l., Harry Robinson, Luke Button, Jacob Finston, Alan Finston, Isabelle Finston, Jule Button and Joni Finston. Photo by Stefanie Donahue

Birch Bay berm construction project facing more delays By Oliver Lazenby Construction on the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility, also known as the Birch Bay berm, will likely be postponed until next year. While the protect was originally supposed to start in September, Whatcom County doesn’t have the permits and property easements it needs to begin work on the 1.58 mile-long beach revitalization project. The project aims to protect the beach from floods and storm surges by adding about 130,000 cubic yards of material

to create a more natural beach and safer paths for pedestrians and bicyclists. It’s the second year in a row the project didn’t start as scheduled. The same thing happened for the same reasons in 2016. The $11.5 million project was first proposed in 1975 as a way to restore the beach after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers removed between 200,000 and 300,000 cubic feet of material from the beach for the Blaine Air Force Station and other facilities in the early 1950s. In the last year, the county has obtained 22 easements but still needs easements

Horizon at Semiahmoo project strides forward B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e The gears are finally turning on the Horizon at Semiahmoo development project and this time the firm that owns the property is promising a more affordable price tag for single-family homes the developer plans to build over the next few years. Horizon at Semiahmoo was acclaimed as the area’s first residential mixed-use development project to use building and

land-use strategies that combine contemporary architecture with sustainable design, according to early site plans from 2008. Seventy-five lots ranging 2,000 to 4,000 square feet in size were set aside for the construction of single family homes. Condominium, cluster houses and mixeduse retail would occupy the remaining portions of the property. A model home and sales center was built after the plans were released in 2008 and has been vacant ever since. Over the

years, the development was swallowed by overgrown foliage and hit by vandals. At one point, the property was listed for $46 million with $35 million indebted against it. After the U.S. housing market crashed, it was sold to Everett-based Frontier Bank, which went under in 2010, and later San Francisco-based Union Bank. North America CC Chang Jiang Investment, LLP, a Canadian firm, purchased the property for

from six owners of 10 properties. Owners of six of those parcels have agreed to a price but are waiting for their lawyers to approve, said Cody Swan, project engineer for Whatcom County Public Works. The project will pass over 40 separate properties. “Negotiations for any kind of property rights can be lengthy and obtaining easements over waterfront property that is valuable and that in many cases involves multiple vested property owners, lengthens the negotiation time,” Swan said in an email. (See Berm, page 3)

Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Coming Up . . . . . 14 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

INSIDE

Blaine City Council is back to fullstrength after a string of applicant interviews and deliberations enabled councilmembers to appoint a seventh member this week. Nine applicants vying to fill a vacant position on council took part in interviews that focused on their community involvement, qualifications and vision for Blaine’s economic future. After a 40-minute closed session on Monday, September 25, four out of the six sitting city councilmembers voted to appoint Meg Olson to Position 3, representing Ward 2; both Harry Robinson and Bonnie Onyon voted in opposition. “I love community and I love collaboration for the betterment of my community,” Olson said to the council during her interview. “I feel strongly that neighbors should help neighbors and serving on Blaine City Council is one of the higher forms of simple neighborliness.” The seat became vacant after long-serving public official Dennis Olason announced his resignation in August, citing health concerns. Olson will fulfill the remainder of his term, expiring December 31, 2019. She is now one of two city councilmembers who represent Ward 2, which includes all of the area within city limits that lies south of H Street, excluding areas west of Peace Portal and north of Boblett Street. Olson moved to Blaine with her husband and two children about three years ago, after living in Point Roberts for 20 years. Her ties to both communities stem from her years of experience as an editor and reporter for Point Roberts Press, which publishes The Northern Light and All Point Bulletin, among other publications. Olson reported for The Northern Light from 1996 to 2006. Since then, she’s continued to write for the All Point Bulletin newspaper, serving Point Roberts. During her interview with the Blaine

TheNorthernLight.com

(See Horizon, page 2) TheNorthernLight

@TNLreporter

@PointRobertsPress

The Northern Light • Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017

Fall Festival Saturday, October 7 2 pm - Presentation on Eleanor Roosevelt

4 pm - Kids Crafts, Bouncy House (weather depending) & Fun Refreshments & Freshly-made Apple Cider

5 pm - Community Chili Cook Off 6 pm - Community Pie Baking Contest All Are Welcome! For info, Call 360-332-6589

Grace Lutheran Church "We Are Grace" 702 G Street • www.blaine-grace-lutheran.org

Is proud to present:

Presents our SEASON FINALE!

Downtown Mountain Boys

Horizon ... From page 1

$5.88 million in January 2013. Now with the market on the mend, the owner believes it is the right time to set plans for the site in motion, said Keller Williams Western Realty realtor, Judy Bracken-Commissaris. North America CC Chang Jiang Investment, LLP intends to maintain ownership of 31 lots to build single-family homes, said Bracken-Commissaris, the owner’s representative. The remaining 42 residential lots will be sold to interested buyers. The vacant model home on the site is still owned by Union Bank and will go on the market as a foreclosure, she said. Developing the remaining portions of the property that are zoned for mixed-use will come later. North America CC Chang Jiang Investment, LLP will re-write architectural and design plans for the single family homes, which

s Horizon at Semiahmoo home and sales center. Bracken-Commissaris estimates will be priced between $550,000 and $750,000. The firm is also in the process of rewriting covenants, conditions and restrictions, which govern and restrict new construction. In August, Blaine-based Augusta Lawn Care Services removed more than a decade’s worth of brush and debris from the site. The owner intends to gradually sell the 42 residential lots on the

Photo by Stefanie Donahue

site, which are connected to utilities, Bracken-Commissaris said. Over a month ago, North America CC Chang Jiang Investment, LLP put five lots on the market. Two were sold after receiving several offers. Bracken-Commissaris predicts an influx of interest after the CC&R’s are approved in just a few weeks. “It’s going to be a beautiful development,” she said. “The location of this is ideal.”

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Doors open for seating at 6:30 p.m.

What secrets are buried at Loomis Trail Golf Club? Find out at a fun, interactive evening of improvisational comedy, mystery, manifestations, and mayhem, provided by Semiahmoo Resort and Events on the Edge. Attendees will enjoy sinfully delicious hors d’oeuvres and a no host full bar.

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Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

New playground installed at Birch Bay State Park B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Birch Bay State Park is getting a playground. Each year, 55,000 to 60,000 campers frequent the 194-acre park. In surveys handed out by the park’s staff, guests and campers overwhelmingly agreed that a playground would be a nice addition to the park, said Friends of Birch Bay State Park president Doralee Booth. The organization supports and promotes the park by helping with routine maintenance, facilitating public education and

s Meg Olson.

City ... From page 1

City Council, Olson stated that each role has given her a deep familiarity with the

Berm ... From page 1

“Public works is committed to providing all owners with the time needed to evaluate the offers and to negotiate in good faith.” At least some of the obtained temporary construction easements have expiration dates, Swan said. If construction isn’t finished before they expire, Whatcom County will need to go back and have those easements re-signed, Swan said. But will property owners want to renegotiate after two years with no progress? Whatcom County doesn’t expect so, Swan said. The county also requires several permits, but those mostly hinge on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permit. As part of that, agencies in-

hosting special events. In total, Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 donated $30,000; Friends of Birch Bay State Park raised $9,000; the Washington State Parks Foundation donated $2,500; the Washington State Park System donated $2,500; and BP donated about $5,000, Booth said. Crews began constructing the playground on September 22 and it’s nearly ready to unveil. “It’s very exciting,” Booth said. “We’re just so appreciative.”

s The new playground at Birch Bay State Park.

community and public process. “I have more than 20 years’ experience working with legislative bodies – from small taxing districts to the state legislature – so I know many of the procedures and that would be an easy transition for me,” Olson said. “I know how a body of this nature operates.” In addition to her work as a journalist, Olson owns a small business that develops interpretive signage for cities to boost awareness and attract visitors. She’s also an active member of the Salishan Neighborhood Association and regularly volunteers with RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, an environmental conservation non-profit in Bellingham. While she didn’t approach the

council with an agenda to reform the city’s economy, Olson said she intends to bring her strong ability to communicate to the table. More than anything, she plans to listen. “I think that any member of any governing body, especially a legislative body, needs to do some listening before they do anything else,” she said. Olson will join the council for her first meeting on Monday, October 9. “I think there’s one top priority for the city right now and that’s to tap into its potential, specifically in regards to economic development,” she said. “If we had a more thriving economy, we’d have a more thriving community.”

volved must assess the project’s impacts to local tribes and consult with tribes about artifacts at the project location. The county originally scheduled a hearing on the NEPA permit for December 2016, but postponed it after deciding they hadn’t properly consulted with the Lummi Nation and other tribes about artifacts. The county is negotiating with the Lummi Nation and several other tribes and agencies about how to handle cultural artifacts. The agencies involved are drafting a memorandum of agreement but there are some tough areas to reach consensus on, Swan said. “However, all parties are negotiating in good faith,” he said. “We can see where this could be a lengthy process with a high potential to move into 2018 due to the issues involved and the num-

ber of signatories required.” The way that excavated material will be handled is the main issue, he said. Tourism and spawning fish limit when construction can happen in Birch Bay. The county has agreed not to work on the project during Birch Bay’s summer tourist season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and they can’t work in the bay after February 15 because of spawning herring. Although Swan said the delay will affect the project financially, he didn’t expand on the specifics in his email. In May 2016, the county council approved an extra $48,660 for the project due to unforeseen costs related to easement negotiations and cultural artifacts. Swan said the county hopes to start construction as soon as it has all the necessary permits and property rights.

Saturdays 10 am-2 pm Stop by for freSh produce, handmade crafts and other local goodies!

At Blaine’s H Street Plaza Vendor space available Call 360/332-4544

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The Northern Light • Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017

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.

DelBene hosts community forum in Blaine

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Stefanie Donahue stefanie@pointrobertspress.com

s Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) visited Blaine on September 23 for a community forum at Blaine City Hall. Healthcare, nutrition assistance, immigration reform and climate change were among the many topics hit on during the discussion.

Letters

Copy Editor Kara Spencer kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@thenorthernlight.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna 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 XXIII, No 15 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Oct. 5 Ads due: Sept. 29

Photo by Ramsey Cox

The Editor: I appreciate the verbal shotgun blast by Kay Warner. My turn. I believe I had a marvelous conversation with Mr. Becht in his store one day and he is a very interesting man. I am not sure why he thinks traffic laws are arbitrary and we should decide how and if we should stop at stop signs. Police monitor freeways, stop signs, etc. and if legitimate fines increase revenue for, say, accident prevention, then I cannot see this as destroying any business but improving public safety. If a driver rolls through a stop sign in front of a cop, then this suggests poor eyesight, poor judgment or poor driving skills. Please give this one a ticket! Unlike Ms. Warner, I love driving in Canada. They do drive fast when roads are not cluttered with rush hour traffic, which is to say, not much chance down here. Noisy

and reckless drivers are everywhere which is a shame because they do cause most accidents. The border patrol? We may need to monitor their tactics (or enthusiasm) but always bearing in mind the current risks of a new drug trade with fatal consequences at an epidemic level. This seems to be a result of U.S. medical management policies that has brought pain medications across our border. This is a very different problem from recreational drug addictions with faces different than usual smugglers. Thus, the patrol may need to refine their policies which may require our patience. All the same, I strongly agree that any person deserves to be treated with respect until proven not to deserve it. Hmm, a lot of great things about Blaine, but I think the best may be the summer concerts in Peace Arch Park or the marina

where amazing ships pass by. Sharon L. Robinson Blaine The Editor: Like many, I was sad to hear about the early death of Dennis Hill. Blaine school staff and students have Dennis to thank for their quiet learning environment with the closure of the Blaine Airport. The airport property has future development potential as Blaine grows. When I initiated opposition to the airport expansion, I contacted Dennis and he quickly gathered a team of local residents who opposed expansion. Dennis further (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.

Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com (Continued from previous page) researched the issue, conversed with local officials, FAA officials and the media; he made himself valuable at our numerous team meetings. Community activists like Dennis, who can take the public heat, are always needed. The airport closure was probably Blaine’s most contentious issue of the last 20 years. Thanks Dennis. Bruce Hanson Blaine The Editor: Dear friends and neighbors, please be sure to vote yes for the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD) levy by November 7. With a property tax levy of 10 cents per $1,000 of assessed value for six years, it’s the best $20 a year on a $200,000 assessment you can possibly spend for 12 months of unique and varied recreation. Whether you are interested in community recreation, sports opportunities, classes, exercise (including indoor and outdoor recreation facilities), playgrounds and multicultural events – you can’t go wrong supporting this very reasonable levy. This past Labor Day weekend, Cathy and I coordinated the ar-

rival of native canoes, along with native singing and dancing in full regalia in both Blaine and Birch Bay. BBBPRD helped to support our efforts to bring people together under our theme of “Communities Pulling Together.” Our theme seems to sum up our experience with our parks district. They are responsible with the money they receive from the community, and in turn they bring all facets of our community together with opportunities to participate in a growing array of park and recreation experiences. Please help them to continue the good work they do for everyone in the Blaine-Birch Bay communities by voting yes for the BBBPRD levy. Ron Snyder Blaine The Editor: Blaine is a very special place. I moved here about a year-and-ahalf ago with my wife and, quite frankly, would like to stay put. Here are some of the things I’ve come to love about this town: pool tables at most of the restaurants; a friendly neighborhood pot store that hosts good parking lot concerts; a gas station that blares old, danceable music; all of the schools in one huge block; sunsets over the water; delicious oysters; the library; the marina;

We invite the community to celebrate the Bicentenary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh, founder of the Baha’i Faith, revealing the Unity of Love, Justice & Peace in all religions

Birch Bay & Blaine

inexpensively, good Chinese and Thai food; good breakfast places; old neighborhoods with variety and character; Fourth of July hijinks; Plover rides and Blaine police reports, of course. Heck, I even like most of the birds here. Not the seagulls, though – let’s not get crazy. Jeremy Lott Blaine

Candidates & Issues Forum

Thursday, October 12 at 7 p.m. Birch Bay Bible Community Church 4460 Bay Road ( NE corner of Bay & Blaine Roads) ALL are welcome to attend.

The Editor: I would like to encourage the voters of the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District to say yes to the levy continuation on the November 7 ballot. I say this because I, and all the new friends I’ve made playing pickleball three mornings a week, would like to continue having fun and getting good exercise at the same time. Your yes vote will be greatly appreciated. Kathy Berg Birch Bay

CANDIDATES FOR:

• County Council At-Large • Port of Bellingham Commissioner

Candidates will answer questions and discuss their platforms and visions for the future.

SPEAKERS:

• Whatcom County Jail Facilities Sales and Use Tax • Blaine-Birch Bay Park & Recreation District Continuing Property Tax Levy Citizen organized and sponsored by: Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, The Northern Light Newspaper and Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

PHA

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

Thursday, September 28, 7 pm Planning Commission meeting and Public Hearing - Bayview on Drayton Harbor – Conditional Use Permit and Shoreline Substantial Development Permit

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The Northern Light • Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017

Sports

Join Cub Scouts Today!

Despite strong offense, Blaine loses 36-35

Fun For Boys • Now Grades K-5 Meets Wednesdays • 6:30pm American Legion

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PARTS

Blaine quarterback Cam Ellis claimed a school-record 439 yards on Friday, September 22, at Civic Field, but Bellingham capitalized on some fourth quarter luck to win 36–35. With less than two minutes left in the fourth quarter, Bellingham wide receiver Ethan Fields caught a touchdown pass; the Red Raiders just needed a kick through the uprights to tie the game at 35. Fields, Bellingham’s holder, had to stand up to catch an errant snap. Rather than putting it on the tee for his kicker, Fields scrambled left around oncoming Borderites and made it to the end zone to give Bellingham a one point lead with 1:30 left. “[Fields] made a lot of big plays for them at wide receiver and safety,” Blaine head coach Jay Dodd said. “He was their best player and he happened to be their holder.” Blaine had another chance to take the lead, but the team’s hopes faded with a fumble 15 yards from the end zone. Ellis’ new record Ellis once again broke a school record by passing for 439 yards against Bellingham. Two weeks ago, he broke a 21-year-old Blaine

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Volleyball Blaine’s varsity volleyball team is still undefeated after two weeks of conference games and five games total. Currently, only Ferndale matches Blaine’s strong record. Last week the Borderites

record by passing for 387 yards against Meridian. “He nails the velocity and trajectory,” Dodd said. “He does a great job of surveying the field before the ball is snapped. He has a good idea of what side he’s going to throw to and he continues to go through his process to see how defenders are going to react.” During Friday’s game, Ellis also broke school records for completions (33) and pass attempts (51). What to improve? Ellis has been left throwing often, partly because Blaine’s offense isn’t doing well at protecting its running backs, Dodd said. Blaine ran for a total of 88 yards on Friday, with Jacob Westfall rushing for 69 of those. After reviewing film from the game, Dodd sees room for improvement in his offensive line. “I think Bellingham did a good job defending the run but our offensive line needs to emphasize run-blocking a little more,” Dodd said. “Our offensive line is screening rather than getting their hands on [the other team].” Friday’s game was the second time this season that Blaine lost in the fourth quarter. The Borderites

suffered a similar loss to Meridian two weeks ago. “We have to finish those games off instead of sitting around waiting for them to be handed to us, because they’re not going to be handed to us,” Dodd said. The Borderites (0–4) have played just two conference games and still have a chance at making the playoffs. Blaine plays Anacortes (2–2, 0–1 in conference games) at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 29.

beat Anacortes 3–1 and Mount Baker 3–0. On September 26 they beat Nooksack Valley 3–0 at home. Their next game is at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, September 28 at Lynden (2–3). The Borderites’ next home game is at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3 against Sedro-Woolley (1–3).

Soccer Blaine girls varsity soccer lost 1–0 in a close home game against Nooksack Valley on September 26. On September 21, they lost an away game to Mount Baker 2–1, with Maya Ball scoring Blaine’s goal. Next, they play at Lynden (0–6–2) at 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 28.

s Blaine quarterback Cam Ellis hands the ball to running back Jacob Westfall in a September 8 game against Meridian. Ellis broke a school record for passing yards that night, and raised his own bar on Friday, September 22, in a 36–35 loss to Bellingham. Photo by Janell Kortlever

Community Chamber of Commerce

AT H LET E OF THE H

H NTH MO

Cam Ellis Senior • Football

In his first year as varsity starting quarterback Cam Ellis has had a historical month. In the second game of the season, Cam threw for a single game school record 387 yards. Two weeks later Cam broke his own record throwing for 439 yards. He is also setting records with 33 completions on 51 attempts. Cam is a great teammate always giving credit to his offensive line for great protection and the wide receiver group.

Member of the Month Semiahmoo Resort-Golf-Spa 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy Blaine, WA 98230 360-318-2000 www.semiahmoo.com Number of employees: 375. How long in business: 31 years. Description of the business: Seaside destination resort overlooking Semiahmoo Bay that features 211 guest rooms, 35,000 sq. ft. of event space, three restaurants, full-service spa and salon, hot tub, pool, fitness center with indoor and outdoor tennis courts (membership available to the public), indoor golf simulator, two 18-hole golf courses, a beach activity center, 50-seat movie theater, and more. How the business started: Semiahmoo Resort was originally developed and opened by Atlas Hotels. Future goals: To be the premier destination resort in the Pacific Northwest. 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!

Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

Bay Builders From Cherry Point to the Peace Arch

Great Kids Doing Great Things Featuring students of the Blaine School District

Jackson Jackson Bray, Bray, 12th 12th grade grade Jackson Jackson works works hard hard in in everything everything he Jackson Jackson Bray, 12th 12thgrade grade grade he Jackson Bray, Bray,12th 12th grade

does. does. To Toworks have haveaahard student student ininyour yourclass class Jackson in he Jackson Jackson works works hard hard in ineverything everything everything he he Jackson works hard in everything he who who gives gives 100 100 percent percent is is so so amazing amazing does. To have a student in your class does. does. To To have have a a student student in in your your class class does. To have a student in your class Kyle V’Dovec, and and makes teaching teaching worthwhile. worthwhile. Jackson Jackson who gives percent is who whomakes gives gives100 100 100 percent percent is isso so soamazing amazing amazing who gives 100 percent is so amazing 12th provides grade provides a a positive positive vibe vibe to to the the classroom classroom and and andmakes makes makesteaching teaching teachingworthwhile. worthwhile. worthwhile.Jackson Jackson Jackson and makes teaching worthwhile. Jackson Kyle is an outstanding tenor saxophone and and isisaagreat great classmate classmate to tothe others. others. provides a positive vibe to classroom provides provides a a positive positive vibe vibe to to the the classroom classroom player in Wind Ensemble. He provides leads by a positive vibe to the classroom and and and is isaaaagreat great greatclassmate classmate classmateto to toothers. others. others. and is great classmate to others. example every day. Kyle has a is great sense of humor and is well respected by his peers. He is continually improving scholastically and strives to better himself in every aspect of life.

Seth Seth Blomeen, Blomeen, 8th 8th grade grade Seth Seth SethBlomeen, Blomeen, Blomeen, Logan Brock, Seth Sethgrade isisaahardworking hardworking 8th grade 8th 8th 8th grade grade 8th grade

student student asks asks questions questions Logan comes to class Seth aaawho hardworking Seth Sethis is is awho hardworking hardworking Seth is hardworking to to check check his hisasks understanding, understanding, with a positive attitude student who questions student student who who asks asks questions questions student who asks questions clarify clarify and and deepen deepen his his every day. He has decided to to tocheck check checkhis his hisunderstanding, understanding, understanding, to check his understanding, learning. learning. Seth Seth gets gets along along to work hard this year and clarify clarify clarifyand and anddeepen deepen deepenhis his his clarify and deepen his well well with with others others and and always always has face new challenges. learning. learning. learning.Seth Seth Sethgets gets getsalong along alonghas learning. Seth gets along a a positive positive attitude. attitude. It’s It’s a a Logan asks questions, well well wellwith with withothers others othersand and andalways always alwayshas has has well with others and always has pleasure pleasure to tohave have him responds respectfully aaaapositive attitude. It’s positive positive attitude. attitude. It’s It’saahim positive attitude. It’s aa ininclass! class! to reminders, and him pleasure to pleasure pleasure to tohave have have him him pleasure to have him makes decisions in class! in in class! class! in class! that show maturity and self respect.

Steven Steven Reimer, Reimer, Kaitlyn Harrington, 5th 5th grade grade Steven Reimer, Steven Reimer, Steven Reimer, 5th grade Steven Steven is is a goodfriend friendto to 5th 5th 5thgrade grade gradeagood

5thKaitlyn gradeis aces! She others. others.is He is kind, kind, helpful, helpful, Steven aaaais good friend to Steven Steven is isHe good good friend friend to to Steven is friend to comes togood school ready and and encourages encourages others. others. others. He is kind, helpful, others. others. He He is is kind, kind, helpful, helpful, others. isbest kind,and helpful, toloves tryHe her take Steven Steven loves to tohelp help ininthe the and others. and andencourages encourages encourages others. others. and encourages others. on any challenge with a classroom classroom with withdifferent different jobs jobs that Steven to the Steven Stevenloves loves loves to tohelp help helpin in in the thethat Steven loves to help in the positive attitude. Kaitlyn need needto to be bedifferent done. done.Thank Thank you you classroom with jobs that classroom classroom with with different different jobs jobs that that classroom with different jobs that is an attentive learner, Steven Steven for for making making our our need to be done. Thank you need need to to be be done. done. Thank Thank you you need to thoughtful be done. Thank you student class classfor and and our ourschool school Steven making our Steven Steven for forkind making making our our Steven for making our and classmate. aafabulous fabulous place place to to class and our class class and and our our school school class and our school It’s a joy toschool watch learn. learn. aaaafabulous to fabulous fabulous place place to to fabulous place to Kaitlyn’splace confidence learn. learn. learn. learn. and capabilities blossom.

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Sienna Sienna Boucher, Boucher, 12th 12th grade grade Sienna Sienna is is motivated motivated to to succeed. succeed. Sienna Sienna Boucher, 12th 12thgrade grade grade Sienna Boucher, Boucher,12th 12th grade

She Shecomes comes to tois class class prepared prepared to tolearn, learn, Sienna motivated to Sienna Sienna is is motivated motivated to tosucceed. succeed. succeed. Sienna is motivated to succeed. and and tackles tackles tough tough assignments. assignments. Quila Welch, She She Shecomes comes comesto to toclass class classprepared prepared preparedto to tolearn, learn, learn, She comes to class prepared to learn, She Sheasks asks thought-provoking thought-provoking questions questions 12th grade and and andtackles tackles tacklestough tough toughassignments. assignments. assignments. and tackles tough assignments. that that make make class class intriguing intriguing for for others. others. Quila is a young woman of great She She Sheasks asks asksthought-provoking thought-provoking thought-provokingquestions questions questions She asks thought-provoking questions This This attitude attitude and and her her wonderful wonderful smile smile that that thatmake make makeclass class classintriguing intriguing intriguingfor for forothers. others. others.character and integrity. She has that make class intriguing for others. will will take take her her far far in in life. life. This This Thisattitude attitude attitudeand and andher her herwonderful wonderful wonderfulsmile smile smile outstanding leadership skills and This attitude and her wonderful smile is always respectful of others. A will will willtake take takeher her herfar far farin in inlife. life. life. will take her far in life. well-rounded person, Quila is gifted with both intellect and social grace. She is kind, considerate and trustworthy.

Morgan Morgan Zasccheo, Zasccheo, 7th 7th grade grade Morgan Morgan Zasccheo, Morgan Zasccheo, Zasccheo, Morgan Morgan has hasshown shownher her 7th grade 7th 7th grade grade 7th grade Diana Kovtun, dedication dedication to to academics. academics. Morgan Morgan Morganhas has hasshown shown shownher her her Morgan has shown her 8th grade She Sheisisincredibly incrediblybright brightand and

dedication dedicationto to toacademics. academics. academics. Diana is eager and dedication excited dedication to academics. articulate. articulate. She She isisbright willing willing She is She Sheand is isincredibly incredibly incredibly bright brightand and and to learn. She works hard She is incredibly bright and to to share shareher herShe ideas, ideas, which which articulate. is articulate. articulate. She is iswilling willing willing collaborates well with other She articulate. She is willing enriches enriches the thework work ofofthe the to her which to toshare share share her herideas, ideas, ideas, which which students. She is determined to share her ideas, which whole whole class. class. It It is is enriches enrichesthe the thework work workof of ofthe the the to see her goals enriches enriches the work of the such suchclass. aapleasure pleasure whole ItItItItis whole whole class. class. is is reached. Diana takes whole class. is to tohave have her herinin such aaaapleasure such such pleasure pleasure chances and strives such pleasure class! class! to to tohave have haveher her herin in in to create meaningful, to have her in applicable class! class! class! class! understanding in her education.

Carrie Carrie Balback, Balback,1st 1stgrade grade Carrie Carrie is is a a delightful delightful first first grader! grader! Carrie Carrie CarrieBalback, Balback, Balback,1st 1st 1stgrade grade grade 1st grade She She is is helpful, helpful, attentive, attentive, Carrie Carrie Carrieisis isaaaadelightful delightful delightfulfirst first firstgrader! grader! grader! Anika Figley, Carrie is delightful first grader! smart smart and and kind. kind. She She isisdoing doing She isis attentive, She She ishelpful, helpful, helpful, attentive, attentive, 1st grade She is helpful, attentive, a a terrific terrific job job of of creating creating high high smart smart smartand and andkind. kind. kind.She She Sheisis isdoing doing doing Anika is a bright, happy, smart and kind. She is doing quality quality work work and and working on ontask. task. aaaaterrific job of high terrific terrific job jobworking of ofcreating creating creating high highkind student. She and terrific job of creating high I’m I’mand especially especially impressed impressed quality working on task. quality qualitywork work work and and working working on onalways task. task. does her best quality work and working on task. with with Carrie’s Carrie’s reading reading ability. ability. I’m I’m I’mespecially especially especiallyimpressed impressed impressed work with high quality. I’m especially impressed She She loves loves to to read read and and isis is artistic, sensitive with with withCarrie’s Carrie’s Carrie’sreading reading readingability. ability. ability. She with Carrie’s reading ability. starting starting to to read read longer, She to read She Sheloves loves loves to tolonger, read readand and andisis is the needs of to She loves to read and is more more challenging challenging books books others, and always starting to read longer, starting starting to to read read longer, longer, starting to read longer, with with enthusiasm! enthusiasm! the first to help out more challenging books more more challenging challenging books books more challenging books when a peer needs a with enthusiasm! with with enthusiasm! enthusiasm! with enthusiasm! helping hand.

Jennifer Jennifer LaFoy, LaFoy, 4th 4th grade grade Jennifer Jennifer is is an an amazing amazing young young Jennifer LaFoy, 4th Jennifer LaFoy, 4th 4thgrade grade grade Molly Berndtson, Jennifer LaFoy, 4th grade lady. lady.Every Every day day she shecomes comes Jennifer is an amazing young Jennifer Jennifer is is an an amazing amazing young young 5th grade Jennifer is an amazing young

to to class class early early to help help pass pass In addition to displayinglady. Every day she comes lady. lady. Every Every day dayto she she comes comes lady. Every day she comes out out Chrome Chrome books. books. She She has has pride in her own to to toclass class classearly early earlyto to tohelp help helppass pass pass to class early to help pass a a positive positive attitude attitude about about schoolwork, Molly out out outChrome Chrome Chromebooks. books. books.She She Shehas has has out Chrome books. She has we we do doand and always always shows empathy everything aaeverything positive attitude about a positive positive attitude attitude about about a positive attitude about encourages encourages others others to to and respect for everything we everything everything we wedo do doand and andalways always always everything we do and always do do their their best best work. work. others through her encourages encourages encouragesothers others othersto to to encourages others to We We look look forward forward to to involvement with do do dotheir their theirbest best bestwork. work. work. do their best work. seeing seeing Jennifer’s Jennifer’s students who need We We Welook look lookforward forward forwardto to to We look forward to smile smiledaily. daily. assistance. She seeing Jennifer’s seeing seeing Jennifer’s Jennifer’s seeing Jennifer’s has a big heart, smile smile smiledaily. daily. daily. smile daily. and the positive attitude we love to see in our school!

Evan Evan Larsen, Larsen, 1st 1stgrade grade Evan Evanis is an an attentive, attentive, kind kind hearted, hearted, Evan Evan EvanLarsen, Larsen, Larsen,1st 1st 1stgrade grade grade 1st grade and and hardworking hardworking first first grader! grader! Evan is an attentive, kind hearted, Evan Evan is is an an attentive, attentive, kind kind hearted, hearted, Evan is an attentive, kindPaez, hearted, Rashaan He He always always works workson on task task and and and hardworking first grader! and and hardworking hardworking first first grader! grader! and hardworking first grader! 1sttotograde stays stays focused focused complete complete He He Healways always alwaysworks works workson on ontask task taskand and and He always works on task and Rashaan a fabulous assignments assignments ininaaistimely timely manner. manner. stays focused to complete stays stays focused focused to to complete complete stays focused to complete student. He stays on task, His Hisreading readingskills skills are areblossoming blossoming assignments in aaaatimely manner. assignments assignments in inand timely timely manner. manner. assignments in timely manner. is attentive, is kind because because ofofskills his his hard hard work. work. What What His reading are blossoming His His reading reading skills skills are are blossoming blossoming His reading skills are blossoming to others. He always really really impresses impresses me me about about because of his work. because because of ofbest his hishard hard hard work. work.What What What because of his hard work. What does his work Evan Evan isis his his math mathability. ability. really impresses me about really really impresses impresses me me about about really impresses me about on assignments. He loves loves to tosolve solve Evan is math ability. Evan EvanHe is ishis his his math math ability. ability. Evan is his math ability. Rashaan makes problems problems and and He loves to solve He He loves loves to to solve solve He loves to and solve friends easily find find solutions. solutions. IIlove love and problems problems and and problems and is wellproblems liked by his having having Evan Evanininclass! class! find solutions. I love find find solutions. solutions. I I love love find solutions. I love classmates. having having havingEvan Evan Evanin in inclass! class! class! having Evan in class!

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The Northern Light • Sept. 28 - Oct. 4, 2017

Five home maintenance projects to tackle this fall Fall is the perfect time to complete those pesky home maintenance projects left on your ‘todo’ list. Putting off these chores is normal, but can cost you. In fact, a national survey from Erie Insurance reveals many Americans are putting themselves and their homes at financial risk by delaying important home maintenance tasks. Protect yourself by focusing on these five areas:

The Roof: Twenty-three percent of homeowners admit they never inspect their roof or have it inspected unless there is a problem, according to the survey. Unfortunately, replacing a roof is also one of the biggest expenses a homeowner may have if not maintained properly. Nationally, the average homeowner spends about $6,600 to install a new roof, but prices can soar upwards of $20,000.

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Don’t be stuck with a hefty roof repair bill. Have it inspected to see if any shingles are damaged and need to be replaced. The fall season is the optimal time to do so, since roofing is best installed when temperatures are cooler. Plus, you’ll catch any problems before winter weather kicks in. Gutters: Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to major issues like uneven floors, cracks in walls and interior water damage. This type of claim, also known as seepage, is a maintenance issue and often not covered under your home insurance policy. To prevent any major issues, clean gutters at least twice a year in fall and spring. Dryer Exhaust Duct: Does it take you two to three cycles to dry a load of laundry? If so, you may need to clean your dryer vent. One in five homeowners admit they never clean their clothes dryer ducts, unless there is a problem. Lint build-up can catch fire easily. Over 15,000 dryer fires occurred nationwide from 20102014, with the majority being ignited by dust, fiber and lint, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Avoid this with a thorough cleaning at least

once a year. Fireplace Chimney: Erie Insurance found nearly half the people who own a home with a fireplace never have their chimneys cleaned. However, uncleaned chimneys are a leading cause of structure fires, reports the National Fire Protection Association. Get the chimney cleaned before the cold weather hits and then have it cleaned annually.

Sump Pump and Pit: Sump pumps remove excess water from homes that would otherwise cause property damage. It’s important to clean a sump pump and its pit annually to keep basements dry and help prevent mold growth and water damage. Do this maintenance project in fall to protect against heavy rainfalls and accumulated melting snow and ice of winter. Courtesy of StatePoint

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Steps to save energy in your home Reducing energy use at home is a win-win for your wallet and the planet. Not only can it save you money on your bills now, but it could also improve your home resale value. These simple tips can help: Adopt smart habits Smart energy habits can help you save a great deal of money. Be sure to unplug any battery chargers or power adapters when they are not in use and always turn off the lights when leaving a room. Keep a clutter-free fridge in the kitchen for better efficiency.

Don’t hem and haw over what to eat while the refrigerator door is open. When cooking, cover pots and pans to keep the heat in and the kitchen cool. Make smart swap outs Some electronics continue to use energy even while turned off. Energy Star certified electronics are designed to conserve this energy usage, while still maintaining functions like clock displays, channel settings and remote control functions. Seek out the Energy Star certified label when shopping for ap-

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Sustainable home design the focus of upcoming conference B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Builders of all backgrounds are encouraged to learn about sustainable home design and development at a conference on Thursday, November 9 at Bellingham Technical College. Hosted by Bellingham-based nonprofit Sustainable Connections, the annual Sustainable Design and Development Conference is one of the top occasions to learn about green building in the northwest. The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is followed by an evening reception at the BTC Settlemyer Hall, located at 3028 Lindbergh Avenue in Bellingham. “This year we are really excited to not only be looking at deep green building through a social equity lens, but also to be able to apply what we’re learning in a real world context during the shoulder session that will look at the Birchwood housing project,” said Rose Lath-

rop, green building and smart growth manager for Sustainable Connections. Guests will have the chance to learn how climate change impacts development across the globe through lessons about net-zero carbon building, social equity and grassroots engagement. After the conference, participants will be eligible to receive 12 credits through the American Institute of Architects continuing education program, according to Sustainable Connections. “Every year this conference grows in its ability to offer meaningful and impactful speakers and sessions and this year is no exception,” Lathrop said. A special session focused on the Living Building Challenge, framework design and sustainably constructing properties will take place on Wednesday, November 8, just a day before the main event. All guests who purchase tickets for the confer-

ence on Thursday, November 9 are permitted to attend. Participants in the session will partner with the International Living Future Institute, Kulshan Community Land Trust and Sustainable Connections to learn how Living Building Challenge design standards are being applied to an affordable housing development in Bellingham. The event is sponsored by Belling-Wood Depot, Sazan Group, the Bullitt Foundation, AIA Northwest Washington, Small Planet Supply and Greenhome Solutions. Registration is required. General admission costs $135. Early bird registration, which ends on Sunday, October 15, costs $105. Sustainable Connections, Northwest Washington Architects and Cascadia Green Building Council members are asked to pay $105 and students are asked to pay $65. To purchase tickets online, visit http://bit.ly/2fyFhFy.

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dustry’s version of the mpg rating that you find in the auto industry. The lower a home score, the higher its efficiency. “Knowing your score can help you evaluate where to make changes to your home, from sealing leaks in your heating and cooling distribution system to updating your roof in order

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Y’All Come! s Blaine cross country runners head toward the finish line during a September 20 race at Lake Padden.

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By Oliver Lazenby Blaine’s cross country team may be inexperienced, but its leaders are hanging with top runners from other schools this season. Blaine’s Jamie Good ran for a personal best in the 5K on September 23, at the Mount Baker Invitational at Silver Lake. She finished in 21 minutes and 9 seconds, making her the top Borderite at the invitational and the sixth girl to finish the race against athletes from eight schools. As a team, the Blaine girls placed fifth out of the five scoring teams (those with at least five runners). The boys’ team finished

Photo by Oliver Lazenby

eighth out of nine teams, beating Everett’s Mariner High School. Good, a leader of the Borderite cross country team, ran all summer and has smashed her previous best times this season. Her personal best at Silver Lake was more than seven minutes faster than her time on the same course last year. She’s near the top 10 in the district and will have a shot at qualifying for state, Blaine head coach Fryth Rasar said. In his first race of the season, Dylan Grimme was Blaine boys’ top finisher as he crossed the line in 18 minutes and 31 seconds. “He didn’t run last year so he’s

got a bit of catching up to do, but he ran all summer,” Rasar said at the beginning of the season. “I expect him in the end to blow everybody away.” Liam Lyons, Blaine’s second boys finisher at Silver Lake, finished in 19 minutes and 5 seconds. Both Lyons and Grimme will be in contention for making it to state this season. The rest of the team, including many who have never run cross country before, is also improving, Rasar said. “They’ve been working real hard and their times are starting to drop,” Rasar said. “They’re such hard workers and we’re all having a really good time.” Taylee McCormick also ran for a personal best at Silver Lake, finishing in 23 minutes and 37 seconds. Also last week, in a September 20 meet at Lake Padden against Squalicum and Sedro-Woolley, Good finished fifth for the girls and Lyons came in sixth for the boys. The Blaine teams placed third behind bigger teams from Squalicum and Sedro-Woolley. Blaine’s next race is the Twilight Invitational on Saturday, September 30, at Cedarcrest Golf Course in Marysville.

Bellingham SeaFeast draws a crowd

BUY ONE COMBINATION MEAL

(Lunch or Dinner) WITH PURCHASE OF 2 DRINKS & GET 2ND COMBINATION MEAL (of equal or lesser value)

1/2 PRICE! DINE IN ONLY. Not valid with any other offers. Exp. 10/12/2017

is an effective, challenging workout that combines ballet, yoga and Pilates to create one hour of workout fun!

ADULT CLASSES

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

9:30 – 10:30am 4:15 – 5:15pm 9:30 – 10:30am

Contact the gym for sign-up information

(360) 384-3861 Gym Star Sports Center

5519 Hovander Rd. Suite 109, Ferndale, WA 98248

www.gymstarsports.com

Happy Hour Mon-Thur 4-7 Fri & Sat 3-6 All Day Sunday

Open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner!

758 Peace Portal Drive Blaine 332-4045 www.pasodelnorte.net

currently enrolling for

“Polar Express”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, Blaine Branch

DANCE CLASS SCHEDULE Beg Ballet ...........4:15-5:15 (8-10 yr) Int. Ballet .............5:30-6:30 (9-11 yr) Hip Hop .................4:15-5:15 (6-8 yr) Hip Hop ...............5:30-6:30 (9-12 yr) Ballet/Gym ........10:15-11:15 (4-6 yr) ..............................4:15-5:15 (4-6 yr) Thurs. Beg Ballet .............5:30-6:30 (5-7 yr)

360-384-3861

Gym Star Sports Center

Diamond

Diamond is an amazing part of our teen program! She also ran our Cooking Club this summer and has been exploring running other activities at the club including kickball and building club. We are very excited to see Diamond stepping up and taking on new responsibilities. She is a fantastic role model for all of the other kids. There is no limit to what she can do!

William