The Northern Light_November 2 by Point Roberts Press

November 2 - 8, 2017

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City attorney talks ‘potential conflict of interest,’ page 2

City rolls out results from recent survey

Thanksgiving holiday donations needed, page 5

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Rawganique gets to keep bank account, officials say

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

s Rawganique CEO Qeanu Wallner shows off rolls of hemp fabric at the company’s Blaine headquarters.

By Oliver Lazenby After weeks of searching for a new bank, Rawganique, the Blaine-based hemp and natural fiber clothing company, will be able to keep its bank account after all, CEO Qeanu Wallner said this week. In early October, Umpqua Bank wrote Rawganique that its account would be closed because it operates an “excluded line of business.” The news sent Wallner searching for a new account, as he continued pressing Umpqua Bank to keep his account. The bank reversed its decision on October 27, and will continue working with Rawganique.

Rawganique designs and sells hemp products such as clothing, hempseed oil, hempseed butter, hemp protein powder and rope. Hemp, a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, is grown specifically for industrial uses. While it’s considered a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act, the act excludes the “mature stalks of the plant” and products made from those stalks. Growing hemp is federally illegal without a research license. Language on Rawganique’s website raised a flag in Umpqua Bank’s annual review, bank spokesperson Eve Callahan said. Rawganique’s website stated that the

Mark your calendars, ballots are due next week B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e If you want your vote to count this general election, be sure to submit your ballot by the deadline. The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office accepts ballots until 8 p.m. on election day, Tuesday, November 7, at 18 drop boxes located across the county. Mailin ballots must be stamped with 49 cent postage, postmarked by November 7 and sent to 311 Grand Avenue, suite 103,

Bellingham, WA 98225. Nearby drop boxes can be found at: Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Custer Elementary School, 7660 Custer School Road. On the ballot is an at-large seat on Whatcom County Council, four seats on Blaine City Council, two seats on the Blaine school district board of directors, two seats on the Fire Protection District 21 board of commissioners, one seat on

the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District board of commissioners and two seats on the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District-2 (BBBPRD2) board of commissioners. Voters will also decide whether to approve a renewal of the BBBPRD2 property tax levy and a sales and use tax to fund a new jail facility. Ballots were mailed to voters on October 18; to obtain a replacement, visit bit.ly/2yXGbmi. Election results will be certified on November 28.

Photo by Oliver Lazenby

company grows, weaves, knits and sews its products. “Their website said very clearly at the time that they were growing their hemp. Since we are federally insured, we are not able to bank with companies that are in the business of selling or growing marijuana or cannabis,” Callahan said. Rawganique’s hemp is grown by contractors who are mostly in Europe, Wallner said. To prove that, Umpqua Bank required that he hand over two years of tax returns and the company’s articles of incorporation, filled out due diligence paperwork (See Bank, page 3)

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

INSIDE

Hundreds of Blaine residents responded to a detailed survey that aimed to identify funding priorities for proposed citywide projects and programs. The 38-question survey was part of the fact gathering process undertaken through the city’s Strategic Economic Initiative, which is being guided by city staff and Tom Beckwith of La Conner-based Beckwith Consulting. The initiative seeks to evaluate city finances, plan for the future and determine which projects suggested by local interest groups and community members should be pursued. Blaine city manager Dave Wilbrecht reported survey results to city council on October 30. Overall, 270 residents – 12 percent of all households in Blaine – participated. There were 43 action items identified and ranked by priority; most of the items “have everything to do with downtown,” Wilbrecht said. Two action items involving the enforcement of existing building codes received the “very highest” priority ranking. The items call on the city to demolish vacant and derelict buildings deemed unsafe and to upgrade vacant buildings to meet current seismic, fire and other safety requirements. In the “high” category, survey respondents prioritized action items calling for the condemnation and acquisition of property whose owners don’t comply with city codes, the establishment of a Main Street program, construction of the Peace Portal boardwalk and installation of wayfinding signs, among other items. Several of the priorities identified have already been undertaken by the city, such as code enforcement on vacant and derelict buildings, encouraging new business and development in east Blaine and sale of the Gateway property. And while the city has a major role in the initiative, help from the community is crucial, Wilbrecht said. “It takes effort and work and drive to get things to happen,” he said. “I think it’s going to take a lot of leadership to move forward.”

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 2017

Experience a Tremendous November City council candidate poses ‘potential conflict of interest,’ says city attorney at Mount Baker Theatre!

SHEMEKIA

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In a memo addressed to Blaine city manager Dave Wilbrecht on October 24, city attorney Jon Sitkin and colleague Nolan Davidson wrote that the possible election of Blaine City Council write-in candidate Rachel Hrutfiord could pose a “potential conflict of interest” because she is married to Steve Hrutfiord, an 18-year employee of the city’s public works department and a member of the Blaine Planning Commission. Hrutfiord is running against Charles Hawkins and Justin Ledesma for position four on council, which serves Ward 2. In September, she applied for the council seat left vacant by Dennis Olason’s resignation in August; council appointed Meg Olson instead. Sitkin wrote “a potential conflict of interest arises because the employee/husband is a member of the city’s bargaining unit and his salary is due to him pursuant to the terms of the city’s collective bargaining agreement.” When Hrutfiord applied for the vacant position, she had been

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told by city staff that recusal, or abstention, would be a viable option to avoid the conflict, according to the memo. However, following additional research, Sitkin wrote, “I would now advise you that the candidate’s recusal when the council is considering the collective bargaining agreement is not likely a sufficient cure for the potential conflict of interest.” Sitkin said to avoid the conflict, under the direction of the assistant attorney general, Hrutfiord could execute a separate property agreement with her husband to dissolve interest in the salary or benefits he earns through the collective bargaining agreement. The city could also approve a new collective bargaining agreement prior to Hrutfiord taking office and if it stays in effect during her entire term and no disputes arise, it’s possible no conflict of interest would arise, according to the memo. If Hrutfiord is elected prior to the approval of a new collective bargaining agreement, the city could commence a declaratory

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s Rachel Hrutfiord. judgment action to seek opinion from the court. Citing the code of ethics for municipal officers, Sitkin stated that Hrutfiord would be subject to a $500 fine and forced to forfeit her position if a violation occurred. Leading up to the memo’s release, Hrutfiord said that city staff informed her that her relationship with Steve did not disqualify her from a position in the city council. On October 30, she had yet to hear from the city about the potential conflict of interest described in the memo, she said. “It is unfortunate to me that had I been appointed to the previous vacant council seat, this would have been manageable, but now that I am running, the legal opinion of the city attorney has changed,” she said in an email. “My hope is that if I prevail on November 7, the city of Blaine will work toward a positive outcome for the voters.” Hrutfiord said she’s in the process of consulting with an attorney and will continue to campaign. “If in the event there are areas in which I cannot participate, I am happy to recuse myself where necessary. Steve’s negotiated union wages are not of any concern to me,” Hrutfiord said.

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November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

Bank... From page 1

and wrote a statement saying none of the company’s owners have a stake in the hemp growing and production companies that it works with. “They have come back and presented us with additional documentation and we’re confident that they are not growing their own hemp,” Callahan said. Umpqua’s decision is the end of a scramble for Wallner. After being told his account would be closed, he spent hours speaking with other banks and filling out

paperwork, he said. “They really imposed a lot of hardship on us, and cost,” he said. To process payments and pay employees, Rawganique opened an account with Washington Federal. After being told he could continue to bank with Umpqua, Wallner didn’t know which bank he would work with. An October 31 letter from Washington Federal made that decision easier: “We regret to inform you that we will close the above referenced account on November 15, 2017,” the letter stated. The letter did not explain the bank’s decision.

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Wallner spoke about the issue on Rawganique’s Facebook to raise awareness. Other companies that sell hemp clothing have reportedly had banking troubles before, and Rawganique has had issues finding insurance, Wallner said. “We want to set this right for all the other small businesses that have been discriminated against,” he said. “We want to help others. If it was just about us, we could have focused all our energy on finding a new bank and done nothing else about it.” Rawganique moved its headquarters to 270 C Street in Blaine from Point Roberts in August.

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 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. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com

Peace Portal Drive car wash demolished

s On October 30, as part of an ongoing development project, Blaine couple Skye and Mike Hill demolished an old car wash next to the 568 Peace Portal Drive Chevron station that Mike has owned for several years. The Hills intend to build a mix of commercial, office and retail space on the property that sits between the Chevron station and Edaleen Dairy. Photo by Mike Hill

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Stefanie Donahue stefanie@pointrobertspress.com 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 20 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Nov. 9 Ads due: Nov. 3

Letters The Editor: On October 23, Blaine City Council met. Before the regular meeting, council members had an open public 2018 budget session that involved the Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting dealt with the needs of Blaine parks, the wastewater system, water system, electric utility, street maintenance and general city construction funds. The budget involves millions of dollars in funding. It is obvious that there are going to be many hard decisions to be made as the budget process continues. The current council members, including those running for reelection and city staff were the only attendees of the meeting. Ray Wilkett Blaine The Editor: To those folks who really care about helping our community – if you haven’t voted, vote for Justin Ledesma, Alicia Rule and Eric Davidson. Ledesma and Hrutfiord are running against Hawkins – a possible split vote; we

could get stuck with Hawkins for four more years. We can’t afford four more years with this type of leadership. Maybe the guy is a great fellow, but as a visionary leader, I don’t see it. In the 23 years I’ve been in business in Blaine, only two city councilors have ever been in my store – Bonnie Onyon, when I first started to fight to save the passenger rail stop, and Clark Cotner, when we were trying to help our community and its reputation by simply adding Harbor to our town name. After dealing with the folks running Blaine, Clark was so frustrated that the poor fellow returned to Georgetown, Texas. He was progressive and forward thinking! We lose good people and opportunities right and left; the status quo isn’t working in Blaine! Instead of welcoming your ideas and suggestions, they thwart any possibility of putting them into action; they’re arrogant bullies who negate you and don’t listen or care! It’s unwelcoming behavior to say the least and must change. Enough is enough, voting for the wrong

candidates hurts this town and its ability to become a town that is functional! Vote for change and quit hurting Blaine’s chances to succeed. If you care about your town’s future, vote for Alicia Rule to replace Robinson, Justin Ledesma to replace Charlie Hawkins and Eric Davidson to replace Paul Greenough, also vote for Michael Shepard, the only candidate running for the Port of Bellingham who reached out to me and wanted to include the Amtrak passenger rail stop in his campaign. We have a new police chief starting November 1 and I welcome him to Blaine and look forward to positive change on the law enforcement side of things. This is an important election, and if you’ve been downtown lately you’ll agree that we need new forward thinking and positive, welcoming leadership. No more “more of the same!” Bill Becht, business owner Blaine (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: Second 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.

November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine Food Bank climbs toward fundraising goal The Blaine Food Bank will receive $25,000 in matching funds from an anonymous donor if the organization is able to raise $25,000 by December 22. Since kicking off the fundraiser in September, volunteers have raised $5,000 toward the goal, said representative Joan Smith. In 2016, the food bank raised $28,000 in a similar campaign which also resulted in a match of $25,000. Each week, the Blaine Food

Bank serves an average 400 families, or 1,500 individuals. More than 80,000 pounds of food are distributed each month, according to the organization. “Our [community and] agency are suffering the same economic setback as the rest of our country. Our lines are longer and government support has been cut in half. With help from our local businesses, churches, and community, the Blaine Food Bank will continue to provide help to those residents

who are most vulnerable,” read a statement from the organization in September. Donations are accepted in the form of cash or check, by mail to P.O. Box 472 or in person at 500 C Street in Blaine. Non-perishable foods are accepted on a regular basis. For more information about the Blaine Food Bank, call 360/332-6350.

Donations needed for Thanksgiving Staff with the Communi- November 23 at the commuCITY OF BLAINE ty Assistance Program (CAP) nity center, 763 G Street. VolUnless noted, all meetings are held at are gearing up for one of their unteers as well as monetary City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public. largest charitable giving events and food donations are needed. For more information, contact of the year and they’re asking the Thursday, November 2, 10 am 360/739-1671. public for help. Public Works Advisory Committee meeting On Wednesday, November 22, Location: 1200 Yew Ave. the day before Thanksgiving, CAP volunteers will give away Monday, November 6, 4 pm hundreds of Thanksgiving turkey Council Study Session – 2018 Budget – General Fund dinners with all the trimmings to families from Blaine, Birch Bay, Tuesday, November 7, 3 pm Custer and Point Roberts who Blaine Economic Development are without the means or ability Advisory Committee meeting Breakfast (served all day!) to cook up a meal of their own. Lunch • Dinner Thursday, November 9, Meal distribution will take 9:30 am – Park and Cemetery Prime Rib Friday Nights place between 11:30 a.m. and Board meeting Wed., Thurs. & Sat. after 3 pm 2:30 p.m. at the Cost Cut7 pm – Planning Commission meeting Buy Any Burger & Side & get and public hearings: ter mall, located at 1733 (equal or Any Burger & Side lesser value) Blaine Food Bank Expansion – H Street, in unit 280. Conditional Use Permit CAP does not accept food doDakota Creek Apartments – Conditional nations, but encourages the pubUse Permit and Shoreline Substantial lic to provide cash donations. Development Permit Those wishing to donate can TOTAL BILL Friday, November 10, send a check to P.O. Box 1067, not valid with other offers. expires 11/9/17 City offices will be closed Blaine, 98231 payable to CAP in observance of Veterans’ Day with the memo line “ThanksgivOPEN AT 7am ing Baskets” or by donating onMon-Tue 7-3 • Wed-Sat 7-8 • Sun 7-2 U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY line at blainecap.org. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website. 234 D St., Blaine Last year, CAP provided meals www.cityofblaine.com 332-3540 to 278 families, which fed 996 www.BigAlsDiner.com adults and 698 children, said CAP representative Laura Vogee. This year, they are projecting to serve 265 families. Registration is required to participate; as of October 27, 104 U.S. green cards / naturalization • U.S. green cards / naturalization had signed up, Vogee said. • The deadline to register is Wednes• Work / investor visas • Work / investor visas day, November 8. Registration • Denied entry waivers • Denied entry waivers can be completed at bit.ly/2i• Removal hearings • Removal NEXUS appeals igIK7. For more information, hearings • NEXUS appeals contact 360/332-0740. The American Legion Post 86 is also hosting its 17th anwww.blaineimmigration.com •www.blaineimmigration.com 435 Martin St., Suite 2010 •••435 Blaine, WA St., www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA 435Martin Martin St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, nual Thanksgiving dinner from Leonard D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday,

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 2017

ANNUAL LISTING OF VACANCIES AND ANTICIPATED VACANCIES THE CITY OF BLAINE IS CURRENTLY SEEKING MEMBERS FOR THE FOLLOWING COMMISSIONS, BOARD, AND COMMITTEE:

PLANNING COMMISSION

REGULARLY MEETS AT 7:00 PM ON THE SECOND AND FOURTH THURSDAYS OF EVERY MONTH FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS ONE POSITION TO FILL A FOUR YEAR TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2021

BLAINE TOURISM ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGULARLY MEETS ONE TUESDAY MORNING PER MONTH FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS

ONE VOTING CITIZEN AT-LARGE POSITION TO FILL A VACANCY ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2021

PARK AND CEMETERY BOARD

REGULARLY MEETS AT 9:30 AM ON THE SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS ONE POSITION TO FILL A PARTIAL TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2019 THREE POSITIONS TO FILL FOUR YEAR TERMS ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2021 Members receive no financial compensation, but the payoff is great. Members meet other residents with similar interests, they learn about the City, and they help shape the future of Blaine! Being on a board or commission does require a significant personal commitment, so applicants should consider their ability to commit their time and personal energy before applying. If you are interested in serving on a board or commission, applications and descriptions of duties are available in Administrative Services at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin St., Suite 3000, or online at www.cityofblaine.com. Please submit your application by 4:30 PM on Wednesday, December 13, 2017. The City will continue to accept applications until vacancies are filled. Per Blaine Municipal Code (BMC) 2.08.028, concurrent service on more than one board or commission is precluded.

Sports Jamie Good headed to state cross country meet By Oliver Lazenby With 1,000 meters left in the 5,000 meter district cross country race at South Whidbey Island High School last Saturday, Blaine’s top runner Jamie Good was in 31st place – three spots away from qualifying for the state meet. It’s a tough, hilly course where very few athletes get their best times, especially for Blaine runners since they don’t have many hills to train on. Good fought her way through the flat section of the course passing two runners from Bellingham and one from Archbishop Murphy and snagged the last spot at state with a time of 21 minutes and 15 seconds – nearly 40 seconds better than her last time on the course earlier this season. “She’s a smart, calculated runner determined to claim her hard-earned spot at state,” head coach Fryth Rasar said after the meet. Good had an impressive sea-

son; her average time at the 5,000 meters is more than seven minutes faster than last season. This will be her first trip to state, held Saturday, November 4 at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco. Overall, the Blaine girls team finished 11th out of 13 teams, beating Lynden and Sammamish. For Blaine, that’s an accomplishment – the girls didn’t even have enough runners to form an official team last year. The boys finished last out of 14 teams. The top boys runners were Liam Lyons (19 minutes, 21 seconds), Malachi Crump (19 minutes, 43 seconds) and Tanner Sterling (20 minutes and 2 seconds). “This is a very difficult course,” Rasar said. “The scoreboard doesn’t show it but every single one of them drastically improved their times from the last time we raced this course.” For everyone but Good, cross country season is over. With a new coach and a lot of new runners, Blaine’s cross country pro-

s Jamie Good rounds a corner in a race at Lake Padden in September. Photo by Oliver Lazenby

gram had a big year. A lot of the team is talking about running together over the winter, Rasar said. “Most of them will be back next year but we will indeed miss our seniors,” Rasar said. “They were a fantastic crew.”

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s Blaine’s Dalton Mouw tackles Burlington-Edison’s Quyntin Frazier at Blaine’s last home game on October 27. Blaine lost 47-13 to Burlington-Edison (6-3, 5-1 in conference games). The Borderites play their final game on Thursday, November 2 at Civic Field against Sehome High School. Photo by Janell Kortlever

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November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine chess club hosting tournament on November 13

S Blaine chess club members Charles Ryan, l., and Sajeon Koebel play a demonstration game during an October 23 Blaine school board meeting. The chess club is hosting a chess tournament on November 13 with schools from B.C. and Skagit and Whatcom counties. The tournament starts at 6 p.m. in the high school library.

Team going to districts after 3-1 win

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By Oliver Lazenby The Blaine girls varsity volleyball team’s post season started just like its regular season, with a match against Sedro-Woolley. The Borderites played Sedro-Woolley twice in the regular season and beat them 3-0 both times, but Blaine expected a tough match in the October 31 playoff opener. “We heard that Sedro-Woolley had really peaked during the season and we knew not to take them lightly,” said Blaine senior Camryn Vosloh. “They weren’t willing to let the ball drop. A few times when we thought the play was done they came back with a great dig.” Blaine won in four sets and will advance to the next round of playoffs, but Sedro didn’t make it easy after 3-1 win, winning the second set 25-14. Blaine won the other sets by 25-13, 25-23 and 25-18. Blaine head coach Bryan Clausen said his team got complacent in the second set. Sedro-Woolley took advantage of that and their momentum carried through the set. Losing the second set didn’t faze the Borderites though, Vosloh said. “We all felt like, ‘how dare we let that second set get away from us,’’’ she said. “We were even more motivated going into the third set. Our goal is to make it to state and we weren’t going to let one set get in the way of that.” Sedro-Woolley kept up with Blaine through the third set, never trailing by more than five points and tying the score at 23 before Blaine won it. Blaine started strong in the fourth set and didn’t miss a single serve through it. Vosloh had 13 kills, eight digs, three aces and two blocks in the match. Josie Deming got 12 kills, 14 digs and two blocks, and Kylah Wilskey had 40 assists, 10 digs and three aces. Next, Blaine plays at 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 2, against Liberty High School in the district tournament at Sammamish High School. They’ll play a second game at 7 p.m. that night. The last time Blaine volleyball went to the district tournament it was a 1A school.

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Photos by Oliver Lazenby

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 2017

HEALTH & WELLNESS Encouraging happy, healthy lives!

What’s happening at the Birch Bay Activity Center? and is taught by Wendy and Megan Bloom at $50 per person. Let’s Get Fit: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8–8:45 a.m. This fitness class is geared toward all ages and encourages participants to build strength and endurance by use of hand weights, bands and steps; $3 per class. Pickleball: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:30–11:30 a.m.; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.;

B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 offers a slew of ongoing classes at the Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Here’s what’s on its ongoing schedule: Badminton: Sundays, 3–6 p.m., Two courts are available for open play, $3 per class. Ballroom Dance: Tuesdays, 7:30– 8:30 p.m. The class features a different dance style each month

Thursdays, 12:30–3:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. for $3 per class. Classes range in complexity and focus on recreational play. Pound: Mondays, Wednesdays, 6–6:45 p.m.; Thursdays, 10:30– 11:15 a.m. Participants learn about dance fusion and movement using weighted drumsticks, $5 per class. Shotokan Karate: Tuesdays, 5–6 p.m.; Thursdays, 4:30 p.m.– 6 p.m. The course is instructed by

Eric Henry. Monthly classes are $40 per person, $100 per family per month or $5 per class. Total Barre Basics: Tuesdays, 8:45–9:30 a.m.; Thursdays, 9:30–10:15 a.m. Angela Biondolillo teaches the course, which is a mix of pilates, dance, cardio, strength training for $5 each class. Qigong and Meditation: Tuesdays, 4–4:45 p.m. Maureen Kelly teaches the ancient practice of Qigong and how to meditate for

$5 per class. Yoga: Tuesdays, 9:45– 10:30 a.m.; Thursdays, 6:15– 7:15 p.m. Maureen Kelly guides participants through various breathing exercises and a short meditation for $5 per class. Zumba Fitness: Tuesdays, 6:15 p.m.; Fridays, 9 p.m; Saturdays, 9 a.m. The class features a wide variety of dance styles and encourages movement for $3 per class. To learn more, visit bit.ly/2z2vP50

Easy ways to cut back on sugar and decrease the risk of diabetes Thirty million children and adults nationwide have diabetes, and 86 million have pre-diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). November is National Diabetes Month, and an excellent

opportunity to take steps to decrease your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Being overweight is a leading risk factor for Type 2 diabetes; the good news is, losing just 7 percent of your body weight can decrease that

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risk by 58 percent, according to the ADA. Cutting back on sugar Before getting started, it’s important to remember that many healthy foods naturally contain sugar, a carbohydrate your body burns for energy. Processed sugars are different in that they add calories that provide no nutritional benefit and, at excessive levels, disrupt hu-

man metabolism and can pose serious health risks. The USDA’s dietary guidelines recommend that added sugar account for less than 10 percent of your daily calories – that’s a maximum of 50 grams a day for average women and 62.5 grams for men. There are roughly 4.5 grams of sugar in a teaspoon. To keep your sugar consumption in the healthy range, dietitian

Courtney McCormick, offers the following tips: • Hold the ketchup. You know baked goods and candy are loaded with added sugar, but so are many foods you may not think of as especially sweet. A tablespoon of ketchup, for instance, has four grams of sugar. Salsa, barbecue sauce, spaghetti sauce and even bread are also hidden sources of sugar. • Sweeten with spices. Replace sugar in coffee, hot cereal and other foods with spices that have a naturally sweet taste, such as vanilla, cinnamon and cardamom. • Flavor your water. A 12-ounce NEW PATIENT SPECIAL can of soda has as much as 40 Exam, X-ray, and Cleaning grams of added sugar. Skip the soda and drink water sweetened with fresh fruit and herbs, like *Only in absence of gum disease. strawberries and basil or lime $337 Value. Offer expires 12/31/2017 and mint. • Go back to the basics. The fruit ASK US ABOUT OUR in the bottom of your yogurt can come with 25 or more grams of TOOTH WHITENING added sugar. Buy plain yogurt GIVE YOURSELF A REASON TO SMILE! F O R N E W PAT I E N T S ! and add your own fresh or dried ($100 VALUE) fruit. 2086 Main St • Snack fruit. One cup of We are known foronbeing (360) 380-4553 Ferndale, WA blueberries has seven grams of dentistferndale.com ultra-gentle with patients! naturalour sugar to satisfy your CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION sweet tooth, but the fruit also comes with fiber to help you feel full and slow the breakdown of the sugars, so you don’t crave more calories soon

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November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Flu season is here – are you ready? Before the 2017-2018 flu season approaches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals ages six months and older get vaccinated. “Getting an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” according to the CDC.

“Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.” The flu season typically begins in October and peaks in December. The CDC is recommending injectable flu shots, as opposed to other products on the mar-

ket. Higher dosages are recommended for adults and children ages six months to eight years require two doses of the vaccine, according to CDC. “You should get a flu vaccine now, if you haven’t gotten one already this season,” according to the CDC. “It takes about two weeks after vaccination for an-

(Continued from previous page) after eating it. • Bake with applesauce. Eating fewer baked goods is sure to reduce your sugar intake, but when the occasion calls for making a cake, replace a third of the sugar in the recipe with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce. • Eat right and often. When you’re hungry, you crave calories, often leading to sugary snacking. Reduce between-meal munching by eating healthy, filling foods four to six times a day. This National Diabetes Month, make small swaps to reduce your sugar intake and more easily manage your weight. Courtesy of StatePoint

Keep doing what you love. If you are feeling under the weather this season, don’t wait for an appointment. Walk in to PeaceHealth’s Same Day Care clinic seven days a week and get back outdoors.

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tibodies to develop in the body that protect against flu. CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible. Getting vaccinated later, however, can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even into January or later.” According to the CDC, between 9.2 million and 35.6 million cases of influenza have been

reported each year since 2010. Additionally, from 140,000 to 710,000 people have been hospitalized and 12,000 to 56,000 have died as a result of the flu annually since 2010. Those who have the flu are recommended to stay home and avoid contact with others. In the case of serious illness, contact a healthcare provider; they may be able to prescribe you an antiviral. To learn more, visit cdc.gov/flu.

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 2017

Blaine Police Department chief retires after decades-long career

s Mike Haslip, 2017.

B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Driven by a desire to help his community, Mike Haslip spent more than 40 years at the Blaine Police Department serving as a civilian volunteer, animal control officer, reserve and commissioned officer and up until this week, chief of police. On October 31, he retired from the department. During a Blaine City Council meeting on October 23, friends and colleagues gathered to celebrate his years of service. Blaine Police Department Sgt. Ryan King and administration manager Lisa Moeller presented him with a shadow box, with space for honorary medals and pins that he’s collected over the years, as well as the flag that was formerly on display at the station. Blaine mayor Harry Robinson read a proclamation from the city, which stated, in part: “Mike has fostered an enduring legacy of personal, professional service to the community, giving a voice to the vulnerable,

is renowned for his patience and skills as a negotiator and problem solver, and has led his team as an innovator and forward thinker, always seeking to provide for the needs of his community, for this and future generations.” In response, Haslip said, “I’ve been blessed to be able to work here all these years. I never thought I’d get this lucky.” Haslip grew up in Soldotna, Alaska and moved to Blaine in 1971 after his father relocated for work. He attended Blaine High School his sophomore year, moved back to Alaska his junior year and returned to Blaine his senior year to graduate, he said. His interest in police work ran in the family. Haslip’s grandfather was a US Marshal in Alaska and his father was a police officer in Kodiak, Alaska. Haslip first developed an affinity for crime reporting after landing a job at a radio station while in high school. After moving to Blaine, he participated in numerous police ride-alongs and decided to pursue an education in police operations at Evergreen State College. At 19, Haslip was offered a job at the Blaine Police Department, after completing one year at Evergreen. He started as a civilian volunteer in 1973 and went on to fulfill a variety of roles that decade, including a short stint as animal control officer in 1974, reserve police officer in 1974 and commissioned officer starting in 1976. His brother, John Haslip, joined the force in 1978, eventually moving to Kirkland where he’s now a lieutenant for the Kirkland police department. As the nexus of an interna-

s In the 1980s, Blaine Police Department officers used a typewriter and adding machine to file reports. “Those were advanced office tools then,” Haslip said.

s A former Blaine Police Department vehicle.

s Mike Haslip circa 1977-1978 at Chuck’s Drive In, formerly located on Peace Portal Drive. Photos courtesy of the Blaine Police Department

tional border, interstate highway, railroad and harbor and in touch with federal, state and local agencies, “[Blaine] creates this wonderfully seasoned ever-changing stew of incidents and perspectives,” Haslip said. In the ‘70s, the commercial fishing industry was thriving and intensely busy. Haslip said Blaine was called the “Tijuana of the north” because of all the tourists who were turning up due to strict alcohol and adult entertainment laws in B.C. Twelve taverns, two all-hours adult entertainment theaters and a slew of other similar businesses kept “business booming,” he said. Police officers faced the challenge of keeping the community safe while allowing legal business to be conducted. Blaine’s business environment changed by the mid-1980s, when B.C. blue laws were relaxed. The adult-oriented businesses began closing at the same time that the commercial fishing industry declined. “That was a struggle for the community,” he said. The changes meant the Blaine Police Department could put more emphasis on the residents, as opposed to tourists. The department launched several programs, including the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program which added on a K-9 unit and hired an officer to monitor the elementary, middle and high school campus. The city also combined the police and fire departments and from 1985 to 1989, Haslip served as a volunteer EMT-D/Captain with Fire District 13. The role allowed him to “see both sides of that fence,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for all of the volunteers who keep the community going.” Haslip officially took the helm of the department as Blaine chief of police and director of public safety in 2003, after former chief

Bill Elfo was elected Whatcom County Commission Against County Sheriff. The progres- Domestic Violence. sion to the position was natural, A father of three, Haslip said he Haslip said, adding, “It gets in is very grateful to his family for your blood and you realize this is their sacrifice. “We all feel like we really interesting.” owe so much to our families for As chief, he experienced the being so patient with us,” he said. 2012 closure of Semiahmoo Re- In retirement, he plans to stay in sort, which caused a big drop in Blaine and spend time with his Blaine’s tax base. The department wife, Leawei Zhang, a profeslost several of its “specialty func- sor at the University of British tions” and had to cut its front Columbia. office staff by half and the poHe’s confident that the departlice force by 30 percent, he said. ment will remain in good hands The change spurred officers to following his departure. “become much more efficient,” “We have very strong comhe said. munity support Federal partfor the job offinerships, includcers do,” he said, ing those with noting that 11 U.S. Customs and officers are curBorder Protection rently employed became extremely in Blaine. “Evvaluable to the deery one of them partment, he said. is invested in the “They are all community. That’s members of the what lets me leave community as optimistic.” well,” he said. “I Starting Nocan’t count the vember 1, Michael number of times Knapp will take that Border Pathe seat as interim trol saved my chief. He is the forbacon.” mer police chief of Post 9/11, law the Ferndale Poenforcement agenlice Department; cies across the US he retired in 2016. took strides to The city will better communishortly begin a cate with one ansearch for a perother. As a result, manent chief. – Mike Haslip Haslip pioneered Blaine city manthe city’s Auxiliary ager Dave WilCommunications brecht said the Service, a team of more than a interviewing process will involve dozen volunteers maintaining Blaine Police Department staff backup radios, a communica- and the community before the tions office and a portable station Blaine City Council casts the final to meet the needs of emergency vote to appoint a new chief. The management agencies. process will likely take about six During his time as chief, he months, he said. also served as the Internation“I’m privileged to have this opal Association of Chiefs of Po- portunity,” Knapp said to Blaine lice’s National Small Agency City Council members at a sperepresentative to the Depart- cial meeting on October 30. “I ment of Justice and on the board look very much forward to workof directors for the Whatcom ing with you all.”

“I’ve been blessed to be able to work here all these years. I never thought I’d get this lucky.”

November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

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The Northern Light • November 2 - 8, 2017

Real Estate If you want your home sold, call me to get it done!

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2737 West Mcleod Road, Bellingham • $298,500

WATERFRONT WITH A MILLION $$$ VIEW! Sandy Point heights home w/panoramic view of Mt. Baker, Cascade Range & San Juan Islands. The house has large open deck allowing you to enjoy the view along with a new roof, updated electrical, new paint & windows.

SEMIAHMOO COUNTRY CLUB VILLA CONDOMINIUM GROUND FLOOR CORNER UNIT! Beautifully remodeled ground floor unit w/3-BDs & 2 full BAs. Master en suite bath & patio for private relaxation. SS DW, fridge w/water filter, LG capacity W/D, Corian counters, stone FP, plus tile, Pergo & cushy carpet flring. Next to Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club.

! LD

ANOTHER HAPPY SELLER! Breathtaking views, w/Private beach, 102’ of waterfront. “Smart” home w/ remote control, indoor/outdoor space in great room w/ Nano Doors. Radiant heat concrete floors on main, chef’s kitchen, wired for NEST, just to name of few. Natural landscaping leads to your oasis below.

Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771

Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637

INVENTORY IS VERY LOW. This is a prime time to list your home for sale! Whether you’re thinking of selling or in the market to buy Call Ruth Skeete!

Make your next move your best move! Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075

Do you know what your home’s value is in this market? Our area is low on home and condominium listings… prices have risen and stabilized! You may be surprised at the current market value for your home. Call me for a free, no-obligation, market valuation.

CALL ME FOR A CURRENT MARKET ANALYSIS NOW! Jairo “JB” Batres • (360) 306-9029 4741 & 4737 Tidal Way, Buildings G & H, Birch Bay • $289,900

OPEN SAT 12-3 SUN 1-4

GOING FAST! ONLY A FEW REMAINING! The Tides at Birch Bay is a premier community of craftsman style cottage condos on 11 acres of hillside above the bay. Close Birch Bay activities. Private units are 1100+ SF, with granite counters, rock gas FP, SS appls, 2-BD, 1.75-BA, bonus loft & office/ den and large covered back deck overlooking Birch Creek.

Tonia Thrift • (360) 595-3257

Rentals - Residential SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS 2 bedrooms and separate bathroom available in large downtown Blaine home. $550/ mo. +1/2 utilities. Available Nov. 1. 360-393-6645.

DRAYTON HARBOR REALTY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

BIRCH BAY • CUSTER • SEMIAHMOO SEMIAHMOO GORGEOUS 2-BD, 2-BA CONDO. Completely furnished. Located on 8thTee! $1800/mo. 1-yr lease.

BLAINE

2-BD, 2-BA DUPLEX. W/D, D/W, stove refrigerator. Very spacious, with Water, sewer, electric, garbage includes $1050/mo. Includes water, sewer, elec, garbage. 2-BD, 1-BA HOUSE. W/D, D/W, stove refrigerator $1050/mo. 1-yr lease.

We Need Properties To Manage! N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,

360-332-3166 Rentals - Rooms HISTORIC HOME FURNISHED ROOM, NS, pet friendly $550/ mo. + deposit, references required, 360-332-3449.

Luxury single story townhomes on Semiahmoo’s emerald first fairway!

2905 SF, 2-car Garage & Casita 8778 Clubhouse Pt. • $734,500

UNDER CONSTRUCTION! Completion 2018! www.clubhousepoint.com

at Semiahmoo (360) 815-6638

Linda Kiens

(360) 815-6640

Information reliable but not guaranteed.

All advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitaAllreal realestate/rentals estate/rentals advertistion or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin,or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. ing newspaper in this newspaper is subject This 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 intothis on an thenewspaper Federal are Fairavailable Housing Actequal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in vi-

FOR LEASE

Commercial Building On Blaine Harbor Great location with spectacular marina & park views. 850 s.f. Reception area plus 3 offices. MUST SEE! Rent depends on term of lease.

Contact Pat Grubb at pgrubb@mac.com or 360-332-1777

November 2 - 8, 2017 • thenorthernlight.com

Letters ... From page 4

The Editor: I am writing to express my support for Alicia Rule as Blaine City Council member at-large, and encourage you to do the same by voting for her. I have known Alicia for over 35 years. We were classmates back in the day. Through those school years she served people. Her higher concern was often putting others first. The years since then have proved those qualities as primary to who Alicia is at heart. Alicia holds families and community in high regard. Before moving to Blaine, Alicia worked in the social service sector of her town. She gave time and energy away to families and kids who were in need. She did the hard work to make families and communities healthy. Upon moving to Blaine, Alicia delivered a “welcome” meal to our family before we could even get one to hers. Within months of calling Blaine home, Alicia launched a social media campaign called “Blaine Helps.” Take a minute to find it on Facebook and notice all the names of your Blaine neighbors who have been served by this grassroots resource. Now Alicia has a vision to serve her community – our community – by taking on a leadership role on the city council. Alicia sees enormous potential for the city of Blaine. In the decade my family has lived in Blaine much has been said about revitalizing downtown, developing east Blaine, and creating community identity. However, while there’s been some, we haven’t seen enough movement or leadership in those areas from the top down. We have seen a few businesses join the community. Yet, at the same time, we have seen several leave. Top down leadership doesn’t seem to be getting very far. Someone has said, “If serving is beneath you, leadership is beyond you.” Alicia has proved to be a leader in our community through her willingness to be a servant in our community. I hope you’ll choose to vote for Alicia Rule as Blaine City Council member at-large. Andy Weeda, pastor Blaine The Editor: Big shout out to Brenda Brooks-Gelwicks for supporting our community through monthly line dances. Each month around 40-50 of us go to a locally-owned business and have fun and dance. Thanks, Brenda. You rock. Leslie Kaeufer Blaine

The Editor: By November 7, please take five minutes to open your voter package and vote yes for the BlaineBirch Bay Park and Recreation District (BBBPRD) levy. A yes vote provides a strong sense of community worth because park and recreations helps stitch together the fabric of our society. Everyone can participate in BBBPRD programs, use the playgrounds and the activity center in Birch Bay and use the new pavilion next to the Blaine Senior Center across from the high school. BBBPRD strives to build a sense of pride and respect of our communities’ worth through walking trails, bike paths and seaside parks but the real impact is on programs that are available for every citizen from preschool to seniors who attend line dancing and Zumba, strength training, yoga, karate, basketball, future reclamation of ball fields and development of seaside playgrounds, picnic facilities and Friday night family movies are some of the programs worthy of support from your community heart. Renters and homeowners combined all benefit from the activities and programs that are available. A yes vote helps build our community and make these and more benefits available for all to participate. Support the BBBPRD community and make Blaine and Birch Bay the place to be happy and fulfilled. This November don’t throw away your ballot. Spend five minutes and make your vote count. Vote yes for the kid next door and the working couple who’s thankful for the many activities that bring us together. Vote yes for the hard working single mom who feels appreciated because her child gets daycare while she works out. Vote yes for the seniors who’ll have programs to attend during retirement. The benefits are obvious and we have so much to gain! It makes sense to vote yes. David Allen Blaine The Editor: I enjoin everyone in east and west Blaine to cast their votes for Harry Robinson, Paul Greenough and Charlie Hawkins in the upcoming city council election. All three are incumbents and have served our community in a most benevolent capacity. Having once served on the council in a past time, I can assure all of you that these three will continue to serve you in a most diligent, ongoing and accomplishing way. Everyone wants to see Blaine continue to improve – I guarantee all of you that the foregoing three will

continue their efforts to achieve that goal. Mike Myers Blaine The Editor: With the election coming to a close, we would once again ask anyone who has not yet voted, to vote yes for the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District levy. We need to continue the partnership between the recreation district and the city. We have the “Pirate Park” because of it. Please vote yes. Thank you. Charlie and Marsha Hawkins Blaine The Editor: Barry Wegner is an outstanding candidate for Bellingham port commissioner. With 43 years of public service, Barry has worked at the Washington State Department of Ecology to protect our shorelines and water quality. Locally he was deeply involved with the construction of the Taylor Street Dock and the removal of toxic creosote from Bellingham Bay. And he successfully managed a shellfish operation for four years. Once elected, Barry will first address the problem of contaminated waterfront sites by securing funding for an accelerated clean-up. Moreover, he will work to expand our family-wage job base, attract clean energy and high-tech companies, and advocate for mixeduse sustainable development. We are indeed fortunate to have such a competent, knowledgeable and experienced candidate. Vote Barry Wegner for Bellingham port commissioner, District 2. He will get the job done. Warren Sheay Bellingham The Editor: Another election; unfortunately, people tend to ignore these elections even though it is their right and privilege to vote. All of the ballots are out. A recent survey I saw showed 60 percent of all voters were undecided at this time. These races are vitally important to our economic well-being and deserve careful attention to the candidates running. I strongly urge that you vote for Mary Kay Robinson for Whatcom County Council at large position. Mary Kay is articulate, smart and eager to become involved in the items, particularly those that involve private property rights. This is a topic that has been near and dear to her for 20 years, while working as a banker and realtor. Please cast your vote for Mary Kay Robinson. Bill Henshaw Bellingham

Blaine High School alumnus arrested Blaine High School alumnus Shaquille Woods was arrested October 29 on suspicion of taking indecent liberties, according to a Whatcom County Jail records. On October 30, he was released from custody. In the state of Washington, indecent liberties is a class B felony, which can result in up to 10

years of confinement and/or a fine of $10,000. In a separate case, Woods is facing second-degree rape charges following allegations from a girl who said he raped her at her home in Birch Bay. According to the affidavit of probable cause filed by Whatcom County deputy prosecuting attor-

ney Evan Jones, police interviewed the girl after receiving a report on July 17; she reported the incident took place in February 2016. Woods’ trial was set to start on October 30. Woods will next appear in court on January 5 for an omnibus hearing, according to the Whatcom County superior court clerk’s office.

s Fall in Whatcom County.

Photo by Walter Selden

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