The Northern Light_January 9, 2019 by Point Roberts Press

January 10 - 16, 2019

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Semiahmoo Parkway needs repair, page 3

Blaine wrestlers place at Vegas tourney, page 6

Learn how to stay active at the Blaine Senior Center, page 8-9

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

New B&O tax Boys basketball gets first conference victory would target wholesale and manufacturing businesses B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e

(See Tax, page 4)

s Blaine’s Adam Vega drives toward the hoop against Meridian on January 3 at Blaine High School. Vega scored the final basket in Blaine’s 75–73 conference win against Meridian. Story on page 6. Photo by Janell Kortlever

2018 year in

REVIEW

A look back at the year that was This is the second and final review of 2018. Read part one in last week’s print or online edition.

July • Residents and visitors gathered in Blaine for the Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration. The all-day event included a pancake breakfast, ‘Shine and Show’ car show, parade, live music by Silver City Band, The Replayzmentz and Checo Tohomaso and fireworks at Blaine Marine Park. • Custom knife company Silver Stag opened in Blaine on July 4. Founder and majority owner Brad Smith sells knives at

more than 1,000 stores, including Cabela’s. • The Pacific Arts Association (PAA) hosted the Drayton Harbor Music Festival July 8 through July 14 in Blaine. The festival is the biggest event of the year for the PAA and featured concerts at the G and H Street plazas as well as a music camp for kids. • Birch Bay’s waterfront filled with sand sculptures as part of the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual competition on July 14 and 15.

Government shutdown impacts local agencies, residents By Gwen Roley With the federal government shutdown in its third week, local citizens are starting to feel the impact on their daily lives. In an Oval Office appearance Tuesday night, President Trump blamed the Democrats for the impasse over federal funding of border security and said the matter could be solved in as little as 45 minutes. In response, Democrat leaders Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer called on the President to re-open government agencies and negotiate border security separately.

President Trump shut down the government at midnight on December 22 after Congress and the President failed to agree on the appropriation of federal funds for the 2019 fiscal year. As a result, some – but not all – federal government agencies have closed their offices and discontinued operations. Approximately 800,000 federal employees have been furloughed or are working without pay while federal contractors have been off work. However, some government departments have previously been funded and remain open. The federal agency with the largest

presence in Blaine, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is continuing to operate in a limited capacity. Kenneth Williams, CBP area port director, told The Northern Light U.S. ports of entry will remain staffed and travelers will still be admitted to the U.S. “Without an appropriation bill, CBP Office of Field Operations can only perform essential functions, such as anti-terrorism, narcotic and bioterrorism functions,” Williams said. (See Shutdown, page 5)

• After spending 20 years as head ranger of Birch Bay and Peace Arch state parks, and 43 years with Washington State Parks, Ted Morris retired. In an interview with The Northern Light, Morris listed his accomplishments, including helping form the Friends of Birch Bay State Park and restarting the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. (See Year in Review, page 7)

Letters . . . . . . . . . 4

INSIDE

To keep up with a growing demand for city services, Blaine City Council will consider approving a 0.2 percent Business and Occupation (B&O) tax on wholesale and manufacturing businesses with gross receipts of $20,000 or more per year. “Additional revenue is essential to maintaining existing service,” said Blaine city manager Michael Jones. “Whether it [comes from] a B&O tax is still open to discussion.” Per state law, a B&O tax can be imposed by a city at a maximum tax rate of 0.2 percent on manufacturing, wholesale, retail and service businesses. Gross receipts are defined as the total annual revenue of an organization, without subtracting costs and expenses. Manufacturing businesses such as plants, factories and mills are those that transform raw materials, substances or components into new products and wholesale businesses arrange the purchase or sale of goods to retail establishments, said city finance director Jeff Lazenby in an email. “These types of businesses pay little in the way of sales tax, but rely on city services like police, roads and streets,” he said. Lazenby estimated that 30 to 50 businesses in Blaine would have to pay the tax and said a business that grosses $500,000 in annual revenue would pay $1,000. City services are primarily funded through a 6 percent utility tax, which applies to electric energy, garbage and solid waste refuse, natural gas, telephone service and cable television businesses; an 8.7 percent sales tax, of which the city retains 1.05 percent; and a property tax. “Strict legal guidelines prohibit reallocation of funds from one city service to another,” according to a statement from the city. “For example, money from utilities cannot be used for other city services, such as police or public safety.” Hamstrung by budget constraints brought on by the late 2000s recession

Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Coming Up . . . . . 14

Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

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from low-income families. From 2014 to 2017, the Opportunity Council held the program at Custer Elementary School and provided transportation for Blaine families. The program’s income qualifications are based on federal poverty guidelines, but enrollment specialist Juan Madrigal said the program is flexible with enrollment. “What we are trying to do is qualify families, not disqualify them,” he said. Curriculum is tailored to individual children, but overall pro-

By Oliver Lazenby The Opportunity Council’s state-funded preschool program for low-income families moved back to Blaine last school year after two years in Custer and is accepting applications. The program is held at Blaine Primary School from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. The community assistance-focused nonprofit’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) serves children three to five years old

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gram goals include learning how to be social with other children and learning to have a routine. The program currently has a waiting list, but the Opportunity Council accepts applications for the program year-round. Applications are online at: bit.ly/2H1cmGZ. To enroll over the phone, call the Opportunity Council at 360/734-5120. The Blaine school district has a list of local preschools on its website at: blainesd.org/o/blaine-primary-school/page/developmental-preschool-program.

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Repairs to Semiahmoo Parkway needed B y S t e fa n i e D o n a h u e Parts of Blaine sustained critical damage as a result of the December 20 wind storm that struck much of the Puget Sound. “One of the critical areas was Semiahmoo Parkway,” said assistant public works director Sam Castro in a presentation to Blaine City Council on January 7. “We definitely have some serious beach erosion out there.” While none of the road on the parkway was damaged, approximately 700 feet of coastal armoring located between the Alaska Packers Association museum and Semiahmoo Resort is gone, he said. The armoring is used to reinforce and protect the shoreline. “We are very susceptible in that particular corridor,” Castro said. In coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies, staff with the public works department are de-

veloping a strategic recovery plan for the corridor. “If we have another storm, and it has the potential to take out that corridor, [the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers] would be next to our side with resources to help combat that and give us some level of protection,” Castro said. “However, that is only a temporary measure.” In addition to the damage on Semiahmoo Parkway, the storm also caused some utility poles on Pipeline Road to lean and several trees to topple throughout the city. Castro said it took about a week and a half for public works staff to remove debris. “There will be some recovery, without question,” he said. The city was due to submit a preliminary damage assessment to the state for possible reimbursement by January 9. “That 700 feet of repair area in the armory is going to come with

s The wind storm on December 20 resulted in widespread damage throughout the Puget Sound. In Blaine, trees fell and blocked roadways and approximately 700 feet of coastal armoring on Semiahmoo Parkway is gone, said assistant public works director Sam Castro. Photos courtesyFrom of the city the of Blaine a very heavy expense,” Castro said. “The truth of the matter is, that corridor has been susceptible to this type of damage for many, many years.”

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

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@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Stefanie Donahue stefanie@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Aly Siemion aly@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Gwen Roley prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser, production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Adam Albert sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com Contributors In This Issue

Vicki McCullough The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXIV, No 29 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Letters The Editor: Once again, the Blaine Food Bank (BFB) has been overwhelmed! It is with great pride in our communities and deep gratitude for the local residents that BFB volunteers announce we successfully raised over $30,000 which was the original goal set by a generous benefactor. Last August, a local resident challenged BFB to raise $30,000 by December 21 and he would match the donations up to an equal amount. We did it! Our goal was not only matched, but with a flurry of last minute donations it was exceeded as we ended the challenge with well over $30,000 in cash donations. Blaine Food Bank volunteers were especially gratified that, when the challenge was announced, our local residents, churches, schools and businesses listened. From the smallest donation to the largest, our communities responded to the plea overwhelmingly. And a special thank you also to The Northern Light for their continuing support. Who comes to the food bank? Your neighbors, your friends, your family and people who you attend church with are all among those coming to visit the food bank once a week. Or described another way, people who are out of work, low income families, senior citizens, veterans of the armed services, the disabled, single moms or dads or anyone who temporarily needs help are represented by every person who makes their way to BFB.

Tax ... From page 1

and a lower Canadian exchange rate, the city has made what it describes as significant cuts to staffing, expenses and services over the past decade. As well, it has been unable to adequately fund economic development initiatives or properly maintain parks and public buildings. Limited staffing has also caused delays in processing permits and payments and responding to inquiries from the public. “Public safety has been particularly hard hit by workforce reductions with just one police officer available to respond to calls at times,” according to a statement from the city. “This [is] a concern because the demand for police services continues to increase.” Blaine City Council intends to vote on the B&O tax after two public hearings scheduled for February 11 and 25. If approved, Jones said the tax would generate an estimated $200,000 per year and would go into effect in 2019. The money raised will pay for city services, such as additional police and administrative personnel, replacement of police vehicles, What-Comm 911 emergency dispatch services and public park and building maintenance. City officials also want to use some of the funding on a program to help the manufacturing industry find and retain workers. “Many of them have experienced chal-

Who is eligible to receive help from the food bank? With legal documentation proving they live in Birch Bay, Blaine or Custer, BFB will give food to any family or individual who walks through our front door asking for help. Thank you for helping us to help others. With these donations, there will be milk and eggs far into 2019! Jerry Bladies and all the BFB volunteers Blaine The Editor: How nice to attend the 42nd Legislative District town hall meeting (sponsored by Whatcom Republicans) on January 5, and find an elected representative representing me and my views. Thanks to the Republicans for inviting our newly elected House Democrat, Sharon Shewmake, to join them in the event. This was uncharted territory and things were rocky at first with a portion of the audience complaining about the long opening prayer. Separation of church and state was the issue and this was clearly overlooked by those in charge. The questions and answers are always interesting, but this time I found Sharon Shewmake presenting new ideas in dealing with climate change, offering proven solutions to a complex issue. Sure, senator Ericksen is still extolling “that there are scientists on both sides of the climate change issue that could debate, etc.” but Shewmake was there to present a different lenges in attracting and retaining employees,” Jones said of local businesses, emphasizing, “It is not unique to Blaine.” Jones said the B&O tax will also help level the tax burden. “Manufacturing and wholesale businesses do not contribute to sales tax revenue like the retail or service industry and still require city services,” he wrote in a letter to the Blaine Chamber of Commerce board of directors. In addition to the chamber, Jones also reached out to businesses that would be subject to the B&O tax. “The feedback was mixed,” he said. “The majority of them were understanding and not excited.” Jones does not believe the B&O tax will deter manufacturing and wholesale businesses from coming to Blaine. The city’s proximity to Interstate-5 and an international border, as well as its low electricity rates, make it an enticing place to do business, he said. Windermere real estate agent Mike Kent has a different opinion. “Businesses will always gravitate where costs are less,” he said. Blaine’s lack of a B&O tax is “a great incentive,” he added. “I’d hate to lose it.” Kent said his company recently leased all remaining parcels in the Marine Drive Business Park, located just outside of Bellingham city limits. According to the Association of Washington Cities, Bellingham is the only

stance – one I found most hopeful. Teacher salaries were discussed where different opinions were voiced and truths presented. Representative-elect Shewmake stated that attracting quality teachers requires offering profession-like salaries. She also briefly mentioned looking into regulations to help with affordable housing and reduce homelessness. There was agreement on this and perhaps a bipartisan solution can be presented in the near future. Let’s continue the debates now that we have both sides of the issues being discussed, debated and, hopefully, passed so our community can benefit. Naomi Murphy Ferndale The Editor: Having just returned from the town hall meeting with Doug Ericksen, Luanne Van Werven and Sharon Shewmake, I am struck by the differences in their styles and issues they think are important. To make a point about education funding, Van Werven cited that teachers make $96,000 per year. Later, when she was questioned about it, she retracted it to say somewhere in the $70,000 range. She may have been speaking of the average of Washington as a whole, but she represents Whatcom Coun(See Letters, page 7) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

municipality in Whatcom County that imposes a B&O tax on wholesale, manufacturing, retail and service businesses, which Kent believes is a deterrent. “That’s one of the first things a buyer will ask,” he said. Jones said the city has considered other options for generating revenue, but decided against them. A levy lid lift, for example, would require voters to approve a property tax increase, but would disproportionately impact businesses that are already paying sales or lodging tax, he said. Voters could also approve a 0.1 percent sales tax increase to fund public safety, but Jones said the city has broader needs. “In general, I don’t like increasing taxes,” said mayor Bonnie Onyon. “We’re certainly not in dire straits with our budget, but it’s not going to get better.” The B&O tax, she said, “seemed like the most fair way to do it.” Ultimately, “the decision has not been made,” Jones said. “We want the public to participate.” To learn more about the B&O tax, visit bit.ly/2C9rlJl. To comment on the proposal, attend two public hearings that begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, February 11 and 25 at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 in Blaine. Comments are also being accepted via email to citycouncil@cityofblaine.com and by phone at 360/332-8311.

Civic Meetings

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Jan. 17 Ads due: Jan. 11

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 Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 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-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Chamber Office, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blaine.wednet.edu. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 1 p.m. Blaine Fire Station. Info: nwfrs.net.

January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

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CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public. Agendas can be found on the City’s website.

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Currently, all CBP administrative offices are closed and non-essential CBP functions cannot be performed at this time. For example, the NEXUS office at Birch Bay Square is closed and not accepting clients. Although some national parks are closed, Peace Arch State Park is open and operating as a part of the Washington state parks system. U.S. post offices are still open and mail is still being delivered. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs remains unaffected by the shutdown, so veterans in Whatcom County can still go to the veteran center in Bellingham for events and assistance. As a port of entry, Blaine is also home to offices for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, both located on Pacific Highway. The FDA office remains open in a limited capacity but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office is completely closed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Small Business Administration are also closed. The Northern Light asked readers on Facebook how they are being affected by the shutdown. Some said they were unaffected and expressed support for building the wall at the southern border, the issue at the heart of the dispute over funding. “No issues, build the wall,” Jason Mooney commented. Others said they are beginning to feel the financial pressure as the shutdown drags on. “I’m a government employee working without pay,” Sue Hamann responded. “Most of us do not have a huge savings account to draw from, but bills come anyway.” On January 7, the Washington State Employee Security Department (ESD) announced federal workers furloughed by the shutdown can apply for state unemployment benefits. As the shutdown continues, thousands of federal employees in Washington state are without a paycheck. “Just like other workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own, federal workers have the unemployment safety net to help them through this difficult time,” said ESD commissioner Suzi LeVine. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is also working to assure Washington residents receive social assistance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides funds to DSHS for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as Basic Food in Washington state. At this time, there is enough appropriated funding for Basic Food and SNAP to last until the end of January. “If the shutdown continues until February, clients could see disruptions in their accounts,” said DSHS media relations manager Kelly Stowe. “State leadership is looking at solutions right now to attempt to continue services past January.” Stowe said Temporary Assis-

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

Sports By Oliver Lazenby

First league win since 2016 – a sign of progress for boys basketball After four fierce back-and-forth quarters, the Blaine boys varsity basketball team trailed Meridian by one point in overtime with 50 seconds left on January 3. The players on the court might not have known what head coach Brett Farrar knew: the Borderites had a shot at winning their first conference game since 2016. Blaine’s Josh Russ rebounded a missed Meridian shot and took off on a fast break. He passed to Adam Vega who drove to the hoop and made a basket despite getting fouled. Vega’s free throw put Blaine up 75–73 with 12 seconds to go, and the Borderites held off Meridian’s last chance at tying the game. “The kids were really ecstatic in the locker room after the game,” Farrar said. “It’s good to see all their hard work and dedication paying off in a game like that.” Vega scored 20 points, Russ

scored 19, Zane Rector had 18 and Kyle Turnberg had seven points, seven assists and three steals. Colby Knutzen played tough defense guarding Meridian’s two top-scorers, Farrar said. “The kids are working hard and doing everything we ask of them and we’re definitely seeing marked improvements,” he said. “You’re never sure if the players see it but as coaches we see the improvement, so we’re always trying to encourage them.” Before the game, Farrar referred to a conference victory as a mental hurdle that “we would definitely like to take care of sooner rather than later.” Blaine has a 6–7 record overall, so the team was ready to snap its 27-game losing streak in conference games. The victory provides validation, but Blaine played close conference games against both

Burlington-Edison and Lakewood in late December. Over the holiday break, Blaine won non-conference games against Lynnwood and Granite Falls and after losing 60–40 to Ferndale on January 8, the team’s record is 1–5 in conference games. Contributions on offense and defense from a variety of players have been a highlight of the Borderites’ season so far. In a 68–58 win against Lynnwood, Rector and Vega each scored 16, Russ scored 18 and Ben Wallen scored 10. “Anytime you get four guys in double figures you’re doing pretty well,” Farrar said. “It’s a team sport and you want everyone to contribute and do their jobs and these guys are doing that.” Next, Blaine travels to Sehome to play at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, January 11. Blaine plays at home next at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, January 15 against Sedro-Woolley.

s Blaine’s Josh Russ reaches for a rebound on January 3 against Meridian at Blaine High School. Photo by Janell Kortlever

Blaine wrestlers place against national competition at Las Vegas Tournament Blaine wrestling teams traveled to Nevada over the holiday break where the boys competed against 51 teams from seven states at the Las Vegas Invitational. For a team known throughout the state for its wrestling program, the tournament presented a chance for Blaine to see how it matches up against tougher competition without the baggage of its winning reputation.

Some strong wrestlers suffered tough losses and others matched up just fine against some of the best wrestlers in the west. Blaine’s Jacob Westfall placed third at 197 pounds and Aidan Button placed fourth at 162. Westfall and Button have led the Borderites all season, with first place finishes at the Lynnwood Classic, the Battle at the Border and other tournaments.

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Blaine’s Ethan Deming, Owen Hansen and Gavino Rodriguez were all one match away from placing at Las Vegas. Head coach Tom Hinz said the mid-season tournament gave the Borderites a chance to reevaluate their strengths and weaknesses and regroup before postseason competition starts on February 2. “We had a bigger-than-state experience,” he said. “We get to reevaluate and build ourselves back up to the state tournament.”

The Borderites also used the trip as an opportunity for team building. Though Las Vegas isn’t that distant, even its WalMart can feel exotic compared to small-town Whatcom County, Hinz said. “We stretched our cultural footprint. We got to go to Hoover Dam and see some of Nevada. We went to the Stratosphere [Hotel] and rode all the rides,” he said. “Some of them had never been on a rollercoaster before.”

The week after Vegas, the Borderites placed seventh against 23 teams at the Everett Classic on January 5. Blaine’s top finishers were Alex Hall, third place at 138 pounds, Aidan Button, third at 160 pounds, Jacob Westfall, first at 195 pounds, and Owen Hansen, third at 220 pounds. The Blaine boys wrestle next at 10 a.m., Saturday, January 12, at the King of Beacon Hill Invitational at Cleveland High School in Seattle.

Blaine girls get confidence boost at Vegas wrestling tournament Both Blaine wrestling teams traveled to the Las Vegas Invitational on December 21–22, but due to girls wrestling being more popular in Washington state than in the southwest, competition on the girls side of the arena wasn’t as tough as the boys side, coaches said. Even so, 78 girls competed and Blaine wrestlers got a chance to hit the mat against wrestlers from all over the western U.S. Three of four Blaine wrestlers who made the trip placed in the top five. Josy Delgadillo took second place at 126 pounds, Kylaya Armstrong

took third at 120 and Abigail Higgins placed fifth at 152 pounds. “I think our ladies walked away feeling more confident about their wrestling skills and their team,” said head coach Damon Higgins. “Their growth is exponential. Their dedication in the wrestling room. They’re suffering right alongside the boys and working just as hard. They’re amazing.” Woolley Woman’s Tournament After Vegas, the girls competed at the Woolley Woman’s Tournament on December 29 at Sedro-Woolley High School. Del-

s Josy Delgadillo

File photo

gadillo was once again Blaine’s top finisher at second place and Armstrong wrestled to fifth place. The girls wrestle next at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 16, at the Scramble at Marysville Pilchuck High School.

Girls basketball wins two at holiday tournament After winning two games during a holiday tournament then losing two games to start

2019, Blaine girls varsity basketball has a 5–7 record overall and 1–4 record in conference games.

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At the holiday tournament at Blaine High School on December 27 and 28, Blaine girls beat University Prep 39–17 and Shorewood High School 38–32. The Borderites lost to Meridian 50–32 on January 4 and to Ferndale 71– 43 on January 8. Next, Blaine plays Sehome (5–8) at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 10, at home.

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January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Year in Review ... From page 1

• The Blaine Welcome Center, located at 546 Peace Portal Drive, and Starbucks, located at 530 Peace Portal Drive, opened. • Birch Bay residents expressed concern over a proposed project to build a three-story apartment building at Richmond Resort, an RV and manufactured home park, located at 8086 Birch Bay Drive, due to its impact on views. • Bellingham residents Mark and Julie Sampson sat down with The Northern Light to talk about their new business, Aquarius Yacht Charters LLC. The business offers sailing cruises out of Blaine Harbor on a 54-foot, Jeanneau sailing yacht called Southern Cross. • Michael Knapp ended his service as interim chief of the Blaine Police Department on July 31. August • More than 20 bands, including Rocky Vaselino, Powerhouse, Alien Probe and Exit 266, participated in the 8th annual Birch Bay Music Festival on August 3–5 at the previous Homestead Golf Course Grounds. The three-day festival was a fundraiser for local animal rescue and welfare organizations. • Drayton Harbor Days took place at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center on August 4 and 5. During the event, the pub-

Letters ... From page 4

ty and should know there are no teachers here making $96,000! The average teacher pay in Whatcom County is between $50,000 and $66,000. She doesn’t know her facts, yet still complains about how much teachers make! The answers from the two Republicans seem to have centered around money – taxes in particular. It seems it’s about all they care about. Shewmake,

lic climbed aboard tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain, took part in the 5K Run to the Border and joined in the Prestigious George Raft Race. • Locals participated in Splash Days in downtown Blaine. • Incumbent candidates running for seats in the 42nd Legislative District were fiercely challenged during the August 7 primary election. Incumbent state senator Doug Ericksen (R) received 19,177 votes (45.85 percent) over his opponent Pinky Vargas (D) who received 12,067 votes (28.85 percent). • The Blaine Senior Center celebrated its 50th anniversary by hosting a ‘Golden Anniversary Hoedown’ on August 11. The center was created in 1968, when local seniors formed a group called Young at Heart. The group met at the former Blaine Lutheran Church before breaking ground on a facility of their own at 763 G Street in October 1974. • Birch Bay’s annual Rollback Weekend offered the public live music, entertainment, a beer garden and a car competition on August 11–12. • The Blaine Public Works Department hosted the annual ‘Roadeo’ on August 17. Staff displayed an excavator, loader, tractor, vactor waste truck, bucket truck, line truck and street sweeper. • Owners of Home Farm UPick

& Events, husband and wife Daniel Beurdick and Bridgette DiMonda, spoke with The Northern Light about their new business. At the time, the farm yielded approximately 6,000 strawberries of four different varieties, 2,000 raspberries of four different varieties, 1,200 blueberries of four different varieties. • Allen Schubert was sworn in as chief of the Blaine Police Department by city clerk and assistant to the city manager Sam Crawford on August 20. Schubert previously served as a lieutenant at the Los Angeles Police Department. • Windermere Real Estate agents Jen Freeman and Leah Crews sponsored the second annual Summer Fun in the Park event on August 25 at Blaine Marine Park. Gladstone and Trouble at the Henhouse performed a mix of popular cover songs. • Wildfire smoke blanketed Washington in late August. At one point, air quality in north Whatcom County was rated as unhealthy by the Northwest Clean Air Agency. • Private investor Peter Gigante disclosed he was in “final talks” with Ferndale-based Barlean’s Fishery Inc. to open a retail store at a building he was constructing at 685 Peace Portal Drive. The project, which is still under construction, includes a mix of commercial and residential space.

on the other hand, came loaded with stats about how much better a society functions when the people are happier and better educated. Ericksen and Van Werven both decried the damage to places like Intalco and BP if a carbon tax were to be put in place. A convenient sound bite, but Intalco uses mostly electrical energy to smelt aluminum. The taxpayers built the Bonneville Power Administration to promote and power the smelting operations in the Northwest. Intalco’s carbon footprint is

relatively small. Shewmake’s plan is to redistribute the fees to the residents of the county, you know, the ones who get to breathe dirty air from PSE and BP, and the refineries in Anacortes. Yet, these Republicans will fight tooth and nail to defeat these proposals. Ericksen won his race by 45 votes – out of a total of 72,779. Van Werven won by 81 of 72,493. Don’t believe them when they tell you they have a mandate from the people. They don’t. Gary Meader Nooksack

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

Active S eniors

What’s happening at the Blaine Senior Center?

Young at Heart By Vicki McCullough So now that the holidays are over, is anyone else ready for summer? I wasn’t looking forward to what my mother used to call the “winter doldrums” when to my surprise I looked out the window yesterday and saw robins. You know those birds that are supposed to leave in the fall and return in the spring? Not just one or two but a whole bunch along with squirrels and rabbits and many other birds. I commented on this to my friend who lives in Georgia and she said they had a flock of robins too. I wanted to have a conversation with her about latitude and longitude but I realized what both of us really need is to go back to the state we grew up in, Iowa, and expe-

rience a real winter! Not going to happen, but it was a very brief and very nice idea. Someone suggested to me that the real hero of the holidays was elastic waist pants and I couldn’t agree more. Think of everything we have consumed in the last two months. I tried to be good and I tried not to bake anything more than just our favorites but we have wonderful friends and neighbors who are very good cooks and while I can still get my jeans to close I am back in the gym. It is nice the Blaine Senior Center has such a good gym and everyone there is so friendly and helpful. They make you feel like you are all in the same boat. Wishing you the joy of family, the gift of friends, and the best of everything for the New Year.

Bunco: 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, January 14 and 28. Includes prizes for a $2 donation. Foot Care Professional Services: 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday January 9 and 22. Connie Webster, RN, will offer tips on how to care for your feet. Cost: $25 fee paid to provider. Healthy Weight Support Group: 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, January 8, 15, 22 and 29. Learn to develop a healthy relationship with food and exercise. Mahjong: 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8, 15, 22 and 29. All are invited to learn how to play. Painting Class: 1 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8, 15, 22 and 29. Led by instructor Maxine Reynolds. Cost: $5 paid to instructor. Blaine Ukulele Group (BUG!): 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8, 15, 22 and 29. All levels can learn to play the ukulele. Memory Loss Support Group: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8. This confidential meeting

put on by the Alzheimer Society of Washington is open to caregivers, family or friends who assist individuals with memory loss. Monthly Supper Club: 5:30 p.m. at 1210 3rd Street in Blaine. The theme is “Club Ocean Bay” and reservations should be made at the Blaine Senior Center. Book Club – “The Widow Nash”: 1 to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 16. Blaine Library branch manager Debby Farmer will lead a discussion about the book written by Jamie Harrison. Games Group: 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Play games such as Mexican Train, Skip-B0 and 5 Crowns. Birthday Lunch: 1:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 31. Celebrate the occasion with cake provided by Orchard Park Retirement and music by the Bluegrass Jammers. BINGO: 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 11, 18 and 25. Participants are asked to bring a $1 donation for prizes.

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Pancake Breakfast: 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 19. Breakfast includes French toast, pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy; scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and OJ. Admission costs $6 for adults and $4 for children age 6 and below.

What’s on the menu? Thursday, January 10: Teriyaki chicken, with brown rice, Asian veggies, garden salad and a fruit cocktail. Friday, January 11: Barbeque pulled pork, brown rice and roll, crinkle cut carrots, pineapple coleslaw and banana pudding. Monday, January 14: Ham with pineapple, potatoes au gratin, baby carrots, garden salad and fruit. Tuesday, January 15: Tuna casserole, broccoli florets, garden salad and fruit Jell-O. Wednesday, January 16: Chicken and dumplings, steamed veggies, spinach salad and fruit. Thursday, January 17: Turkey meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, Normandy veggies, garden salad and apple cake. Friday, January 18: Veggie lentil soup, turkey and Havarti on whole wheat, garden salad and fresh fruit. Monday, January 21: Closed in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Tuesday, January 22: Salmon filet, wild rice pilaf, baby carrots, garden salad and fruit. Wednesday, January 23: Beef tamale, Spanish rice, refried beans, garden salad and tropical fruit. Thursday, January 24: Chicken cordon bleu, sweet potato, Caribbean veggies, spinach salad and pudding. Friday, January 25: Chicken cobb salad, oatmeal bread and fruit. Monday, January 28: Beef burgundy with brown rice, Capri veggies, garden salad and fruit. Tuesday, January 29: Pub style fish and chips, oven potato wedges, coleslaw and fresh melon. Wednesday, January 30: Denver omelet, roasted potatoes, sautéed squash, wheat roll and fruit. Thursday, January 31: Birthday Luncheon – roasted turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, seasonal veggies and pumpkin pudding. Lunch is served between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday at the Blaine Senior Center, located at 763 G Street.

January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Active S eniors

continued

How to finance long-term care needs Failing to plan for long-term care expenses may leave aging individuals with little or no assets late in life. AARP says that the cost of long-term care continues to rise and the array of options can make it difficult for families to find the best, most affordable care. The median monthly costs for a semi-private room in a U.S. nursing facility hovered around $6,800 in 2016, according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey. That adds up to roughly $82,000 per year. Individuals who only anticipate hiring a home health aide should know that such options cost an average $3,800 per month. Retirement savings can quickly dry up when long-term care is required. Individuals need to keep in mind that in 2014, the Social Security Administration said the average monthly retirement income from Social Security was just $1,294. The National Care Planning Council says that at least 60 percent of all individuals will need extended help during their lifetimes. Ongoing care can last for

many months or years. Longterm care needs – including assisted living and nursing home stays beyond a few months – may not be covered by federal health insurance programs, such as Medicare. As a result, it is up to individuals to find ways to finance their care. Long-term care insurance Long-term care insurance is one of the ways to offset costs of care for later in life. But many people are unaware that this type of insurance exists. A survey conducted by Leger Marketing for the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association found that 74 percent of respondents said they haven’t included provisions for long-term care in their retirement plans. Long-term care insurance is a safety precaution that can be purchased early in life to plan to help pay for expenses aging individuals may incur in their golden years. New York Life Insurance says that policy holders will be reimbursed for qualified long-term care costs up to a maximum daily benefit

amount. Coverage varies, but policy premiums generally increase with the age of applicant. Government aid Government aid is available for U.S. and Canadian residents but qualifications vary and it is usually limited to those with financial hardships. Medicaid pays for the largest share of longterm care services in the United States, according to the Administration on Aging. But to qualify, one’s income must be below a certain level and the person must meet minimum state eligibility requirements. Canadian provinces will assess one’s ability to pay and may subsidize care costs. Also, there may only be a handful facilities supported by the government, so applicants cannot be picky about accommodations. Financing long-term care is something individuals must consider as they make their plans for the future. It is a large expense that cannot go unaddressed even though the need for care might be in the distant future.

Simple and natural ways to lower blood pressure High blood pressure is a big problem. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. In Canada in 2014, slightly less than 18 percent of Canadians ages 12 and older reported being diagnosed with high blood pressure. While such figures might be frightening, Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that there are some simple and natural ways for people to lower their high blood pressure. Opt for heart-healthy foods.

2018

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Instead of foods that are high in sodium, eat a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Check labels before buying prepared foods at the grocery store, as many such foods are high in sodium. Look for foods that contain probiotics. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that studies have linked foods that contain probiotics to healthy blood pressure. Probiotics are consumable live bacteria, and while studies regarding the relationship between probiotics and blood pressure are

ongoing, researchers believe probiotics may produce chemicals that, when absorbed in the blood stream, may activate receptors in the blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Lose weight. People with high blood pressure who are carrying a few extra pounds should know that research indicates extra weight can cause injury to the heart. Dropping those pounds, especially through physical activity that can boost heart health, can help men and women lower their blood pressure.

Blaine Senior Center B y K at h y S i t k e r ,

2018 has ended and as I reflect on this year, it has been full of change. A new board, new members and new ideas. In case no one has noticed, we are busy! In 2018, we celebrated 51 years in our location at 763 G Street with an old-fashioned hoedown. We had speeches, a BBQ, music by the Rod’s Blue Grass Jammers and line dancing. Now how fun was that? A great time was had by all. The center is a place for community members 50 years of age and above. We have a membership of over 700 and growing. It’s a place to connect, to socialize, to learn new things and to exercise – all part of healthy aging. Our larger events this year were wonderful. We had a full house at our annual Spring Tea with lots of silent auction

director

items donated by the many businesses and individuals here in Whatcom County. We even had a live auction this year that was fun and got the excitement going – especially over the Plover Trip! Our Christmas Bazaar was back and we had great reviews by the vendors. Our Gearheads Classic Car Show included vintage motorcycles (hopefully next year the rain and wind stays away). Senior centers are becoming “masters of aging.” We here at the Blaine Senior Center offer something for everybody, whether it’s coming in to read the morning paper, enjoying a cup of coffee, sharing stories with the morning group, starting your day with a work out in the gym, participating in the stretch class or doing Tai Chi. Let’s not forget the social

aspects as well such as playing cards, Mahjong or shooting pool. We also have our book club and movie matinees. The Blaine Ukulele Group (BUG!) and Rod’s Blue Grass Jammers are busy as ever! This year we added group meditation that is led by a meditation instructor who has been meditating for over 43 years. She has studied with meditation masters like Maharishi Mahesh, Yogi and Dr. Deepak Chopra. This year we purchased a new reach-in for the kitchen. Thank you to our generous donors for helping with this. I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to our volunteers for all they do. May 2019 bring peace to you and yours and may we all shine brightly.

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

2018

year in

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Blaine School District B y R o n S pa n j e r ,

The 2018 calendar year has proven to be a very exciting and eventful time for the Blaine School District. In August, Blaine High School’s second phase of construction ended and students were welcomed into a new two-story classroom building encompassing a total of 22 instructional spaces. The final phase of this project, involving an extensive level of remodeling of existing

2018

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superintendent

buildings, is scheduled for completion in July 2019. Thanks to voter approval of our technology & capital projects levy in April’s election, we look forward to continuing to improve our facilities, and we remain very grateful to the voters of the Blaine school district for their support in making all of this possible. The school board directors recently approved a detailed list of program goals for the 2018-19

The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce has had another successful year providing fun and family friendly events to promote the region, with all of its recreational opportunities, while embracing the local community and continuing to encourage tourism. We estimate the attendance at our 2018 events at well over 35,000 participants and attendees and expect that the 2019 events are going to be even larger. Our annual Kite Festival is lots of fun with kids and families flying kites in the Beach Park and out on the tide flats. The Sand Sculpture Contest continues the family fun creating incredible sand creatures for two days on the beach at Birch Bay. Thousands of onlookers roam the beach delighting in the competing sand creations. Roll Back Weekend continues to be a favorite with several hundred vintage cars, a beer garden and food and craft vendors. Our Discover Birch Bay Days Weekend and Chain Saw Sculpting Event ended the summer with huge crowds at the Bay. Birch Bay is now a legally designated golf cart community. Thank you to Whatcom County who worked with our community to make this ordinance happen. The bad storm on December 20 would have shut down most communities, but not Birch Bay! Our board members and past members stepped up with generous contributions to purchase flares for the Ring of Fire and Hope event on December 31. The celebration of lighted flares all around the bay brought the community together and reminded us how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful place. We would like to thank Whatcom County Public Works for doing such a fabulous job of cleaning up after the storm so we could celebrate our community with the Ring of Hope and Fire and the Polar Bear Plunge! 2019 was welcomed in with a huge turnout for the Polar Bear Plunge. We’d like to thank division chief Henry Hollander and the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue for helping the Birch Bay Community celebrate the 2019 Polar Bear Plunge! The

year in

REVIEW

school year, which can be linked from our website’s news feed at blainesd.org. The overall comprehensive plan document addresses specific ongoing academic goals and related action plans, as well as the issues of community engagement and relationship building, social-emotional learning and student safety, 24-credit graduation requirements and capital projects work. At the beginning of the 2018-19

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce By Douglas Bennion,

2018

E d .D.

executive director

fire truck horn and siren sounding at noon on January 1 for the Plunge is just part of bringing in the New Year at Birch Bay! We appreciate all you do for our community! Aside from these events, we’ve had the opportunity to assist or partner with many local groups, such as the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, the Wings Over Water Birding Festival, the Healthy Youth Coalition and the Bridge as they support and help within the community. We continue to champion the new library project as well as the berm project. When completed, these projects will help build the economic vitality of our community and stabilize the shoreline for generations to come. But ultimately, a chamber of commerce comes down to the business community and the people. We feel we’ve had a very successful year, and our success is because of your support. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers, our members and our sponsors for their contributions of time and resources. Come and enjoy Birch Bay! We’re looking forward to 2019 with its new events and opportunities. Wishing everyone a healthy and prosperous 2019. Thank you for all your continued support.

s Birch Bay Kite Festival, 2018. Photo by Chuck Kinzer

Blaine Library B y D e bb y F a r m e r , B l a i n e

2018 was a significant year for the Blaine Library as the community celebrated the 30-year anniversary of the library at its 3rd Street location. Since the first library in 1911, Blaine area residents have enjoyed a rich history of recognizing the importance of the public library in a community. New programs added this year included a Baby Storytime, and the STEAM (science, technology, engi-

br a n c h m a n a g e r

neering, art and math) based WhizBang Club. Patrons were able to encounter llamas, learn how to train their dogs, raise chickens and build a cider press. Local authors shared their books on subjects ranging from Agent Orange use in Vietnam to community building through knitting. Biannual classes helped prepare residents for the U.S. citizenship test, and eight countries were rep-

resented at the weekly English conversation class. Adult students thrived with one-on-one tutoring offered at the library by Whatcom Literacy Council volunteers. To help mitigate public computer demand, three new laptops were made available for in-library use. The library system increased the number of sets of the hugely popular American Girl Dolls to minimize wait times and intro-

school year, we launched a new website and mobile app to provide improved communication with parents and patrons. The “Blaine SD” mobile app is available to download at both the App Store and Google Play. We hope our parents and patrons agree that this is a valuable resource for accessing both routine and emergent information about our district. As we greet the 2019 calendar year, our work continues to re-

2018

year in

REVIEW By Heidi Holmes,

main intentionally focused on assuring that all students are prepared to graduate with the skills necessary to navigate into their choice of post-secondary education or technical training opportunities, with the ultimate objective of attaining their future career goals. These are exciting times in public education, and Blaine school district remains an exciting place to work and learn!

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 p r o gr a m m a n a g e r

The Birch Bay Activity Center was the location of a Pickleball Tournament in early January. Players from around the community and Canada participated in this new event. Other tournaments were held in July and October. The district continues to develop its Pickleball program and this summer had two outdoor courts painted for use on Gemini Street. More court time has been added to the schedule as the demand for the sport grows. The activity center hosted the first-ever vendor artisan craft fair in February called The Great Love A-Fair. A second vendor fair followed in September. These events showcased local artisans selling homemade products and other vendors selling multi-level marketing goods. With the newly-purchased 11.5 acres property on California Creek by the Whatcom Land Trust, the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) sought grants from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office to help with the purchase costs, demolition of existing buildings and to help develop the land into a park with parking, bathrooms, kayak launch and proposed ADA interpretive trail. Funding will be awarded in the spring of 2019 and the property will be turned over to the district by the Whatcom Land Trust. Trail easements have been purchased along with a small piece of property along Drayton Harbor Road that will eventually be developed into one phase of the

proposed trail to connect Blaine and Birch Bay with a non-motorized pedestrian trail. BBBPRD2 continued to partner with both the Blaine and Birch Bay chambers to offer many outdoor recreation projects during the summer months. Such programs offered by the park district were a dog obstacle course during the Birch Bay Kite Festival, Pirate Daze during Drayton Harbor Days and the Kids Olympics at Discover Birch Bay Days. The district partnered with the Cub Scouts Pack 4025, Blaine Barracuda Wrestling Team, Healthy Youth Coalition, Whatcom Conservation District and the Run with the Chums event by providing funding for recreational opportunities to the youth in our community. The Birch Bay Activity Center was approved to accept the SilverSneaker and Silver&Fit insurance programs at the gym and the Blaine Pavilion, allowing those who have the Medicare supplemental insurance coverage to attend many of the group fitness classes for free. The district continues to add new group fitness programs to both locations. New in 2018 were Pilates, restorative stretch and basic strength classes. With the purchase of a 2007 Chevrolet school bus that holds 14 passengers, the park district can offer field trips to their schedule of events in the next year as well as offering transportation to school age kids to attend the after-school programs at the Birch Bay Activity Center.

See more ‘Year in Review’ reports on page 13 duced additional family board games for checkout. Failing ballasts spurred a much-needed lighting retrofit for the building and resulted in the installation of energy-saving LED bulbs. The damages from the latest car crash remain and repairs await availability of matching brick. The Friends of the Library have continued to work tire-

lessly throughout the year to raise funds for Blaine Library improvements and hope to partner with the city of Blaine and WCLS to provide additional facility space in the future. In the meantime, Blaine Library staff remain ready to serve the thousands of area residents and visitors that walk through its doors. Happy reading and New Year!

January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

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Remodels•& Commercial Additions Residential Annual General Meeting. The Pacific Arts Association of Blaine, WA (501)(c)(3) nonprofit, sponsors of the Blaine Harbor Music Festival, will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 at 4 p.m. The public is welcome to attend. For more information, call 360-306-9361.

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 8105 Birch Bay Square St. • I-5 Exit 270, Blaine 360.371.5100

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO SEMIAHMOO SHORE OPEN HOUSES OPEN DAILY 12 - 5

SEMIAHMOO OPEN HOUSES OPEN SUN. 11:30-2

OPEN DAILY 12 - 5

$795,000

9432 Turnstone Ln. #33

Semiahmoo Shore’s most affordable Sunrise Home, 2025 Square feet w/luxurious Owners suite on main flr & 2-BR & full bath upstairs. 14’ Vaulted great room. Finished in “Driftwood” design scheme including Linear fireplace, quartz countertops & all appliances included. Wide Plank White Oak Hardwood flooring. Attached Dbl. garage. Miles of beaches & walking trails. Minutes to U.S./Canada Border; under 2-hour drive to Seattle. MLS# 1201035

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

9436 Turnstone Ln. #35

$825,000

Semiahmoo Shore 2187 sq. ft. “Sunrise” home w/ soaring 12’10” ceilings in great room & large windows taking full advantage of views over the Open Space meadow & Drayton Harbor. Wide Plank Flooring, Linear FP, quartz countertops, stainless appliance package, dbl. garage w/expoxy floor & Covered patio. Miles of beaches & walking trails connect with this exclusive gated enclave of fine homes. Minutes to US/ Canada border. MLS# 1201008

Mike Kent 360-527-8901

DIRECTIONS: Exit 270 West on Birch Bay-Lynden Rd., R on Harborview, L on Lincoln Rd., to Semiahmoo Pkwy., Semiahmoo Shore on Left. For more information visit www.SemiahmooShore.com

New Construction! 8778 Clubhouse Point Dr. $799,500

“Clubhouse Point,” gated micro-community within Semiahmoo. On fairway #1. Single story with No Steps. 2905 sq. ft open plan. Great room, luxe kitchen. Super pantry, 3-BR, 2.75-BA includes Casita, Casita & office both open to interior courtyard. Quality, finishes: strand woven bamboo flooring, Graphite stained Birch cabinets, quartz counters. 522 sq. ft. 2 car garage + / -. Completed Jan, 2019. Private & elegant.

PRICE REDUCED! 5544 Canvasback Rd. $460,000

For details visit: www.clubhousepoint.com

Single Story Fairway View Semiahmoo Townhome. Rare: Excellent southwest sun exposure along fairway 17. Spacious great room adjoins dining. Large kitchen w/skylight, breakfast room. Epic grand master suite. Charming guestroom with its own ensuite bath. Den/ office is decked out w/white painted custom cabinetry, window seat. Powder. Spacious laundry. Two Car Garage. It’s a short stroll to Semiahmoo hotel, marina, restaurants, golf clubhouse, tennis, pool.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

Linda Kiens 360-815-6640

OPEN SAT. 11- 1

PRICE REDUCED! 7902 W Golf Course Dr.

$729,000

$399,000

One of a kind--beachfront home with southern exposure that offers incredible views to the San Juan Islands. Eagle’s favorite tree sits at the edge of the waterfront. Birch Bay Village amenities include sandy beaches with great access! Classic single story--built solid to last a lifetime. This home has a timeless floor plan making the most of each room. Not a single step--ideal for aging in place with windows that capture the view. Charming “porte cochere” entry with courtyard patio--a must see!

“WOW!” Factor!! 10-ft. ceilings; 325 sq ft Master BR; 500 Sq ft Great Room; 2 Sonatube Lights; Gas Fireplace; SPECTACULAR L-shaped Built-in Bookcase; 9-1/2 ft. high Old English style Bookshelf w/rolling Oak Ladder; Track-Lights; Crown Molding; Custom Electrical System; French Doors; Pocket Doors; New Drapes; Double-Hung Windows; Old English Interior - 2nd Closest Home to the Beach; Hundreds of Other Features!! See partial list attached. Gate Code Needed - Call Paul. Easy to see!

Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951

Paul Holtzheimer 360-303-4444

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

6228 Cascade Dr.

Lorraine Hoving 360-961-2407

OPEN SAT. 11- 1

1156 Harbor Side Dr.

$439,500

This is the one you’ve been waiting for in one of the most sought after neighborhoods in town, welcome to Harborside Estates! This open concept beauty features 4 bedrooms w/ main floor master suite, huge lower level bonus room, vaulted ceilings, Brazilian Cherry flooring, stainless steel appliances + private hot tub. Fantastic location just steps to Montfort Park and only minutes to the waterfront, marina, downtown, the schools, I-5 and US/Canada border access. Adjacent lot is also for sale.

Leah Crews 360-305-4747 or Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

1160 Harbor Side Dr.

Leah Crews 360-305-4747 or Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

www.windermere.com Rentals - Residential

SEMIAHMOO MARINA BOAT SLIPS AVAILABLE, Hugh Brawford CALL HUGH

8105 Birch Bay Square St. - Blaine, WA 98230

High Density - Multi-Family Property

360-920-0563

2290 Douglas • Ferndale $625,000

T ON

ING

LOOKING FOR TAX ADVANTAGES?

4235 Sweet Rd. • Blaine $415,000

Private circular driveway takes you through 85 year old cedar forest to this solid cedar sided home. • Includes 2nd lot ready for new construction • 3 Beds, 1.75 Baths, 2 Wood Fireplaces • Pond with access to Spooner Creek

21 ACRES On Kickerville at Headwaters on Terrell Creek

$200,000

Some residential zoning, currently in open space, also in CREPS program. Earning roughly $3,000 per year. Owner contract is possible at 20% down, 6.5% 30 year Amortization. Wet lands credit transfer? Recreational? May be eligible for 503 use. WATER SHARE AVAILABLE.

www.CallHugh.com Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS Historic home. Incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly, $550/mo. + deposit, references required, 360-3323449.

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

We get the word out! FOLLOW US ON facebook.com/thenorthernlight

$398,500

If you’ve been searching for privacy + the convenience of being close to downtown Blaine, look no further! Backs to a greenbelt & only steps to Montfort Park & beach access, this 3 bed/2.5 bath beauty features a main floor master suite, open concept kitchen/dining/living, soaring ceilings w/ tons of windows, SS appliances, hardwood & bamboo flooring, solid wood doors/trim, Central Vac, 2 decks + lower level family room w/ gas fireplace. Fantastic location close to I-5, US/CAN border & schools.

Call Hugh -360.371.5800 Recently upgraded home w/main level living. New furnace. ONE ACRE, short plat for < 31 UNITS. Next door lot also for sale possible up to 53 units if combined. Water sewer hook ups +/-$10,000 per unit +one meter for 16-unit building. Level dry land. Next door available- up to 53 units possible if combined.

$385,000

An ideal quiet location in Ferndale on a spacious corner lot. Driving up to this 4 bedroom home you will be immediately embraced with warmth and welcomed by the tall pillars. You’ll love cooking in this gorgeous new kitchen with quartz countertops, under mount lighting, stless steel appl.& tile. Bathrooms have been meticulously remodeled. Windows, crown molding & paint are fresh. Private, fenced backyard w/stamped concrete patio, hot tub for pleasure & custom spot to store your RV. Don’t miss out!

BLAINE OPEN HOUSES

OPEN SUN. 12- 3

5709 Nakat Wyay

OPEN SAT. 12 - 2

OPEN SUN. 1- 3

B I R C H B AY O P E N H O U S E S

OPEN SAT. & SUN. 12-2

FERNDALE OPEN HOUSE

2748 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine, WA 98230 $140,000

1339 Wilson Ave.

$340,000

NEW ON MARKET.

Great newer home, open floor plan, sky lights. Fully fenced and private, yet near town. MLS #1393882

Sam Freeman

360-201-2428 360-332-6400

GerryAllen@windermere.com

Pre-sale opportunity location is everything, I-5 visibility. Zoned HighHIGHWAY COMMERCIAL way Commercial, industrial type ware houses with Blaine services, whether business or personal storage, interior can be built to suit your needs. Large overhead doors, electric door openers, gas furnace and upper windows, bathroom and upper mezzanine an option. Site will have phone cable, internet, 3 phase. When finished will have chain link fence and security gate. Seller may carry contract.

WAREHOUSE

2-BD, 2-BA Upper duplex in Birch Bay. View, open floor plan, SS/granite, heated floor, 1/2 garage. No pets. W/S/G and lawncare pd. $1600/month. Avail. now. 360-303-6895.

Rentals - Commercial

4,000 SF Warehouse Available Jan. 1, 2019

1790 Boblett St., Blaine Office Loading Dock Fenced & Paved Yard Don Nelson 360-305-0286 nelsbldg@msn.com

Looking for a new home? FIND IT HERE AND ONLINE AT: thenorthernlight.com/classifieds

January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

2018

year in

REVIEW

Blaine Chamber of Commerce B y C a rr o l l S o l o m o n ,

The Blaine Chamber of Commerce ended the year with 76 members, 16 of whom were new members. Our business of the year was Touchstone Health Clinic and our featured members of the month were Community Assistance Program, Atwood Ales, Rescue Ranch, Banner Bank, Hagen’s of Blaine, WECU, Vanderpol Realty, Rawganique, Whatcom Talk, Teriyaki

Secret, Stafholt Good Samaritan and US Bank. Our board members in 2018 were Ray Maxon (Ace Hardware), Michael Ebert (Fortiphi Insurance), Carroll Solomon (Blaine Visitor Center), Kimberli Shea (Umpqua Bank), Bob Boule (Smugglers Inn Bed and Breakfast), Louise Mugar (The Northern Light newspaper), Kathy Sitker (Blaine Senior Center), Laura

s Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival, 2018.

2018

year in

REVIEW

year in

REVIEW

Photo by Mathew Roland

Mossaro (Pizza Factory) and Heidi Holmes (Blaine Birch Bay Parks and Recreation 2). The chamber was pleased to sponsor many of Blaine’s festivals and events such as Ride to the Border, Bite of Blaine, Old Fashioned 4th, Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival and Holiday Harbor Lights, which brought thousands of visitors to our downtown and harbor resulting in increased sales for local businesses. The chamber also partnered with other organizations supporting all other events and activities in Blaine and some Birch Bay festivities. This year brought some great changes to our business community. The new Welcome Center and Chamber of Commerce office, Starbucks, Wildbird Treasure Nest Boutique and Rawganique Lifestyle Store & Café opened this year and other construction projects are under way for 2019 openings. We would like to thank all the businesses and organizations who faithfully support our organization, participate in our community activities and help to make Blaine the very best place to live and work.

OBITUARIES Ed Francis Fayette, Jr. Ed Francis Fayette, Jr., 74, passed away at home on November 4, 2018 after a long battle with cancer. His last requests included having his love, Cheryl, and all seven of his children together at his side. He died peacefully after both were fulfilled. Ed was born in Blaine, WA to the late Ed Francis Fayette, Sr. and Marion Collver Fayette. He graduated from Blaine High School before joining the U.S. Coast Guard in 1963. He earned a degree in Sociology from the University of Alaska. In 1972 he moved his family to Alaska where he built and maintained the Anchorage telecommunications network. After retirement, he spent his days between AK and WA. Ed is survived by his mother, Marion Fayette, sister Mitzi & Bruce Freeman, brother Dana & Valerie Fayette, and brother Pete Fayette. His partner, Cheryl Pettersen and her son Jason & Karena Stockinger, and son Peter & Shelly Pettersen.His seven children: his daughter Kirsten and Larry Ryan; daughter Rebecca and Bryan Wyllie; daughter Jennifer Fayette; daughter Noelle and Donnie Umbarger; son Ed and Danielle Fayette; daughter Amanda and Josh Smulski; and son Blake Fayette. His six nieces- Lisa, Angela, Jessica, Danielle, Andrea, and Brittany, 22 grandchildren-Alexandria, Jessikah, Kirsti, Jacob, Teagan, Avery Jo, Cosmo, Caedmon, Calin, Jeremy, Nathan, Danelle, Stella, Christopher, Hunter, Stetson, Roan, Joshua, Tyler, Zoey, Elsie, Kenzie, and two great-grandchildren, Arianna and Lily. Ed loved the outdoors and Alaska quickly became the place he called home. Ed was both a natural craftsman and possessed of a love for science and technology. His favorite pastime was enjoying the cabin on Hat island which he built with the help of his good friend, Bruce. The sparkle in his eyes, his smile, and sharing of his own philosophical take on the world will be greatly missed.

Berwyn Bough January 19, 1955 - January 3, 2019

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District By Sandi McMillan,

In 2018, Birch Bay Water and Sewer District (BBWSD) celebrated 50 years of service. The occasion was observed on June 2 at the Beach Fest and Feast at Birch Bay State Park. BBWSD also offered tours of the wastewater treatment plant. This summer, the district launched an online StoryMap chronicling its past, present and future on its website. This year, the district completed major capital improvement projects including the installation of a fine-bubble diffuser for sewage aeration and a coarse-bubble diffuser in the sewage digester basin in the wastewater treatment facility.

2018

s e c r e ta ry

Berwyn Bough, 63, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away January 3, 2019. Born in Everett, Washington on January 19, 1955. Married Dale Bough in 1973. Berwyn graduated from Blaine High School, in Blaine WA, in 1973. She was a nurse for 20 years at St. Johns Regional Health Center in Springfield, MO, until she was diagnosed with cancer in 2006. Services were held at Klingner-Cope Funeral Home, on January 7. Please donate to the American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge in St Louis or to St Louis University Hospital Cancer Center in lieu of flowers.

finance director

The district continues to meet or exceed department of health water quality requirements. The district continues to implement a voluntary watering schedule during the summer to promote conservancy. The district has been operated in recent years by 13 dedicated staff. This year, the district had two longstanding employees retire. The district had a succession plan to promote an internal employee to fill one position. The other position was externally advertised and the district received 76 applications with one of them being hired. The district is constantly

working with respect to its triple bottom line performance indicators: environmental, customer service and fiscal responsibilities. The district provides proper wastewater treatment, while containing costs. Expanded bill delivery and payment options support customer service. This year BBWSD received another clean audit from the state auditor’s office for 2016-2017. Looking ahead, the district is excited by the automated meter reading project. The new meters to be installed will conserve water and contain costs through faster reporting of water loss from leaks.

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

Coming up

Police Reports The following are summaries of law enforcement incidents handled by the Blaine Police Department.

January 1, 8:31 p.m.: Blaine police responded to the Peace Arch POE for a report of a man in possession of multiple credit cards that did not belong to him. Officers arrived and investigated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Enough evidence was found to arrest the man, who was later booked into the Whatcom County Jail. (Chief’s Note: We have a great working relationship with our partners at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and are very grateful for their assistance on many of our radio calls. Conversely, we spend a good portion of our time ensuring the criminals they catch are rightfully processed through the judicial system.) January 2, 8:03 a.m.: An officer observed two people outside of a closed business. The officer contacted the two and found neither to be wanted. The male subject was found to have about seven copper roofing tiles in his possession. The man claimed to have found them. Another officer checked the area but was not able to find any homes in the vicinity with copper roofing. No thefts have been reported. The two were given a courtesy ride out of Blaine. January 2, 11:01 p.m.: Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance with a reported shots fired at a residence in Birch Bay. Officers arrived and provided a perimeter around the residence where the shots were fired. It was later determined the shots fired were really fireworks. Officers cleared with no further incident.

January 3, 1:07 p.m.: The Semiahmoo Marina called to report a boat and trailer parked on their property for quite some time and were concerned it was stolen. An officer ran the plate and discovered it was not stolen. The marina will attempt to contact the owner or have it impounded off their private property. January 3, 2:27 p.m.: Officers responded to a report of a suicidal subject. Officers arrived and contacted the individual who advised she was in fact suicidal. Officers gave the individual a courtesy ride to St. Joseph’s Hospital to voluntarily speak with the medical staff. Officers cleared with no further incident. January 4, 12:09 a.m.: Officers working traffic enforcement stopped a vehicle for multiple equipment violations. Officers determined the individual was driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Officers contacted the Washington State Patrol (WSP) who arrived and conducted an investigation. The WSP arrested the individual for driving under the influence and a minor in possession of marijuana. The individual’s vehicle was impounded per state law and he was transported to Whatcom County Jail. January 5, 12:55 p.m.: An officer was dispatched to the 1700 block of Grant Avenue for a counterfeit bill. The officer arrived and contacted the passer who got the money in Canada. The two $10 bills were confiscated to later be turned into the U.S. Secret Service.

Crossword

January 5, 3 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to take a runaway report. The juvenile is well known to run away and return home at the end of the weekend. The juvenile was last seen wearing a Raider’s coat and jeans; no further information. The juvenile was listed in WACIC/NCIC as a runaway, but returned later in the week. The juvenile was removed from all databases. January 6, 6 p.m.: Officers responded to an abuse of 911 call. Officers determined the individual was not trying to report an emergency and was abusing the 911 system. Officers warned him to only call 911 in an emergency situation or he would be arrested. (Chief’s Note: False reporting under the 911 system is a gross misdemeanor, which could lead to imprisonment in the county jail for up to 364 days, a fine of up to $5,000 or a combination of both.) January 7, 9:23 a.m.: A parent called police to report her adult daughter had not returned home from visiting her boyfriend over the weekend. The daughter had also not returned several phone calls. Police called the daughter’s phone and left a message requesting contact. If the daughter is not heard of in a timely manner, she will be entered as a missing person. (Chief’s Note: Officers made repeated checks on her whereabouts before entering her as a missing person in the National Crime Information Center.) Report by the Blaine Police Department

Tides

ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

January 11–17 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

ACROSS

1. Political action committee 4. One point north of due east 7. Marital 12. Religious building 15. Intrinsic nature of something 16. Safe to drink 18. Letter of credit 19. Single Lens Reflex 20. Keeps you cool in summer 21. Monetary unit 24. The Eye Network 27. Moving with a bounding stride 30. Figures 31. Of the pia mater 33. Male offspring 34. Indicates near 35. Calvary sword 37. South American plant 39. Doctor of Education 41. Something to take 42. Remove the edges from 44. Inattentive 47. Pick up 48. Latch for a window

49. Region of the U.S. 50. Windy City ballplayer 52. The NFL’s big game (abbr.) 53. Be permanently present in 56. Novice 61. Pirate novel 63. In a law-abiding way 64. Where one sleeps 65. Criticize

only 24. Cycles per second 25. Impartiality 26. Polio vaccine developer 28. Bowel movements 29. South American Indian 32. Queen of Sparta 36. Confederate soldier DOWN 38. Emerged 1. Bullfighting maneuver 40. Death 2. Egyptian Sun god 3. Predatory semiaquatic reptile43. __ and flowed 44. Folk singer DiFranco 4. Register formally 45. Email folder 5. Eating houses 46. Throbbed rhythmically 6. Japanese port 51. English rockers 7. Genus of rodents 54. Disaster relief 8. Nigerian city operation 9. Milliwatt 55. American model and 10. Mistake! 11. Women’s __ movement TV personality Katherine 56. Potable 12. Greeting 57. Tough outer layer 13. Songbirds 14. An arrangement scheme 58. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 17. Heartbeat test 59. Troubles 22. Push back 23. Intended for the audience 60. Negative

Fr 11

1:57 am

0.83

9:35 am

9.57

3:56 pm

5.53

7:44 pm

6.35

Sa 12 2:31 am

1.73 10:01 am

9.44

4.84

9:00 pm

5.88

Su 13 3:07 am

2.74 10:29 am

9.33

4.00 10:36 pm

5.68

Mo 14 3:47 am

3.85 10:57 am

9.27

3.02

4:44 pm

5:32 pm

6:18 pm

Tu 15 12:26 am

5.95

4:41 am

4.98

11:27 am

9.25

7:02 pm

1.92

We 16 2:10 am

6.74

5:53 am

6.02

9.27

7:48 pm

0.76

12:03 pm

Th 17 3:24 am

7.76

7:19 am

6.80

9.34

8:32 pm

-0.38

12:43 pm

Weather Precipitation: During the period of December 31 to January 6, 2.58 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2019 year-to-date precipitation is 2.58 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 54.9°F on January 4 with a low of 30°F on December 31. Average high was 48.8°F and average low was 33.7°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Sea to Ski Registration Open: Teams that are registered and paid in full by Sunday, January 20 will be entered into a drawing for free Ski to Sea hats, window decals and a drawing for Samson Estates Winery private tasting for 10 people. The race takes place on Sunday, May 26. Info and registration: skitosea.com Chinese Martial Arts for Kids: Fridays, January 11–18, 3:15–4:15 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Taught in the style of modern Wushu, learn to move with grace, speed and intent. Bring comfortable clothing and low-heeled workout shoes. For grades K–7. Space is limited; registration required. Info: 360/305-3637. Live music at The Lounge: Saturday, January 12, 9 p.m.–1 a.m., The Lounge at Silver Reef Casino. Featuring DJ ClintWestwood. Portland Cello Project: Sunday, January 13, 3 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Playing Radiohead, Coltrane and Bach. Magnetic Slime: Wednesday, January 16, 3–4:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Come prepared to have fun and make a mess as we concoct a slime that reacts to magnets. For Grades 3–8. Info: 360/305-3637. Resource Seminar: Wednesday, January 17, 12:30p.m.–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G street. Comprehensive baby boomer real estate seminar. Speakers: Dave Hiller, Rockwood Realty; Mike Hinderman, Green Homes LLC; Tim Krell, Britain/Krell PLLC; Anne Bowen, Edward Jones; Jeri Andrews, Andrews Tax Accounting and Bookkeeper; Josh Henry, Caliber Home Loans. Book and Bites: Friday, January 18, 1–2:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Bring your lunch if you’d like and join the discussion on this month’s title, The Bishop’s Pawn by Steve Berry. Info: 360/305-3637. Semiahmoo Winemaker Dinner: Friday, January 18, Reception at 5:30 p.m. with dinner seating at 6 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort. Featuring Three of Cups Winery. Reservations required: 360/318-2028 Voiceplay: Friday, January 18, 7:30 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Five voices make up the orchestrated sound of an entire musical production. Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, January 19, 8 a.m.–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G street. Choice of pancakes, French toast or waffles, biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice. Adults $6, kids $4. Info: 360/332-8040. Basics of Sprouting: Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m. – noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to grow nutrient dense sprouts, even without a windowsill! Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Community Orchards for Resources and Education). Info: 360/3053637. Travel to the Philippines with Lawrence Pang: Saturday, January 19, 1:30–3 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Lawrence is back from his world travels and will take you on a virtual tour of the Philippines. Visit Manila, Baguio, Sagada, and Palawan, and learn about the people, the food, the architecture, and more. Info: 360/305-3637. Live music at The Lounge: Saturday, January 19, 9 p.m.–1 a.m., The Lounge at Silver Reef Casino. Featuring Lemon Creek. Stomp: Thursday, January 24, 7:30 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Live music at The Lounge: Saturday, January 26, 9 p.m.–1 a.m., The Lounge at Silver Reef Casino. Featuring The Takers. Wine Dinner: Sunday, January 27, 5–8 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar, 277 G Street. Five courses paired with five wines from Isenhower Cellars in Walla Walla. Tickets $70. Reservations required. Info: 360/392-0955. Arts and Jazz: Saturday, February 2, 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School cafeteria. Hosted by the Blaine Fine Arts Association. All funds raised benefit scholarships and experiences beyond the curriculum in the Blaine School District. $5 student/senior, $7 adult. Visions and Voices: Sunday, February 10, 2 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street. Sampling a variety of short films from “Pioneers: First Women Filmmakers.” Featuring Red Kimona (1925) Directed by Dorothy Davenport (billed as Mrs. Wallace Reid) and starring Priscilla Bonner. Tickets $10 or $5 with student ID. Valentine’s Concert, Love is the Answer: Thursday, February 14, 7:30 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort ballroom, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Featuring world-renowned musicians Nick Biello, Charlie Porter and Dave Marriott. Cheesecake dessert and no-host bar. Tickets: $30 at draytonharbormusic.org or Blaine Welcome Center. Benefits Drayton Harbor Music Festival. Bite of Blaine: Monday, February 18, no-host social at 6 p.m., tasting at 6:30 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort ballroom, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. This annual fundraiser for Blaine’s Old Fashioned 4th of July features fares from local restaurants plus silent and live auctions. Tickets: $30 Info: blainechamber.com. Teen Nite: Saturdays, 5–9 p.m., Pizza Factory, 738 Peace Portal Drive. Kids ages 13–18 come enjoy open mic, karaoke and prizes. Free pizza at 5 p.m. Nar-anon Meetings: Mondays, 5:30–6:30, St. Luke’s Community Health Education Center, 3333 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham. For anyone with an addicted loved one. Info: Wanda 360/224-6413. Alzheimer/Dementia/Memory Loss Caregiver and Care Partners Support Group: First Tuesday of the month, 1:30–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street, Blaine. Info: 360/671-3316. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

January 10 - 16, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Year in Review ... From page 7 search to recruit new providers and that the clinic would remain open until March 31. • Blaine City Council voted unanimously on September 10 to amend an employment contract for interim city manager Michael Jones to make his position permanent. • More than 250 first responders from the U.S. and Canada converged at Peace Arch State Park for a ceremony held on the 17th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks. Several dignitaries were present as well as honored guests from New York. • Runners and walkers assembled at the BP Highlands on September 15 for the annual Run with the Chums 5K. • In a presentation to Port of Bellingham commissioners on September 18, real estate representative Brady Scott announced that owners of Boundary Fish Company, Walsh Marine, Drayton Harbor Fishery and Dakota Creek Shellfish want to expand their existing leases at Blaine’s marine industrial area. The businesses are tenants of the port, which owns property on the south side of Marine Drive. • The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce introduced Douglas Bennion as its new executive director on September 20. Bennion succeeded Dannita Schacht, who stepped down to pursue new opportunities in August. • Celebrating the region’s maritime heritage, SeaFeast took place on September 21–22 with Drayton Harbor Oyster Company taking part in an oyster shucking contest and serving up grilled oysters. • Three First Nations representing the Semiahma, Kwakwaka’wakw and Haida peoples came together to raise a Haida totem pole at Peace Arch State Park on September 21. The original pole was removed near the U.S.-Canada border without proper consultation. October • The Lummi Nation bought the Loomis Trail Golf Club and took ownership on October 1. The Lummi Nation bought the property for $3.75 million, according to the Whatcom County Treasurer’s Office. Whatcom County appraised it at $6.3 million in 2017. • General election candidates fielded questions at a forum in Birch Bay moderated by Terry Terry. • Roots, a program that helps families who have suffered trauma from abuse, neglect or poverty, returned to Blaine on October 10. The program is sponsored by Bellingham-based nonprofit Rebound of Whatcom County. • Canada legalized recreational marijuana nationwide on October 17. As a result, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials warned travelers that the sale, possession, production and distribution of marijuana remained illegal under U.S. federal law. • Blaine Community Theater marked the end of an eightyear hiatus on October 19 with the debut of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” The theater group formed in 1999 and faded out due to low audience participation. • The Whatcom County Health Department revealed that more children are eligible for free

and reduced lunch programs in Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts than the rest of the county during a listening session at Blaine Library on September 20. • Whatcom Land Trust announced it would begin restoration work on 11.5 acres of land it purchased on California Creek in 2017. Eventually, it will transfer the land to Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 to turn into a public park. • In a presentation, finance director Jeff Lazenby forecasted that the city’s general fund would increase to $6.7 million in 2019, up 3 percent from 2018. • The Blaine Pizza Factory and the Blaine-Birch Bay Healthy Youth Coalition hosted Rocktoberfest, a concert and fall festival on October 27 at the Pizza Factory, located at 738 Peace Portal Drive. The event included a trick-or-treating, a beer garden and live music. • Semiahmoo resident May Esther spoke with The Northern Light about the fifth season of her gluten-free cooking show Mayn keittiö, or May’s Kitchen, which is filmed at her home. The show airs on Finnish network AlfaTV. • William Pernett announced he would resign from his position as fire chief at North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, effective December 31, citing an interest in pursuing other professional opportunities. Assistant fire chief Joe Noonchester would fulfill the position on an interim basis. • The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 hosted its annual Kids Karnival at the Birch Bay Activity Center on October 20. November • The city of Blaine announced it would consider relocating Blaine Skate Park on 4th Street to make way for possible development. During a public meeting on November 6, users of the park expressed support for relocating to Marine Park, as long as the city paid for upgrades. • Results of the November 6 general election were ambiguous for all three 42nd Legislative District races. A November 9 ballot count showed state senate candidate Ericksen (R) in the lead with 72 votes over opponent Vargas (D). • An estimated 300 people attended an open house hosted at the Blaine Police Department on November 7. Police personnel were on the scene to offer tours, answer questions and serve up a barbeque dinner. • Meg Olson resigned from Blaine City Council on November 13. • Blaine’s annual Thanksgiving dinner hosted at the Blaine Senior Center was cancelled. David Van Duisen, who organized the dinner with his wife Lisa Carr-Van Duisen for eight years, stepped down from the role due to the physical toll it was taking. • To mark 100 years since the end of World War I, the International Peace Arch Association hosted a bell ringing ceremony on Veterans Day, November 11, at Peace Arch Park. • Volunteers packed boxes with food for the Community Assistance Program’s annual Thanksgiving Basket program on November 20. About 275 families were served through the program. CAP volunteers expected to get 419 pies to the distribution center next to Cost Cutter.

December • Holiday Harbor Lights took place in downtown Blaine on December 1. The event included shopping, kid’s activities, a tree lighting ceremony, musical theater performances and a visit from Santa Claus. • At a December 4 meeting, Whatcom County Council approved writing to the Lummi Indian Business Council, urging it to sign agreements crucial to permitting the 1.6-mile Birch Bay beach restoration project known as the berm. Without an agreement, the project would be delayed and some funding could be in jeopardy. • An estimated 50 social service organizations participated in a Family Resource Fair at Blaine High School on December 5. The event featured 30-minute presentations on a variety of topics, including social media. • Hand recounts were ordered for two 42nd Legislative District races. Results of the recount determined state senate candidate Ericksen and state representative candidate Van Werven came out ahead. Results were certified on December 5. • The Whatcom County Public Works Department hosted a ‘Shell-ebration’ on December 14 at the G Street Plaza to celebrate the anniversary of recreational and commercial shellfish harvesting restrictions being lifted on 810 acres of Drayton Harbor. • Zervas Architects unveiled the latest design for the future Birch Bay Library at a meeting on December 10. Despite not incorporating the brown craftsmanstyle house currently on the site at 7920 Birch Bay Drive, it got a warm reception from the public. • Blaine City Council adopted the budget for 2019 totaling $56.4 million. The budget included $100,000 for a full-time police officer position as well as $800,000 to extend sewer lines to east Blaine. • BP donated $100,000 to Friends of the Birch Bay Library on December 17 to kick start the group’s

effort to fund a new library. Before the donation, the group had $20,000 in private donations and needs an estimated $3.5 million to build the library. • In its first year, the Community Toy Store served 72 low-income families in Blaine and Birch Bay. More than 1,400 toys and 135 gift cards were donated by community members during the fall. • A wind storm on December 20 damaged homes, businesses and roads in Blaine and Birch Bay. The storm saw peak gusts of 60 mph and winds that reached 50 mph. Bay Breeze Restaurant and Bar was forced to close indefinitely as a result. • Visitors and residents in Birch Bay ended the year with Ring of Fire and Hope. As part of the annual event, participants light road flares around the bay as a symbol of peace and hope.

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

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2019 Artist of Note,

Samantha Johnson

Art work by Senior,

The Lauren tradition of Kordas a community coming together once a year to celebrate the efforts & Jazz is anofauction lover’s and Arts accomplishments our students delight with live and silent and auctions the tradition of passing Art to a new featuring donations generation. Arts & Jazzand is anindividuals auction lovfrom businesses er’s that delight with live andstudents silent auctions believe in our as muchdonations as we do.from 100% of fundsand featuring businesses raised benefit scholarships and individuals that believe in our students experiences beyond the as much as we do. 100% of funds raised curriculum in the Blaine School benefit scholarships and experiences District. Arts & Jazz is a beyond the curriculum in thefunBlaine community based, family celebration of the Fine School District. Arts & Jazz is aArts communiprograms Blaine School ty based, family in funthe celebration of the Fine District and is truly a highlight Arts programs in the Blaine School District and is truly a community highlight of the Winter calendar. of the Winter calendar.

SAVE THE DATE!

7pm Saturday, February 4th 2017

7pm Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019 Blaine Fine Arts Association presents Blaine Fine arts association presents The 22nd Annual

Arts & & Jazz The 20th Annual

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The Northern Light • January 10 - 16, 2019

2018

! e r e h t t u Get o

year in

REVIEW

WINTER 2019

THWEST THE PACIFIC NOR ADVENTURES IN

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Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District B y K at e K i m b e r R i c e ,

c o u n t y wat e r q u a l i t y p l a n n e r

The Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District (DHSPD) was formed in 1995 by the Whatcom County Council in response to the Washington State Department of Health’s closure of shellfish harvesting areas due to poor water quality. The purpose of a shellfish protection district is to develop and implement a water quality improvement strategy to address sources of pollution and restore the area for shellfish harvesting. Fecal coliform bacteria pollution is the primary concern in shellfish harvesting areas because it indicates that pathogens may be in the water, making shellfish unsafe to eat. Fecal coliform bacteria pollution comes from improperly managed human and animal waste. December 1 marked the twoyear anniversary of harvesting restrictions having been lifted on 810 acres of shellfish growing area in Drayton Harbor. The commu-

nity came together to celebrate this anniversary for the third annual “Drayton Harbor Shell-ebration” on December 14. The event included honoring the 2018 Drayton Harbor Watershed Steward award winners. These awards are given to community members who have shown outstanding dedication to improving water quality in Drayton Harbor. Rick Beauregard, a DHSPD advisory committee member, helped with award nominations and distribution. Other DHSPD advisory committee members Steve Seymour and George Kaas served up delicious oysters to the community during the event. If you or someone you know is interested in serving on the Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District advisory committee, there are currently two vacancies that need to be filled. This commitment includes attending quarterly meetings in which

members provide guidance on watershed improvement work. In 2018, some of this work included: Additional marine water quality sampling during the fall and winter with help from the port. Development of a Wildlife Tracker phone application by the Whatcom Conservation District. Implementation of a new Small Farm Improvement Rebate program in addition to the well-established Septic Maintenance Rebate Program. Completion of three small farm cost-share projects. In 2018, 81 percent of routine monitoring sites in the Drayton Harbor watershed had improved water quality. The community has continued to show their dedication to clean water by taking action, proving that fecal coliform pollution prevention does work to improve water quality. For more information visit: whatcomcounty. us/1072

Arts ...

of working and playing with professionals and the resulting confidence and joy that comes from sharing your passion. From the extraordinary “Serenata Brasileira” kick-off concert on Sunday, to the downtown Jazz-by-the-Sea student performances on the final Saturday, this was an amazing week of listening, learning and feeling the power of music to bring us all together. Looking forward to 2019, our

18th year of inspiring young artists and bringing worldclass music to Blaine, we plan to continue our excellent music programs, including Songwriting and Trad Jazz, and to expand our New Directions program for classically trained students (formerly Classics to Contemporary). We are proud of our efforts to put Blaine on the map by bringing music to our shores. Thank you, Blaine, for your support!

From page 13

Festival. The July sun shone down on live musical performances at the G Street Plaza for six days; the Performing Arts Center hosted four inspiring by donation evening concerts; the Blaine Pavilion rocked to the sounds of our annual Big Band Benefit; and – most important of all – over 60 music students experienced the thrill

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