The Northern Light: January 16-22, 2020 by Point Roberts Press

January 16 - 22, 2020

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Reps. Shewmake and Van Werven challenged, page 3

Paddleboarder rescued by local captain, page 7

Semiahmoo Resort hosting free film programs, page 12

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

Sidhu sworn in as Whatcom County executive Federal investigation underway into CBP’s detentions of IranianAmericans By Jami Makan A federal investigation into recent detentions of Iranian-American travelers in Blaine is underway, after members of Congress and civil rights groups expressed concern about the “extreme vetting” that took place at the Peace Arch border crossing in the wake of a U.S. airstrike on an Iranian military figure. On January 4 and 5, more than 60 travelers with Iranian backgrounds were held for hours at the Peace Arch border crossing and received extra questioning, following a U.S. airstrike that killed Qasem Soleimani on January 3 in Baghdad, Iraq. Systematic enhanced screenings appear to have been limited to the Peace Arch border crossing, suggesting that the decision was made locally by CBP’s Seattle Field Office, which is based in Blaine, rather than at the national level. At the time, a local immigration lawyer who visited the Peace Arch border crossing on an unrelated client matter asked a CBP officer what was going on. “Extreme vetting,” the officer replied, according to attorney Len Saunders’ account of the conversation. The CBP officer continued: “All of those Iranians, they are all being vetted and the only person making the final decision to let them in is the port director. Every single person is going to the port director. It’s taking us hours to process.” Following widespread reports that more than 60 people of Iranian backgrounds, including NEXUS pass holders, were held in secondary inspection for up to 10 hours and asked questions about their political views, allegiances and ties to the Iranian military, the National Iranian American Council (NIAC) requested that the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office for Civil Rights and Civil (See CBP, page 2)

s Whatcom County executive Satpal Sidhu took the oath of office given by Whatcom County auditor Debbie Adelstein during a January 11 ceremony at Meridian High School in Bellingham. With him is his wife Mundir, family members, friends and officials including former Lummi Nation chairman Jay Julius, Washington attorney general Bob Ferguson and Hardev Juj, Sidhu’s former classmate and retired vice president of Bonneville Power Administration. Photo by Tara Nelson

Potential IED discovered in trunk of Blaine vehicle By Jami Makan The Blaine Police Department was evacuated, a bomb squad was called in and the FBI was contacted after a potential IED – improvised explosive device – was discovered in the trunk of a vehicle being searched by Blaine officers in their evidence bay. On December 24 at about 9:30 a.m., two Blaine police officers executed a search warrant on a vehicle for the purpose of recovering marijuana and related paraphernalia. The vehicle, a black 1990 Honda Accord owned by 19-year-old Charles Daniel Padilla, was being stored in the Blaine Police Department’s secure vehicle evidence

bay on H Street, and the points of access to the vehicle had been sealed with evidence tape prior to executing the warrant. During the course of the search, one of the officers discovered what appeared to be an IED in the trunk of the vehicle. The partially covered device consisted of a large rectangular black and silver case with red wiring traveling from the top of the case to the inside. The case had a key placed in a keyhole located on the top with a red button next to it. A wire junction attached to the backside of the keyhole had an additional wire coming from it, which was hooked to a D battery and traveled downward into the bottom of the case. This wire traveled toward a dark, unknown liquid

substance in a water bottle. After taking digital photographs of the device, the police department was evacuated immediately, and all staff members were advised to clear out of the building. One of the officers contacted Washington State Patrol (WSP) which deployed its bomb squad. While waiting for WSP to arrive, Blaine officers cleared the sidewalk and roadway outside the evidence bay and blocked the area off with cones and police tape. WSP’s bomb squad arrived and inspected the device. “Upon arrival, the WSP bomb squad scanned the device and made sure it was inoperable,” said the police report. “The fluid in the canister was not an accelerant or explosive. They

BHS alumnus pleads guilty to rape and burglary By Jami Makan A Blaine High School alumnus pled guilty to rape and burglary and was booked into the Whatcom County Jail pending a sentencing hearing. On January 6, Shaquille Tyrique Woods, 21, appeared in Whatcom County Superior Court and pled guilty to third-degree rape and first-degree burglary in two separate court cases. According to court records, the guilty plea was part of an agreement with deputy prosecuting attorney Evan

Jones, who will be recommending that Woods serve 14 months for the rape count and 24 months for the burglary count. The sentences would run concurrently. Woods will later be subject to supervision and community custody. For the rape count in particular, Woods will also be subject to DNA testing and will be required to register as a sex offender. For the rape count, Woods made a socalled “Alford” plea, which means that he is pleading guilty but is not admitting to committing the criminal acts. As part of

the plea deal, other charges were dropped, including charges for taking indecent liberties and possession of a stolen firearm. Prior to making the guilty pleas, Woods was advised of the charges, his constitutional rights and the maximum penalties. He was also advised that the court is not bound by the recommendation of counsel as to sentencing, and that he would have no right to appeal his sentence if he pled guilty. Following his pleas, Woods was

INSIDE

(See IED, page 2)

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

TheNorthernLight.com

(See Woods, page 3) TheNorthernLight

@TNLreporter

@TheNorthernLightNews

The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

CBP ... From page 1

Liberties open an investigation into the detentions. On January 8, the DHS civil rights office verbally confirmed opening an investigation and said it would be sending investigators to Washington state, said Subhan Cheema, a spokeperson for U.S. representative Pramila Jayapal (DWA). While DHS wouldn’t elaborate on the scope of the investigation, “we believe the fact that they are investigating is a big deal, and the fact that they opened an investigation so quickly is also significant,” said Cheema. Following the opening of the investigation, Jayapal said on Twitter that it was a “critical step toward getting to the truth – and getting real answers about what happened.” She also praised “the courage of those who spoke up to tell their story.” Her office said that individuals who were impacted by the extreme vetting can email crclcompliance@hq.dhs.gov. A day earlier, Jayapal, who is vice chair of the House Judicia-

IED ... From page 1

2020 Artist of Note,

Megan Tran

Art work Senior, Title: “Please Beby Patient” Lauren Kordas

The tradition of a community coming together a year celebrate the Artsonce & Jazz is antoauction lover’s efforts and with accomplishments delight live and silent of our students and featuring the tradition of passing auctions donations Art tofrom a new generation. businesses and individuals believe our students as Arts that & Jazz is an in auction lover’s delight much as we do. 100% of funds with raised live and silent auctions featuring benefit scholarships and donations from businesses experiences beyond the and individuals that believe in Blaine our students curriculum in the Schoolas muchDistrict. as we do. of funds Arts100% & Jazz is a raised benefit scholarships experiences community based,and family fun beyond the curriculum in the celebration of the Fine ArtsBlaine programs School District.in the Blaine School District and is truly a highlight Arts & Jazz is a community based, family fun celebrationofofthe theWinter Fine Arts programs in the calendar. Blaine School District and is truly a community highlight of the Winter calendar.

advised that the device was wired in such a way that it was only missing a small component and an actual combustible.” However, WSP personnel could not positively identify the unknown fluid. Neither could U.S. Customs agents who also analyzed the fluid, which did not register as a specific chemical on their scanning machine. Over

ry Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship, wrote a letter with five Democratic colleagues requesting further information and documents about the detentions of the Iranian-American travelers in Blaine. “We write to express our alarm about U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reportedly holding large numbers of people of Iranian heritage in secondary inspection for up to 12 hours over the weekend of January 4-5, 2020, at the Peace Arch border crossing in Blaine, Washington,” said Jayapal’s January 7 letter, which was addressed to acting DHS secretary Chad Wolf, acting CBP commissioner Mark Morgan and Kenneth Williams, port director of the Blaine sector. In a separate letter to acting CBP commissioner Morgan, congresswoman Suzan DelBene and 69 of her colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives also requested more information about the Blaine detentions. “We are deeply concerned about the experiences of those impacted this past weekend and the potential that this may be the start

of a new policy at our borders and airports illegally targeting those of Iranian descent based solely on their religion, ethnicity or national origin,” said DelBene’s letter. DelBene’s letter continued: “Men, women and children legally entering or returning to the United States at a designated port of entry deserve better than to be arbitrarily held and questioned solely based on their religion, ethnicity or national origin.” The NIAC reacted positively to the news of a federal investigation. “We are pleased that the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties has opened an investigation into CBP’s potential discriminatory targeting of Iranian-Americans at the border following our formal complaint,” said NIAC president Jamal Abdi in a statement. “We will be working to ensure that the investigation is thorough, timely and results in the halt of this discriminatory treatment targeting our community.” A CBP spokesperson declined to comment on the investigation. “We will provide comment once any investigation is complete,” said CBP press officer Jason Givens.

the course of several hours, WSP bomb technicians dismantled the device. The unknown liquid was seized for destruction by WSP, and the FBI was contacted since the incident “relates to the construction of potential explosive devices.” Besides the potential IED, the search of the vehicle turned up “numerous” bags of suspected marijuana, bong stems and drug paraphernalia, as well as concentrated THC, brass knuckles, knives, a realistic-looking airsoft

BB gun with CO2 cartridges and multiple empty bottles of alcohol. At this point, it is unclear what charges Padilla could face as a result of possessing the device. “Everything was forwarded to the FBI for review,” said a Blaine Police Department spokesperson. Additional charges for the brass knuckles were forwarded to the Blaine prosecutor for review, since section 9.32.010 of the Blaine Municipal Code prohibits the possession of “metal knuckles” and certain other weapons.

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s The old Wolten and Montfort grocery store at 648 Peace Portal Drive in Blaine was in the process of receiving a facelift last week. The structure is being renovated by Nimbus Properties, which hopes to bring a grocery tenant to the historic building. “It’ll be glass and brick consistent with the flavor of downtown, and with lots of light,” said Nimbus representative Phill Esau. He said that the building has been sitting empty for years, and was previously being used to store furniture donated to the Nimbus-affiliated Wildbird Treasure Nest boutique.

Photo by Louise Mugar

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January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Woods ... From page 1

remanded into the custody of the Whatcom County Jail pending a pre-sentence investigation for sexual offenses. A judicial order was made for a pre-sentencing report to be returned to the court within 60 days. Woods’ charges stemmed from a number of separate incidents. The rape charge followed incidents between June 1, 2015 and February 5, 2016 in which Woods allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with females who did not consent and clearly expressed their refusal by their words or conduct. According to an affidavit of probable cause filed with the court, officers initially responded on July 17, 2017 to a report of a

sexual assault that had occurred in February 2016 in Blaine. Woods was friends with the victim’s brother and had spent the night at the victim’s home. He allegedly went to her bedroom in the middle of the night, removed her clothes, pinned her to the bed and raped her. Later, while the case was still ongoing, Woods was allegedly involved in other criminal activity, according to another affidavit of probable cause filed with the court. On December 11, 2017 at about 4:37 a.m., deputies responded to a residence on Axton Road in Whatcom County for a reported burglary in progress. While en route, law enforcement was alerted to a single-vehicle crash nearby. The crashed vehicle was similar in description to a vehicle seen fleeing the scene of the burglary. At the crash scene, deputies in-

terviewed the two occupants of the crashed vehicle, including Woods, who was the passenger. The driver, Justus Garza, was arrested for driving under the influence and Woods was released because the burglary investigation was ongoing. At the scene of the burglary, the homeowner reported that the suspect had opened a closed but unlocked window, reached in and attempted to move furniture out of the way so that they could gain entry into the residence. The suspect ran off when the homeowner yelled out. The homeowner indicated that they heard a person running away through the darkness. Woods later admitted to being at the scene of the burglary and reaching into the residence to open the window. He stated that Garza had driven them to the Axton Road home “to fight” the occupants. He said that he knew

Garza was armed with a revolver and that another participant was armed with an AK-47-style assault rifle. However, another participant said that Woods carried the assault rifle up to the residence. At the crime scene, a shoe print was found matching the tread and size of Woods’ size-18 shoes. A search warrant was granted to search Garza’s vehicle in which an AK-47-style assault rifle was located; the rifle had been reported stolen in another case. At the time, Woods was subject to a sexual assault protection order that prohibited him from obtaining, owning, possessing or controlling a firearm. The very next day, Woods allegedly threatened to kill another person for stealing Woods’ “lean,” a street name for codeine cough syrup. At the time, the street value for a single bottle was $500 to

Alicia Rule to challenge Rep. Van Werven Blaine city councilmember Alicia Rule announced that she is running for the state legislature, and will be seeking to fill the seat currently held by state representative Luanne Van Werven, whose current term ends in January 2021. Rule’s announcement was made in a January 13 press release, in which Rule said that she hopes to tackle issues including affordable housing if she is elected to the Washington State House of Representatives. “Our community is facing an affordable housing crisis – and we aren’t getting enough help from Olympia,” Rule said. “We also need to get serious about addressing homelessness – it must be a statewide priority.” According to her press release, Rule is a licensed independent clinical social worker and a small

business owner. She graduated from Meridian High School, and her children are the fifth generation of her family to live in Whatcom County. “She has dedicated her life working to make communities great, from restoring historic downtowns to working in child welfare policy, as a social worker for foster care and adoptions, hospices and child abuse protection,” said the press release. “She’s also volunteered to combat childhood obesity, backpack and school supply drives for low-income children and to help uninsured families obtain health care.” Rule, a Democrat, said she has been endorsed by Whatcom County executive Satpal Sidhu, Whatcom County prosecutor Eric Richey, state representatives Sharon Shewmake, Alex Ramel and Deborah Lekanoff, Ferndale

mayor Greg Hansen and former Bellingham mayor Kelli Linville. Rule said that as a Blaine city councilmember, she has been a champion for downtown redevelopment and small business and job growth in north Whatcom County, and has helped bring living-wage jobs to Blaine.

s Shaquille Tyrique Woods. File photo

$1,000. Woods was allegedly on an audio call with the victim and yelled, “When I see you, you’re dead. I’m going to kill you.” Following the threat, Woods was arrested for felony harassment but denied the allegations.

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Jennifer Sefzik to challenge Rep. Shewmake A small business owner and high school debate coach announced that she is running for state representative Sharon Shewmake’s seat in the Washington State House of Representatives. In a January 10 press release, Jennifer Sefzik said that she has decided to run against first-term Democrat Sharon Shewmake “after being frustrated by the disconnect between Shewmake and the voters of Whatcom County.” “I love Whatcom County,” said Sefzik. “But I don’t love the direction our state is headed because of the influence of extremist Seattle politicians.” Shewmake represents Legislative District 42–Position 2 in the Washington State House of Representatives. She assumed office in January 2019 and her current term ends in January 2021. Sefzik said that she will oppose tax increases, support local transportation projects and work to ensure that $30 car tabs become a reality. The $30 car-tab initiative, Initiative 976, was approved by state voters in November but is currently tied up in court. “We don’t need a legislator who represents Seattle,” said Sefzik. “If elected, I’ll represent Whatcom

County residents. I will oppose tax increases that affect everyone’s bottom line and prosperity. I will fight against diverting transportation dollars from our local roads and bridges to fund Seattle mass transit. And I will stand solidly with the will of the voters who demanded $30 car tabs.” According to Sefzik’s release, she has a business degree in marketing from Texas A&M University, and worked in sales and marketing for 20 years before retiring to direct and coach high school speech and debate clubs. She said she has organized and led debate clubs locally and across the state, and has coached hundreds of students in local, state and national competitions. “It is so inspiring to teach young adults to research, think logically and communicate well,” said Sefzik. “It gives them unique skills in today’s job market. It’s been one of the great joys of my life to watch students’ lives be transformed through this activity.” Sefzik and her husband Roger have been married for 34 years and have three grown children. According to her release, Sefzik is endorsed by state representative Luanne Van Werven.

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Winemaker Dinners & Special Events: SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 • 5-8 pm - Winemaker dinner with Mele Sosa, ambassador for Uruguayan New World Winery of the year, Bodega Garzon

The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

Opinion

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, 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.

Three Blaine city councilmembers sworn in

s At Blaine city council’s January 13 meeting, city clerk Sam Crawford administered the oath of office to, from l., Richard May, Mary Lou Steward and Garth Baldwin. May (Ward 1, Position 1) and Baldwin (Ward 2, Position 3) were newly elected to the city council in last November’s general election, while Steward (Ward 3, Position 5) ran unopposed and was re-elected to her seat.

Photo by Jami Makan

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Jami Makan jami@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Aly Siemion aly@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Grace McCarthy prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Kristin Siemion sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXV, No 30 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Next issue: Jan. 23 Ads due: Jan. 17

Letters The Editor: I would like to start by thanking the Blaine Police Department and the city of Blaine for installing the radar-controlled, speed-indicating traffic signs on D Street. They work. I live near the westbound sign on D Street and have frequently noticed vehicles traveling in excess of the posted 25 mph speed limit. Once these drivers receive notice that they are speeding, 90 percent of them quickly slow down. This passive intervention changes behavior without traffic tickets and fines, allowing our police officers to freely patrol and respond to higher-priority calls for assistance. It also reduces the risks associated with the simplest of traffic stops to both officers and the public, and of course reduces accidents. I must admit that, even as a former police officer, I was skeptical that these signs would be so effective, but from my perspective, they work. Kevin Faulkner Blaine The Editor: Fact: Whatcom County has one hospital. Fact: Whatcom County has one hospice provider. Fact: The hospital and hospice are operated by the same organization. Fact: Whatcom County has an aging

population. In 2018, 16.9 percent of our population was age 65 or older. That age group grew 43.2 percent since 2010. Fact: An aging population means that growing numbers of us will require more medical services for increasingly complex health needs. Fact: An aging population means that more of us are choosing at-home hospice care following a terminal illness diagnosis, with a prognosis of six months or less to live. Fact: In Whatcom County, there is a delay in access to at-home hospice care for new hospice patients. New patients have been referred to independent home healthcare organizations because our community’s established, certified hospice provider has been unable to meet the demand. I recognize that there are challenges to meet the ever-increasing needs in healthcare, including recruiting and retraining physicians, nurses, social workers and other providers. But this disturbing delay in access to at-home hospice care requires a solution posthaste to ensure that this compassionate, holistic, patient and family-centered care model is seamlessly accessible, supported and sustainable in our community. Perhaps the remedy is a second hospice provider in Whatcom County. Barbara Aiken Bellingham

The Editor: The last time Congress fulfilled its exclusive constitutional authority to formally declare war was during World War II. Article I of the Constitution states that only Congress has the power to declare war. Ordinary citizens in our country – and the world – do not want another disastrous war in the Middle East that would have the potential to expand to other regions. Bills have been introduced in the U.S. House and Senate to prohibit the use of funds for military actions against Iran unless Congress, after debate, declares war. There is bipartisan support. For decades, Congress has been ceding its Constitutional authorities and prerogatives to the executive branch. To safeguard our system of checks and balances, Congress must reclaim its role as a check on presidential power. Contact your members of Congress and tell them to take back their authority before our very system of government is further and irrevocably damaged. Micki Jackson Bellingham Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info: bbwsd.com.

Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blainesd.org.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com.

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 1 p.m. Station 61. Info: nwfrs.net.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Bellingham shelters open for those facing cold weather

‘For’ and ‘against’ statements needed for school district levy

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.

Friday, January 17 9:00am – Special City Council Meeting

Monday, January 20 City offices closed in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Thursday, January 23 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, January 27 4:00pm – Study Session – Gateway Regional Stormwater Pond

5:00pm – Study Session – Vacant Downtown Buildings

5:30pm – Study Session – Board and Commission Interviews

6:00pm – Regular City Council

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

Meeting

Monday, February 10 6:00pm – Regular City Council

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts

Meeting

DECEMBER 2019

LOCATION

SALE PRICE

6040 Birch Point Road, Blaine

$767,000

3451 Haynie Road, Blaine

$615,000

2-story house with 1,568 SF, 3 BR, 3 BA, 288 SF detached garage, built in 1961, 74 feet waterfront; marine view, .16 acres land.

6989 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine

$697,000

2-story house with 4,230 SF, 3 BR, 4 BA, built in 2004, 870 SF attached garage, 567 SF patio; territorial view, .39 acres land.

8746 Bufflehead Court, Blaine

$740,000

DESCRIPTION HIGHER END HOUSES: 2- story house with 2,370 SF, 3 BR, 3 BA, 676 SF detached garage, 576 SF attached garage, 265 SF patio, built in 2017, 19.75 acres wooded land. 1-story house with 1,836 SF, 3 BR, 2 BA, 650 SF attached garage, 650 SF patio, 424 SF deck, outbuilding, built in 1968, 32.62 acres land.

Condo with 3,053 SF, 3 BR, 5 BA, 607 SF built-in garage, 214 SF patio, built in 2017, waterfront; marine view. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY: Loft with 8,000 SF, 1,660 SF dock, built in 1981.

4-plex with 3,184 SF, built in 1989; territorial view, .37 acres land. Mini storage units with 30,510 SF, built in 1978, remodeled in 1989; mini storage units with 6,000 SF, 3,128 SF mezzanine, built in 1984, 10.63 acres land

U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

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608 D Street, Blaine

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As of this month, Nancy Bakarich is no longer the Blaine Primary School principal, and is instead working in the district office to provide administrative support, according to a letter superintendent Christopher Granger sent to primary school parents in December. In a phone interview, Granger said the district made the change because she has some skills that will help the district as it works to update its policies. Bakarich started as a school administrator in 2000. In the interim, Blaine Elementary School principal Craig Baldwin will serve as principal for both the elementary and primary schools, with help from learning support specialists Lindsay Nowakowski and Michelle McKeown, according to the letter. Baldwin will serve as principal of both schools at least through the end of the school year. “He’ll finish the year in that role and

CITY OF BLAINE

4th St.

The Blaine school district is looking for volunteers to write statements for and against its proposed replacement property tax levy, which will be on a February 11 special election ballot. Legislation requires the district to appoint committees of up to three members each to prepare statements for the voters’ pamphlet. The district is asking people interested in writing statements to contact school district administrative assistant Tina Padilla at 360/332-5881. The proposed four-year maintenance and operations levy will replace one that expires at the end of 2020. The district would use the money to “support the district’s

educational maintenance and daily operations, including teachers, staff, classroom materials and textbooks,” according to a resolution the school board passed on November 25. Taxpayers would pay less for the replacement levy than the current levy. Currently, property owners in the Blaine school district pay about $1.39 per $1,000 of assessed value annually for the maintenance and operations levy. The replacement levy would tax voters at approximately $1.26 per $1,000 in assessed value in 2021, and rise to $1.30 per $1,000 by 2024. The levy needs a 50 percent vote to pass. Ballots will be mailed January 20 for the February 11 special election.

ly available, Zaremba said. DeMent estimated that 220 people were helped by the crisis team and 680 people benefitted from the clothing bank in 2019. January’s succession of the holidays makes it the most in-demand month for CAP, DeMent said. The single-family transitional home in Blaine run by Grace Lutheran Church and Interfaith Coalition is currently being occupied, said Laura Harker, executive director of Interfaith Coalition. The Emergency Winter Shelter Hotline has up-to-date shelter information at 360/788-7983. People who want to make donations or who are seeking assistance from CAP can visit its website at blainecap.org or call 360/392-8484.

3rd St.

By Oliver Lazenby

like CAP don’t have the resources needed to address the growing demand of people in need, Zaremba said. CAP’s crisis assistance program gives monetary assistance, in the form of vouchers, to people who need short-term assistance for emergency lodging, groceries and utility bills. “We try to help people in financial crisis. It’s minimal because we don’t have a huge budget,” CAP executive director and board president Dan DeMent said. “We do the best we can with the resources we have.” CAP also runs a community meal program and a clothing bank. If people were unable to attend the winter coat distribution in October, they can call CAP, where additional coats are usual-

Peace Portal Dr.

Additional shelters opened on Sunday night in Bellingham for Whatcom County residents experiencing housing insecurity in this week’s below-freezing temperatures and intermittent freezing rain and snow. The shelters will continue to stay open if other shelters are nearing capacity and the expected overnight temperature is below 28 degrees, according to the Whatcom County health department. Precipitation and wind chill will also be considered if the temperature is slightly higher. The city of Blaine does not currently offer services for people experiencing housing insecurity, said city manager Michael Jones. Sarah Zaremba, crisis assistance director at the Community Assistance Program (CAP), encouraged people experiencing homelessness in Blaine to contact the Opportunity Council in Bellingham to seek

shelter. Residents who need assistance paying for the bus can get ticket vouchers at the Blaine Police Department at 322 H Street or the Blaine Library at 610 3rd Street. Hans Erchinger-Davis, executive director of The Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham, expected 175 to 190 people to use the organization’s facilities this week, including a 40-person women’s winter shelter at Civic Stadium. The mission, which is located at 1013 West Holly Street, has a 24/7 Drop-In Center with breakfast, lunch and dinner provided daily. “We’ll make room if we have to,” Erchinger-Davis said of the Drop-In Center, which has capacity for 150 people. “No one will be put out because of capacity restraints.” Over 700 people are homeless in Whatcom County each night, according to the city of Bellingham. Erchinger-Davis said the number of people seeking shelter goes up about 20 percent in the winter. Currently, organizations in Blaine

By Grace McCarthy

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The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

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Blaine boys basketball hangs on for impressive 70–61 win over Ferndale Blaine boys basketball got its second conference win in an intense game against Ferndale (76) at Blaine High School on January 14. After trailing the entire game, Ferndale tied the score in the fourth quarter. The Borderites clamped down defensively and rallied for a 70–61 victory. Ben Arps and Scott Baldwin had big nights defensively, shutting down Ferndale’s top-scorer, Jazen Guillory, who has been averaging about 30 points per game. On offense, Zane Rector led with 31 points and Josh Russ scored 17. On January 11, Blaine beat Sultan 77–29 in a non-conference game at home. After the wins, Blaine has an 8-5 overall record (2-4 in conference games). Next, the Borderites host Sehome (5–7) at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, January 17.

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sales@thenorthernlight.com s Blaine’s Ben Arps had a big night on defense in Blaine’s win against Ferndale on January 14, helping shut down Ferndale’s leading scorer. Photo by Janell Kortlever

In other Borderite sports Boys wrestling As a team, Blaine placed second out of 14 at the Island Individual on January 11 at Bainbridge Island. Blaine scored 168.5 points as a team, trailing only Forks High School, a state wrestling powerhouse. Blaine’s top individual wrestlers were: Cael Button, who placed second at 120 pounds; Colt Pederson, second at 182; Luke Westfall, third at 182; Gavino Rodriguez, first at 195; and Owen Hansen, second at 220. Blaine’s home dual on January 15 was postponed due to snow and will be rescheduled. Girls basketball Blaine took an early lead against Ferndale (9–4) on January 14, but Ferndale dominated in the second half and defeated Blaine 69–35 at Ferndale High School. Hailey Pike had 11 points and eight rebounds, and Krystin

Kamrath scored 15 points. The week before, Blaine lost to Meridian 46–36 at home. After the losses, Blaine has a 4–9 overall record (1–5 in conference games). “The last couple games have been exciting just to see the improvement they’re making,” said Blaine head coach Ryan Pike. “This is a stretch of the season coming up where we have some games that we can win.” Next, Blaine travels to Sehome (9-3) to play at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 16. The Borderites’ next home game starts at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, January 20 against Sedro-Woolley (4–8). Girls bowling After a 3–0 loss to Ferndale on January 8, the girls bowling team has a 2–7 record. Next, the Borderites travel to San Juan Lanes in Anacortes to bowl at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 16 against Anacortes High School.

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January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Local captain aids paddleboarder who got blown adrift in Semiahmoo Bay His patented water-rescue device played a key role in the New Year’s Eve recovery By Jami Makan Toward the end of 2019, Bellingham resident Suzanne Westcott came up with a goal to paddleboard “through the month of December.” Westcott has been paddleboarding for six years, and in the summer, she paddles at least once a day, if not twice. About a week before the new year, she decided that to meet her year-end goal, she would go paddleboarding on December 31. Westcott, who is 51 years old and usually paddles in Bellingham Bay, checked the weather forecast and decided that she would drive up to Blaine for her New Year’s Eve paddle. She hopped into her vehicle, did some “recon” and found three potential paddleboarding spots in Semiahmoo. She then drove back home to Bellingham to fetch her gear. Westcott put on some 9mm booties, wind and waterproof pants, wool layers, a kayaking jacket, paddle gloves and a personal flotation device (PFD). She also grabbed her Riviera Voyager paddleboard, a wide recreational board that’s 12'6" long. “It is super wide and super stable, with a pointed front so it cuts through waves nicely,” she said. She then returned to Blaine, where she launched into the waters of Semiahmoo Bay near the Alaska Packers Association Museum on the Semiahmoo Spit. It was about 12:45 or 1 p.m. Her goal was to do “a quick paddle” – maybe five or 10 minutes max. The waters seemed to be calm. Unfortunately for Westcott, the quick jaunt turned into an hour-and-a-half ordeal, which required an emergency rescue by first responders and a local captain named Randy Parten. In the end, a new water-rescue device invented by Parten was put to the test – and it succeeded brilliantly. The distress signal That afternoon, Parten had been sitting in the office of his Blaine yacht brokerage, The Dream Boat Company at 229 Marine Drive, when he heard a “PAN-PAN” distress signal from the Coast Guard on his VHF radio. The message said that there was a paddleboarder in Semiahmoo Bay who needed to be rescued. Parten immediately walked outside to his boat, a 32-foot, 700-horsepower towing vessel, and started the engines. He responded to the Coast Guard, telling them that he could deploy if necessary. “They said their nearest resources were coming from Bellingham, and that there were rough seas,” said Parten. “They said that any assistance would therefore be appreciated.” Parten exited the marina in his boat and headed toward Semiahmoo Bay. It took him about five minutes to get there. There wasn’t much light, and it was raining. Because it can be hard to see a person in the water in those conditions, Parten got in touch with first responders on the shore, who had eyes on Westcott. “They

guided me toward her, well into Canadian waters toward White Rock,” said Parten. The 911 call At first, everything seemed to be going fine. Westcott’s goal had been to go straight out into the water, and then ride the waves back to the beach. “I went out too far,” she said in retrospect. “So then my angle was off when I was coming in. I went about 100 feet past where I wanted to be, and that unfortunately happened to be where the winds started just blowing.” From past experience, Westcott knew that she could paddle against 15-knot headwinds, and that she could even do quick sprints against 18-knot headwinds. Unfortunately, the winds were blowing at about 30 knots. Once the winds hit her, she switched to an energy-conserving “M” position. “I was going slow and steady,” she said. “I was not getting too much farther out, but in hindsight, I wasn’t making any progress heading in. At some point, I knew I wasn’t going to make it in. I knew that I couldn’t fight it.” After 38 minutes on the water, Westcott called 911. “I told them I was on the water, where I was and that I didn’t think I was going to make it back in,” she said. After hanging up, she continued paddling for a while, slow and steady. Although two- to threefoot waves were hitting her sideways, she wasn’t cold, and she wasn’t scared. “I never felt the need to pull my PFD,” she said. “I’m very calm in emergencies, that’s just my nature.” After a while, Westcott decided to stop paddling. Having already crossed the marine border into Canada, she decided that she would just land in B.C. instead of trying to make it back to Blaine. She used her paddle as a rudder and placed another call to first responders, letting them know about her change of plans. She was told that a helicopter had been deployed, and that a boater had responded to an emergency alert and was on his way. “While I was on the phone, I was told that there was a guy coming out of the harbor,” she said. “I thought, ‘Alright, let’s do this.’ I got this rush of adrenaline. For some reason, I turned my board around and had to get back over the marine border into U.S. waters.” Westcott resumed paddling toward Blaine. She started thinking about how she would get onto a boat. “I didn’t know who it was or what the plan was, and I knew the waves were big,” she said. The rescue After first responders guided Parten toward Westcott, he finally spotted her in the water. When he was about 50 yards away from her, he walked to the back of his boat and threw a life ring into the water. Attached to the life ring was a Rescu Swim’r, a plastic device that Parten invented last year. The Rescu Swim’r makes it safer, easier and faster to tow a life ring to a person overboard. This is because it functions as a rudder, allowing the rescuer to tow a life

s A few days after Bellingham paddleboarder Suzanne Westcott, l., was rescued by Blaine captain Randy Parten in Semiahmoo Bay, she met with him and his wife Regina for lunch, in order to thank him for his quick response. Above, Westcott is holding a Rescu Swim’r, a water-rescue device that Parten invented and used in the New Year’s Eve rescue.

Courtesy photo

ring at a 45-degree angle to a boat, rather than dragging it directly behind the boat. This means that the rescuer does not need to make a close pass or circle the boat around the person in the water, saving time and avoiding potential contact with the propellers. Parten walked back to the helm and started towing the life ring to Westcott, who was starting to get colder. “My fingers were starting to get cold,” she recalled. “The last time I closed my dry bag, I could barely pinch the clip. But I wasn’t shivering. The bottom half of me was getting wet but my core and top half were dry.” As Parten came closer, drove past her and took the boat out of gear, Westcott tried to process how to get on the boat. That’s when she saw the line for the life ring off to the side. “I just knew I had to grab the line with my gloves, and I knew I could do that,” she said. “It slid through my hands perfectly, and after I put my arm through the ring, he pulled me in. That was the easiest part of the whole day.” When Parten and Westcott came face to face, Westcott’s first words were “thank you” or “I’m so sorry” – she can’t remember which. She asked Parten, “Do I just leave my gear here?” Parten replied: “Let’s just get you on the boat first.” Because Westcott had been sitting in the “M” position for so long, she had a hard time standing up. After she managed to get one foot onto the boat’s swim platform, Parten grabbed her arm and yanked the rest of her body onto the boat. “I slid like a seal onto the bench in the back of the boat,” said Westcott, who was feeling nauseous and just laid on her stomach for a few moments before sitting up. Meanwhile, Parten grabbed the paddleboard’s tether and tied it to his boat. He could tell that Westcott was stable and alert. But to test her senses, he deliberately asked her a vague question: “Are you with me?” To which Westcott replied: “Yup, I’m good.” Returning to shore Parten transported Westcott to the Plover dock on the Semiahmoo

s A photograph of Westcott paddleboarding on New Year’s Eve shows how calm the waters were – or seemed to be.

Courtesy photo

Spit, where first responders including North Whatcom Fire and Rescue were waiting. Once ashore, she went inside an ambulance to get warmed up. She was given heating packs, and changed into a dry set of clothes. “I had so much shame, I was apologizing to everybody who was there,” she said. “I felt so bad for disrupting everybody.” Parten believes that his Rescu Swim’r device played a key role in the rescue. “In that weather, with four-foot waves and 30-knot gusts, it was a danger to bring a boat next to her,” he said. The Rescu Swim’r that he used to rescue Westcott was a prototype; he is currently working with a Seattle manufacturer to develop a mass-market model of the device, which should be ready in about three months. A few days after the incident, Westcott met with Parten and his wife Regina for lunch. It was an opportunity for Westcott to thank Parten for his rescue effort.

Westcott and Parten bonded over their love for the singer Billy Joel. Parten’s boat, “She’s Got A Way,” is a reference to the epic Billy Joel song. “As the daughter of a fisherman, ‘The Downeaster Alexa’ was my song,” said Westcott. “When I saw the name of Randy’s boat as I was throwing my paddle on the swim platform, I thought it was a fortuitous moment.” Westcott also wished to thank the Coast Guard, North Whatcom Fire and Rescue and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their assistance. “I’m so grateful,” she said, adding that from now on, she only plans to go paddleboarding when it’s not too windy, and that she won’t go as far out next time. Although she is well-versed in water safety, the experience has left her feeling humbled by the power of nature. “Accidents happen,” she said. “Mistakes happen. You’re going to learn from it, so it’s important not to beat yourself up.”

The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

Active S eniors

Local Zumba classes help start the day on the right foot By Grace McCarthy Two new Zumba instructors have been added to the upbeat dance mix at Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2). Celine Mauger, who has been with the program since October, and Joanna Newcome, who started in December, are gearing up their accessible workout classes for the new year. Mauger and Newcome are two of three instructors who teach the aerobic exercise that incorporates Latin American dance for an alternative workout routine. Health benefits of the 55-minute classes include helping the cardiovascular system, toning the body and increasing metabolism. “Each instructor brings their own uniqueness,” said Heidi Holmes, the BBBPRD2 program manager who has watched the Zumba classes grow since their inception in 2012. Zumba was first added to the group workout classes as a fun way for people to work up a sweat while socializing, Holmes said. Mauger started teaching Zumba five years ago in Whatcom County after experiencing its benefits firsthand. Zumba was

the first time she had enjoyed exercise, and the benefits began to show as she lost weight from the classes. Mauger puts an emphasis on making her classes accessible for everyone, with participants ranging from 17 to 77 years old. “A lot of people say they didn’t want to come because they were worried, but they end up glad they came,” Mauger said. “It’s cheaper than therapy and good for the body and soul.” Linda Cline, whose retirement allows her to take Zumba every week with Mauger, attributes the classes to starting her day off on the right foot. Cline said the program has great instructors like Mauger who keep the classes energized. “It’s nothing to be afraid of because everyone goes at their own pace,” Cline said. People interested in trying Zumba are encouraged to come to the judgement-free classes, Mauger said. Holmes said prospective students should drop into the studio and fill out a registration form. There is no set amount of times that people have to take the classes or any long-term commitments. The $3 Zumba classes are of-

S Celine Mauger after teaching a Zumba class at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Zumba is an aerobic exercise that incorporates Latin American dance for an alternative workout routine.

fered at the Birch Bay Activity Center at 7511 Gemini Street as well as the Blaine Pavilion at 635 8th Street. Non-expiring $15 punch cards for six classes and $30 unlimited monthly passes are also available for purchase. Classes are offered Monday, Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Tuesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Check bbbparkandrec.org for additional information on teachers and locations.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Attendees of Mauger’s 9 a.m. Zumba class on January 10 groove to upbeat tunes to start their morning. Photo by Grace McCarthy

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A SPECAIL SECTION OF THE NORTHERN LIGHT • CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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• Book dining ahead of time. Cruise ships often have a main dining room and then specialty restaurants. If you want a particular meal, make reservations before leaving port. Certain restaurants may offer discounts or perks, such as a free bottle of wine or premiere seating. • Understand what’s included. Cruise ships have many foods and drinks that are included in the packaged price. Certain branded items, such as specialty coffees or ice creams, may be available at an additional charge, as are premium drinks. But chances are you can find a free, similar version elsewhere on the ship. • Explore special discounts. When shopping for a cruise, see

if there are discounts available for seniors, teachers, people in the military, or those who belong to certain clubs. Cruises often love to incentivize, so it pays to ask about discount pricing. • Make a list of activities. It can be easy to get overwhelmed by all of the offerings on a cruise ship, so much so that there’s some stress over trying to fit it all in. Recognize that you can’t see or hear it all, and prioritize what’s important to you. Make sure you have plenty of time to relax. • Book at the right time. Cruises may be more available after Labor Day when kids go back to school and the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas when others are too busy to travel.

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Some tips for older adults to overcome their fear of joining a gym Regular exercise and a nutritious diet are two of the best things seniors can do to maintain their health. Exercise can delay or prevent many of the health problems associated with aging, including weak bones and feelings of fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say a person age 65 or older who is generally fit with no limiting health conditions should try to get two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, while also including weight training and muscle-strengthening activities in their routines on two or more days a week. Individuals often find that gyms have the array of fitness equipment they need to stay healthy. But many people, including older men and women who have not exercised in some time, may be hesitant to join a gym for fear of intimidation. Some seniors may avoid machines and classes believing they will not use the apparatus properly, or that they will be judged by other gym members. Some seniors may feel like gyms do not cater to their older clientele, creating an atmosphere that is dominated by younger members and loud music. Such misconceptions are often

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January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: Jan. 23 AD DEADLINE: Jan. 20

CLASSIFIEDS

MARKETPLACE Announcements

Airpods Bluetooth $17.99 PLUS A LARGE SELECTION OF

8-23-18 replace wording...&quot;Now enrolling for Fall. Full-time and part-time preschool options.&quot; (last ad 39763.pdf).

Child Care MORE Smiles Learning Center

OPEN: Mon-Fri 6am - 6pm

Now Enrolling 1 month - 12 years old Full-time and part-time preschool options.

’s Mike

Call today! 360-332-7135

RESPECT YOUR VETERANS

360-746-4902

icnwllc@comcast.net 3 Year Guarantee on all work No Job Too Big or Small Free Estimates

I New Construction • Remodeling • Siding Windows & Doors • Fencing • Drywall • Painting Lic # CCINTEGCN869DD

Cleaning

Auctions

CLEANING SPECIAL. 4 hours for $120 (1st time only). Professional cleaning, we do it all. 360-527-0555. www. marthascleaning.com.

HOTLINE ELECTRIC

WINDOW CLEANING Residential and Commercial. Licensed, Insured, Experienced. Call Wade 360-384-8888.

Licensed • Bonded • Insured HOTLIE*914J7

360-393-8246

925 Boblett St. Blaine, WA 98230

AUCTION ADDRESS:

Computer

Handyman

www.Meridian-Towing.com OR call 360-746-9100 • M-F 8-5

Computer

ABANDONED VEHICLE

AUCTION NOTICE

Meridian Towing DATE: Thurs., Jan. 23

Electric

WHATCOM WHEELS NEW CARS

HINTON CHEVEROLET•BUICK

8139 Guide Meridian • Lynden, WA

360-354-2129

RESIDENTIAL

Construction Since 1973

TWO BROTHERS

MASONRY COMMERCIAL

HintonMotors.com Celebrating 71 years of business with a RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL MASONRY tradition of trust since 1947.TWO Your onlyBROTHERS BRICK - BLOCK - STONE locally owned and operated GM Dealer Brick • Block • Stone in Whatcom County with a non-com- BARRY L. WIENS Licensed & Bonded missioned sales staff. BARRY L. WIENS ERICK WIENS WIENS Licensed &MATT Bonded phone: (360) 332-6300 www.twobrothersmasonry.com

(360) 332 - 6300

Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Bellingham

Louis Auto Glass

BELLINGHAM 1512 N State St. • 360-734-3840 LYNDEN 407 19th St. • 360-354-3232 LouisAutoGlass.com Since 1929, Louis Auto Glass has been the leading auto & residential glass company serving Northwest Washington. The Adelstein family has owned & operated the company for four generations. Quality workmanship & customer satisfaction has remained as strong as ever.

Get your business listed.

Call 360-332-1777

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.

FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Jones & Jones

MAINTENANCE WORKER

Licensed • Bonded And InSured

COMPLETE REMODELS

(2019 wages; 2020 wages will be determined by new CBA).

Application packages must be received no later than 4:30pm on Friday, January 17, 2020.

(360) 305-2592

completeremodels@yahoo.com www.completeremodels.net COMPLR*006PP

DESIGN BUILDERS,

Landscaping Serving Whatcom County

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Remodels•& Commercial Additions Residential Bathrooms & Kitchens

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Find the Classifieds online at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds

Call 360-332-1777 sales@thenorthernlight.com

Real Estate

Kendall’s Tree Service ,LLC Greg Kendall, Owner-Operator

3040 BIRCH BAYLYNDEN RD.

360-366-5340

ELITE LANDSCAPE & MINI-EXCAVATION LLC

NEW

WINTER SNOW SERVICES!

NT!

RO ERF

WAT

8090 Comox Rd. • Birch Bay $339,500

MLS# 1549498 • 3-BD, 1.5-BA, 1,531 Sq. Ft. A rare find! Bay, Marina & Mountain views. Skylights, wood FP. Huge deck on the view side of the property.

LICENSED & INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES LIC#604511327

Tree Trimming & Removal Chipping & Hauling, Tree Sales Stump Grinding - Bucket Trucks LLC

It works!

Ron 360-739-5097

Specializing in Renovations & New Construction Kitchens & Baths • Custom & Spec Homes Decks, Garages & Additions

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Salary Range: $4,108 - $4,977 per month

• Remodel & Home Repairs • All Phases of Carpentry • Kitchen & Bathrooms OPEN HOUSE • Doors & Windows SATURDAY • 12:30• Decks & Porches • Drywall & Textures • Painting • Rot Repair We get it done! Lic #A1HanHp962MH

InstallatIon & RefInIshIng

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US Custom Brokers Trade Consultants

CITY OF BLAINE

A-1 Handyman Plus

• Hardwood • Prefinished • Laminate

dodgechryslerjeepofbellingham.com

AUTO GLASS

First review deadline is 4:30pm, Friday, January 17, 2019; open until filled. For information on how to apply, please visit the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/.

We Beat Any Price!

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At Rairdon’s of Bellingham you’ll find a wide assortment of new and pre-owned vehicles, a professional service department, financial assistance and more.

28-Years Experience

Lic #2BROTB1945DA

1615 Iowa St. • Bellingham

in Blaine. M-F. Starting $13.50 or DOE. 75% Paid Medical, Dental & Vision. Prior experience not required, but good keyboarding & interpersonal skills essential. Resumes to: mikejones@joneschb.com.

https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/

We come to you!

360-371-7277

Salary Range: $5,553 - $7,022 per month

U.S. Customs Broker Clerk

The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PCs • Home & Office Networking New Computer Set-up Repairs, Maintenance, & Upgrades

Blaine • Birch Bay • Semiahmoo

Full Time or Part Time

(2019 wages) plus 5% deferred compensation and benefits. 2020 wages will be determined by the new collective bargaining agreement.

Repairs & Service

NWcascades.com

CITY OF BLAINE

For information on how to apply, please visit the City’s website,

Lic#KENDATS872JW

Auto

sales@thenorthernlight.com

CIVIL ENGINEER

Service/Construction Residential - Commercial Industrial

Viewing at 8 am • Auction at 9 am

Published January 16, 2020

360-332-1777 Help Wanted

Quality construction since 1987 Licensed & bonded W

PLUS, your ad appears ONLINE FOR FREE at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds

Plus Newstands in: Bellingham • Ferndale Custer • Birch Bay Semiahmoo • Blaine

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WE ACCEPT:

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Cell accessories at amazing prices!

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8783 Clubhouse Point $1,049,000 see photos at

www.clubhousepoint.com MLS# 1232342 3-BD, 2.75-BA. 3,935 SF. 3 car garage. Last opportunity at Semiahmoo’s Clubhouse Point. Private, only 14 homes.

8627 Semiahmoo Drive $724,500 MLS # 1492044 2630 sq. ft. waterfront home rebuilt in 2008. Single level with 3-BD, office & 2.5-BA. Brazilian cherry flrs, vaulted ceilings, granite, stainless, central vac, breathtaking views, 864 sq. ft deck & additional patio areas. Plenty of lawn off the deck towards Bay. Mature landscaping on this 33,541 sq.ft waterfront home site.

Location, Location!

360.815.6638 briansouthwick@gmail.com see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com

Let’s talk Real Estate

YOU ARE INVITED to a short discussion on purchase sale agreements, Real Estate inspections and financing considerations when buying or selling a home. There will be a local lender on-hand to answer your questions on mortgage programs available and current interest rates.

Pressure Washing • Storm Clean Up • Dump/Debris Hauling Tree & Fruit Tree Pruning • Landscape Installation • & More!

WHEN: Tuesday, January 21, 2020 • TIME: 7 PM WHERE: Windermere Real Estate Office

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Get your business

BUZZ’N! In The Northern Light

Call 360-332-1777

More Real Estate Listings on page 12

The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

Real Estate

Bay Properties Semiahmoo homeS, inc.

NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL

8045 BIRCH BAY DRIVE, BLAINE, WA 360-371-7252 BAYPROPERTIESNW.COM

4730 Tidal Way, 102-L, Birch Bay $325,000

FOR ALL REAL ESTATE, RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL SERVICES PLEASE

Hugh Brawford

PRICE REDUCED!

SOLD!

4108 Loomis Trail Road

VACANT LAND! Don’t miss out on this quiet, very

$129,999

conveniently located almost 5 acre parcel! 3 bedroom septic already installed! Water share available with Bell Bay Jackson. Power in the street.

5735 3rd Avenue, Ferndale $359,000

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS ZONING! Solid craftsman home zoned

central business. “Amazing possibilities” - i.e. ADU, duplex back of lot, business in current home etc. Featuring 9 ft ceilings, hardwood floors and spacious rooms with great floor plan. New roof, new water line and upgraded kitchen. Ideal business center or first time home buyer home.

Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503

CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161

PENDING!

5115 Anderson Road, Birch Bay $220,000 MINUTES TO THE BEACH!

STUNNING VIEWS!

NEW REDUCED PRICE!

7806 Birch Bay Drive #503, Birch Bay $275,000 JACOB’S LANDING!

8033 Quinault Road, Birch Bay Village $999,000 ONE OF A KIND WATERFRONT IN BBV!

5770 Nakat Way, Birch Bay $735,000

A Hidden Gem! Look no more this updated 880 SF, 2 BD, 1 BA garden unit comes with some furnishings. It's everything you are looking for whether it is a quiet place to live, weekend getaway or rental income. Tile floors throughout, double pane windows, lots of cabinets, granite counter tops and updated bathroom. Enjoy all that Jacob’s Landing has to offer: indoor pool, hot tub, racquetball courts, clubhouse and outdoor tennis courts.

Jeremy Porter • (360) 306-1794

Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075

Very unique opportunity to own the largest property in BBV with direct SW views to San Juan Islands, Birch Bay and Mt. Baker. Situated on .65 acre with unlimited possibilities for expansion of current home or building your dream estate. Main floor entry has great open floor plan for stunning views at any angle. Master + 2 more guest rooms on main w/upper level guest suite, bonus room & patio for sunsets. Bring imagination and create your oasis now!

Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771

Rentals - Residential

$720,000

2-BD + Den, 2.5-BA. Top floor, faces west for sunsets, views of islands and White Rock. 2 underground parking spaces. Walking distance to deepwater marina, health club, swimming pool, hotel with great restaurants.

NELSON BUILDING

for REAL news

5100 SF Warehousing/

1, 2, & 3 BR, Fully Furnished

No credit checks, Small Deposit Children welcome, Pets negotiable Starting at $1300/mo (month to month)

360-325-2336

READ

LOCAL

Download my GPS Home Search APP http://jlsapp.com/callhugh

925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine Manufacturing/Retail SPACE AVAILABLE Also Available Now: Up to 18,000 SF of Fenced & Paved Storage Yard

Don Nelson 360-332-2743 Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Semiahmoo Marina Boat Slips STARTING AT

$14,900

Build your home here! 21 ACRES - $175,000 Homesite on Kickerville with beautiful, meandering Terrell Creek.

Owner contract possible AT 20% DOWN, 6.5% 30 year Amortization. Some residential zoning, currently in open space. Great tax advantage.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Vacation Properties WE DO • Residential Properties ! IT ALL • Commercial Properties

MOVE IN READY!

NW design detail is evident in the open floor plan that perfectly captures views from the deck, kitchen & casual living room with fireplace. Partial covered deck for entertaining. Beautiful solid core interior doors, custom shelving & trim detail. Excellent condition. Full MIL suite downstairs with its own kitchen & garage. Front yard boasts extensive paver patio w/ water feature. Gated, amenity rich community. Easy access to SEA/VAN.

Call Phill Esau Today!

Nimbus Property Management

360-594-8600

Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564

225 G Street, Suite 102

Rentals - Commercial

BLAINE 2-BD Triplex. $875/mo. 360-332-4503.

9535 Semiahmoo Parkway B 304. Like-new Marin Condo

www.CallHugh.com

MINUTES TO THE BEACH!

Just a few blocks from the beach, this home exudes Birch Bay charm! Having three bedrooms offers plenty of sleeping accommodations, potential rental income or simply room to relax. 9,000+ sq ft on the grassy lot offers flexibility to add storage and RV parking, or build on extra living space. Coffered ceilings, an open floor plan, and a huge front deck await your turnkey enjoyment in one of Washington state’s quaint, shore side hidden gem communities.

Birch Bay Homes FOR RENT

Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637

PENDIN

MOVE IN READY!

BRAND NEW! Birch Bay’s premier community of craftsman townhome condos nestled on 11 acres above the bay. Beautiful DON’T MISS OUT! & private units are 1,430 +/- SF, 3 BD, 2.5 BA, superbly finished w/quartz counters, rock gas fireplace, SS appliances, on-demand HW, quality fixtures, designer flooring & much more! Clubhouse, pool, & spa! Close to all Birch Bay offers. Secure your place in this wonderful beach community.

Call Hugh -360.371.5800

Downtown Blaine (Across from Hill’s Chevron)

www.NimbusRealEstate.com

FOR LEASE RETAIL OFFICE SPACE 800 - 1600 s.f.

Prime ground floor office & retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor. For leasing information:

Call 360-332-1777

All real advertisAll realestate/rentals estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair ing in thisAct newspaper Housing of 1968isassubject amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, to the Federal Fair Housing Actbased on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial stalimitation or discrimination of 1968 as amended, it illegal tus or national origin,which or anmakes intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. to advertise any preference, limitation oraccept dis- any advertisement for real estate which is in violation This newspaper will not knowingly crimination based on race, color, religion, of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are sex, handicap, familial or nationalbasis. ori- To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at available on an equalstatus opportunity gin, or an intention to make any such pref1-800-877-0246. erence, 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.

Free film programs to begin January 22 at Semiahmoo Resort A seven-week free public series of film programs will begin on Wednesday, January 22 at the Semiahmoo Resort, starting with “When Rivals Meet,” a two-part program about what happened when famous rival film stars finally met in the same movie. Tickets are not required for the weekly programs, which will run from 7 to 9 p.m. in the resort’s Discovery Theater, where movie scenes will be shown on a big screen. Free refreshments will be provided by the hotel.

2019

year in

REVIEW

In the two-part “When Rivals Meet” program, host Ron Miller will present singers Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, two of the most popular singers of their day, in a scene from their first film together, the 1955 musical High Society. “They were not only rivals in song, but competed for the affection of Grace Kelly in the movie,” said Miller. The January 22 session will also feature singers Judy Garland and Deanna Durbin, who made their film debut together in 1936 and

went on to become the top singing stars at two rival movie studios. Also featured will be silent screen comics Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, who performed together in the 1952 film Limelight; singing cowboys Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, who fought each other in The Old Corral (1936); action heroes John Wayne and Randolph Scott, who slugged it out in one of the most famous fight scenes in movie history in 1942’s The Spoilers; and rival Olympic swimming stars Johnny Weiss-

muller and Buster Crabbe, who fought an underwater battle to the death in Captive Girl (1950). For the January 29 session, dancers Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were seen dancing together in 1946’s Ziegfeld Follies; movie monsters Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff faced each other seven times on screen starting with The Black Cat (1934); movie gangsters James Cagney and George Raft were dance rivals in their first film together, but were prison buddies in 1940’s Each Dawn I Die; rival glam-

our girls Jane Russell and Marilyn Monroe turned up as pals in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953); and feuding drama queens Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were bitter enemies in What Ever Happened to Baby Jane (1962). Host Ron Miller was a nationally syndicated newspaper entertainment writer and is the author of six books about movies and television. He has conducted film programs at the Semiahmoo Resort for several years, and has taught classes on the subject. He is a resident of Blaine.

Washington State Senate, District 42

By Senator Doug Ericksen Legislation to revive declining orca populations on Puget Sound and open new markets for local farmers are among my top priorities for the 2020 legislative session. Last year I introduced a bill to create a salmon hatchery at the Port of Bellingham, to test an in-

novative approach pioneered in Alaska to attract private investment to hatcheries. This new approach to hatchery management offers a way to rebuild Puget Sound salmon populations, provide feedstock for the orcas and expand commercial and sport fishing opportunities in our area. I also am sponsoring a bill that would provide new opportunities for farmers who raise livestock,

by allowing small slaughterhouses to sell meat by-the-cut, under supervision of state inspectors. This offers a way around cumbersome rules that have made it difficult for farmers to get their product to market, a particular problem for Whatcom County. These bills reflect the sort of out-of-the-box thinking we need if we are to address the biggest challenges we face today. With creativ-

ity and respect for the power of the free market, we can achieve great things, create jobs for working families and build a strong economy and a healthier environment. Right now our legislature is dominated by an urban liberal faction interested in raising taxes, increasing the scope and power of government and imposing regulations that burden both business and people. Particularly troubling

is the continued attack on the refiners of northwest Washington, which provide some of the best-paying jobs in our area. Other efforts would drive up the cost of electricity and make it harder for people in our region to get by. The challenge this year will be to protect what we have, and to build on it to make a better future for Whatcom County and our entire state. It will be a busy session.

January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

2019

42nd Legislative District, House Position 1

year in

REVIEW

The state’s operating budget was $44 billion in the last biennium and now exceeds $52.4 billion, approximately a 70 percent increase since 2013. Washington voters recently shared their disapproval as well, as they voted to repeal almost all the tax increases on the ballot. While they were only advisory ballot measures, it provides important feedback for me and other elected officials. I was able to get a bill signed into law that helps our small employers. The new law extends the business and occupation (B&O) tax filing deadline for annual filers to April 15. These taxpayers are often self-employed and rely on other businesses to send them

By Representative Luanne Van Werven The 2019 legislative session was a tough one on Washington taxpayers. In the final days of the session, and even the last few hours, the legislature passed new and increased taxes in the dark of night costing Washingtonians $5.5 billion over the next four years. The tax increases were unnecessary, as the state has been receiving record levels of tax revenue from taxpayers. Priority issues at the state level could have been funded with existing revenues, as previous bipartisan budgets have shown.

2019

their 1099s in a timely manner. The original annual filing deadline was January 31. However, due to federal deadlines, many taxpayers do not receive their 1099s until February or March. This will help an estimated 126,000 Washington taxpayers. As we head into 2020, I am hopeful that my summer trip to Alaska providing insight on their fish hatchery model will help address the reduction in our salmon population so that we can strengthen the tribal, commercial and recreational fishing industries as well as save our orcas. While we are at a critical juncture, the upcoming session is now the time to look at this feasible option.

42nd Legislative District, House Position 2

year in

REVIEW By Representative Sharon Shewmake

We often think of politics as a fight, but our state government is much more functional than the federal government, and I was impressed with how hard everyone worked to reach across the aisle. In my first session, the House and the Senate jointly passed 481 bills to move Washington forward. I fought for Whatcom in my first budget negotiation. Back in January, Blaine asked for a solution to congestion on Bell Road. I helped secure $1 million during budget negotiations to start the engineering process. Because of the passage of I-976, I will soon be working to protect that money from the chopping block. I wrote my first budget proviso, wrangling two years’ worth of state funding to staff Whatcom County’s new crisis stabilization facility. The facility will provide much needed help for those in crisis by providing an alternative to the current choices of ER or jail, both of which are expensive and often not what is needed. We’ll save lives and save money. I passed my first bills. We worked to make electricity more transparent, increase access to education for student-parents and make sure the dairy industry can continue to thrive in Washington state. It was also my first time being dunked for a good cause – I let community members dunk their state representative as a fundraiser for the beautiful new county library we’re building on Birch Bay

Drive! I helped secure $2 million in the state budget to pay for half of the construction, but it’s going to take a grassroots community effort to get us the rest of the way – including dunk tanks.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

DIRECTORY

sales@thenorthernlight.com

OBITUARIES John Lynn Belisle

February 27, 1947 - January 3, 2020 John Lynn Belisle, age 72, passed away Friday, January 3, 2020. He was born in Stillwater, Minnesota on February 26, 1947 and grew up in Somerset, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lynn and Marguerite Belisle and his brother George, of Somerset, WI. John was foremost a family man. On June 20, 1970, John married Dorie Martell at Somerset, WI. After an extended honeymoon the couple settled at Merritt Island, Florida. In those early years of marriage John and Dorie created and raised their offspring Rob, Michael, Corde, and Leah Belisle; in addition, working together they became the owner/operators of Triangle Auto and Tire. In 1995 John, Dorie and their family moved to Lynden, WA to grow apples. Starting with a 30-acre pasture, John developed BelleWood Acres into what it is today with 25,000 apple trees, a farm store, distillery and a community center. John loved to be outdoors, spending as much time as he could fishing, hiking and traveling with his wife and children. He equally enjoyed spending time with his family on the waters off Florida as well as hiking the canyons and mountains of the American West. In 1990, much to the awe of the community, the Belisles spent a year traveling throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Guatemala. This adventure required John to quickly master the art of backing up a Suburban vehicle and a 30’ camping trailer loaded with 4 children. Throughout his life he enjoyed coaching, mentoring and being an active member of the local community. He was always up for a good argument and had a distinctive way of analyzing ideas and issues. It was no secret that John pushed people to be their best and do what is right. John often said he wanted to live a life with no regrets ... he did just that. Many thanks to all who were able to share our 50th anniversary and celebration of life in July and for all those who cushioned us with love these past few weeks. After many long years of battling cancer, John Belisle finally found peace while surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Dorie Martell Belisle and children: Rob (Heidi Hatcher) Belisle, Michael (Maggie VanDeuren) Belisle, Corde Belisle Gray, and Leah (Nick Hertl) Belisle Hertl. He loved his twelve grandchildren: Adam, Alana, Aviana, Ayja, Mikey, John, Jackson, Emily, Joseph, Hudson, Bianca and Owen. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Whatcom Land Trust or the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.sigsfuneralservices.com

You’re Retired. Your Money Isn’t. To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts to Edward Jones makes sense, contact your Edward Jones financial advisor today. 2011 Large Business of the Year

Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Financial Advisor

Louis’

Advertise in The Northern Light. and reach 23,600 readers weekly! Call 360-332-1777

In 2020, I’ll introduce bills to fix leaky natural gas infrastructure, collect better data in our jails and encourage more bike riding! Here’s to progress and even more firsts in 2020.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Louis Auto Glass

119 N. Commercial Suite 140 The Only360-738-3454 Validated Bellingham, WA 98225

Family Owned and Operated Since 1929! MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING

Auto Glass Company in Whatcom & Skagit Counties.

ouis’Auto & Residential Glass We Guarantee Your Safety

Spring Special!

Dinner on Us and90 a Can of Glass Cleaner Celebrating years!

with every windshield purchased and installed

Windshield Replacement

BELLINGHAMFree Pick up & Delivery Bellingham 1512 N. State St. • 360-734-3840

Rock Chip Repairs

LYNDEN

Free Loaner Cars

Lynden 407 19th

Vernon St. •Mt.360-354-3232

Dining Guide

DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTERS Farm Fresh Oysters

Served Raw, Grilled, Fried, Stewed & other delicious Seafood Specialities

Local Craft Beers & Wine

360-656-5958 DraytonHarborOysters.com 685 Peace Portal Dr. • Downtown Blaine

(360) 734-3840 (360) 354-3232 (360) 424-9759 www.LouisAutoGlass.com 1512 N. State St.

407 19th St.

1721 E. College Way

To Our Canadian Friends

Proud supporters of the www.louisautoglass.com Blaine Community!

Enjoy Huge Savings with U.S. Prices

Must present ad for special. Not valid with any other offers. Expires June 30, 2014.

Formerly 1st Propane of Whatcom County Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Modern Equipment • Safety Checks • Locally Owned & Operated

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Fill your bottles - Easy RV access

277 G Street • Downtown Blaine

360-392-0955

TheVaultWine.com

TheVaultWine

Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045

2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine

Place your directory ad here for only $37 per week. 13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve.

for REAL news

READ LOCAL

IN PRINT & ONLINE T H E N O R T H E R N L I G H T. C O M

The Northern Light • January 16 - 22, 2020

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, January 17, 7–9 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Curan Stromberg. Info: 360/392-0955.

Coming up

Liberty and Justice for All: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.: Monday, January 20, noon–1 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Free, non-ticketed event. Keynote Sweet Honey in the Rock: Friday, January 17, speaker is author Clyde Ford, with music performed 7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commer- by The Kulshan Chorus. Donations of non-perishable cial Street, Bellingham. An internationally renowned items for the Bellingham Food Bank accepted. a cappella ensemble, Sweet Honey’s soulful collective voice delivers the sacred music of the black church, Loads of Love, Monday, January 20, 5–7:30 p.m., the clarion calls of the civil rights movement, and The Washhouse, 715 3rd Street. Laundry costs songs of the struggle for justice everywhere. covered. Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, January 18, 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. Easy Squeezy Gluten Free/Dairy Free Cooking: Saturday, January 18, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn how to cook favorites like Alfredo, soups, stews, dips, dressings, and more. Info: 360/305-3637. Live Music at The Vault: Saturday, January 18, 7–9 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Roger Yamashita & Thomas Harris. Info: 360/392-0955. Sunday Breakfast: Sunday, January 19, 9 a.m.– noon, American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. Open to the public. Serving scrambled eggs, French toast, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, sausage or ham. Coffee, milk and orange juice. Adults $6, children 6 years and under $3. Breakfast will be served upstairs. Info: 360/371-7311. An American in Paris: Sunday, January 19, 7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Escape to romantic post-war Paris where Gershwin’s soaring melodies accompany a world rediscovering the power of love.

Answers at thenorthernlight.com 49. Frequently 50. Wipe out 55. Invests in little enterprises 56. Waste 57. Resembles a large shrimp 59. Derogatory name for rural resident 60. Menswear accessory 61. Tropical American tree 62. Pitching statistic 63. Camera type 64. Cardinal number that is the sum of five and one DOWN 1. Surgical procedure of the heart (abbr.) 2. Northern Scandinavia indigenous person 3. Evergreen trees and shrubs 4. Meat from a domestic hog 5. State of insensibility 6. Herb 7. Annuity 8. San Diego-based ballplayer 9. Members of a Semitic people 10. Any physical damage 12. Woolen rug 14. Alsos Mission leader 19. Aromatic plant used as

Al-Anon Meetings: Mondays, noon, United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street. Info: Call M.J. 360/920-3679 or Bob 360/920-3676.

Live Music at The Vault: Saturday, January 25, 7–9 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring The Unknowns. Info: 360/392-0955.

Jennifer Scott Trio: Saturday, January 25, 7:30–9 p.m., Jansen Art Center, 321 Front Street, Lynden. Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays, beginning January Tickets $25. Info: jansenartcenter.org, info@jansenart21, 10:30–11 a.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd center.org or 360/354-3600. Street. Stories and activities for children ages 2-5. Interlacements Documentary Showing: Saturday, Info: 360/305-3637. February 1, 4–6 p.m., Jansen Art Center, 321 Front Baby Storytime: Wednesdays, beginning January Street, Lynden. Admission by donation, jansenartcenter. 22, 9:30–10:30 a.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd org. Info: info@jansenartcenter.org or 360/354-3600. Street. Wiggle and giggle through stories, songs, and This movie was produced by Marilyn Romatka, a fiber rhymes. For ages 0-18 months. Info: 360/305-3637. artist and long-time friend of the Jansen Textile Studio, and her husband Rainer. They will be present to introPruning 101: Wednesday, January 22, 4–6 p.m., duce the film and answer questions after the screening. and repeated Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m.–noon, 23rd Annual Arts & Jazz Auction: Saturday, FebruBlaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Discover the ary 1, 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School Cafeteria. Celebrate why behind pruning, growth habits of tree/bushthe efforts and accomplishments of our students, and es, and more. Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. Info: the tradition of passing on art to a new generation. 360/305-3637. Donations contact: Christy Imperio 360/201-4100, Kim When Rivals Meet: Wednesday, January 22, 7–9 Shea 360/927-2223 or Dorita Gray 360/305-5835. p.m., Discovery Theater, Semiahmoo Resort. Film Auction catalog information (donation description for program hosted by Blaine author Ron Miller. Open to auction catalog) due Monday, January 20. Auction the public, free, refreshments provided. items due Friday, January 31. Presented by The Blaine Fine Arts Association. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, January 24, 7–9 Whatcom Dream Financial Literacy Class: p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Mondays, February 3–March 30, 7-8:30 pm, The Bridge Featuring Havilah & Phil. Info: 360/392-0955. Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road, Birch Concert One Featuring Greyson Chance: Friday, Bay. Improve your financial management skills in this January 24, 7 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North free eight-week class. For more info or to register: Commercial Street, Bellingham. Greyson Chance 360/296-0441 or kevin@thewhatcomdream.org. Sponpresents the Portraits World Tour, blending synthpop sored by the Community Assistance Program.

Crossword

ACROSS 1. Fall down 5. American TV company (abbr.) 8. Exclamation that denotes disgust 11. Gallantry 13. Chinese word signifying “doctrine” 14. Prefix meaning “beside” 15. Act of imitating 16. Tall, rounded vase 17. Sixth month of Jewish civil calendar 18. Rural Iranian village 20. Time zone 21. Military weapon (abbr.) 22. Gets rid of 25. Aggressive 30. Addressed one’s appearance 31. Affirmative 32. Denoting Indo-European languages 33. French noble family 38. Shock therapy 41. Having characteristics of both sexes 43. Large suitcase 45. One who identifies God with the universe 48. Swiss river

Semiahmoo Men’s Breakfast: Thursday, February 6, 7:30 a.m., the Great Blue Heron Grill. Coffee, big breakfast $17. All men are welcome. This week’s speaker is Blaine’s chief of police Donell “Tank” Tanksley.

with Chance’s characteristic solo-piano style. Concert One 2020 is designed to benefit people who are experiencing homelessness. Hosted by Whatcom County North Rotary Club with proceeds benefitting the Ground Floor, Interfaith Coalition, the Lighthouse Mission, Opportunity Council, and Lydia Place.

culinary herb 23. Where you sleep 24. Ruled Russia 25. Indicates density of data (abbr.) 26. Sea eagle 27. Type of light bulb 28. Wreath 29. Graduate with a degree 34. What thespians do 35. “Orange is the New Black” character 36. Comedienne Gasteyer 37. Romanian monetary unit 39. People treated as a group 40. Small European plant 41. First responder group 42. A person’s head 44. Giggle 45. Bura-__: Chadic language 46. Snout moth genus 47. Body part 48. Inspirational Wimbledon champ 51. Revolutions per minute 52. American software developer 53. Ancient Greek city 54. Female sheep 58. “The Science Guy”

Police Reports January 3, 1:28 p.m.: A person called to report that a very tall metal flag pole at a business was leaning dangerously over because of a wind storm. The police arrived and noticed the flag pole was leaning over but did not appear to be in any danger of falling anytime soon. The police officer also found that if the flag pole did fall over, it would fall into an empty field. An employee at the business indicated that they put in a priority work order to have the flag pole fixed. The police officer advised the business to call 911 if the pole fell over. January 4, 1:23 a.m.: Blaine police officers were dispatched to assist the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office with setting up containment of several theft suspects. The officers assisted in tracking (K9) and the apprehension of the two suspects. An 18-year-old man and 17-yearold male were arrested by deputies for the attempted vehicle prowls. January 4, 8:40 p.m.: An officer took a report of a sexual assault. The officer later interviewed the victim and the suspect. Probable cause was established for the suspect, but due to existing medical issues he was not booked. A charge of indecent liberties with forcible compulsion was forwarded to the prosecutor for review. January 4, 8:10 p.m.: Blaine police were dispatched to assist the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office with a violation of a protection order occurring at the Pacific Highway truck crossing. Officers arrived and confirmed three family members were traveling with the victim. A no-contact order against the three prohibited them from contacting the victim. Officers arrested the three subjects and booked them into the Whatcom County Jail. January 5, 12 p.m.: Blaine police responded to a reported burglary from a storage unit in the 900 block of Boblett Street. The owner of the unit had noticed several items missing since the last time he had been in his unit but did not know how someone would have gotten inside. Officers are actively investigating the burglary. January 5, 2:30 p.m.: A Blaine officer responded to a report of an attempted burglary. Officers contacted the homeowner who explained they caught a subject on their closed-circuit television acting strangely in their back yard. Blaine officers determined the video shows the man knock the back door and then attempt to steal the camera once he notices it. When the homeowner came to the door she found the man running back to his van which was parked in the driveway. Officers are working to identify the unknown subject. January 6, 9:02 a.m.: The school resource officer was informed of a student who was in the nurse’s office who advised he was hit by a car on his way to school. The officer arrived and spoke with the individual. No details of the suspect vehicle were able to be obtained. The student received minor injuries to his leg. His mother came to pick him up and take him to the hospital to be checked. January 7, 3:24 a.m.: A citizen called and reported that a street light was knocked over. An officer responded to the location and contacted Blaine public works. Public works sent out an individual to block off the area until someone can disconnect the light. At this time there were no witnesses or suspects. The officer cleared the call without incident. January 7, 7:23 p.m.: An officer took a report of an ongoing neighbor dispute. It was reported that neighbors were driving by at high rates of speed and flipping off the reporting party. The officer contacted the other party who blamed the reporting party. Information on how to obtain a no-contact order was given to the reporting party upon their request. January 9, 7:16 p.m.: A Blaine officer was doing routine patrols and located a disabled vehicle on the side of the road. The officer contacted the driver and a friend who showed up to help with the disabled vehicle. The officer ran the friend through the Department of Licensing and her license came back as suspended in the third degree. She was arrested for driving on a suspended license in the third degree and was released with a future court date.

Reports provided by Blaine Police Department

ArtScape Teens: Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m., Soul Space Studio, 264B H Street. A safe place for teens to set their imaginations free through art. Free studio time. Sponsor: Healthy Youth Coalition. Info: 435/704-1598. Toastmasters Meeting: Tuesdays, 6:30–7:45 p.m., 382 Boblett Street. Improve your public speaking skills. Community Meals: Wednesdays, 5–6:30 p.m., Blaine Community Center, 763 G Street. Through May, except holidays. Info: blainecap.org. WW Workshop: Thursdays, 5 p.m., Northwood Alliance Church, 508 C Street. Registration/sign-in from 5-5:30 p.m., and half-hour meeting to follow. The Alaska Packers Museum: Saturdays and Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Info: 360/371-3558. Teen Nite: Saturdays, 5–9 p.m., Border Town Pizza, 738 Peace Portal Drive. Kids ages 13–18 come enjoy open mic, karaoke and games. Free pizza at 5 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous Meeting: Sundays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street, entrance on 4th Street. Nwwana.org. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Weather Precipitation: During the period of January 6–12, 2.98 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2020 year-to-date precipitation is 3.72 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 52°F on January 7 with a low of 22°F on January 12. Average high was 46°F and average low was 34°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Tides DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT January 17–23 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W Fri 17 3:40 am

2.73 10:36 am

10.20

5:43 pm

2.34 11:45 pm

6.41

Sat 18 4:34 am

4.36 11:12 am

10.03

6:41 pm

1.18

Sun 19 1:41 am

6.99

5:42 am

5.80

11:52 am

9.86

7:35 pm

0.15

Mon 20 3:13 am

7.91

7:04 am

6.85

12:34 pm

9.68

8:27 pm

-0.66

Tues 21 4:19 am

8.78

8:26 am

7.42

1:20 pm

9.48

9:15 pm

-1.21

Wed 22 5:11 am

9.44

9:40 am

7.56

9.27

9:59 pm

-1.52

Thurs 23 5:53 am

2:10 pm

9.85 10:42 am

7.44

9.03 10:41 pm

-1.59

2:58 pm

s A dump truck at the site of the Birch Bay berm project on January 9. Photo by Chuck Kinzer

January 16 - 22, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

2019

year in

REVIEW

Washington’s 1st Congressional District

B y C o n g r e sswo m a n Suzan DelBene I appreciate the opportunity to serve as your representative in Congress. Last year, we held town halls throughout the region, including Blaine and Point Roberts, and attended over 500 constituent meetings. I serve on the Ways and Means committee, which focuses on taxes, trade, retirement security and health care. I’m working to provide economic opportunities for students, work-

2019

year in

REVIEW

U.S. Senate

ers, small businesses and farmers. In 2019, I introduced the Faster Access for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Act, which will make filling out the FAFSA application easier and more secure for nearly 20 million students. I also introduced legislation that will strengthen and expand the affordable housing tax credit to increase the supply of affordable housing. We secured $1.5 billion in State Opioid Response Grants, $40 million for Supportive Housing for Homeless Veterans and $3.4 billion for Community Development Block Grants. Recently, the House passed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which includes important provisions for our farmers, workers and the environment. The USMCA will expand market access for local farmers and small businesses and

improve our region’s ability to trade with our neighbors. In Whatcom County, I have strongly supported expanding transit options throughout the county and helped Blaine and Ferndale pursue infrastructure grants. I also toured the border with Blaine officials to assist with traffic issues caused by new rail screening. I will work with my colleagues to address this issue as we debate reauthorizing transportation funding in 2020. Despite these accomplishments, there is much I want to achieve. We must give people control over their personal data, expand rural broadband, reduce the cost of prescription drugs and open the door for medical innovation so patients can receive high quality care. I promise to keep fighting for Washington’s 1st Congressional District in 2020.

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By Senator Patty Murray As a voice for our state in the U.S. Senate, I’m focused on doing my part to keep our families safe and make sure that every Washingtonian has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. We have urgent challenges in front of us as a nation, and as we confront those challenges, I will continue to advocate for Washington state’s families, workers, students, veterans and all our communities. As burdensome health care and higher education costs continue to hamstring Washington families, I will work to protect patients from skyrocketing drug prices, surprise medical bills and attacks on their health care, and work to update our higher education law in order to make college more affordable, improve accountability, expand access and keep students safe on campus. As far too many Washingtonians continue to struggle with housing insecurity and substance misuse, I will continue my efforts to secure critical funds to combat the homelessness and opioid crises in Whatcom County and across our state. And as President Trump continues to target the most vulnerable among us, cutting funding for vital assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and rolling back bedrock environmental laws, I will continue working for key investments to fight climate change and to hold the President and his administration accountable to my constituents here in Washington state, and everyone across the country. To that end, I will also take my role as a juror in the President’s impeachment trial seriously, and approach the trial with the impartiality required to fulfill my oaths to protect our Constitution and our democracy. While 2020 will undoubtedly bring on new challenges for our country and our state, I promise that I will continue fighting for every single Washingtonian, and I know that together there is no challenge we cannot overcome.

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Whatcom The folks who brought back the 4th of July County Council mandates curbside pickup

YEARS

By Meg OlsOn Whatcom County Council has approved 1 changes to county code that will eliminate exemptions to mandatory garbage pickup in Point Roberts. At their June 5 meeting, council heard from an almost evenly split 15 community members on the proposal, which would establish a mandatory minimum service level of a 32-gallon can of garbage to be picked up twice-monthly and billed through the property tax roll. Opponents of the proposal cited a number of reasons for their opposition, primarily that the minimum service level was too high. “This exceeds the needs of 80 FREE Community of Blaine and Birch Bay July 27 - August 2, 2017 percent of those surveyed (in a 2016 Newspaper online survey sponsored by the county solid HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer PRSRT STD waste division) who self-haul or use tags,” U. S. Postage Kimberly Butts said. PAID IN THIS celebration, Permit NO. 87 the first since 1916. On June 20, they had Ken Calder, also opposed to the chang- s Back in 1976, a group of civic-minded people got together to plan a 4th of JulyBlaine, WA 98230 a reunion at Ruby White’s house. See story, page 16. Standing, from l.: Fred DeHaan, Rosy Negron, Carla Scherer, Pauli DeHaan, George es, submitted a petition signed by 364 sea- Scherer, Pat Jorgensen, Doreen Peltier. Seated: Norma Peltier, Ruby White, Kris Manning. Photo by Shelley Damewood sonal and full-time residents asking that council delay the decision until September to allow a recently formed solid waste subcommittee of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee to continue to look at the issue. Cites client base and “increasing erts hospital district on June 26 that Unity according to Unity Care. Care NW would end its contract to proThe number of people being served at Those in favor of the change as well as community turmoil” vide services on the Point as of December the Point Roberts Clinic, as well as the county staff pointed out that PRCAC had 31, 2018, but would provide services on a number of visits, have been declining, acbeen pondering the garbage collection B y M e g O l s O n month-to-month basis if needed until June cording to the resolution. The number of for over two years, held numerous public a n d P a t g r u B B 30, 2019 and help with a possible transi- visits per year shrank from 1176 to 1033 meetings, sponsored an online survey and Unity Care NW is done with the Point tion to an alternative service provider. between 2015 and 2017, which is desent out a mailer. B y S t e fa n i e D O n a h u e According to the June 25 resolution, the “There have been numerous opportuni- Roberts clinic. (See Hospital, page 8) Are impact fees the key to ties revitalCiting declining use, a disproportionate Point Roberts Clinic does not fit with for people to put in their two cents’ izing downtown and incentivizing worth,” Arthur Reber said. “This process administrative burden and “communi- the other clinics Unity Care NW opergrowth in Blaine? has been very thorough and collaborative,” ty turmoil,” the board of directors of the ates in Ferndale and Bellingham, which The question was at the heartsaid of taxpayers’ an association president Mark non-profit health care provider voted at its it described as “patient centered medihour-long discussion between Blaine City Robbins. Chamber of commerce president June 25 meeting to discontinue the con- cal homes.” Close to half of the visits to allpointbulletin.com Council and city staff at a specialDee meetthe Point Roberts clinic are for urgent Gough said her association also sup- tract to operate the Point Roberts Clinic. facebook.com/allpointbulletin ing held July 24. Not yet ready toported makethe proposal, agreeing that mandaNotice was delivered to the Point Rob- care, and not for primary medical care, a decision, council voted unanimoustory trash pickup was the obvious solution ly during a separate meeting that eve-perennial problem of dumping garto the ning to request that city staff draftbage a proon the roadsides. Classifieds ........................................ 20 posal based on four types of impactJeff fees Hegedus with the Whatcom County Coming Up ...................................... 19 and incentive programs – the council running three weekends in August. Health Department said by establishing a B y M e g O l s O n will either approve, deny or modify the Garden ............................................. 15 Kiniski’s Reef Tavern is partnering with mandatory minimum service level for all proposal in a few months. Library ............................................ 18 “The Point Roberts Arts and Music the foundation, offering a location, plandeveloped properties, as determined by Impact fees are one-time charges that Obituaries ........................................ 22 counties, cities and towns imposewhich on de-properties have a water connection, Festival is back on the water,” says Arts ning assistance and funds for this year’s would lead to vendor stability because Foundation founder and festival organizer event. “We decided to make it longer so Opinion .............................................. 4 velopers. The funds are used to itextend more people can enjoy it,” said tavern more Inusers would support the system. Craig Jacks. public services to support growth. Seniors ............................................ 18 After being put on the shelf for a year, manager Allison Calder. The first weekend Washington state, impact fees can be used Tides ................................................ 10 (See Garbage, page 7) the festival will be back for its 23rd year, (See Arts & Music, page 14) on public streets, roads, publicly-owned parks, open space, recreation facilities, school facilities and fire protection facilities. Impact fees and other development incentives have already been written into s Droves of sand sculptors took part in the Birch Bay Sand Sculpture contest July 22-23. More photos on page 15. Photo by Chuck Kinzer the Blaine’s comprehensive plan, which deAFTER PARADE FAMILY ACTIVITIES: BEGIN THE DAY AT THE tails how to accommodate growth over the next 20 years. H Breakwaters Bar & Grill Community Center 1437 Gulf Rd. STARTS AT 12 NOON along POINT ROBERTS MARINA “These are things we’ve been looking atPancake Breakfast 7:15-11:15 am PREP benefit at Point Roberts Marina. for a while,” said community development Gulf Rd. from Marine Dr. to Tyee Dr. AT 10:30 PM Flag Raising Ceremony 11:30 am featuring PR Winds H Kiniski’s Reef Tavern director Michael Jones. “The comprehensive plan and what you’ve already adopt- B y O l i v e r l a z e n B y child will be turned away on the basis of a not being able to pay for lunch, includzero or negative balance account.” ing anything from stamping kids’ hands ed recognizes the idea that there has to be enough financial capacity of the city to conIn some school districts, if a stuThose guidelines aren’t new, but they’re as a reminder to bring money, to denying tinue to do its job and provide the services dent doesn’t have lunch, they don’t in writing for the first time in response to them a lunch tray. and things that it needs to do while taking eat. In others, they get a cheese sand- new U.S. Department of Agriculture regBlaine’s guidelines say students won’t this into consideration.” wich to eat in front of their classmates ulations that require school districts to get turned away at the lunch counter, even The city has already started developing who are toting trays of corndogs, baked communicate, in writing, what they’ll do if they already have a negative balance a revised impact fee ordinance out of a re- beans, fruit and vegetables. when students can’t pay for lunch. on their account. Instead, they’ll either quest from the state legislature for all citFor the most part, that’s not the case at The new federal rules are aimed at end- get a regular meal and some more debt Blaine schools. The district’s guidelines for ing “lunch shaming,” a term for a variety (See Fees, page 2) dealing with unpaid lunch debt state, “No of practices that single students out for (See Lunch, page 6)

Turn your ballots in by August 1, page 5

A visitor’s guide to Blaine and Birch Bay, page 7

YEARS

What you should know about gardening in August, page 9

Unity Care NWcontest decidesdraws againstarenewing Birch Bay Sand Sculpture crowd clinic contract

City council considers ways to spur local economy

Online

Arts and music fest makes a comeback

Inside

Special Publication of The Northern Light

ISSUE

2020

PARADE

School district publishes policy against “lunch shaming”

Tall ship Lady Washington sets sail for annual maritime festival B y S t e fa n i e D O n a h u e In just a matter of days, tall ship Lady Washington will appear in Drayton Harbor – the vessel is a full-scale replica of the first American ship to touch land on the west coast of North America in 1788. Lady Washington typically pairs with the Hawaiian Chieftain for trips along

the coast, but crews had to leave the steel-clad Hawaiian vessel moored in Port Townsend for routine repair, said operations director with Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, Caitlin Stanton. Grays Harbor Historical Seaport organizes trips along the west coast to educate the public about maritime history and traditions. Crews maneuvering Lady Washington

through the Pacific’s brisk waters are set to make a stop in Blaine from August 3 to 6 during Drayton Harbor Days, offering a slew of local cruise excursions and tours. Here’s a look at what’s in store: Vessel Tours: The tours are offered throughout Lady Washington’s stay in Blaine. Stanton said they offer the public

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 TICKETS: $45

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YEARS

TheNorthernLight.com

(See Tall Ship, page 3) TheNorthernLight

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