Issuu

February 4 - 10, 2016

FREE

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Sheriff Elfo comments on jail, page 5

Health and Wellness special section, pages 8-9

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

Meet Pastime Tavern’s new owners, page 10

Transparency vote split on party lines By Steve Guntli

(See State, page 2)

s Mount Baker looms over the horizon on January 25.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. teams with Blaine brewery By Oliver Lazenby Drayton Harbor Oyster Company opened its retail store on Tuesday, February 2, after a three-month commercial shellfish harvest closure. But already on Monday morning, people were walking into the shop at 677 Peace Portal Drive, in Blaine, looking for oysters fresh from the harbor. “There you go, you got people who are wanting to eat oysters at 10:30 in the morning,” said owner Mark Seymour after one would-be customer dropped by. “I don’t even do that.”

Although the oysters that Mark and his dad Steve farm a few hundred feet from the store are the main attraction, Drayton Harbor Oyster Company has an extra draw for its second season: a liquor license. The store, a retail outlet for the farm that sells fresh oysters and oyster stew, will also serve beer and wine this year. To start with, Seymour is stocking cans of beer from Bellingham’s Kulshan Brewing Co., and a selection of French white and red wines, he said. But soon, the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company will be the primary outlet for Blaine’s only commercial brewery, Atwood Ales.

Open house planned for Birch Bay berm project B y I a n F e r g u so n Anyone interested in the future of the Birch Bay shoreline will want to attend the third open house for the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project. The open house is on Saturday, February 6 at the Birch Bay Bible Community Church from 10 a.m. to noon. Presented by the Whatcom County Pub-

lic Works Department and a consultant team from Environmental Science Associates, the open house will include a presentation on the berm project and an opportunity for community input. Some of the items to be presented include the project construction schedule, night work, drainage upgrades, right of way negotiations, environmental permitting, and how the Americans with Disabilities Act

relates to the project. The Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project is a county project to build a soft shore roadway protection berm with a pedestrian pathway and drainage upgrades. The project extends from Lora Lane in the south to Cedar Drive in the north. Construction is slated to begin this fall. Flooding and erosion have been issues (See Berm, page 2)

The new brewery, a family operation headed by Josh Smith, will start producing beer on a family farm southeast of Blaine this month. The brewery won’t have a taproom, but its beer will be available at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company and a few other places in Whatcom County in late March or early April, Smith said. The brewer and the oyster farmer will work closely: Smith will tend bar at the restaurant/store and the two will visit and learn about each other’s operation so that they will be able to explain how things (See Oysters, page 12)

INSIDE

The attorney general approved a bill to increase government transparency, but the bill has encountered surprising opposition along party lines. On January 27, Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson agave his seal of approval of House Bill 2353, an update of the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA), after it was passed out of the house state government committee. The legislation would update penalties for knowing violations of the act, which requires that, with limited exceptions, any meeting of a governing body be open to the public. The penalty for violating the act has been raised from $100 to $500, and there will be a penalty of $1,000 for repeat knowing violations. The bill was sponsored by committee chair Sam Hunt (D-Olympia) and supported by fellow Democrat representatives. “It is essential that our elected officials understand and follow the Open Meetings Act,” Hunt said. “One should not be slapped on the wrist for knowingly violating the open meetings provisions. This law has been with us since 1971, and this bill, for the first time since it was originally approved by the legislature, updates to 2016 levels the penalty for knowingly violating the Open Public Meetings Act.” The bill was approved by a 4–3 vote that split along party lines. Hunt and three Democrat members of the committee voted in favor, while the three Republican committee members, including Luanne Van Werven (R-Lynden), voted in opposition. Van Werven said she voted against the measure because there wasn’t sufficient evidence of a correlation between higher fines and fewer violations of OPMA. “I felt that it was a solution looking for a problem,” she said. “There were very few instances over the years of fines being assessed and, looking at other states, we couldn’t find any data suggesting that a higher fine would lead to fewer violations.” Van Werven said she was also concerned

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

TheNorthernLight.com TheNorthernLight

@TNLreporter

@PointRobertsPress

The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

The Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce is Proud to Present

Bite of Blaine

The 16th Annual

Come sample the finest cuisine that Blaine has to offer! Taste food from these 12 different area businesses and enjoy an evening of great tastes and good company while supporting Blaine’s Fourth of July Fireworks!

Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. Edaleen Dairy Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt Lizzie’s Cafe Paso Del Norte Seaside Bakery Cafe

State ... From page 1

an increase in fines would dampen enthusiasm for government work. “I felt it would have a chilling effect on public service,” she told The Northern Light on February 2. “There are a lot of volunteer or low-paying government offices, and penalizing people for unwittingly making these mistakes might discourage people from serving.”

Berm ... From page 1

along Birch Bay Drive since the 1970s, when hydrologist Wolf Bauer first suggested that the creation of a soft shore berm would help restore the beach and protect

Semiahmoo Resort Golf & Spa Subway The Beach at Birch Bay The Burrito King Tony’s Just A Bite Will’O Pub & Cafe

Ferguson expressed frustration at the split vote. “I am disappointed to see this bipartisan legislation receive a party-line vote,” Ferguson said. “Transparency in government should not be a partisan issue. I call on members of both parties to support this legislation on the house floor.” The bill has yet to be scheduled for a hearing on the House floor. Senator Pam Roach (R-Sumner) is sponsoring a companion bill in the senate.

the roadway. Bauer’s extensive study of the shoreline has been a roadmap for local advocates ever since, and after years of lobbying and preparations, the project is at the 90 percent design level. Environmental Science Associates is the engineering firm hired to design the project.

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No Host Social & Silent Auction 6 p.m. • Food Tasting 6:30 p.m. Fundraising Live Auction begins at 7:30 p.m.

Blaine Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center

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Choose from two delicious romantic venues Sunday, February 14.

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Featuring a 4-course dining experience including seafood tasting, salmon or duck entrée options and dessert. Reservations Required. Call 360-318-2044 .

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Vintner Dinner Friday, February 26 • 5 - 9 p.m.

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Welcome Reception in the Wine Room followed by Dinner at 6 PM

Featuring a 6-course, prix fixe dinner featuring fresh oysters, scallops, black cod, short ribs, or venison and more.

Reservations Required. Call 360-318-2090.

Limited quantities available. Offer will not be extended after maximum quantity sold. No refunds or exchanges on discounted tickets.

Join us for the mouth-watering collaboration of Greg Lill, co-owner of DeLille Cellars, and our own Chef Bruno as they host an opening reception followed by a decadent five-course meal. Thoughtful pairings include such delights as Crisp Pork Belly with 2012 DeLille Cellars Doyenne AIX and Pan Seared Pacific Cod with 2014 DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Blanc. Door Prizes include a tasting at DeLille Cellars, a stay at Semiahmoo Resort and more.

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Seating by Confirmed Reservations Only. Call (360) 318-2028

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Tickets are $25 per person and are available at Pacific Building Center and Blaine Visitor Center.

February 4 - 10, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Say “ I Love You”with

Submit ballots by February 9 Election Day is Tuesday, February 9 and all Whatcom County school districts and Fire Protection District 8 are on the ballot. In order to count, your ballot must be postmarked no later than February 9. County auditor Debbie Adelstein recommends mailing it a day earlier to ensure a valid postmark. To save a 49-cent stamp, voters are encouraged to deposit their ballot in an official drop box. Ballots deposited in a drop box don’t need postage and are open until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Voters are reminded that six new ballot drop boxes were added throughout the county in the fall. The new locations are: Behind the Sumas post office,

534 Railroad Avenue, Sumas; Haggen Sehome Village, 210 36th Street (in the northeast corner of the parking lot), Bellingham; Laurel Grange, 6172 Guide Meridian (Meridian Middle School no longer has a drop box), Bellingham; North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Station, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Birch Bay; North Fork Library, 7506 Kendall Road, Maple Falls and Sudden Valley, gate 1 at the security office turnaround. Traditional drop boxes are still open and voters can find the locations online at whatcomcounty.us/ auditor or in the Voters’ Pamphlet enclosed with ballots. Contact the election division at

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Dr. Monica Michel is a Canadian and U.S. trained family physician with a special interest and training in aesthetics. She received her aesthetic training in New Jersey by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Currently she has a specialized interest in skin care as well as Botox and filler injections.

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Lummi Cultural Arts Association and Lummi PRESENTS

LUMMI ARTS & SMALL BUSINESS FAIR 10-5pm at Lummi Te’Ti’Sen (Gateway) Center Locally made native American arts & crafts.

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Email us at info@serenowellness.com to receive our newsletter for informative health updates, upcoming events and monthly specials. Located minutes across the border at The Shops at Morgan Crossing in Surrey, BC, beside Golf Town

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The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Steve Guntli steve@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Kara Furr kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporters Ian Ferguson, Oliver Lazenby ian@pointrobertspress.com oliver@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@thenorthernlight.com Office Manager Amy Weaver info@thenorthernlight.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Janet McCall Catherine Darkenwald sales@thenorthernlight.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@thenorthernlight.com Contributors In This Issue Jess Scott Wright, Bill Elfo The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXI, No 33 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Feb. 11 Ads due: Feb. 5

s A bald eagle perches on a piling in Birch Bay.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Letters The Editor, The city of Blaine and the Port of Bellingham want the opinion of citizens as to what type access they desire for the port’s fishing pier, ranging from full vehicular and pedestrian access to pedestrian-only access. The survey is available at Blaine City Hall, Blaine Senior Center, Blaine Public Library and the Blaine Harbormaster’s Office. Please fill out this simple form and tell the port and city your preference. Hopefully the decision-makers will take into consideration what the majority desires even if the choice costs more. In my opinion it is important to allow safe access for both pedestrians and vehicles for all user groups desiring to recreate at the port’s fishing pier. Any other alternative other than full access to vehicles will disfranchise a variety of potential user groups from accessing the pier. Blaine has an aging population, with many who are infirm but do not qualify for an ADA handicapped placard. If Marine Drive were to be opened to only those with handicapped placards, the infirm user group who are unable walk to and from would not be able to access the pier without difficulty. Prior to the closure, recreational crabbers would drive to the pier in their vehicles which served to carry their fishing tackle, fish buckets, crab pots, chairs, ice boxes, fishing poles for the kids, lunch, beverages – even grandma might come as well. Their vehicles serve as both shelter and a base from which they fished and recreated most of the

day. Not having vehicular traffic accessing the pier will greatly impact this user group. On January 28, the Whatcom County Parks and Recreation commission, of which I am a member, unanimously voted to approve the Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan. In a Parks and Recreation Open Space-controlled sample survey of 800 households undertaken by Beckwith Consulting, respondents ranked waterfront and beach access as the highest priority. Access to the waterfront is a big issue. Richard Sturgill Blaine The Editor: I will be beyond disappointed if my representative and senators vote to further place us in the position where foreign corporations can sue us when they can’t freely make their profit on the use of our

land, air and water. I say “No” on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and they should work to undo these disastrous trade policies that have placed us in this situation. I think the TransCanada pipeline saga has given us a chance to see how this will play out. Even if we dodge this one, they are suing for $15 billion for denial of the Keystone XL pipeline, the treasure lost to litigate via the secret investor-state dispute settlement will be paid for by us. It may become too expensive to protect our land, air and water and the greedy selfish will do as they wish. If laws to give us a chance to be informed and make the best decisions are objected to they will just be thrown out. Country of origin labeling of meat is a good example. Our descendants deserve a better legacy. No on TPP! Peggy Borgens Ferndale

Point Roberts Press is excited to welcome Oliver Lazenby to our editorial staff. Oliver is the former editor of the Bellingham Business Journal and the author of “Hiking Washington: A Guide to the State’s Greatest Hiking Adventures.” He will be contributing to The Northern Light and overseeing Mount Baker Experience. Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

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

Birch Bay Watershed & Aquatic Resources Management District: Third Wednesday, 6 p.m., location varies. Info: bbwarm.whatcom county.org.

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

Blaine Parks Board: Third Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 7 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blaine.wednet.edu.

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

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 7 p.m. Blaine Fire Station. Info: nwfrs.net.

February 4 - 10, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Guest editorial: the state of the Whatcom County Jail B y B i l l E l fo Whatcom County is obligated to operate its county jail system in a safe, humane and constitutional manner. Today, it is often nearly impossible to meet those required conditions. We are constantly overcrowded and our jail is continually challenged by failing infrastructure along with serious problems with our life-safety and security systems. These requirements are also not possible to meet with the lack of space for mental and medical health evaluation, treatment and special housing needs. With no options for remedying this situation on the horizon, it is necessary to reduce and limit the inmate population of the jail. Whatcom County is legally responsible for housing those charged, sentenced or otherwise ordered held in custody by the district and superior courts as well as those booked by law enforcement agencies on charges answerable in these courts. This includes those charged or sentenced on felony charges (including those made by city police officers) and those wanted in other counties and states. City and Native American governments are legally responsible for housing those charged with misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors in their respective jurisdictions. For many years the county provided jail services, including alternatives to incarceration, for these governments through an inter-local agreement that expired last year. To ensure a balance between proper jail safety, providing the infrastructure needed for the effective administration of justice and ensuring the safety of the community, we want to continue to accept and book those arrested or ordered incarcerated by municipal and tribal courts on misdemeanor charges. When maximum capacity is reached in the jail, jurisdictions using the jail will be asked to arrange for the removal of their offenders from the facility. This will normally involve a timely

and orderly transfer of inmates not released by judges on their own recognizance or bail. It is my intent to do all that is reasonably possible to avoid “booking restrictions.” These restrictions which were in effect a decade ago precluded law enforcement officers from jailing misdemeanor offenders, including those arrested on charges such as driving under the influence, assault, theft or ordered arrested by judges through the issuance of arrest warrants. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has been working with local jurisdictions to coordinate and identify solutions including using jail space in other parts of the state. Surplus modern jail space with robust behavioral health, treatment and medical facilities is available near Seattle. The sheriff’s office operates a regional inmate transportation network which is available to provide regular transportation. Other governments are finding solutions they feel work best for their community. For example, the city of Bellingham will begin providing pre-trial supervision to reduce jail incarceration needs as well as sending some offenders to jail in Yakima. I have asked the city to consider decriminalizing portions of its legal code, which in the past has resulted in their using limited jail spaces for such charges as sleeping on the sidewalk, garbage violations and

other violations of its code. The Lummi Nation is transferring inmates serving multiyear consecutive sentences to other tribally operated facilities. The Nooksack Tribe has also found a tribal jail to meet their needs. The smaller cities are in the process of selecting and contracting with other jails. To free up jail space to meet the needs of local jurisdictions,

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

Thursday, February 4, 10 am

Public Works Advisory Committee meeting Location: 1200 Yew Avenue Monday February 8, 5 pm – Study Session –

Rules of Procedure

6 pm - City Council meeting Approx. 7:30pm – Executive Session

Marine Drive Reconstruction Presentation Location: Senior Center 673 G Street U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

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Internationally renowned RAGTIME & BOOGIE WOOGIE piano player Bob Milne IN CONCERT Friday, March 18, 7:30 p.m. • Blaine Performing Arts Center

Tuesday, February 9, 8 am

I-5 exit 270 in Birch Bay Square

(See Elfo, page 13)

Enjoy our daily In-house specials!

TOO CHEEP TUESDAY!

to discuss collective bargaining per RCW 42.30.140(4), review performance of employee per RCW 42.30.110(1)(g), and sale of real estate per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)

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the sheriff’s office is working with the Washington State Department of Corrections to wind down our practice of providing short-term jail space for those in our community who violate the conditions of their release from state prisons. Our office is also continuing to maximize the use of jail alternative programming

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The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

Sports

Birch Bay Computers Going Out of Business!

Moving out of state! Get your computer in before we close!! Call 920-2857

Closing Feb 12th

Strong third quarter propels Borderites to win

BirchBayComputers.com Thank you to all of our loyal customers over the past 9 years!!!

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rd D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Fire Commissioners are looking to appoint an interim fire commissioner. This will be a two year commitment. Those interested are requested to submit a letter of interest and resume which will include: some personal background information; business experience; and why you are interested. Please submit your letter and resume no later than Monday, February 15, 2016 to: North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, Attention: Board of Fire Commissioners 4142 Britton Loop Bellingham, WA 98226. For more information, please call Jennie Sand, Administrative Assistant at (360)-318-9933 or visit the district’s web site at www.nwfrs.net.

NOTICE OF FLUSHING

The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system. During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at 332-8820. Leroy Dougall, Blaine Public Works.

s Ben Adams, r., dribbles past a Meridian opponent in a home game February 2. Adams led the Borderites with 19 points.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

B y I a n F e r g u so n The boys basketball team overcame a lackluster first half to defeat the Meridian Trojans at senior night in a home game February 2. The Borderites won the NWC matchup 68–59. Blaine head coach Shaun Pile said it was a strong third quarter that gave the Borderites the edge. “Usually the third quarter is our nemesis because we don’t come out with a lot of energy after the half, but tonight we came out strong, turned up the pressure on defense and built a solid lead,” Pile said. After trailing 35–31 at halftime, the Borderites outscored the Trojans 17–4 in the third quarter. Blaine used a half-court trap to force turnovers and outside shots. In the fourth quarter, Meridian

seemed to recover with scrappy shooting and more energy, but the Borderites were able to match the new intensity. Both teams scored 20 points in the fourth quarter, and Blaine held onto the nine-point lead for the win. Point guard Ben Adams led the Borderites with 19 points, including three 3-pointers. Center Shaq Woods scored 17 points with 10 rebounds and one 3-pointer. Woods got into slight foul trouble in the first half, but played clean in the second half. No Borderites fouled out of the game. Forward Kier Munzanreder scored 16 points, and shot 7–7 from the free thrown line. “We accepted the challenge of being down by three points at halftime, and we came out with a lot more energy. I was happy with the way we battled tonight,” Pile said. With the win, the Borderites

are 4–7 in the NWC and 9–10 overall this season. The Trojans fell to 1–10 in conference and 5–14 overall. Blaine currently stands fifth among 2A schools in the NWC. In order to make the post season, the Borderites must defeat Nooksack Valley in their next game on Thursday, February 4. The game is at Nooksack Valley and is the senior game for the Pioneers. Nooksack Valley is low in the standings of a very tough 1A division. The Pioneers handed the Borderites their first loss of the season, a 76–52 trouncing in December. “They’re real scrappy, and it’s in their house on their senior night, so it’s not going to be an easy win by any means. We have our work cut out for us,” Pile said. The game at Nooksack Valley on Thursday, February 4 begins at 7:15 p.m.

PUBLIC INPUT WANTED to identify stormwater problems in the Birch Point, Lower Terrell Creek, & Point Whitehorn areas TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 6:00—7:30 PM Camp Horizon Conference Building Bay Horizon Park 7467 Gemini Street, Blaine, WA For more information: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org 360.778.6301

February 4 - 10, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Wrestlers headed to sub regionals

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KEEP CURRENT WITH WHAT’S HAPPENING! s Saul Magallon throws an opponent in a home wrestling meet earlier this season. The Borderites are headed to the first round of the 2A Sub-Regional Tournament at Sedro-Woolley on Friday, February 5. The Borderites are 3–0 in Northwest Conference matchups this season, and are expected to do well at sub-regionals. The meet begins at 5 p.m.

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Photo by Janell Kortlever

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The

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Pastime welcomes Bordertown Grill food truck (in back parking lot & bring inside to eat)

OPEN 7 DAYS • noon-11 pm Sun-Thurs • noon-2 am Fri & Sat 658 Peace Portal Drive, Downtown Blaine • 360-306-3194

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FRIDAY & SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 5 & 6

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The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

HEALTH

& WELLNESS

Encouraging happy, healthy lives!

Well-informed coffee drinkers won’t miss a beat By Jess Scott Wright, RDN This week, there’s a media buzz due to an article in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Heart Association: New evidence challenges former beliefs that caffeine causes heart palpitations. But before concluding your coffee habit is healthy, there is more to consider. Over the years, numerous studies have emerged to highlight extraordinary health benefits of moderate coffee consumption to lower risk of diabetes and cancer and protect against neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. However, many of these findings are based on observational research, not controlled experiments. Often, a generalized observation is misrepresented as an absolute when it is shared with the public through mass media. What is moderate coffee consumption? How much coffee is good for you? This advice will change from study to study so it’s

Keep your heart happy Who do you love with all your heart? Turns out the same people who warm your heart can help keep it healthy too. They inspire us to stay heart healthy. If you need more support in your pursuit of heart health, PeaceHealth is here with screenings, nutrition advice and teams of specialists who never miss a beat.

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important to consult your doctor if you aren’t sure. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, for instance, attributes 4–5 cups per day to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, while the aforementioned study in the Journal of the American Heart Association does not specify absolute amounts, noting that observations are based on the specific group reported on, not for everyone. “We [health professionals] may be unnecessarily discouraging consumption of substances like chocolate, coffee and tea that might actually have cardiovascular benefits,” said lead researcher Dr. Gregory Marcus, a cardiologist at the University of California San Diego. While this study does say that regardless of the amount of caffeine consumed by the 1,388 people observed, there was no sign of irregularities in heart Continued on next page

February 4 - 10, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

HEALTH

& WELLNESS

Coffee ... From previous page

rhythms, it does not dismiss the fact that in excess amounts, caffeine can still be lethal. “We are only able to conclude that in general, consuming caffeinated products every day is not associated with having increased ectopy or arrhythmia but cannot specify a particular amount per day,” Marcus and colleagues wrote. Many mainstream news platforms are sharing this evidence under broad titles like, “Study: Caffeine doesn’t cause heart palpitations,” and “Coffee vindicated: Caffeine doesn’t worsen heartbeat irregularities, study finds.” While these statements are true as they pertain to the study, they don’t apply to every individual. For instance, if you have severe anxiety and are sensitive to stimulants, coffee may still cause adverse side effects that mimic heart palpitations and would likely not be beneficial to you. When it comes to coffee specifically, generalizations are tricky because caffeine content and potential health properties vary drastically by the cup. Everything from the degree of bean roasting to the brew method, where you get your coffee and, especially, what you put in your coffee, ultimately determines how healthy or unhealthy a cup of Joe might be for you. A 2009 study in Diabetologia found that a total consumption of at least three cups per day of coffee or tea may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, if someone loosely interprets this evidence and orders three grande white chocolate mochas from Starbucks every day, they might be drinking three cups of coffee, but they are also consuming the equivalent of about 34 packets of sugar. This would ultimately increase their risk for developing diabetes, and undermine any potential health benefits from the coffee itself. Another exception to the caffeine rule: pregnant and nursing

women should limit their intake according to their doctor’s recommendations, as should those who have any sleep disturbances, anxiety issues or any other

condition adversely affected by caffeine consumption. Although exciting, breaking news regarding advancements in health and wellness can be tricky; science is constantly evolving and there is almost always a contradictory claim or exception to any study. Generalized findings are not absolutes, and it is important to maintain that distinction when interpreting headlines.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District Presents

Winter Carnival 2016 Saturday, Feb. 27 1 - 5 pm Birch Bay Activity Center 7511 Gemini Street, Birch Bay

Kids Broom Hockey Game 1 pm Ages 7 - 12 FREE!

2 - 4 pm Ages 3+ FREE!

Pre-Ballet Gymnastics (3-5 yrs) Thursday • 11-12 Pre-Ballet Gymnastics (3 1/2-5 yrs) Thursday • 4:30 -5:15

4th Annual International Broom Hockey Matchup!

Beginner Ballet (7-9 yrs) Monday • 5:30-6:30 Beginner Ballet (5-7 yrs) Thursday • 5:30-6:30 Beginner Ballet (10-16 yrs) Wednesday • 5:30-6:30

Adult Broom Hockey Game Teams USA & Canada Match

2 pm Ages 13 up FREE! Call us today to register to play!

360-656-6416

Adult Ballet Thursday • 6:30-7:30 Break N’ Gym Tuesday • 6:30-7:30 Barre Above Tue, Thu & Fri • 9:45-10:45

Line Dance

Live Music provided by Randy Hamilton

6 - 9 pm FREE!

Food & drink for purchase Get your tickets now, limited amount available!

Gym Star Sports Center

5519 Hovander Rd. Suite 109, Ferndale, WA 98248

(360) 384-3861 www.gymstarsports.com

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Patients will be accepted up to one hour prior to closing, or at the discretion of the clinic, in order to provide quality and compassionate care.

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The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

New owners, new Pastime Tavern Surrey, B.C. Canada • Located 45 min. from the border YOU PICK UP OR WE DELIVER

99¢/ft. 8” Cedar Bevel Siding - 49¢/ft. 2x4 Cedar 8’,10’,16’ - 79¢/ft. 1x6 Cedar 6’,8’,10’,16’ - 69¢/ft. 2x4 Spruce 8’ - $2.39ea. • 12’ - $3.49ea. 4x4 Treated Post 8’ -$9.95ea. • 10’ - $11.95ea. 4x8x1/2” CCX Plywood -$19.95 **Prices in Canadian Funds** Pay in U.S. Funds and 4x8x5/8” CCX T&G Plywood -$23.95 SAVE 35% 4x8x3/4” CCX Plywood -$27.95 11635 130 St. Surrey BC V3R 2Y2 10” Cedar Bevel Siding -

For All your Building Needs Call 604-580-1415

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s Workers have begun replacing the sign on the front of Pastime Tavern at 658 Peace Portal Drive.

Blaine Lawn & Landscapes

Photo by Steve Guntli

By Steve Guntli

Bay Automotive Repair

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The Pastime Tavern has a long and storied history and is about to undergo some major changes. Christy and Rodny Lonquist bought the tavern January 4, and have already begun making renovations to the 5,000-squarefoot building. The Lonquists are converting it into a family restaurant and bar the couple hopes will become a destination. The couple is working hard to get the redesigned Pastime up and running by early July. They have begun changing the layout, starting with a large kitchen in the back corner. The Hill family of Blaine has operated the Pastime since the 1960s, and Mary Lee Hill ran the bar personally for the past 25 years. Christy said she and her husband recognize the Pastime’s history, and they intend to respect its legacy. “The Pastime has been here for 50 years,” Christy said. “Everyone in Blaine knows it and likes it. We decided not to change the name because even if we did, everyone would still say, ‘Let’s go to the Pastime.’” The Lonquists plan to wall off half the bar to separate the restaurant from the bar area, similar to Jack Niemann’s Black Forest Steak House at the north end of the block. Patrons will be greeted by a hostess at the front door and can decide if they want to sit at the bar or in the restaurant. Limited outdoor seating

will be available out front, and the Lonquists are replacing the sign, which still identifies the pub as a casino. Christy said the menu is going to consist of high-quality pub fare and seafood. The Lonquists want to use fresh, local ingredients as much as possible. “In Blaine, you have Thai food and Chinese food and Mexican food, but there aren’t a lot of places to go for high-quality family dining and pub fare,” she said. “We’re hoping to change that.” The Lonquists are each experienced businesspeople: Christy used to run The Northern Meadows wine shop in Blaine. Rodny is an electrician by trade,

and has been splitting his time managing his private contracting business and making renovations on the tavern. Despite the hectic schedule, Rodny said it hasn’t been too difficult. “I’m enjoying every minute of it,” he said. “We’ve been planning out our designs for this place for more than a year, so it’s been a lot of fun seeing it come together.” The couple will be auctioning off memorabilia from the Pastime’s history later this month. Old neon beer signs, promotional items and Luke Ridnour gear will be up for bids in a silent auction starting February 12. They plan on all proceeds going to the Blaine Boys & Girls Club.

s Rodny and Christy Lonquist.

Photo by Steve Guntli

288 Martin St. Downtown Blaine (360) 332-7300 • (604) 256-1384 www.Fortiphi.com Formerly Blaine Insurance

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February 4 - 10, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

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Public Notices AT&T Mobility, LLC is proposing to modify an existing wireless telecommunications facility on an existing transmission pole located at 9755 Allan Street, Blaine, Whatcom County, WA. Modifications will consist of the replacement of three existing antennas with three new antennas mounted at a centerline height of 115-feet on an existing 116-foot transmission pole. Any interested party wishing to submit comments regarding the potential effects the proposed facility may have on any historic property may do so by sending such comments to: Project 6116000467-TC c/o EBI Consulting, 11445 East Via Linda, Suite 2 #472, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, or via telephone at (339) 234-2597.

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Help Wanted

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.

Painting

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Semiahmoo Golf Course Charmer 8786 Wood Duck Way $418,000 Easy living in a single story on the 2nd fairway of Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club. Open floor plan, easy to maintain mature landscape where nature abounds. Peek-a-boo view of Drayton Harbor. Owner will work with buyers’ agents.

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

MORE REAL ESTATE LISTINGS on page 12

The Northern Light • February 4 - 10, 2016

Real Estate

ALS! CALL HUGH TODAY! SWEET DE

360.371.5800

www.CallHugh.com

25 years experierce working for you!

WHAT A STEAL! Covered Moorage in Blaine Harbor $15,000

Easy access & secure facility in ship shape order. 46’ length by 20’ beam.

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2.1 Acres - Commercial & 1.8 Acres - Residential

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2 ACRES $139,000 Coastal Mtn. & Birch Bay view property on Fingalson Creek Dr.

Partial saltwater view lot on Haxton Way. All services. Ferndale Schools, Watershare/all services, Possible owner terms!

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7860 Birch Bay Dr. #504 • $159,950

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Whidbey Island Vintners & Distillers Association

late Tour o c o d Wine & Ch February 6-7 presents

February 13-14

Tickets 20 in advance / $25 day of event $

www.whidbeyislandvintners.org Ticket includes a souvenir glass, wine tastes & chocolate treats. Tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2413214

Advertise in The Northern Light and connect with 23,100 * readers weekly! *CVC Audited Circulation

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Oysters ... From page 1

work to customers, Seymour said. To celebrate the partnership, Smith plans to brew an oyster beer from Drayton Harbor oysters. “I think our joint vision is a place where you can come and enjoy a local beer, local oysters, and have a conversation about them with the people who actually produce them,” Seymour said. Seymour expects the addition of beer and wine to be popular with customers. “Probably every other customer that came in last year was like, ‘Where’s the beer? Where’s the wine?’” he said. Farmhouse ales Smith is inspired by the French and Belgian tradition of farmhouse beers: beer brewed on a farm from ingredients grown on the farm. Smith’s five-acre farm produces hops, grain, fruit, herbs and vegetables. It’s not big enough to accomplish his goal of producing beer entirely from ingredients grown on the farm, called estate beers. But it is big enough to produce several beers at a time using Atwood Farm ingredients. “We’ll be able to consistently, every year, produce a handful of beers where everything is grown on our land,” Smith said. Popular styles of farmhouse beer include saison and biere de garde. Smith started brewing beer the day after he graduated from the University of Idaho’s masters program in landscape architecture in 2008. “I just homebrewed like crazy for a long time and parlayed that into some professional brewing experience,” Smith said. He brewed at the now-closed Frank-n-Stein brewery in Ferndale, and then worked at Maggie’s pub in Ferndale until the end of last month. In addition to beer on tap, Smith plans to offer bottles of Atwood Ales to go at the store. Oysters are also available to go and Seymour will start grilling oysters

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on the sidewalk outside the store later this year. Drayton Harbor Oyster Company also sells oysters to Semiahmoo Resort and at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Harbor health Ever since commercial harvest started back up in 2014, Drayton Harbor has closed annually from November to January – the wettest months, when heavy rains wash toxins into the harbor from the surrounding area, making shellfish potentially unsafe to eat. Seymour hopes that won’t always be the case. He said water quality in the wet months is improving. He contracts with Washington State Department of Ecology to take water samples in the harbor, and he’s encouraged by what he saw in the last three months. “All the data we collected this year lends to reopening for the winter months,” Seymour said. “The dream for us is that at some point this bay gets to where we don’t have to go week to week thinking about all these water quality issues.” Various state and local agencies

and residents have worked for years to make the harbor healthy enough for a viable commercial harvest after unsafe levels of fecal coliform closed the harbor in 1995. Now that commercial harvest is possible, Seymour hopes his business can serve as a face for the health of Drayton Harbor and increase awareness of local marine health. “On Friday and Saturday you might get 100 people that come in. You start talking about your oyster farm and they want to learn about it,” Seymour said. “All the sudden this water quality issue comes up and they want to know about that.” Seymour said there’s a lot of potential for oyster farming in Drayton Harbor. He said he’s currently farming about 5 acres of the 30 he leases in the harbor. “Locals are finding out that there is a concern with water quality,” Seymour said. “Now you’ve got a community that realizes that unless this bay remains on an upward trend, they won’t have this awesome local product.”

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Whatcom County sheriff’s reports, January 25-31 January 25, 8:49 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Elaine Street. January 25, 7:46 a.m.: Extra patrol on Cottonwood Court. January 25, 9:25 a.m.: Dispute cold call on Surf Place. January 25, 10:04 a.m.: Harassment cold call on Sagebrush Lane. January 25, 10:38 a.m.: Welfare check on Bayshore Drive. January 25, 1:15 p.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Sweet Road. January 25, 5:29 p.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Haynie Road. January 26, 12:15 a.m.: Shots on Kickerville Road. January 26, 12:45 a.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Drive. January 26, 10:01 a.m.: Suspicious person on Holiday and Sunburst drives. January 26, 11:46 a.m.: Vandalism cold call on Birch Bay Drive. January 26, 1:45 p.m.: Littering cold call on Camas Drive. January 26, 2:16 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Drayton Harbor Road. January 26, 4:12 p.m.: Civil problem on Haynie Road. January 26, 5:36 p.m.: Hit and run cold call on Portal Way.

January 26, 6:40 p.m.: Drugs on Sunburst Drive. January 26, 7:05 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 27, 7:24 a.m.: Property lost cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 27, 2:15 p.m.: Vehicle recovery on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 27, 3:12 p.m.: Civil standby on Haynie Road. January 27, 3:40 p.m.: Theft cold call on Stetson Lane. January 27, 5:58 p.m.: Sex crime no rape on Cowichan Road. January 27, 6:50 p.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Birch Bay Drive. January 28, 12:32 a.m.: Traffic hazard on West Badger Road. January 28, 4:29 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 28, 9:47 a.m.: Suspicious person on Whitehorn Way. January 28, 9:52 a.m.: Suspicious person on Holeman Avenue. January 28, 11:20 a.m.: Domestic physical on Loomis Trail Road. January 28, 11:30 a.m.: Vandalism cold call on Gemini

Elfo ... From page 5

including work crews, work release and electronic home monitoring. I am also working with the Whatcom County Executive to determine what structural and system changes might be made in the jail to strengthen the structure, improve life-safety and provide increased space for mental and medical health services. While these changes are likely very expensive, this will provide elected officials with a cost-benefit analysis to compare the wisdom of spending funds

Street. January 28, 3:15 p.m.: Welfare check on Sea Breeze Court. January 28, 5:13 p.m.: Assist citizen on Haynie Road. January 28, 5:32 p.m.: Attempted suicide on H Street Road. January 28, 8:07 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Valley View Road. January 28, 10:14 p.m.: Noise on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 29, 11:12 a.m.: Serve warrant on Birch Bay Drive. January 29, 1:11 p.m.: Domestic physical cold call on Harborview Road. January 29, 4:54 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Bay Drive. January 29, 6:10 p.m.: Security check on Sunrise Way. January 29, 7:24 p.m.: Burglary on Valley View Road. January 29, 9:30 p.m.: Runaway cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. January 29, 10:51 p.m.: Shots on Harborview Road. January 29, 11:23 p.m.: Music on Cowichan Road. January 30, 12:37 a.m.: Drunk on Bay Road. January 30, 8:17 a.m.: Alarm audible on West Badger Road. January 30, 8:43 a.m.: Bur-

on the existing facility or moving forward with a plan to replace the jail. The sheriff’s office is also participating in the Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force. For decades, law enforcement leaders and the mental health community have advocated for preventing incarceration through community-based treatment prior to crimes being committed and for a fully functional behavioral health triage center as an alternative to jail. I’m pleased the task force is working on recommendations towards that goal and other changes to the justice system that may reduce future jail

OBITUARIES glary cold call on East Street. January 30, 9:37 a.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Square Street. January 30, 11:05 a.m.: Littering cold call on Camas Drive. January 30, 6:31 p.m.: Assist agency on Pacific Highway. Richmond, B.C. man, 28, arrested for driving with a suspended license third degree. January 30, 10:48 p.m.: Traffic stop on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Shoreline man, 48, arrested for operating with a suspended license third degree. January 30, 11:06 p.m.: Serve warrant on Grandview and Blaine roads. January 30, 11:48 p.m.: Traffic stop on Grandview and Blaine roads. Bellingham man, 32, arrested for operating with a suspended license third degree and criminal impersonation first degree. January 30, 11:51 p.m.: Traffic stop on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Blaine man, 31, cited for failing to transfer title. January 31, 4:07 a.m.: Alarm on Seavue Road. January 31, 10:50 a.m.: Civil problem cold call on Birch Bay Drive. January 31, 10:53 p.m.: Serve warrant on Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Blaine Road.

space needs. While taking action that will result in inmates being removed from their community and families is not ideal, neither is leaving them in our county jail, which has been reported by architects, engineers, multiple citizen committees, fire officials and the National Institute of Corrections as posing serious threats to human life. As sheriff I will work closely with other officials to minimize disruption and ensure as smooth a transition as possible in reaching a safer and humane jail for our community. Bill Elfo, Whatcom County Sheriff

Ted John (Teddy) Bylsma 79

June 25, 1936 - January 15, 2016 Time and tide wait for no one, and so it was that our beloved Teddy made his final set on January 15, 2016. Born June 25, 1936 to Mildred Conklin Bylsma and John Bylsma at their home in Lynden, the family relocated to Blaine when he was 2, where he lived until his passing. Ted attended school in Blaine through grade 10 when he quit to fish the family gillnetter while his father recovered from a short illness. Delivering his catch each morning, he was consistently high boat, often beating out many of the old timers and becoming a favorite of the fish buyers. They cheered him on and gave him the nick name “high liner,” thus setting him on the course of what was to be his lifelong profession. Ted joined the Navy in 1954 and was stationed in San Diego aboard the USS Alamo with a tour in the Far East to include Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. After leaving the Navy in 1961, he lived in Seattle and worked at Nordby’s, making fishing nets prior to returning to Blaine and his one true passion, gillnetting. Ted fished Puget Sound and spent summers fishing Southeast Alaska while doing carpentry work in the winter. His first boat was the Teddy B followed by the Tammy B, and the Miss Tammy. After retiring he built a garage and started woodworking. His specialty was toy trucks, boats and lighthouses. His replica of the Semiahmoo Harbor Lighthouse is truly a piece of art. Through the years he made many lifelong and cherished friends in Blaine, Alaska, and in the fishing community. He is preceded in death by his wife Virginia (Ginger), daughter Tammy Alexander (Scott), sons Gregg, and Tyson (Desiree), sister Janet Jennerjohn (Dennis), and grandchildren Tristen, Dillon, Caden, Laken, Tyler, Jasmine, Christy, Gregory, and Seth. Please join family and friends for an informal gathering and perhaps a fish tale or two, to remember Ted on February 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the American Legion 4580, Legion Drive in Blaine.

Jeff Cossett

December 12, 1964 – January 22, 2016 Jeff passed away on January 22 at St. Josephs Hospital in Bellingham, WA from complications of a rare autoimmune disease he had fought since childhood. He was born in Metaline Falls, WA on December 12, 1964 and lived there until he moved with his family to Blaine. He graduated from Blaine High School, and attended Washington State University and Claremont College in San Diego, CA. He worked at Amex, and Current Industries in Blaine prior to working at Chinook Industries in Bellingham. Jeff was a very literate person who delighted in engaging in debate and communication with his many friends and large extended family. We will all miss sharing his knowledge and insights. We will even miss being the brunt of his “zingers”. He is survived by his mother Jill (Ernest) Parker of Blaine, and his father, Dennis (Diana) Cossett of Newport, WA as well as a large blended family of 5 sisters, 6 brothers and 20 nieces and nephews and 7 great-nieces and great-nephews. He is preceded in death by a brother, niece and 2 nephews. Memorial services will be held at Jerns Funeral Chapel in Bellingham, WA on Friday, February 5 at 11 a.m. The family requests no flowers, and donations may be made to SIDS research, Arthritis Foundation or the Literacy Council. An additional service will be held in Metaline Falls, WA at a later date. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com

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