Letters to the Editor

Editor:
For a man who is admittedly "uncomfortable speaking in public" David Gallion did an excellent job of conveying his platform to me at the candidate forum.
His background in dealing with critical issues as a Blaine Planning Commissioner coupled with his experience managing hundred million dollar school district budgets gives him the insight to bring fresh solutions to the problems we face.
He is not set in his thinking on issues but open to the larger picture of how City Council's choices truly impact the financial security of our city. He believes the public voice rather than a hearings examiner is paramount in determining the direction our city develops.
Though he is disabled and walks with a cane, he has gone door to door, even to houses that sport his opponent's signs because, as he told me, "if elected, I will represent those citizens too and I want them to know I care about what they think."
The fact that he is retired and has time to devote to the position is an important consideration for me.
It is also refreshing that he chooses to conduct a positive campaign not making accusations at the last moment that cannot be refuted before election day.
Join me on November 6 in casting your vote for David Gallion.

Nancy Hobberlin
Blaine

The Editor:
I am a Korean War veteran 1950-1953. The youngest of us are 74 to 75 years old. The only history of the Korean War will be stored at the Korean War National Museum, which is currently being built in Springfield, Illinois.
This museum is expected to contain memorabilia that will include wide ranging information from troop train and troop ship transportation facilities to the horrendous battles that took place from Pusan, across the 38th Parallel to the final stand of Pork Chop Hill. 
I have the only original, lost Korean War Love Song albums that are over 55 years old. It is my pleasure to permanently exhibit these two 78 rpm records in the Korean War National Museum. I encourage all of my dear friends and fellow veterans, their sons, daughters, relations and all extended family members to learn more about these love songs www.koreanwarlovesongs.com and the information about the museum. God bless you all!
Tom Gorman
Chilliwack, B.C.

The Editor:
I anxiously await each issue of The Northern Light; it is my connection to our new home in Blaine. I thoroughly enjoyed the October 18 edition. I currently live in Sonora, California, near Yosemite National Park, and hope to be moving aboard our boat, which will be based in Semiahmoo Marina, in the very near future.
Each Thursday I check to see what’s new and I frequently read the police report section to get a realistic sense of the community. I actually enjoyed reading each entry the other week due to the sense of humor employed by the writer. Not everyone can make a paragraph about a kitchen fire resulting in the death of dinner funny. Please note that I don’t make light of other people’s misfortune but it is nice to see a paper that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Please keep up the good work and don’t reassign this writer.
Sonia Hurt
Sonora, CA
Publisher’s Note: We wish we were able to take credit for the writing. However, each report is written by the police officer involved.

The Editor:
It has come to my attention that Mr. Ray Wilkett is challenging my job description at my previous place of employment. I would like to clarify the matter.
The Bakersfield College has or had three levels of classification for employees generally speaking: classified, management, and certificated. I was classified and most classified personnel had managers over them in the rank and file up to their supervisor who were called director, which was management classification but for myself and five others it was very different. I was in a group of highly skilled journeyman or tradesman positions at the college, and there were six departments namely; security, painting, air conditioning/heating, plumbing, automotive and transportation.
The college found it very costly and unpractical to have a manager position between the director of the college and the journeymen. So all six departments reported “with very little supervision” directly to the director. It would be impossible or very unlikely to find a director skilled in all six journeyman areas to tell us what or how to do our jobs. Trying to make a long story short, all six departments under the director for facilities/maintenance and operations of the Bakersfield College managed their own departments. I, with painful detail, tried to explain this to Mr. Wilkett last Saturday but he is not interested in understanding my position and is only looking for ways to discredit me.
Thank you very much.
David Gallion
Blaine

The Editor:
Thanks so much to all of you (over 70) who came to help at the “Make a Difference Day” work party on Terrell Creek. I saw many familiar faces and also faces of students from Blaine high school and small children with their parents. The weather really cooperated and we had a good cookout too.
The trees already planted continue to do well – some over 10 feet in height. You can see the development of the riparian area around the creek that will be so important to keeping the water cool and helping to filter out mud from runoff during storms. The improving habitat will not only benefit the salmon but all the other wild life that makes up a diverse, healthy stream habitat.
Over the next month, we anticipate the potential return of our first chum alumni from the first “egg box” three years ago. I will be sending out emails to see if any of you want to volunteer for fish observation and other activities. It’s all still very important and we heavily rely on you for help.
Again, many thanks for your continued support on this long running but wonderful commitment. 
Elie Friedlob
Chums of Terrell Creek

The Editor:
My family and I live in Blaine and the other night, my husband and I were cleaning up after dinner when there was a knock at the door – not unusual with the rush of school fundraisers this time of year. My husband answered the door, talked for a while, and came back in. When I asked who was at the door, he said, “Jason Overstreet, the guy running for city council” but before he could finish his sentence, I was out of the house trying to get Jason’s attention and ask him some questions. He and his wife were “pounding the pavement” and turned around when they realized I wanted to talk. Not only did Jason and his wife listen to me (actively - you know, like asking questions and making notes!) but then I got a call from Jason a few days later. “Not sure if you remember me, but...” Well, of course I remember you! He had been emailing the “powers that be” to get answers to my concerns and he emailed me the correspondence. Jason - never once (and I’ve lived a lot of places) has someone seeking a political office ever done what you did! You listened! You cared! You communicated! To sum it up, you rock! Remember, folks, democracy is all about the leaders listening to the masses. Well, Jason Overstreet, congratulations – you did it!
Thanks, Jason, for laying down roots for a successful future in Blaine!
Emily M. Cross
Blaine

The Editor:
The CAP Thanksgiving Dinner Basket Program will be held again this year on Wednesday, November 21, from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The basket pick up point will be the same as last year, Unit 330 near Cost Cutter in the Blaine International Center.
Those families residing in the Birch Bay, Blaine, Custer, and Point Roberts area who desire to be recipients must get on the list to receive their basket through Family Services at Blaine school district, call Larissa or Andree at 332-0740. Applicants should get their names in by Monday, November 12. Baskets are sized and assigned for each family on the list; there are no baskets for walk-ins.
Last year we provided the makings for a complete Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings to 180 needy families on Wednesday afternoon before Thanksgiving Day. More than 900 children and adults had a full Thanksgiving dinner as a result of the financial donations of generous friends and neighbors. Those desiring to contribute to this charitable work may do so at Cost Cutter, Bank of America, Sterling Bank and other supporting businesses in Blaine. Look for the sign at these businesses. Donations may also be mailed to the CAP Community Assistance Fund, P.O. Box 1067, Blaine, WA 98231. CAP is an approved 501 (c ) 3 charity program, under the Peace Arch Christian Ministerial Association and any donation is fully tax deductible. The average retail cost for a Thanksgiving basket was $72 in 2006. It will probably be about $80 this year.
Brent Brentnall
Director, Community
Assistance Program
Blaine

The Editor:
The  downtown Blaine merchants  and chamber of commerce would like to thank everyone who created the terrific scarecrow displays throughout the downtown area. A number of visitors to Blaine have enjoyed taking our “scarecrow walking tour” with maps of the displays that are available at the visitor center. Our commercial winner is Blackberry House Cafe and the residential winner is Nathan Smith, 9, of Blaine. Both received prizes donated by Northern Meadows Gifts. We hope everyone will tour the displays and compliment the merchants who participated.
Carroll Solomon
Downtown Blaine Merchants
Group
Blaine Chamber of Commerce

The Editor: 
This letter is in support of Steve Oliver for treasurer. I met Steve shortly after he graduated from college. I am proud to have seen him develop his business skills by attaining the position of chief deputy treasurer. It is there where Steve has taken his education and expanded it by learning and teaching others better ways to perform their jobs. Steve now manages a $250 million investment pool with over $1 billion in financial transactions on an annual basis. It should be noted that Steve advocates that the treasurers have all phones answered by a live body (unusual these days). Steve’s motto is “no unanswered questions” (refreshing).  Steve is working on an online real estate deed submission process to serve property owners and the real estate community. 
Steve Oliver has served two terms on the Ferndale city council where he helped improve the city budgeting process thereby enabling the layman a greater understanding of its complexities. During this development Steve noted that the city of Ferndale was lacking financial policies. Steve participated in the development of new financial policies. 
Steve has chosen to participate in organizations that will make a better place in which to raise his family. He is president of the Ferndale Boys & Girls Club, board of directors of the Whatcom County Boys & Girls Clubs and a member of Whatcom County Commission Against Domestic Violence.
I encourage you to vote for Steve Oliver for Whatcom County treasurer.
Joe Melland
Blaine

The Editor:
The Blaine Fine Arts Association would like to invite the community to play a part in the Eleventh Annual Arts & Jazz Auction and Dance, “A Proud Community Celebration,” on Saturday, November 17 at 7 p.m. in the PAC at Blaine high school. Admission is $5 and beverages and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Arts & Jazz is beginning its second decade as the community favorite, family fun celebration of the Fine Arts programs in the Blaine school district. The Blaine Fine Arts Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and features, food, dancing, and silent and live auctions.
One hundred percent of the funds raised from live and silent auctions helps to offset expenses that enable our students to receive arts experiences beyond the Blaine school distirct’s curriculum. The evening’s success now makes possible over $4,000 in annual arts scholarships as well as helping our arts programs purchase equipment, music, and instruments.
Annually, the Arts & Jazz auction features art, gourmet dinners, luxurious get a ways, and goods and services from many, many supporters and contributors. This year’s auction items include a beautiful European leather chair and ottoman from Blaine Marina, and a rare hand colored figure study by Bob McDermott, Blaine resident and artist of the “Vigil,” our beautiful sculpture on the boardwalk downtown.
The BFAA is proud of the work our students produce, and the honors they receive. Arts & Jazz is a wonderful way to celebrate their efforts and share them with the greater community.
If you have any questions, please contact Dorita Gray, BFAA - Auction Coordinator,
The Blaine Fine Arts Association, P.O. Box 1545 Blaine, 98231 or 360/380-1634
Tami Kramme
Blaine

The Editor:
A call for artists to participate.
The Sweet Road Artisan Alliance has teamed with the United States/Canada Peace Anniversary Association, and the city of Blaine to present the 3rd annual Winter Fest.
This year’s show will be held in downtown Blaine at the Worldly Treasures Building. There will be artists demonstrating and selling their work, entertainment everyday, live alpacas, charitable community involvement, snacks, and activities for children and adults. The show will be held the first three weekends in December starting on December 1, and the hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The town’s Tree Lighting extravaganza will also be held on December 1, and we will coordinate our activities and hours to make this a grand celebration.
There are a couple of artist spots left in the show. If you are interested in jurying for this show, please contact Ron Snyder or Cathy Taggett at 360/332-8082 ASAP as the jury date is set for Monday, November 5. All samples must be received by no later than Sunday, November 4.
Ron Snyder,
Circle of Trees Art Studio
Blaine

The Editor:
My first introduction to Jason Overstreet was during the last election when he challenged and beat Bob Brunkow for his seat on city council. I attended the candidate forum in that election and was very impressed with Jason’s cool and calm demeanor.
Although Mr. Brunkow had many more years of experience in the professional world and had done a fine job during his tenure on council, Jason made it very clear that just being a regular citizen that listens and is open minded and honest are credentials that make for a good city council member.
Jason also made it clear that with his unique schedule as a fireman he would have plenty of time to dedicate to his work as a council member.
After Jason’s successful bid to become a council member, I watched him handle many difficult issues as a council member in a very professional manner. There were a few council meetings that got out of control and while many lost their cool, Jason always maintained his composure and never got caught up in the heat of the moment.
I have followed local politics in Blaine for years and I can honestly say that Jason Overstreet stands out as one of the brightest, honest, and well read council members that have served on our council. Jason always comes to meetings prepared and no matter what the issue is, he carefully looks at things from all sides and then makes his decision on what he feels is the best decision for Blaine.
As a council member it is important to be sensitive to all members of the community. Jason cares about downtown and small business and he also is prepared to work hard to ensure that Blaine taxpayers are well represented. As a fireman he understands the importance of maintaining high levels of emergency services.
Although his opponent Dave Gallion is a quality individual just as Bob Brunkow was, Jason Overstreet has proven that as a young man in his 30s he has all the right stuff that makes for a great leader in a small city that is going through some real growing pains.
Jason Overstreet has been good for the city of Blaine and we are very fortunate to have a chance to have him on council for four additional years. Those of us who have been around city hall appreciate what we have in Jason and a vote for Jason Overstreet is a sure vote for a better Blaine.
Michael Farrell
Blaine

The Editor:
First President Bush vetoed doctor visits and medicine for 10 million needy children.
Now he’s threatening to veto the Labor-HHS-Education funding bill, which invests money in Pell Grants, Head Start and cancer research through the National Institutes of Health. It’s time for Congress to help President Bush get his priorities
straight.
Evelyne Charrier
Blaine

The Editor:
Regarding our picture that was placed in your Sept 20 edition of the “Spirit Bear.” I wanted to thank you for printing this. I have had numerous calls and questions regarding the significance or the story of the bear, and I wanted to share a little of the details with your readers that are wondering. There were many bears, each painted by a different artist and displayed from Whistler to Vancouver, and throughout the lower mainland, as “Spirit Bears in the City.” The bears were then sold at auction, benefiting the BC Lions Easter Seals and Canucks for Kids foundation. The Robins family, founders of A & A Contract Customs Brokers Ltd in Canada and the USA, purchased four of the bears at auction, and have placed them at some of their locations and properties, one being the office in Blaine at the US/Canada truck crossing. Our bear in Blaine is named “Haida”, and located directly across the border at our head office in Surrey, you will see “Cuddles” located on the front steps. Also, pictured with me in the Northern Light at the unveiling of our spirit bear, was Graham Robins Jr, president of A & A Contract Customs Brokers Ltd in Canada and the US.
Lois Acidera
A & A Contract Customs Brokers USA Inc., Blaine 

Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor; however, the opinions expressed are not those of the editor. Letters must include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters must not exceed 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters should be limited to 10 names. A fresh viewpoint on matters of general interest to local readers will increase the likelihood of publication. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.

Please send your letter to:
225 Marine Drive, Blaine, WA 98230 or fax 360/332-2777.
E-mail:editor@thenorthernlight.com

Letters Policy
The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor; however, the opinions expressed are not those of the editor. Letters must include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters must not exceed 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. A fresh viewpoint on matters of general interest to local readers will increase the likelihood of publication. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.

Please send your letter to: 225 Marine Drive, Blaine, WA 98230, fax 360/332-2777 or E-mail:editor@thenorthernlight.com