All Point Bulletin — January 2021 by Point Roberts Press

January 2021

IN THIS

ISSUE

www.AllPointBulletin.com

Council changes PRCAC makeup, page 3

Name change for the Wackies, page 3

ECRWSS PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 14

FREE

Give the gift of fitness this year, page 7

Point Roberts, WA 98281 Postal Patron Local

Ho! Ho! Ho! Happy Holidays to Point Roberts and beyond!

s Despite, or perhaps because of, the pandemic, the holiday spirit has hit the Point harder than usual if the plethora of lit up and decorated homes like this one on Churchill Drive are any indication. For more photos and a list of entrants in the home decorating contest, turn to page 15. Photo by Pat Grubb

2020 year in

REVIEW

Whoosh! A Look Back at the Year That Just Was

By Meg Olson January • The Point Roberts Water District adopted a new rate structure designed to make users with the biggest impact on the water system pay the biggest slice of keeping it operating. • Local firefighters started helping out at the library with story time. • In her last meeting as a member of Whatcom County Council, Barbara Brenner unsuccessfully tried to get council approval for a review of charges at the Point Roberts transfer station. Brenner also pushed council members to undertake a full review of garbage service on the Point. Council also

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WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN

heard from several Point Roberts residents who asked that the minimum service level in Point Roberts established by county ordinance be reduced. • After sitting vacant for several years the building that was home to Brewsters Fine Foods reopened as Brewsters Business Center with UNIQ Destinations as its first tenant. • Dan Schroeder was appointed to the Point Roberts Parks and Recreation District board of commissioners to fill the space left vacant after the resignation of Arthur Reber. • Registration opened for Point Roberts Race Week, the first year the event would take place on the Point after a 30-year stretch on Whidbey Island.

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February • All Point Bulletin sources revealed a bulletin in which U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers were instructed to conduct enhanced vetting on individuals who had travelled to Iran, leading to up to 12 hours of questioning for up to 200 American citizens and permanent residents returning home. The whistleblower revealed the instruction came from local CBP managers. • Incoming county executive Satpal Sidhu opted to delay any further appointments to the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC) until he had a chance to meet with local groups and community members to discuss their concerns. about

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Inside Church ............................................... 8 Classifieds ......................................... 12 Coming Up ....................................... 13 Crossings .......................................... 10 Garden................................................. 8 Opinion ............................................... 4

(See Year in Review, page 6)

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All Point Bulletin • January 2021

Editor’s Note As we typically do, we have invited local groups and organizations to provide year in review updates on their activities and plans for the new year. Due to space limitations, not all submissions could be printed in this issue. These will appear in the next issue of the All Point Bulletin. Thank you for your patience.

2020 year in

REVIEW A LOOK BACK

POINT ROBERTS

Registered Voters Assoc.

2020 brought major changes to all organizations in Point Roberts. The adaption to Zoom meetings caused the voters association to have fewer meetings than normal. The association continued to address 20.72, the garbage mandate and other items that were brought forward although those were few with everyone trying to

cope with all the changes to “normal” life because of Covid. The voters association has a handle now on the adaption to Zoom meetings and will resume our scheduled meetings in February. The association looks forward to increasing our membership and input from the community as we move forward in 2021. New members wishing to join can email us at info@PRRVA.org. To register, you must be a registered voter in Whatcom County. Per the request of the county executive

our main focus will be on local governance and visioning for the future of Point Roberts for years to come which will include our Subarea plan, zoning and further amendments to 20.72. Our current membership is 34 households and we would like to see that number grow with more engagement from the community so that Point Roberts can recover from the financial impacts from Covid. Our current board members are: Allison Calder, Steve O’Neill, Ken Calder, Tessa Pinckston, Doug Shier, Rick Hulsey, Matteus Olmedo, Mark Robbins and Kelly Bravener. PRRVA is looking forward to working with the community and the PRCAC to move forward for a better future for our community.

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January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

County council approves changes to PRCAC ordinance B y P a t G r u bb In a 5-2 vote, Whatcom County Council approved changes to Ordinance 2010-008 that will affect the makeup and operating practices of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC). The wrinkle? The changes won’t take effect until March 31, 2021. Council members Rud Browne, Barry Buchanan, Todd Donovan, Carol Frazey and Kathy Kershner voted in favor; Tyler Byrd and District 5 representative Ben Elenbaas voted against. The vote took place during council’s regular meeting on December 8. The existing committee is made up of two at-large representatives and a representative each from the taxpayers and registered voters associations and the chamber of commerce. The two at-large representatives are appointed by the county executive; the number of at-large positions will increase to four in total to make a seven-person committee. The revisions were sponsored by Rud Browne in order to increase community representation, which he said the committee was currently lacking. PRCAC would be obligated to provide at least one week’s notice of all meetings along with an agenda that clearly described any items intended for a vote. Minutes would need to be “sufficiently detailed to enable a reader to understand the topic discussed and the key points of any debate. All external communications made by the committee shall be in writing, approved by a majority vote with the names of the committee members and their votes attached.”

Stephen Falk, an at-large member and current PRCAC chair, addressed council via Zoom asking them to put off voting on the measure until the representatives of the constituent groups could seek input from their respective boards. He also suggested that some of the operational requirements being suggested would be more appropriately included as part of PRCAC’s bylaws that were in the final stages of review. PRCAC members had discussed the proposed changes during a special meeting held December 2. Among other objections, taxpayer representative Steven Wolff took “particular umbrage” at the county’s description of the minutes taken by PRCAC secretaries and called for increased detail. Allison Calder from the voters association backed Wolff, saying, “Linda [Hughes] wrote short stories, Stephen Falk wrote novels.” During council discussion, Byrd suggested a “friendly amendment” and said that he “loved this amendment but I don’t think we should single out just one committee – it should be applied to all of the committees.” Elenbaas wasn’t ready to vote, saying, “I tell my kids, don’t come here with problems, come here with solutions so I appreciate what council member Rud Browne has done. As District 5 representative, I wouldn’t mind giving the community enough time because I don’t feel like I’ve had enough input to make up my mind.” The March 31 date of implementation would presumably skin the cat in two ways – the changes got approved by council and it would allow for the community to provide input.

Walkers formerly known as wackie By Margot Griffiths If you’re up and out by 8 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, you may see a familiar group walking Point Roberts’ roads and trails. It won’t be the Wackie Walkers, though. After a request for input from members, the group has voted to rename itself the Point Roberts Walkers. As with all things 2020, changes were felt in other ways, too. We miss meeting in people’s homes for coffee after the walk. We miss our Canadian friends from Tsawwassen, and we’re sorry not to see those from farther afield, including Bellingham and Lynden, who occasionally traveled back to Point Roberts, where they once resided.

But the Point Roberts Walkers are sustained by a smaller, local crowd who continue to walk and who maintain contact with those who can’t. And the year hasn’t passed without some new traditions, born of Covid-19. Instead of our annual Winter Pot Luck and before the more stringent restrictions were passed, we had coffee in back yards, and wiener roasts – socially distanced of course – that harked back to a gentler, more simple time in our lives. And this simplicity makes the Point Roberts Walkers easy to sustain – walk, talk, drink coffee. In 2021, we look forward to welcoming members old and new, when the world rights itself anew. Contact info: margot@pointroberts.net

2020 year in

REVIEW A LOOK BACK

POINT ROBERTS

Park & Recreation District

The Point Roberts Park & Recreation District recognizes this has been a difficult year for everyone. We tried to make the most of it during these trying times. Several large projects were completed at the community center including replacing our septic system, replacing the hallway flooring, and upgrading our kitchen made possible by generous grant from the Colton Foundation. Although the community center has been closed to meetings, we continue to support the senior take-out lunch program routinely serving between 75 and 127 visitors. The park district was able to reconstitute the kayak program at Lighthouse Marine Park and launched pickle ball as a supported activity. We can now do a better job of maintaining Baker Field with our new riding mower. The baseball field was revitalized and should be available for play next spring.

New directional signs were installed along the Baker Field trails to better assist visitors. The park district purchased a new audio PA system for use by the community, as well as a low power FM transmitter that allows large groups to gather and listen in on an event thru the FM radio in their vehicles. We set up a Zoom account that is available for scheduled use by groups and for online recreational programs. If your group have any needs that we can help you with, please contact us at prparkdistrict@ gmail.com. At the end of the year, the district welcomed a new employee, Ina Carare. It is our sincere hope that the coming year will allow us to return with all our favorite community events that we had to set aside this past year. From the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District, best wishes to the entire Point Roberts community.

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All Point Bulletin • January 2021

All Point Bulletin The All Point Bulletin is published each month by Point Roberts Press Inc. Total circulation is 9,000 copies including home delivery in Point Roberts and Tsawwassen, subscriptions and distribution to retail establishments on the Point. The opinion expressed by contributors is their own and is offered for the general interest of our readers. Mail and classified ads should be addressed to:

All Point Bulletin P.O. Box 1451 Point Roberts WA USA 98281

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick J. Grubb Associate Publisher & Advertising Manager Louise H. Mugar News & Features Editor Meg Olson Copy Editor Ian Haupt Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser Advertising Sales Molly Ernst Contributors In This Issue Rhiannon Allen Gina Gaudet Margot Griffiths Administrative Services Jeanie Luna Founding Editor Glennys Christie Business & Editorial Office Phone: 360/945-0413 Fax: 360/945-1613 Email: sales@allpointbulletin.com

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opinion

Letters To The Editor The Editor: In America, elections aren’t decided by the media, they’re decided by the Constitution. The election of 2020 is far from over! America is not, and never will be a “democracy.” Democracy equals mob rule, and we don’t have that here. The Pennsylvania state legislature held a hearing on the 2020 election issues and irregularities today. One very credible witness described how he personally observed dozens of USB cards being uploaded to voting machines which resulted in 50,000 votes for Joe Biden in a short period of time. This election could be decided by the Supreme Court weeks from now, but it was not over when the December issue of the All Point Bulletin was published. The Department of Defense regards Biden to be a security risk due to his business dealings with China, and due to blackmail dirt the Chinese are holding over him and his son Hunter. Trump controls the Department of Defense and Special Forces. The Second Amendment was put into the Constitution for dark times like this, and we, the people won’t be disarmed. The evidence of widespread fraud in this election will keep coming out for weeks. Ninety-seven percent of Trump supporters not only refuse to accept the media’s declaration that the election is “over,” many of us are willing to give our lives, if necessary, in defense of our Constitution. I am the PCO for Trump in Point Roberts. On a windless day, Pat Grubb took a photo of the flags in front of my house hanging limply, and your caption reads, “Sad, so sad ...” To counter your propaganda, Pat, I am going to cover my lawn with Trump yard signs today, and the flags will never come down! This election must be seen in the context of the “Covid-19 reset.” For insight, please read this letter by Archbishop Vigano to President Trump (bit.ly/34jHM4x). For additional insight regarding the example of fraud cited above, please see bit. ly/37oldh3. As PCO for Trump in Point Roberts, I encourage the 249 courageous patriots who voted for President Trump to keep

fighting, and to drop by my house for target practice (indoor range) and a conversation. John Hammell Point Roberts (Ed. Note: Ground control to Major John. Ground control to Major John.) The Editor: I have been encouraged to write this, in the hopes that you will find its message of value to your readers. Over the past several months I have had the opportunity to be one of the people called upon to serve an aging woman in our community. The sadness in doing so, is that she has gone beyond her mental and physical capabilities to care properly for herself. As a woman who not that long ago was vibrant and dignified, she has become frail, with a body that does not function well, and a mind that is confused and disabled. It has been my observation that there a fair number of us who are in our elder years here at the Point. And although we have the benefit of caring people, for example, the dedicated members of The Circle of Care, many of us have no others in our realm who can attend to us. Family and friends may live beyond our border, and in some cases do not even exist. Recently, I was urged to fill out an Advanced Directive, containing personal instructions about how I wish to have care given to me, should I not be able to make those decisions. I submitted the original form to Peace Health and gave a copy to the Point Roberts Clinic, plus a copy to one of my sons, whom I have named as my health care agent. In this document I have outlined clear directions as to how I wish my health care to proceed, and feel confident that when

and if I am unable to make major decisions concerning my health, that there will be others who will do that for me. It is my turn to urge others to take this step as well, and the following is the website in finding more information: peacehealth.org/advance-care-planning-resources. Thank you. I do hope you will find this important, as others of us have. Dorothy Gurney Point Roberts The Editor: The Royal Canadian Legion, Tsawwassen Branch #289 would like to thank the Point Roberts businesses that accepted our poppy trays into their stores, and in the very generous way their many customers responded with donations. This support is particularly special in light of the extra hardships being experienced in the Point with the border closure. Also, thank you to the staff of our respective border ports who facilitated the movement of poppy trays. Although our 2020 Poppy Campaign was severely restricted due to Covid-19 concerns, local businesses, schools, senior homes, community groups and the public stepped up with their strong support. We are very grateful for the participation of Point Roberts businesses and residents. With direct canvassing restricted this year, the placement of poppy trays around our community was our sole means of providing the public with a chance to proudly wear a poppy and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country. Donations received have been placed in our Poppy Trust Fund to be returned to the community, in support of our veterans. We look forward to the time when the current pandemic is in check, and we can once again meet and mingle – perhaps over a pint in the Tsawwassen Legion! Raye Newmen, poppy volunteer, Jack Dosenberg, poppy chairman, Andy Catton, poppy volunteer Point Roberts & Tsawwassen Please send letters to editor@allpointbulletin.com

www.allpointbulletin.com Printed in Canada • Vol. XXXVI, No. 9

Letters Policy The All Point Bulletin welcomes letters to the editor; however, the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Letters must include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters must not exceed 450 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality and good taste. 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. Thank you letters should be limited to ten names. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.

Please email your letter to: letters@allpointbulletin.com P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281 Fax: 360/945-1613

Next issue: Feb. 2021 Ads due: Jan. 22

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

Please send letters to editor@allpointbulletin.com

FROM ALL OF US AT

Community Newspaper of Point Roberts, Washington

We wish each of you a healthy 2021! Thank you to our readers and advertisers for your support.

January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

Library re-opens “Due to our lack of Covid and our isolated circumstances, the Whatcom County Library System decided that the Point Roberts branch could re-open to 25 percent capacity,” said branch manager Kris Lomedico. The library can welcome up to five people at a time, wearing masks and keeping physical distance. Operating hours can be seen in Library Picks, page 14. “We can still do curbside service as well,” Lomedico said. A new and exciting option is that patrons can now order American Girl dolls. Books and dolls can be requested through the website at wcls.org or call 360/9456545 during open hours, or 360/305-3600 after hours.

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Cand Corner How does Santa know where you live? There are times when you may be expecting visitors or emergency services, and the visible placement of your address is the only way to communicate to those visitors that they have reached the appropriate destination. That principle is the same for Santa, our emergency responders, and your local trash collectors, who face this dilemma every time they come down your street to collect your curbside refuse. When they cannot confirm the address of the property, they are not authorized to collect the refuse left at the side of the road. Please help us keep our community clean by clearly labelling your trash cans with your property address, and make sure that your posted address is visible from the road.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL AND BEST WISHES FOR A SAFE AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR.

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All Point Bulletin • January 2021

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Year in Review ... From page 1

the advisory committee. • Race Week organizers announced the July event, newly relocated to Point Roberts, would be host to the Corsair Nationals and International 6-meter North American Championship. • The parks district started looking for another new board member after the resignation of Chwynyn Vaughan. • Cando Recycling and Disposal started ramping up a new plastic film recycling program and county staff moved ahead with plans to replace the operations trailer at the transfer station. • PRCAC continued to work with county staff to get 15 proposed changes to county code, developed during dozens of community meetings and work sessions in 2018 and 2019, ready to go before county council for approval. • Rebranding itself as Sustainable Point Roberts, GarbageinPR.com collected 190 responses to a survey about environmental concerns, waste management and sustainable practices. There was strong support for community cleanup events and educational events. • The Point Roberts food bank and the local fire department teamed up to begin delivering Meals on Wheels in Point Roberts. March • Representatives from Orca Shores, majority shareholder and developer of the Cottages at Seabright Farms, said they were making catching up on a quarter million dollars in overdue property taxes a top priority. • Newly elected county executive Satpal Sidhu emphasized the need for community consensus at a town hall meeting on the Point attended by 40 people. • Former Point Roberts resident John Lesow gathered signatures to get an advisory vote on the November 2020 ballot asking Whatcom County voters to support the sale of Point Roberts to Canada. • The International Marketplace and local volunteers from Sustainable Point Roberts brought the Foster Love program to the Point, collecting luggage and backpacks for foster kids and youth in transition. • The boards of the local voters and taxpayers associations pledged to work together more on common goals. Voters association president Allison Calder was already serving on the board of the taxpayers association and at their annual general meeting the voters association elected Mark Robbins, president of the taxpayers association, to their board.

• The Blaine school district’s $26 million maintenance and operations levy was approved by 58 percent of voters. • Stephen Falk was reappointed to the parks district board, after choosing not to run for his position in order to run for a seat on the hospital district board. Candidates can only run for one position in any given election. • The Point Roberts Historical Society began applying for funds to implement an interpretive signage program and self-guided tour. • Whatcom County Council members agreed to put the mandatory service ordinance on the agenda for the public works committee. April • The Whatcom County Health Department reported 86 confirmed cases and four deaths as of March 26 from novel coronavirus. Fire chief Christopher Carleton started working on how to ensure the Point had access to needed supplies and services in the event the epidemic escalated. • Governor Jay Inslee issued a “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, shuttering non-essential business to on-site shopping and dining. Schools were also closed and the school district scrambled to provide online learning to students by March 30. • The community center was closed to the public but the Point Roberts Senior Center and the local for bank continued to provide drive-up services. • Fishing and shellfishing seasons were closed statewide in response to the pandemic. • The U.S./Canada border was closed to all non-essential travel. • As businesses closed down in the face of restrictions aimed at curbing the coronavirus epidemic, The All Point Bulletin turned to readers asking for financial support as advertising dollars disappeared. • The Point Roberts clinic suspended wellness exams and routine checkups and discontinued walk-in visits • Whidbey Telecom looked to the community for help in securing grant funding to bringing a gigabit powered fiber network to the Point. May • The Whatcom County Health Department reported 304 confirmed cases of Covid-19 and 28 deaths as of April 30. The county lagged behind the rest of the state in testing, with only 1.1 percent of the population tested compared to 2.4 percent statewide. • Management at Cando Recycling and Disposal Services anticipated no inter(See Year in Review, page 11)

January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

Pilates or yoga or both – give the gift of fitness this holiday season B y P a t G r u bb What with the pandemic, social distancing, finding yet another reason to have some wine, getting or staying fit in 2020 wasn’t the easiest thing to do. There was always another cat video on the web to watch. Make 2021 a better year, shapewise. There are two local gurus who can help you do that, both from the privacy of your own home. Canvas Pilates (canvaspilates.com) Marcia Rosales offers Pilates instruction to individuals as well as groups in virtual classes using Zoom. She also can give private instruction on Pilates equipment in her studio. Some of the benefits of regular Pilates practice include increased strength and flexibility, better posture, improved balance and coordination, improved movement, relief of back or joint pain and decreased stress, Rosales says. She is currently offering intermediate

Pilates classes using yoga mats and light weights as well as Magic Circle Pilates mat that uses the Magic Circle to add resistance and target specific muscles. She offers a complimentary 20-minute consultation and has specialty training in pre- and post-natal Pilates. Rosales offers gift cards for those on your special list. She also has a limited quantity of Magic Circles for purchase. Madrona Yoga (madronayoga.com) Desiree Kleemann’s studio at the foot of Goodman Hill Road may be closed but you can still stay in shape through virtual classes. The classes are suitable for students at all levels of experience, from the beginner to the long-time student – as teachers offer suggestions for modifications for pretty much all classes. Classes typically start slowly, with stretches to open the body and release tension in neck, shoulders, back, hips – really all over the body. Three teachers –

Desiree, Kathleen McInnes, and Ivy Fijal – lead classes that open up your body and calm your mind during what can be stressful times. Students are loving their yoga practices, and instructors are able to give

remarkably good attention to students’ needs in the online setting. The studio also sells round yoga mats which are very popular with students (mandalayyogamat.com).

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All Point Bulletin • January 2021

Church News By Gina Gaudet On the 6th of January, most Christians will be celebrating Epiphany. For Orthodox Christians, January 6 is Christmas. It is the Sunday that acknowledges the arrival of the Wise Men at the home of Jesus’ family. It is a holiday not widely celebrated outside of the church; most people are sleeping off the Christmas/New Year rush by then. But this pandemic holiday season is different, and we are more sedate, private, maybe more reflective, and we have spare time, so why not look a little more closely at this story from Matthew, which raises questions, both astronomical and historical, regarding a significant Biblical event? The first question: Who were the Three Kings? Actually, those guys were the stars of a popular Christmas hymn. Depending on which version/translation of Matthew you read, they were “wise men,” or astrologers. The latter fits the narrative, as astrologers were highly scientific in their methods, and widely respected within their culture. The fact that they followed a star to the home of Mary, Joseph and Jesus is a good indicator too. Their point of origin is up for debate, beyond the mention by Matthew that they came from the East. Some scholars say they came from Persia. Others speculate that it was closer: Perhaps Parthia, about 500 miles east of Jerusalem, or perhaps Babylonia. Regardless, it was their job to use the stars to determine the births of kings and other notable figures. So, it was not unusual for wise men to travel distances to pay homage to newly born or very young royalty. Jews were not into astrology, and when

the visitors from back East arrived looking for a king, Herod had to ask his priests and advisors about this, and their sources for information were the Old Testament prophets; precisely, Micah, chapter 5, verse 2. No stargazing here. Herod and his advisors had not even noted the appearance of an astronomical event. One point of contention is the idea that the “star” was seen in the East and the wise men continued to follow it, though they were traveling west, which would have put the star behind them. My personal take on it is that they are saying that they saw the star when they were in the east. Not being a Hebrew scholar, I don’t know if the sentence structure in Hebrew would indicate that meaning. In this case, it’s helpful to turn to that other star science to clear up the confusion. I am talking astronomy now, more specifically, Chinese astronomy. Fortunately for us, the Chinese have created and kept meticulous astronomy records for thousands of years. The first one of interest includes a Conjunction, like the one we were to witness at the Winter Solstice (not a personal we as nobody in this climate sees these things). The interesting thing about this conjunct was that it included three planets instead of just two. Mars joined Jupiter and Saturn for this one, a meet-up happening once every 800 years. This conjunct occurred in 6 B.C., two years before the death of Herod. And a year later, in 5 B.C., Chinese records refer to a comet, which appeared in March and April, visible for more than 70 days. This comet would have appeared

in the very early morning, following a cosmic path from East to South, a more likely candidate for our “star of wonder” than a triple conjunct that was just so last year. This would place Jesus’ birth in the time frame of 6 to 5 B.C. Also to consider when time-lining is the fact that in Luke’s story, Jesus is born in a feeding manger in an animal shed. The magi show up at a house, likely weeks or months after his birth. Based on the astrological information from these men, Herod estimates that this new King of Israel (his competition, as he sees it) was born sometime in the last two years. So he has all boy children the age of two and under living in the Bethlehem area killed. This event is referred to as the “Slaughter of the Innocents.” Shortly after this time, Joseph is guided in a dream to pack up his family and move to Egypt, as Israel is no longer a safe place. The Bible has four Gospels; only two have birth narratives, and the narratives

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have different storylines. This is because Gospel writers have different audiences and write for different purposes. Luke was a gentile, a physician, and a very modern author, concerned with issues of justice and equality. His Jesus, as the Messiah, was concerned with the poor, and elevated the role of women. Matthew was Jewish and wrote to present Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah, and as such, the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy. So what does any of this have to do with Epiphany? What it helps us understand is that much of what we observe in the Christian year is created for other reasons than the accurate observation or depiction of historical events. In some ways, the Bible stories are not necessarily factual. But, as one of my seminary professors was fond of saying: “The Bible is not a book of facts. It is a Book of Truth.”

Whatcom County Executive

By Satpal Sidhu The past year has been a tumultuous experience for all of us in Whatcom County, disrupting every aspect of our lives. In local government, we have been challenged to learn something new every day and make consequential decisions, often without complete information or resources. It has been a humbling experience as we endeavor to meet the needs and expectations of our constituents. That said, I believe Whatcom County’s public health response has been commendable. The health department and our countywide emergency response team were actively engaged before the first positive case was identified to plan and prepare. Quick actions resulted in lower case numbers relative to other counties in Washington and across the country. Even so, every death is a tragedy. It is also important to recognize the pandemic’s economic impact, which has been particularly acute for our border communities. Many people are facing economic insecurity as they prepare for the holidays, having lost their job or struggling to keep their business viable. Let’s not lose sight of their hardships.

In an effort to support economic recovery, my administration has been working with our city administrations to achieve an unprecedented level of cooperation, as we pooled federal funding to have the greatest positive impact for our communities. I am grateful to all the mayors and municipal administrators for their cooperation and commitment to making things happen. Together we were able to help small businesses, our schools, and childcare organizations. The Port of Bellingham, for instance, was a leading partner in the effort to provide ferry service, albeit limited, for residents of Point Roberts. In the coming year we will celebrate the Peace Arch centennial and the reopening of the border, when that occurs. I have strong personal cross-border ties and truly look forward to reconnecting and welcoming our Canadian friends and family members back to Whatcom County and to re-entering Canada. Pandemic fatigue is real, and the holiday season has us yearning to be closer to others. Please remember that this year the best way we can show that we care about our loved ones and community is to wear a mask, practice social distancing and limit travel.

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s With the closure of Banner Bank, the smiling faces of, from l., Laura Griffith, Sandy Letherby, Holly Milner and Barb Richardson will be sorely missed. Photo by Reneé Coe

In The Garden By Rhiannon Allen The gardening year 2021 is going to be different from previous years by virtue of following 2020. When lockdowns started, many people wary of supply chain disruptions and brick-andmortar shopping turned to food gardening as a way of ensuring fresh vegetables. In addition, many people out of work or working from home took the opportunity to start or intensify their home gardening as a relatively affordable way to spend time in an enjoyable fashion. Unfortunately, the surge in garden interest caused quite a few disruptions. In Point Roberts, we were suddenly cut off from physical retail outlets like Ladner’s West Coast Seeds (WCS). Throughout the world, seed retailers and garden supply businesses sold out their stock early. Those of us who normally use the winter months to organize our garden planning and purchasing suddenly had an edge on others who do not. As we move into the second year of the pandemic, it is time to follow the model of the habitual early bird gardener. So what do we early birds do? The first thing we do is pour over paper seed catalogs, savoring thoughts of summer gardening. It’s one of my favorite winter pastimes with the luscious photographs eliciting the tastes of fresh beets and tomatoes, the aroma of parsley and marigolds, and the sound of bees on savory and thyme. After my catalogue indulgence, the next thing I do is hold a family discussion about which edibles we want to grow the coming summer. Because we have limited space and sunlight, we give priority to relatively compact vegetables that the marketplace doesn’t sell and those that do well in part sun. (We use the advantage of belonging to the Benson Road Garden aka Co-op for full-sun, space-hogging plants and you might have a similar freedom.) Before drawing up my seed wish list, I check for seeds that I have saved from last year. Seeds like peas, broccoli and flowers that I harvested and dried last summer and autumn will still be good. Purchased seed packages often have the average seed life printed on them; if not, I assume that oneyear-old seeds will still be viable, but possibly at a reduced rate. Then I go on a seed-ordering hunt. In a normal year, I buy most seeds at WCS in person, and then turn to online ordering for seeds that WCS does not sell. In all likelihood, in-store purchases at WCS will not be an option this year.

However, I can’t fault my two favorite online seed vendors – Territorial and Johnny’s. All three seed vendors offer a broad selection of organic nonGMO seeds. If I were to need fruit or berries, then I would turn to Raintree Nursery. If I forget to order something or change my mind too late, I know that Nielson’s will be selling a variety of seeds later, and Ladybug Nursery will be offering plant starts once the weather warms. Since a good growing season at our latitude depends on starting many seeds in a protected environment as early as March, I also check to see if I need to replenish any supplies. For outdoors, that might mean row covers and the means to anchor them, and a working soil thermometer. For indoors, that means sterile seed starting mix, small-cell seed starting trays, drip trays, plastic domes (preferably vented) to go over the trays, seedling heating mats, full-spectrum T5 fluorescent grow lights and a way to suspend the lights a few inches above the seedlings. With the unavailability of WCS’s amazing seed starting equipment last year, I was able to buy some supplies at Nielson’s, and ordered others from Gardener’s Supply Company and AgFabric. All are expensive investments, but all except the starter mix can be reused for many years. In addition to checking for needed replenishments, I also make sure that all my seed starting supplies have been sterilized. For later in the growing season, I also check for irrigation supplies. I might order more shade netting or small mesh plastic netting to protect crops from sun, birds, deer and other animal pests with the same tastes as me. I recommend AgFabric’s 30 percent shade cloth for the former and Nielson’s for the latter. Remember that if Nielson’s doesn’t have something in stock, you might be able to order it from DoItBest.com and have it delivered free of shipping charge to Nielson’s. Of course, we are all hoping for a more normal year coming up. Still, I suspect that many people who turned to or returned to gardening in 2020 will throw themselves into the activity once again because it can be so much fun and so rewarding. So follow the model of experienced gardeners and you won’t be caught by surprise when companies sell out or announce shipping delays. Happy dreaming and shopping!

Brought To You By

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Point Roberts Primary 2050 Benson Rd, P.O. Box 910 Point Roberts, WA 98281 945-ABCD (2223)

District

PT. ROBERTS PRIMARY SCHOOL’S WINTER PERFORMANCE

Thank you to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this year’s Winter Performance so special - especially Bennett Blaustein (Point Roberts TV) who filmed and edited the production while socially distanced; Tammy McDonald who helped the students with their art, creation of our reader’s theater script and our artistic backdrops; and Tracy Kelly who worked with the students on their art, and practicing their lines. Jessie Hettinga, M.S.Ed., K-3 Teacher & Principal Intern

Dear Point Roberts Community, We are entering winter break and a much needed chance for us all to rest and recharge. All of our buildings, including the district office, will be closed during the winter break. This will allow a deep cleaning to occur and then allow our custodial staff a much needed break as well. Some staff will continue to work remotely. To our Point Roberts Primary School students, staff and families, I would like to extend my thanks for the wonderful virtual Winter Performance. I appreciate all of your hard work and thoroughly enjoyed seeing your bright cheery faces. If you missed it, it’s not too late; you can visit our YouTube channel, Blaine School District, WA, for a little holiday cheer whenever you have the time. For our Point Roberts students and families in grades 6 -12, I want you to know we are continuing to work towards getting the students back to the building as soon as possible. As I write this tonight, our administrators are currently going over new state guidance that came out just hours ago. As soon as we are able to determine how this might affect our re-opening plans we will let you know. In order to be prepared for a smooth transition, possibly on short notice, we are asking all families of 6th-12th grade students to be familiar with their student’s hybrid assignment (A or B) and the hybrid calendar. Virtual information nights for hybrid learners will occur Tuesday, January 5th for middle school and Wednesday, January 6th for high school. Links for those meetings will be available on our website. A few additional points of interest; • Daily Wellness Screenings are required and can be done in Skyward • Bus Schedules are available in Skyward • Changes requested through the online forms last week will go in effect January 25th and not be visible in Skyward before then, • Those with schedule changes will receive an email confirming them by January 15th As we make our way through December and this season of holidays, I hope you are taking time to enjoy the things in life that matter most to you. Although many different traditions will be celebrated throughout our community this season, many of them will share a common theme of light. As you travel through these last few weeks of 2020, I hope you are able to embrace the light and begin to look forward to a much brighter year in 2021. Sincerely, Dr. Christopher Granger, Superintendent, Blaine School District Every Student. Every Day. In a New Way

Mask Up. Wash Hands. Social Distance. Be Safe. Because We Care.

Check out our district website! www.blainesd.org

All Point Bulletin • January 2021

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POINT ROBERTS Historical Society

Open-Closed-Open Briefly-Closed-Again In six words, that pretty much sums up our year. Who knew what the year 2020 would be bringing to citizens of the world? At the time of this writing we remain thankful for Point Roberts being Covid free as far as we know. There are some parallels in history compared with today. The Spanish Flu pandemic 100 years ago does not appear to have claimed any lives at Point Roberts. The twice-weekly ferry service to Bellingham is reminiscent of the days when ships called in to the Township dock. The Lady Of The Lake would have been in service around the time when townfolk had to travel to Seattle to register their homestead rights in 1908. There are many other names that called in to port including the Star fleet, sailing vessels that brought supplies to the A.P.A. Cannery at Blaine and Lily Point. The most memorable and long lasting run was started by the Waters brothers who ran the Tulip, calling in to Belling-

ham, Blaine and Point Roberts on a weekly basis bringing store goods, passengers and the weekly mail. Local produce such as berries, eggs and cream were sent back to grace Whatcom County tables. When a reliable overland route through Canada was established in 1934, John Solomon started a trucking route called Point Roberts Auto Freight. Still running today! The prolonged closed border with Canada is a new issue. Also new is the tradition of visiting friends and loved ones across the invisible line at Monument Park or

even on the sandbars at Boundary Bay! The Point has seen more than its share of news articles and TV clips around the nation and around the world. Those of us here are living a history which future generations on the Point will tell with wonder. Stay well, stay safe everyone. We will get through this.

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s The Santa Ship is a fun piece of Point Roberts history, illustrating the sometimes-challenging logistics in executing holiday traditions here. The Bellingham Junior Chamber of Commerce began organizing a holiday ship in 1951 to visit the children living in remote communities in the Salish Sea. In their second year of operation, they added Point Roberts to their ports of call for Christmas. As the ship neared the Gulf Road pier in the December darkness, the Jaycees plugged in a huge Christmas tree, which lit up the night sky and carols were blasted through the ship’s loudspeaker. Santa handed out candies, nuts and oranges to the children gathered on the pier. It then sailed off, headed for the lighthouse keeper’s family on Patos Island. The Santa Ship tradition has continued into recent times, now in the afternoon for selfies with Santa, but the Santa Ship hasn’t called on Point Roberts since the mid-1950s. The detour from the San Juans up to our little exclave, it seems, is too remote, even for Santa. Mark Swenson

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these businesses rely on a customer base 80 percent Canadians. Several businesses have since closed. Others are ‘on hold,’ waiting for the border to re-open. This study was crucial in pointing out the primary difference of Point Roberts from other border communities. Its geographical isolation, bordering Canada, means there is no surrounding economic support. Blaine, Lynden and Sumas can draw from the south. Point Roberts has no surroundings to draw from. This significant distinction has been brought forward by the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce to our local, county, state and federal representatives, as well as their Canadian counterparts.

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The current board of directors has responded to this economic plight. Chamber president Brian Calder has been interviewed by numerous media regarding Point Roberts’ isolation and as the “safest place to live during the pandemic,” bringing attention to the (catastrophic) effect of the border closure. The chamber has taken up initiatives with the Point’s representatives at the county and state level, asking the Port of Bellingham/Whatcom County to seriously consider a purchase of the Point Roberts Marina; and for an arrangement to allow local contractors to operate county equipment in the case of emergencies. Board: Brian Calder, president; Louise Mugar, vice president; Patti Monaghan-Hacker, treasurer; Linda Hughes, secretary; Tamra Hansen, director. Members: 32

POINT ROBERTS Hospital District

2020 has been eventful for the Point Roberts Public Hospital District (PRPHD) and the clinic, with the Commission meeting via Zoom most of the year due to Covid restrictions. Despite the pandemic, the clinic has continued without interruption, providing healthcare to the community while following the governor’s mandated pandemic safety guidelines. During the summer, the district issued a Request for Proposals for operation of the Clinic for the years 2021-2022. Proposals were submitted by the Shields Company and by SuperTrack Urgent Care. After a comprehensive review and considerable public input, the PRPHD chose the SuperTrack proposal, and a new contract has been signed for 2021-2022. Flu shot clinics were held in September and October and 100 local residents received their flu immunization, more than three times the number in 2019. The clinic also cooperated with the fire department to assure continued Covid testing here. The year 2020 saw the retirement of our beloved Virginia Lester, ARNP, co-founder of the Ayden Wellness Clinic. Her talent, passion and determination have been instrumental in the success of our clinic, and we are happy to say she remains active in her support of the clinic and the community.

Medical Director Sean Bozorgzad, M.D. has assumed the role of medical provider on Mondays, and Jeremy Quinn, PA-C, fills that role on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Jeremy has over a decade of experience as a physician’s assistant in both primary and urgent care. Shivé Marshall continues as receptionist/assistant, and Chwynyn Vaughn remains as medical assistant and phlebotomist. Mae Lary, MD, partner in SuperTrack Urgent Care PLLC, is now holding a dermatology clinic here one day each month. Access to care beyond the current clinic open days is augmented by telemedicine to providers at the Bellingham SuperTrack Lakeway location. Thank you, Point Roberts, for your ongoing support. Barbara Wayland, Superintendent

Crossings >>> Traffic into Point Roberts for September 2020 with 2019 figures following: Vehicles - 13,509 (194,695); Pedestrians – 8 (2,504); Commercial - 262 (2,106).

January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

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POINT ROBERTS

Independent Bus. Council

In March 2020, the PRIBC commissioned and published the Point Roberts Economic Profile via a collaboration with Western Washington University’s Center for Economic and Business Research. In November 2020, the PRIBC published its 2020 Point Roberts comprehensive economic/governance report, which the Border Policy Research Institute at WWU reviewed and subsequently submitted a letter of support to the PRCAC. The PRIBC continues to be an active community participant online via its website/blog at pribc.org, as well as via regular

Year in Review ... From page 6

ruptions in service following the sudden death of owner David Gellatly. • The county health department recommended the cancellation of summer events. Race Week organizers announced the event, scheduled for Point Roberts after 30 years on Whidbey Island, would be cancelled for 2020. • Point Roberts was slow to respond to the 2020 census, with only 18 percent of households responding by the end of April, compared to 62 percent in the county. • The local fire department in cooperation with the clinic began to offer Covid-19 testing. • Despite $10 million to hand out, Working Washington grants to help small businesses were only able to help a fraction of the businesses that applied. • The Circle of Care “Our Finest Hour” program offered emergency funds to residents to cover small expenses government assistance didn’t cover. • Lighthouse Marine Park’s new ranger Meghan Kelly had a lonely start to her assignment, with the campground remaining closed and the camp hosts let go for the year. • Blackfish Resort was listed for sale at just shy of $8 million. • Sally Roberts and Ernie Loreen both celebrated their 90th birthdays with friends and family treating them to drive-by parties. June • Asian Giant Hornets, dubbed “murder hornets,” were reported in Whatcom County. • An anti-microbial coating product developed by Allied BioSciences, a company founded in Point Roberts, began to be used by hospital and transit systems to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. • With regional food banks changing procedures in response to Covid-19, the local food bank had to rely more heavily on local donations to ensure clients could continue to get a healthy variety of food. • The closure of the U.S./Canada border to non-essential travel was extended for another month. • Local clothing and costume designer Savilla Kress turned her talents to making cloth masks, selling them from her home as a fundraiser for local firefighters. • Local groups and boards took their meetings online. At their May virtual meeting the board of the taxpayers association heard from Canadian property owners frustrated and not being allowed to come to the Point to check on their properties under the Covid closure of the border to non-essential travel. • Local residents began circulating a petition to the governments of the U.S. and Canada asking that residents of Point Roberts, where there had been no reported cases of Covid-19, be allowed to travel to and from the mainland. (To be continued in the next issue)

attendance at Whatcom County Council and PRCAC Zoom meetings. In January 2021, the PRIBC will launch PRVision2021, a collaborative community collective designed to address local governance and economic well-being. The PRIBC wishes to convey to the community of Point Roberts that we have your back, even in the toughest of times. We encourage all stakeholders to come together, set aside your differences and collaborate collectively to establish accountable governance and economic well-being for all of Point Roberts. Twitter: @pointrobertsibc” Board: Bob Stuart, president; Tom O’Brien, secretary-treasurer. Members: N/A (Editor’s note: The APB was referred to pribc.org website for board and membership information. There were just two board members listed; three had previously resigned in early 2020. The membership list is from 2019; of the 45 members listed, 11 have subsequently joined the PR chamber, 7 have closed, 6 have no known businesses. The status of the others listed could not be determined.)

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Deputies to wear body cameras By Ian Haupt By the end of March 2021, all Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies will be wearing body cameras while on patrol, according to undersheriff Doug Chadwick. Whatcom County Council approved the purchase of 78 body cameras and subsequent funding for cloud storage and technical assurance plans needed to run the program for five years. The sheriff’s office is purchasing 78 cameras from Axon Enterprise, Inc. for 65 patrol-based deputies, Chadwick said in a council finance and administrative services committee meeting. This provides spares, as well as cameras for detectives and non-uniformed deputies to use while working in the field, acting as patrol or interacting with the public. “The plan is to have all field units wearing body-worn cameras,” Chadwick said. The total cost of the body camera program for five years is $381,437. If the sheriff’s office wish to continue the program after five years, Chadwick said it’s $66,591 per year. He said Axon cameras are also used by the Bellingham Police Department and are the most common brand of body-worn cameras used by police departments nationwide. Chadwick said the sheriff’s office began looking into the use of body-worn cameras in 2014 and ran a pilot test program in 2016 and another in 2019. Initial funding for the program was approved at the beginning of 2020 but was put on hold when county departments were asked to cut costs due to revenue shortfalls from Covid-19, Chadwick said. The sheriff’s office hopes to get the equipment by the end of the year to allow time for training. Chadwick said personnel will need to be trained on when and how to activate, deactivate and control camera settings. Chadwick said deputies will turn on their cameras “anytime there’s an interaction with a subject, or there’s potential for things to escalate.” He added they also have to be aware of and respect people’s privacy.

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PointRobertsMiniStorage.com Real Estate

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Email: makemoney@raise.rentals

for REAL news

Rentals - Vacation

Call or Text Eric: 360-319-6718

Eric176e@hotmail.com

MINI & MOBILE

Prices starting at $

Rentals - Residential

ROOFING WORK

Point Roberts

Store boats, trailers, RV or camper and cars in our completely enclosed secure facilities.

WATERFRONT APARTMENTS - Oceanfront apartment suites available for short-term or long-term rent. Majestic southern view near Lighthouse Park. Call 360-945-RENT or visit Oceanviewpointroberts.com

Construction

Storage

STORAGE

POINT ROBERTS PC Repair • Tutoring Home Security WI-FI / Networking Smart Home • Home Theater Custom PC Builds

800 - 1600 s.f.

Prime ground floor office and retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor. Fiber optic internet access.

! G N NDI

Waterview Home in Point Roberts 380 W Bluff Road

3-BD, 2-BA +Den

$425,000

Enjoy the relaxed beach life and make a lifetime of memories in this Point Roberts home. Sit on the front porch with friends enjoying the water view and gorgeous sunsets. Private access to the beach is just out your front door. 3 BD/2 BA + den. The upstairs landing has a balcony where the spectacular view continues. Wood floors throughout the downstairs living areas and plenty of open area to entertain. Call: 346-610-5499

January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

Coming up ... Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events Light Up Point Roberts Bus Tours: Circle of Care is giving bus tours every night for single passengers and groups of up to four people. Because the bus can only accommodate four passengers while maintaining safe social distancing, passengers must book a time for themselves and/or their group. Contact Annelle at prcircleofcare@gmail.com (preferably) or 360/945-5222 to schedule a time. Point Roberts Walkers: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on Elizabeth Drive and Saturdays at Lily Point. PR Christmas lights contest: Registration is closed. Judging will be Sunday, December 20. PR Amateur Radio Club: Monday, January 4 at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Email Michele Wallis at wb6f@pointroberts.net. PR Chamber of Commerce: Tuesday, January 5. TBD. PR Park and Recreation: Monday, January 11 at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org. PR Taxpayers Association meeting: Wednesday, January 13 at 7 p.m. PR Hospital District: Wednesday, January 13 at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: pointrobertsclinic.com. Effective January, meetings have been moved to the second Wednesday of the month. PR Historical Society: The society is unable to hold a second holiday pop up store, which it had planned because of popular demand before new Covid-19 restrictions. Instead, it will do online and phone sales for pick up outside the history center. Shipping is also available. Contact: historicalsociety@pointroberts. net or call 360/945-7747 and they will email you an order form within one to two days. No December meeting. Whatcom County Al-Anon: Online meetings available via Zoom and GoToMeeting. Info: whatcomafg. org. PR Garden Club: No January meeting.

REGARDING WINTER STORM CAPABILITIES

Whatcom County Public Works Open Letter to the people of Point Roberts The Whatcom County Public Works (WCPW) Department has received inquiries from residents and organizations in Point Roberts requesting that volunteers from the community be allowed to use county equipment to plow snow and perform other snow and ice mitigation after winter storms. The people of Point Roberts are known for looking out for one another and supporting their neighbors, and these questions are logical ones to ask – especially now, when the COVID-19 pandemic has isolated the peninsula. The snow equipment WCPW keeps at Point Roberts requires a commercial driver license and special training to operate. In addition, there are significant liability and insurance issues related to having someone who isn’t a county employee operate county-owned equipment. For these reasons, county employees are the only ones allowed to operate county-owned equipment. In an effort to be responsive to these requests, WCPW is looking into the feasibility of a targeted snow and ice management on-call equipment and operator solicitation for 2021. Any responses to this solicitation must be able to provide both the personnel, equipment, insurance, and bonding to enter into a contract. There is a chance that WCPW service to Point Roberts may be delayed during a severe winter storm – but not because of the current US-Canada border closure. The COVID-19 border restrictions have not impacted Public Works’ ability to access Point Roberts. Maintenance and Operations Division employees continue to travel to and from Point Roberts as essential workers whenever needed (in fact, travel time to Point Roberts is faster now than before the pandemic). COVID-19 has affected Public Works’ winter operations by limiting our ability to hire and train new employees; specifically, for new employees to obtain CDL driver licenses and receive the training needed to operate snow and ice equipment. This staffing shortage could impact the department’s response time during a winter snow storm. We want to be fully transparent about this situation and completely honest about the restrictions that prevent us from letting volunteers use county-owned equipment. Whatcom County Public Works remains committed to serving the people of Point Roberts and will maintain the same priority for Point Roberts roads as we have in the past. Roads at the Point will not be de-prioritized simply because of their location. In order to better explain the county’s processes, the department has made a new webpage with all snow-related resources, a road priority map, and a snow FAQ all in one place at www.whatcomcounty.us/winteroperations. We remain available for more discussion on these matters. The best point of contact for further discussion is Roland Middleton, Public Works Community Liaison. He can be reached at RMiddlet@co.whatcom.wa.us or 360-778-6212. We realize that COVID-19 and its restrictions have been especially hard on the people of Point Roberts. Our Public Works team is committed to providing the best service we can within the limits we have. Point Roberts is a resilient community, and we ask that people remain patient, prepared, and safe this winter. Sincerely, Jon Hutchings, Director, Whatcom County Public Works

We are Still Delivering Boats! To date, we have delivered 220 boats; helping Canadian and American boaters reunite with their boats.

Point Roberts • Blaine Harbor • Semiahmoo • Sidney Pacific Coast Yacht Sales is the only dealership bonded and licensed in Washington and certified in British Columbia. Co-operation with all Brokers to promote your Vessel better.

Pacific Coast Yacht Sales. Ltd. YACHTS SALES • YACHT BROKERAGE Philip A. Cragg, President Point Roberts, WA • 604.708.1980 • Richmond, BC www.PacificCoastYachtSales.ca

Email: PacificCoast@telus.ca

BC CERTIFIED BROKER • BONDED AND LICENSED IN WA STATE

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts NOVEMBER 2020 LOCATION

SALE PRICE

HIGHER END HOUSES $600,000 AND ABOVE: 2-story house with 2,416 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 552 SF attached garage, 732 SF deck, built in 1994; marine and territorial view, .51 acres land.

5521 Canvasback Road, Blaine

$615,000

1-story house with 2,039 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 549 SF attached garage, 517 SF patio, 396 SF guest cottage with bathroom, built in 2014; territorial views; .25 acres land.

8789 Clubhouse Point Drive, Blaine

$876,900

6961 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine

$674,000

1-story house with 2,434 SF, 1,501 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 400 SF detached garage, 537 SF attached garage, 368 SF balcony, 368 SF patio, built in 2019; territorial views, .23 acres land.

8783 Clubhouse Point Drive, Blaine

$1,049,000

Condo with 1,802 SF, 2 BD, 4 BA, detached garage, built in 2013, waterfront; marine view.

Unit B303, Marin Condo, 9535 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine

$703,000

2-story house with 6,481 SF, 5 BD, 5 BA, 1,344 SF built-in garage, 1,792 SF detached garage, 468 SF balcony, 576 SF carport, 644 SF patio, built in 2005, 1-story house with 896 SF, 1 BD, 1 BA, built in 2005; 1-and a half story house with 4,796 SF, 5 BD, 6 BA, 1,574 SF attached garage, 1,980 SF patio, 360 SF deck, built in 2017; 10.58 acres wooded land.

9572 & 9598 Sherwood Drive, Blaine

$1,475,000

1-and a half story house with 2,724 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, 606 SF attached garage, 470 SF patio, built in 2003, .41 acres land.

8605 Great Horned Owl Lane, Blaine

$754,000

2-story house with 3,175 SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, 1,000 SF attached garage, 508 SF patio, built in 2007, .37 acres land.

5597 Sandpiper Lane, Blaine

$860,000

2-story house with 1,680 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 792 SF deck, 408 SF patio, built in 1986; marine view, .42 acres land.

7398 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine

$686,000

2-story house with 4,087 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 1,038 SF built-in garage, 1,390 SF patio, built in 2006, .33 acres land.

8870 Comorant Court, Blaine

$960,000

Two condos knocked into one with 4,006 SF, 4 BD, 6 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; marine and territorial view.

#105, Pacific Point Condo, 9545 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine

$2,932,509

Condo with 2,144 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; marine and territorial view.

#306, Pacific Point Condo, 9545 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine

$1,449,000

5473 Wood Duck Loop, Blaine

$825,000

Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; marine and territorial view.

#302, Pacific Point Condo, 9545 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine

$1,307,798

1-story house with 1,431 SF, 1, 343 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 520 SF attached garage, 743 SF balcony, built in 1989; marine and territorial views, .27 acres land.

8045 Makah Road, Blaine

$665,000

1-story house with 1,394 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 728 SF detached garage, 250 and 367 SF deck, 196 SF storage, built in 1985; marine view, .15 acres land.

4827 Timber Lane, Blaine

$606,000

Seaside Drive, Blaine

$197,000

Dogwood Way, Point Roberts

$1,075,000

.33 acres residential waterfront lot; marine and territorial view.

Chehalis Road, Blaine

$361,000

.35 acres residential waterfront lot; marine and territorial view.

8082 Comox Road, Blaine

$439,000

9550 Sherwood Drive, Blaine

$428,000

.27 acres residential lot; marine and territorial view.

5752 Nakat Way, Blaine

$195,000

.26 acres residential lot; marine and territorial view.

7403 Jackson Road, Blaine

$188,500

Whatcom Land Trust Fleet Road, Blaine

$220,000

DESCRIPTION

2-story house with 2,180 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 400 SF built-in garage, 472 SF deck, built in 1990; marine views, .11 acres land.

2-story house with 2,099 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, attached garage, built in 2020, .19 acres land.

LAND: .21 acres residential lot. 49.63 acres wooded residential land.

4.85 acres residential land with 2,208 SF storage, 448 SF storage, built in 2009.

8.87 open space land.

All Point Bulletin • January 2021

2020

Library Picks

year in

REVIEW Library

K RIS L O M EDI C O Bestsellers: The Four Winds . . Kristin Hannah Serpentine . . Jonathan Kellerman Black Widows . . . . .Cate Quinn The Removed . . Brandon Hobson Movies: Then Came You . . Craig Ferguson The New Mutants Maisie Williams Made in Italy . . . . Liam Neeson Hot on My Trail Binge Box movies Music: Pwr/up . . . . . . . . . . . AC/DC Harmony . . . . . . . Josh Groban Evermore . . . . . . . Taylor Swift Believe . . . . . . . Andrea Bocelli Teens: Chasing Lucky . . . . Jenn Bennett These Violent Delights . . C. Gong The Cousins . . . Karen McManus Kids: Adelita: A Sea Turtle’s Journey . . . . . . . . . . . . Jenny Goebel The Barren Grounds . D. Robertson Being Noah . . . . . Cheryl Hardy Open Hours: Tue. 1-7 p.m., Wed. & Sat. 10-5. Face masks required, limited numbers, physical distancing. Library Express: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Masks, one person at a time.

S i nSince c e 1973 1973

POINT ROBERTS

A LOOK BACK

In this year like no other, the library strived to be a safe place. While closed, all interior surfaces were sanitized, (thanks to Heather Dixon) and our staff (Rose Momsen, Liz Otwell, Susan Black, Kris Lomedico) trained to learn the protocols for partial opening to safely serve the public. And we learned to Zoom! As the newest library in the county system (WCLS), a specially featured Express Room enables patrons to pick up and

2020 year in

POINT ROBERTS

REVIEW Friends of the Library

A LOOK BACK Like most groups, we began the year in a room together and end it in a Zoom together. In between, we adapted, adjusted, and carried on. The library has been able to remain functional during the year and FOPRL has too. Last spring, we completed plans for opening The Commons, a meeting place with coffee and used books at the community center. We have new tables (thanks to the parks board), as well as new comfy chairs, and bookshelves (built by Tor and Heidi Baxter) in place. Those shelves are filled with many books (thanks

TWO BROTHERS COMMERCIAL

MASONRY

NTIAL

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BARRY L. WIENS Lic #2BROTB1945DA Licensed & Bonded

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MATT WIENS www.twobrothersmasonry.com

Ken Calder Construction Septic Installation & Maintenance Specialist

Ken Calder, Owner General Contractor

check out requested items on their own time, whether in a designated folder or in a grab-and-go bag. Curbside service can be ordered as well, during open hours. Deliveries are once weekly. Story time and special programs are all via Zoom, and the summer reading program met with some success with free books for kids. Even the book club met outside in good weather. Now, because of zero Covid cases in

Cell: 360-220-0133

kencalderconstruction@gmail.com

BONDED & INSURED Contractors License: # KENCACC882MO • Septic License: # PT0003241 • OSS O&M License: # PT0003625

SEAMLESS GUTTERS GUARD • CLEANING

to our many donors) that have been helpfully sorted by our members. When the state gives the go ahead, we’re ready to open, and very much looking forward to seeing you all. In addition, we have worked out some landscaping problems in cooperation with parks to ensure that the new plantings are ensured adequate water, weeding, and mowing. And adding to the landscape is a

2020 year in

WHATCOM COUNTY

REVIEW Sheriff

By Bill Elfo On behalf of all members of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It an honor to serve the Point Roberts community. In this era of calls for “police reform,” we are fortunate to serve such a supportive community that recognizes the professionalism of our deputies; the training they receive and the standards they adhere to. To further public trust we will be adopting a body-worn camera program in 2021. The year 2020 was a very challenging time for our entire community and law enforcement was no exception. Our ability to maintain full operational strength was affected by a hiring freeze that resulted from declines in county revenues; closures at the Police Academy that impaired our ability to train new deputies; personnel illness and mandated closures of some functions of our office. We anticipated more significant staffing reductions but very fortunately that was for the most part, averted. We are pleased to report that we will be continuing the Point Roberts resident

Sheriff’s Report December 1, 12:05 p.m.: Welfare

Benson Road.

check on Mill Road.

December 7, 6:09 a.m.: Welfare

December 2, 10:44 a.m.: Theft cold

check on Mill Road.

call on Windsor Drive.

December 8, 3:11 p.m.: Landlord

December 2, 11:09 a.m.: Trespass in

tenant dispute cold call on Regina

progress on Simundson Drive.

Kelly & Son Roofing Roofing • Re-Roofing • Repairs

SERVING Point Roberts!

deputy program with two deputies. We thank deputy James Allen for his great service. He will be reassigned to other duties in January. Deputy Neil Ingerman will continue to serve at the Point and will be joined by deputy Trent Leach. Neil and Trent are both community-oriented deputies and I have no doubt they will continue to serve the community well. We will continue our mental health deputy program with two deputies. The program is very successful and is coordinated with the increased myriad of services provided by the county’s health department. A new crisis stabilization center will facilitate more diversion and treatment will open shortly. The resident deputies will coordinate with the mental health deputy. We were awarded generous grants to purchase an ocean-going vessel to patrol coastal areas and reach Point Roberts. The vessel will be moored at Blaine marina and will be available to respond and transport equipment to the Point and arrested persons from the Point. The Sheriff’s Office annual report can be viewed at bit.ly/2IVuRye Thank you!

# GUTTEG*820C8

HAYDEN KELLY • (360) 922-9435

25 Years

beautiful new bench where people can sit, protected from the rain and can comfortably use the fast Wi-Fi, read a book, or just contemplate our world. Finally, we have provided financial support for many kids programs over the year, including a Gingerbread Storytime and Slime Making program last winter, a Zentangle Summer Zoom program, and Take Home Craft Bags for this winter. It’s been a difficult year for everyone, and we are grateful to all those who have donated their time and money to us. It’s a wonderful community to work with! Judy Ross

A LOOK BACK

QUALITY SEAMLESS GUTTERS LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED

Point Roberts, and our isolation, our doors are open to 25 percent occupancy, (up to five people) with masks required and physical distancing. Surfaces are sanitized throughout the day. Before the shut-down, we bid goodbye to dear friend and long time staff member, Fran Reilly, who retired, big party and all, in February. Throughout this year we have sorely missed our cross border and summer visitors, and have extended the time on items checked out to them into spring of 2021. Like everyone else, we hope for a timely end to Covid, border closures and the anxiety involved. So, here’s to a much happier and safer 2021. Come and see us.

Established 1991 • FREE ESTIMATES

360-945-ROOF (7 6 6 3)

Chris Kelly • Licensed #KELLYS*8016MH

Way.

December 2, 1:07 p.m.: Welfare check on Mill

December 8, 6:19 p.m.: Alarm audible on

Road.

Tyee Road.

December 2, 3:44 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call

December 9, 11:18 a.m.: Security check in

on Tyee Drive.

progress on Edwards Drive.

December 3, 8:05 a.m.: Trespass in progress

December 10, 6:11 p.m.: Extra patrol on Ma-

on Regina Way.

rine Drive.

December 3, 11:58 a.m.: Security check on

December 10, 10:29 p.m.: Theft cold call on

Limerick Avenue.

Ocean View Lane.

December 3, 3:55 p.m.: Domestic order viola-

December 11, 11:46 a.m.: Alarm audible on

tion cold call on Mill Road.

Tyee Drive.

December 5, 10:53 a.m.: Suspicious circum-

December 13, 1:19 p.m.: Suspicious circum-

stances cold call on Mill Road.

stances cold call on Boundary Bay Road.

December 6, 11:17 a.m.: Welfare check on

December 14, 5:51 p.m.: Watch for on Mill

Mill Road.

and Province roads.

December 7, 5:39 a.m.: Hang-up (911) on

January 2021 • allpointbulletin.com

Tour the Point Roberts

Christmas Lights Display Holiday Lights Contest Get your twinkle on for Point Roberts’ first Christmas lights contest. Entrants are listed here, creating a self-guided tour of displays for the community to enjoy. On December 20, celebrity judges Valerie Mayer, Rose Momsen, Annelle Norman, Piia Shokair and Lucy Williams will select winners who will receive prizes donated by local businesses including a $100 gift certificate to Auntie Pam’s Country Store. “What a safe, fun activity to do when it gets dark so early,” said organizer Pamala Sheppard. “Get in your car and drive around the Point to see the show. And you can do it over and over again.”

Light Up Point Roberts Bus Tours If you’d like to take a tour of the lights, Circle of Care is running its bus each night beginning Thursday evening, December 17. Our jolly bus driver, Tom, will collect you at your home and take you all around town so that you can enjoy each display. Because the bus can only accommodate 4 passengers while maintaining safe social distancing, YOU MUST BOOK a time for yourself and/or your group of up to 4 people. If your family, “your bubble”, is more than 4 people we can handle that but no more than 4 unrelated passengers can be accommodated. There will be holiday music and lots of good cheer, so join us through the end of the year. Please contact Annelle at prcircleofcare@gmail. com (preferably) or 360-945-5222 with clarity about when you’d like to go and she will do her best to book your time accordingly.

Take a peak... here are a few of what you’ll see!

Tour the Point Roberts Christmas Light Displays at these addresses!

1496 Gulf Rd. 1480 Gulf Rd. Auntie Pam’s Country Store. 1623 Johnson Rd. 1849 Washington Dr. 1876 Washington Dr. 1969 Wellington Rd. 1981 Wellington Rd. 1990 Wellington Rd. 1997 Wellington Rd.

175 Donegal Dr. 2170 Wicklow Pl. 2104 Whalen Dr. 2091 Maple St. 2155 Fir St. 2146 Deer Rd. 525 Boundary Bay Rd. 2148 Seabright Loop. 695 Pauls Rd. 609 Highland Dr. 632 Highland Dr. 2003 APA Rd. 1579 Harbor Seal Dr. 1668 Harbor Seal Dr. 1494 Edwards Dr. 1413 Edwards Dr. 219 Marine Dr. 483 Marine Dr. 713 Marine Dr. 1433 Churchill Dr.

All Point Bulletin • January 2021 JamesJames H. James H.Julius, Julius, H.Broker* Julius, Broker* Designated Broker*

Notary Public

CELEBRATING

Maureen Stevens, Broker Notary Public * Successfully listing and selling

Point Roberts real estate since 1968 and selling E-Mail: prprty@Whidbey.com * Successfully listing YEARS E-Mail: prprty@Whidbey.com www.pointrobertswashington.com • www.pointrobertswashington.com Point Roberts real estateSELLING sincePOINT1968 ROBERTS

79 Tyee Drive Point Roberts, WA 98281

E/Mail: prr@pointroberts.com

Phone: 360/945-1115 Fax: 945-0804

“NOBODY KNOWS POINT ROBERTS LIKE POINT ROBERTS REALTY” visit our website: www.pointroberts.com

UPDATED DAILY! View color photos, listings and complete information of all properties for sale.

REAL ESTATE • 1339 Gulf Road, P.O. Box 17 • Pt. Roberts, WA 98281 360/945-5555 360-945-5555 • Cell: E-Mail: prprty@Whidbey.com • 360-525-4706 www.pointrobertswashington.com *Member of NY State

1339 Gulf Road, P.O. Box 1 • Point Roberts, WA 98281

BEACH PROPERTIES • 1339 Gulf Road, P.O. Box 17 • Pt. Roberts, WA 98281 360/945-5555*LISTING & SELLING POINT ROBERTS REAL ESTATE SINCE 1968

PROPERTIES and Happy 2021. Wishing you BEACH a Healthy

F! F UFREEMAN BEACH BL

697 MARINE DR. 2 BR cottage at Freeman Beach. Beach rights. $219,900

697 MARINE DR. ! 2 BR cottage at Freeman Beach. Beach rights. LD $219,900

SOUTHSIDE WATERVIEW ACREAGE

1805 SHAW ! 769 CLAIRE LANE CRESCENT 70’ South LD Completely O Panoramic Views remodeled! 1275 BROUGHTON LANE 247 BAYVIEW Facing Bluff DR.S 3BR, 2BA waterfront home facing 2BR, 3BA beautiful west side home. Everything first Lot. 3 BR, 3 BA. $199,000. Adjoining lot $35,000. Mt. Baker. Crabtown. $595,000 class and new. Next to Lily Point $227,000 Marine Park.

$632,000

FREEMAN BEACH

This 1½ acre site is located on the sunny south slope with water and island views. Site is partial cleared and improved with a 4-bedroom septic system, water installed. This is one of the last larger building sites left on the south slope. $498,000

MLS Listing Service

2117 ROOSEVELT. Maple Beach 636cabin, HIGHLAND DRIVE FP, 1920s 2 BR, wood-burning 2 blocks to beach. $169,000 Panoramic View of Islands. 3 BR,

2.5 BA. 2 large decks, hot tub, large garage & storage space. $420,000

2117 ROOSEVELT. Maple Beach 1920s cabin, 2 BR, wood-burning FP, 2 blocks to beach. $169,000 542 MCLAREN RD. 3BR cottage w/front and rear deck.

1275 BROUGHTON LANE 2BR, 3BA beautiful west side home. MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION! $199,000. Adjoining lot $35,000.

247 BAYVIEW DR. 3BR, 2BA waterfront home facing Mt. Baker. Crabtown. $595,000

1845 JOHNSON. 75 x 200 lot. 668 SOUTH BEACH RD. 1728private, EDWARDS DR. #32 2BR cottage plus 2 lotsWESTSIDE near beach. BLUFF Furnished, excellent $200,000Panoramic sunsets. 3-BR, 1.5-BA, sunroom plus 410’ condition. $115,000

private tidelands, heated pool.

$249,900

ED UC D RE

50‘x400’+/- lot.

$485,000

IN ND

1845 JOHNSON. 75 x 200 lot. 668 SOUTHPBEACH RD. 2BR cottage plus 2 lots near beach. Furnished, private, excellent $200,000 condition. $115,000 1877 WASHINGTON 676 CLAIRE LANE 3BR, 2BA backs onto Lily Point

2 BR designer home. A must-see!

D CE U D RE

$299,000 Park.DR. Make an offer! Adjacent to 27. Lily Point Park. 173 KENNEDY EDWARDS LOT Water 1959 DRAKE CLAIRE LANE LOT 53 $159,000 & island views. Beach rights. Double-wide Fixer-upper! Forested, some view, DESIRABLE SIDE, SUBDIVIDABLE $299,000 Sewer. WaterACREAGE: meter. 6.39 ACRES, on 70‘x119’ lot. EAST$99,000 next to Lily Point. Recent septic. Reduced to $170,000 www.JuliusRealty.com $75,000

WEST SIDE WATERVIEW Situated on the desirable West Side Freemans Beach area boasting a 50x300 (1/3 acre) lot size with great water views and quick and easy beach access. Upstairs features kitchen, ½ bath, utility room generous sized family room and large living area with fireplace and opens onto a massive waterside upper deck. Lower level has three bedrooms full bath and den/office. Master with large master bath and walk-in closet. Both Master and Den have access to the large covered lower patio. Detached garage and the site has access from Marine Drive and also fronts onto a private lane which give access to store your boat and other toys on this 1/3 acre site. $589,500 If you’re serious about purchasing at the “Point” do yourself a favor and visit our office for a complete list of everything for sale in the area and also check out our website for general information, color photos, maps and full property search function.

COME TO THE POINT!

On the beach! 542 MCLAREN RD. 3BR cottage w/front and rear deck. Adjacent to Lily Point Park. $159,000

676 CLAIRE LANE 3BR, 2BA backs onto Lily Point Park. $299,000

88 DERBY AVE. 2+BR Cottage. New septic tank soon. $225,000

EDWARDS DRIVE HOME 75’ level waterfront. 4-BD, 2.5-BA. Lots of amenities: Granite countertops, Brazilian hardwood throughout, master bath w/jetted 1877 WASHINGTON tub and steam shower, double car garage.

2 BR designer A must-see! MUST SEE!home. $889,000 Make an offer!

LARGE LOT ON HARBOR SEAL DR. 280 ELIZABETH DR. Cleared. PENDING! 5 ACRES near golf LOTS:ACREAGE: 6.39 ACRES, DESIRABLE Peek-a-boo EAST SIDE,view. SUBDIVIDABLE $299,000 Sewer. $119,000 $85,000 course, cleared. $220,000

www.JuliusRealty.com View more listings at www.juliusrealty.com

1385 1385Gulf GulfRoad, Road,Point PointRoberts Roberts

360-945-1011 360-945-1011

www.pointroberts.us Wishing all our Customers and Clients a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season! LD

Here to help with all your your Real Estate needs.

THE THE NORTHWEST NORTHWEST TEAM TEAM Chris Hughes Michael Hughes Northwest Team Manager

Sales Manager

Cesilie Gile Administration Administration

Contact the Northwest Team for all of your Real Estate needs!

360.980.8731

View our property and land listings online:

THIS DOUBLE LOT HAS A GREAT YARD. You are a 5 minute walk down to the beach and South Beach House restaurant. Peek a boo views of the ocean all while tucked in privacy. 1970’s trailer is parked! She’s vintage and she’s sweet. $149,000

SOUTH BEACH COTTAGE with spacious covered porch set among the Arbutus Trees. Just blocks to the beach. $189,000.

thefirmrealestate.com

Paul

The Firm Real Estate Services | 838 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine, WA 98230 | info@thefirmrealestate.com | 360.980.8731

paulrusk@pointroberts.us

604/968-4006

UNIQUE A-FRAME COTTAGE sits on three separately subdivided lots. Approximately 3/4 acres of landscaped property backing onto the golf course. $279,000

Kristen

778/686-7625

SOUTH BEACH ORIGINAL – This cottage is adorned with cedar and fir floors. Located just a couple of blocks from the beach in the coveted Bells Grove Subdivision. $189,000

Hugh

604/910-5968

kristenrockrealestate@gmail.com hwilson@pointroberts.net

Greg

604/690-1468 gheppner@pointroberts.net