All Point Bulletin - August 2023

Family files wrongful death lawsuit

The children of Gail Amundsen and Murray Church have filed a lawsuit against Whatcom County and several companies alleging negligence resulting in the wrongful deaths of the couple due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The lawsuit was filed January 3 in Whatcom County Superior Court.

Gail Amundsen, 61, and Murray Church, 67, were found dead in their home on Thanksgiving Day evening in 2021. The pair were discovered by family friends who were asked to check on them after their children had been unable to make contact with them for several days. Church was laying in bed while Amundsen was found in an adjoining bathroom. The apparent cause of death for the couple appeared to be due to the faulty installation of a radiant heating system.

The couple had moved into their newly constructed home in August 2021. It was heated by a high efficiency Triangle Tube Prestige Solo 110 condensing boiler which can use either natural gas or propane for its fuel source. It comes set up for natural gas and must be converted to use propane.

The lawsuit names Optimum Contracting, Point Roberts, the general contractor who built the home; Andgar Mechanical, Ferndale; which installed the furnace; Shoreline Electrical Services, Point Roberts, responsible for installing smoke and CO detectors; Triangle Tube/Phase III Co., New Jersey, which manufactured the furnace; Whatcom County, responsible for inspecting and issuing occupation permits; and John/Jane Does 1-99.

The children, Dawson Church and Hailey Church, are represented by attorneys David Brown and Matt Connor of Brett McCandlis, Brown & Connor. The law firm has offices in Bellingham, Mt. Vernon, Everett, Seattle, Vancouver, and Spokane and specializes in cases involving personal injuries, vehicular accidents, wrongful death, medical malpractice and dog bites.

The lawsuit alleges that Optimum Contracting as general contractor was respon-

(See Lawsuit, page 3)

August primary election deadline looms

B y G race M c c arthy

The mailing of Whatcom County primary ballots has started the countdown to the August primary on Tuesday, August 1.

The race for Whatcom County Executive is the most contested with five people challenging Satpal Sidhu to lead the county. The top two finishers in each race will move onto the November 7 general election. Races that have two candidates or are uncontested will not be in the primary, such as several Blaine school district board positions and all Point Roberts positions.

Below are the positions up that will most impact Point Roberts residents:

• Whatcom County Executive – Misty Flowers, Alicia Rule, Satpal Sidhu, Dan Purdy, Barry Buchanan and Sukhwant Gill.

• Whatcom County Council District 4 –Mark Stremler, Kathy Kershner and Katherine Orlowski.

• Whatcom County Council At Large Position B – Atul Deshmane, Jon Scanlon, Hannah Ordos and Jerry Burns.

• Blaine school board – Tana Perkins Reneau, Ben Lazarus and Dean Berkeley.

The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office mailed primary ballots to registered Whatcom County voters on July 12. Registered voters were able to start voting immediately by mail, drop box returns or in-person at the auditor’s office after receiving their ballots.

Ballots must either be returned in a drop box by 8 p.m. August 1 or postmarked by August 1 if mailed. The auditor’s office did

(See Election, page 6)

s The Maple Beach sandcastle contest on July 16 once again displayed creativity and sandshaping skills. Here a seal looks over the canoe it swamped and wonders what happened to the paddlers. Photo by Erin Kelly

B y P at G ru BB

The Friends of the Point Roberts Library (FOPRL) held their annual general meeting on July 9. Courtesy photo

Lawsuit ...

From page 1

sible for overseeing the work of sub-contractors and “was negligent in failing to ensure safe installation of a heating system in the home … failing to ensure the installation of legally required CO detectors … failing in its oversight of the work of Andgar and Shoreline.”

Regarding Andgar, the lawsuit alleges that Andgar negligently breached its duty to safely install the heating system, including the failure to install the appropriate propane conversion kit as well as the negligent installation of the furnace’s vent system.

The plaintiffs further allege that Shoreline Electrical Services was negligent in failing to install CO detectors in the home.

Triangle Tube is alleged to be responsible for the deaths of the couple under the State of Washington’s Product Liability Act. Specifically, the lawsuit notes that the furnace lacked a vent installation detector or similar device that would have prevented the deaths of the couple.

Whatcom County is alleged to have “failed to exercise reasonable care in the performance of its duties of inspection and/or permitting” of the home.

Although discovery is still proceeding, all the defendants have responded initially to the complaints and have submitted requests that the case be heard by a jury.

According to Brown and Connor, such a request is usual in wrongful death lawsuits, saying that judges are typically far more likely to approve higher damages than juries.

In each of the responses, the defendants denied responsibility. Indeed, some contended that Church and Amundsen’s damages were caused in whole or in part by the couple themselves, claiming that they had replaced a combination smoke and CO detector with single purpose smoke

11:00am

detectors. For example, the county claims the couple were experiencing periodic CO detector alerts during the summer of 2021, writing that “Shoreline Electrical responded and replaced batteries in an effort to correct the periodical alert of the CO detectors.” The single purpose smoke detector that was examined at the time of the deaths was hard-wired. Interestingly, the county wrote that all of its “actions in this matter were taken pursuant to a duty owed to the public and required by statutes that require the [county] to inspect buildings” … yet it “owed no duty to the Plaintiffs as individuals.” “The duty to ensure compliance rests with individual permit applicants, builders and developers,” it posited.

The lawsuit is still in the discovery stage which should wrap up in coming weeks.

According to the lawyers representing the couple’s children, it is currently taking 12 months or more to set trial dates, meaning the earliest the case would come to trial is sometime in 2024.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages to be proven at trial for economic damages such as loss of income, funeral expenses and property damage as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life and loss of consortium and parent/child relationship.

Services in August:

6th - Pastor Gina Gaudet

13th - Interfaith Minister Bev Mar

20th - Healing Service

27th - Pastor Jean Barrington

Events:

July 30th

Jazz Vespers with Shaune Ann & Savilla

4:00-6:00pm - Bring a chair, friends and a picnic

August 3rd

Scott & Scott Musical Interlude

7:00pm - Reception to follow

s Photo showing outside vent detached from the furnace, allowing CO to escape inside the home. Courtesy photo

All Point Bulletin

The All Point Bulletin is published each month by Point Roberts Press Inc. and is delivered to homes and businesses in Point Roberts and Tsawwassen. 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 Reporter

Erin Kelly

Copy Editor

Aly McGee

Creative Services

Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser

Advertising Sales

Molly Ernst

Contributors In This Issue

Kris Lomedico

Bev Mar

Dean Ridings

Mark Swenson

Lynn Taylor

Administrative Services

Jeanie Luna

Founding Editor

Glennys Christie

Business & Editorial Office

Phone: 360/945-0413

Email: sales@allpointbulletin.com

Visit us online at: www.allpointbulletin.com

Printed in Canada • Vol. XXXVIII, No. 4

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

Next issue: Sept. 2023

Ads due: August 18

Local news is good for business

B y D ean r i D in G s , ce O a M erica ’ s n ews P a P ers

It’s no secret that recent years have been tough on small businesses and on newspapers. A bipartisan bill, the Community News and Small Business Support Act, that has been introduced in Congress would offer relief to both newspapers and local businesses.

For too many newspapers, help can’t come soon enough. Economic challenges have resulted in too many communities seeing their local newspapers being forced to lay off staff, cut back on publication days or – worse yet – close. On average, two newspapers are closing each week. That hurts local businesses and residents in the long (and short) run. However, despite the challenges, what remains true is that local newspapers make a difference in their communities.

But, don’t just take my word for it. Let’s look at the numbers and why America’s Newspapers has been pushing for the Community News and Small Business Support Act to be introduced.

A recent national study of 5,000 Americans over the age of 18 was conducted by the independent research firm Coda Ventures for America’s Newspapers, and provides compelling evidence of the importance, relevance and vitality of today’s newspapers in the American media landscape.

Readers told us that their local newspaper makes a difference. The study shows that 79 percent of Americans read/use local news “to stay informed” about their cities, counties and communities. They also said they rely on their local paper to feel connected to their community, to decide where they stand on local issues, to find places and things to do, to talk with people about things happening in the community, because they find it enjoyable/entertaining and to be a better citizen.

And, contrary to popular belief, readers across all age groups turn to local newspapers and their digital products to stay informed about their communities.

Readers also told us they need more local news from their community paper. As

one survey respondent in California said, “Our paper keeps getting smaller. I would like to see more news items, what’s happening in town, what’s new in politics, etc. And they need to be quicker to respond to breaking news.”

All of that takes a committed, local staff – something the legislation introduced by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA1) will help to make happen.

So, what would this legislation mean to your local community?

Local businesses with fewer than 50 employees would receive a five-year nonrefundable tax credit of up to $5,000 in the first year and up to $2,500 in the subsequent four years based on their spending level with local newspapers and local media.

Our study showed that six out of 10 American adults use newspaper advertising to help them decide what brands, products and local services to buy. Newspaper readers also are almost twice as likely to purchase products from a number

of important advertising categories than nonnewspaper readers, including: Automobiles, trucks and SUVs; home furnishings; home improvement products and services; and home services like pest control, plumbing, heating, etc.

With this legislation, we expect to see more businesses being able to afford to advertise to consumers which, in turn, helps communities thrive.

For local newspapers, a five-year refundable tax credit would help them hire more journalists to bring you more news! It’s a win-win for local communities. Newspapers would receive a tax credit to be used for the compensation of journalists. The credit would cover 50 percent of journalists’ compensation in the first year and 30 percent of compensation (up to $50,000) in the subsequent four years. This tax credit would only be available to local community papers with fewer than 750 employees and, if they don’t invest in their newsroom, they don’t get the credit.

And these tax credits are only available

(See Newspapers, page 5)

Newspapers ...

From page 4

to local newspapers. National newspaper outlets are not eligible.

The importance of local newspapers and local business is the reason representives Tenney and DelBene introduced the legislation. We are most grateful for their support.

We need your support, as well, to encourage legislators to enact this legislation. Please contact the offices of your senators and representatives in the U.S. Congress and encourage them to add their support to this legislation.

These tax credits aren’t permanent; they will sunset in five years. But these critical five years will allow the newspaper industry the time needed to address the challenges that it is facing from Big Tech, which often uses newspapers’ content without compensation, as well as other technological and market challenges. Visit usa.gov/elected-officials for the contact information for your legislators.

More local reporting means more access for hometown news that citizens like you rely on. And stronger newspapers mean stronger advertising vehicles for local businesses.

America’s Newspapers is committed to explaining, defending and advancing the vital role of newspapers in democracy and civil life. We put an emphasis on educating the public on all the ways newspapers contribute to building a community identity and the success of local businesses.

(Dean Ridings is the CEO of America’s Newspapers, serving more than 1,550 newspapers across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more: Newspapers.org)

Letters

The Editor:

The lame turnout for July 18’s “Candidates Night” at the community center was disappointing. Eight candidates showed up: Five for county executive and three for Whatcom County Council.

These folks, including incumbent county executive Satpal Sidhu, made the 100mile round trip to Point Roberts, one that included crossing two international borders (twice) with their campaign literature, campaign signs and their best messages.

All this for an unappreciative Point Roberts audience of about 13 people.

Too bad, because this current slate of candidates is the most qualified, diverse, energetic, and experienced in recent memory.

Where were the audience representatives from the local community groups?

The chamber of commerce? (Ed. Note: There were three chamber board members in attendance.)

The Point Roberts Registered Voters Association, which sponsored the event, provided a good public forum, publicity, and plenty of seats (45) for everyone. It was the residents of Point Roberts who failed to deliver by not even showing up for the event.

John Lesow

Point Roberts and North Vancouver

Margot Griffiths, M.Ed., C.L.C.

After 30 years experience at The University of British Columbia in the Office of Counseling Services, I am pleased to begin my Life Coaching practice in Point Roberts.

Confidential appointments arranged by email or text. margot@pointroberts.net 206-604-1713

self-awareness personal development relationships recovery wellness transitions retirement life planning

home medical care, education and referral services. For an appointment or more information, please contact Chief Christopher Carleton at 360-945-3473 or chief@wcfd5.com

Now making monthly healthcare visits to Point Roberts

Election ...

From page 1

not recommend mailing ballots after Tuesday, July 25, according to its website.

There are 21 drop boxes in Whatcom County for the election, including at the International Marketplace in Point Roberts, and the Blaine Public Library.

The auditor’s office hosted public election center tours on security measures and ballot processing from July 25 through Friday, July 28.

Whatcom County has 158,677 registered voters, according to the latest data from the auditor’s office.

The auditor’s office is located in suite 103 of the Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Avenue in Bellingham. It will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays through July 31. The office is open evening hours on Election Day, from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. August 1.

For more information on voting in the August primary or other election information, visit the auditor’s office at whatcomcounty.us/1574/elections.

Drs. Jan & Warren Roberts

s Candidates for county executive waiting to speak at the Point Roberts Registered Voters Association-sponsored event on July 18. From l., PRRVA’s Allison Calder, Dan Purdy, Satpal Sidhu (incumbent), Misty Flowers, Alicia Rule, Barry Buchanon. Not present, Sukwant Gill.

Photo by Louise Mugar

s Candidates for county council at-large, position B were, from l. John Scanlon, Hannah Ordos and Atul Deshmane. Not attending, Jerry Burns.

Photo by Pat Grubb

August – the last full month of summer, which is often a break or rest time – is upon us. Soon it will be harvest time for later summer plants. And soon the return to schooling/learning schedules.

All of these are important in a spiritually connected and centered life – rest, harvest, new learning.

Our world is in the midst of the end of the age changes, when typically old established ways of doing things are re-examined, traditions may fall by the wayside, while older networks, institutions and organizations no long effective or outdated, fall as well.

The end times, some call it. An atmosphere of chaos or upheaval prevails. Piscean times are said to have been about the individual’s growth. Even spiritual masters who have had their own retreats without much connection with other masters are facing changes.

Aquarian times are said to be about using the individual’s gifts and talents found in Pisces, but now using them in groups, and groups are becoming connected to other groups.

This time, the end of this age and the beginning of the new age, though, also carries risks for our mother Earth as our misaligned actions have worn her out, so we must be ready to change and adapt even more and more quickly and without delay.

This month in the interfaith world, the Parliament of World Religions (PWR) is meeting in Chicago and thousands of attendees and many religions from all over the world will be represented.

Their website glows with excitement and lists of speakers and events. It is an in-person event. I attended the PWR in Toronto in 2018 and it was an awesome experience of diversity in unity with so many ways to worship God the divine – known by so many names.

Panels and groups of a wide range of beliefs spoke, people gathered to dance in circles, art installations invited personal participation – people learned about others and spoke of their own beliefs, knowledge, and experiences of the divine.

Perhaps it will surprise you that I found it deepened my own spiritual practices and made me love our world and God more as well as my own teacher(s) of choice, Jesus and friends of his – like the Buddha of the new age, Maitreya.

It also made me clearer about service and applying decades of my own learning cycles. I am sorry not to be attending this time.

Wherever you may be in your own spiritual journey, be sure to take time to rest and recharge, take time to harvest what you have seeded and nurtured/watered, and with new vigor, perhaps choose something to study more deeply or something new.

Think about service, as in sharing it with a group, with our community, with our world and with love. And then, do it. This is not a time to be sitting on the sidelines or for being complacent. We each have stories and more to share.

May you have a blessed August and may that light within you glow even stronger with the sharing.

Erickson Bros. Garage

Local automotive services: all repairs, tire mounting/balancing, oil changes, vehicle inspections, transmissions and more. Call the shop: 360-945-2807 or email ericksonbrothersgarage@gmail.com 1423 Gulf Road • Point Roberts

FREE

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION EVENT

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION EVENT

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

IN POINT ROBERTS

IN POINT ROBERTS

IN POINT ROBERTS

Saturday, August 23 rd 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday, August 23 rd

S at u rda y, Augu st 26

Saturday, August 26

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Point Roberts Solid Waste Transfer Station 2005 Johnson Road

Point Roberts Solid Waste Transfer Station 2005 Johnson Road

Point Roberts Solid Waste Transfer Station 2005 Johnson Road

Bring us your Household Hazardous Waste

Bring us your Household Hazardous Waste

oil-based paints, solvents, aerosol cans, garden chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, fluorescent lamps, and other hazardous products.

Bring us your Household Hazardous Waste

oil-based paints, solvents, aerosol cans, garden chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, fluorescent lamps, and other hazardous products.

oil-based paints, solvents, aerosol cans, garden chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, fluorescent lamps, and other hazardous products.

latex paint, oil based paints, solvents, aerosol cans, garden chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, fluorescent lamps, and other hazardous products.

We will NOT accept:

We will NOT accept:

latex paint, asbestos, biomedical waste, ammunition, explosives, waste in drums, or radioactive waste.

latex paint, asbestos, biomedical waste, ammunition, explosives, waste in drums, or radioactive waste.

asbestos, biomedical waste, ammunition, explosives, waste in drums, or radioactive waste.

latex paint, asbestos, biomedical waste, ammunition, explosives, waste in drums, or radioactive waste.

latex paint, asbestos, biomedical waste, ammunition, explosives, waste in drums, or radioactive waste.

For information on these wastes, contact the Disposal of Toxics Program, (360)38

Questions? Contact the Disposal of Toxics Program, (360)380-4640

For information on these wastes, contact the Disposal of Toxics Program, (360)38

*Limit of 55 gallons per household.

*Limit of 55 gallons per household.

Sponsored by the Whatcom County Solid Waste Division, The Disposal of Toxics Program, and Cando Recycling & Disposal.

*Limit of 55 gallons per household.

Sponsored by the Whatcom County Solid Waste Division, The Disposal of Toxics Program, and Cando Recycling & Disposal.

Sponsored by the Whatcom County Health Department, the Disposal of Toxics Program, Clean Earth, and Cando Recycling & Disposal.

Congratulations to the 2023 graduates!

OPEN HOUSE

ACTIVITIES

Hall Tour50/50 Draw BBQSilent Auction Games And More...

3:00PM COME MEET AND SUPPORT THE

WHO PROVIDE YOUR

SERVICES, AND OTHER COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS AND ORGANIZATIONS. EXPLORE EMERGENCY VEHICLES, THE FIREHOUSE, AND A HELICOPTER!

COME MEET AND SUPPORT THE PROFESSIONALS WHO PROVIDE YOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES, AND OTHER COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS AND ORGANIZATIONS. EXPLORE EMERGENCY VEHICLES, THE FIREHOUSE, AND A HELICOPTER!

s Grant Calder Blaine High School 2023

Grant is working with Erickson Bros. Garage for the summer and then he’ll be exploring opportunities in baking and pastry with Chuckanut Bay Foods in Blaine.

s Piper Nissen

Blaine High School 2023

Piper is planning to go to Edmonds College in Lynnwood, Washington on an athletic scholarship to play softball and major in education. After its historic season this past year, she wants to become a PE teacher and one day come back and coach for Blaine Softball.

S Sophia Marie Wallace

After high school, Sophia plans to enlist in the U.S. Army National Guard to pursue her interest in medicine and become a field combat medic. Going into the medical field has been a big goal of Sophia’s and she can’t wait to see where the future takes her.

News from PREP

I have heard recently that some people who live on the Point don’t really know what Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness (PREP) is and what it does, so I wanted to address that issue as well as give a bit of an update on what PREP has been up to lately.

PREP, above all, is a 501C3 nonprofit organization in the state of Washington. Its stated purpose is to educate the residents of Point Roberts on the need to prepare for emergencies. As such, we provide educational brochures and pamphlets as well as training classes for all kinds of emergencies including earthquakes, wildland fires, tsunamis, windstorms and other natural disasters.

We also aid in the preparation for emergencies community wide. Part of the preparation includes identifying what locations can serve as shelters for people displaced from their homes, as well as the storage of supplies needed for these people. It also includes having volunteers to help open the shelters and pass out food and bedding if needed and providing power stations to charge cell phones and radios as well as connectivity to internet for personal communication needs.

PREP also offers good communications with a higher level of assistance through ham radios and communications towers in the event that phone lines and cell phones are no longer working.

One of the projects that we are currently working on is the Tower Project. This project came about because of the major windstorm in December 2018. During this storm power was out to most of the Point due to downed trees as well as major damage to many homes on the Point. Cell phone reception remained up for most of

the Point, but when attempting to use the ham radio antenna located at the community center, it was discovered that the wind had blown it over. PREP stepped up to purchase and erect a communications tower that could withstand a major windstorm and be available when needed. Due to Covid, this project was slowed down but still moved forward with the acquisition of the tower and equipment needed to function. It was slowed again with a shortage of concrete on the Point due to a strike, but this project has started moving ahead recently with help from two local contractors who have stepped up in a big way to finish installing the base for the tower. A big thanks to Anthony Stephani and Eric

Johnson for their work in helping to get this done.

Projects that were completed this year included:

• Wildland fire training and wildland fire assessments for individual homes on the Point. This was conducted by Whatcom and Skagit Conservation Districts with assistance from PREP.

• Emergency Response Training conducted by fire chief Christopher Carleton at the fire hall.

• Disaster Airlift Response Team (DART)

Fly in training at Lighthouse Park, where we landed two float planes filled with over 500 lbs. of food that was donated to the Point Roberts Food Bank. Thanks to Ross Bradie for his leadership and the fire department for all their assistance!

• Communications project to get wireless freely available at various locations around the Point in event of Emergency. Thanks to

Mark Robbins for his efforts on this project.

Projects that are coming up for the rest of the year are:

• Finishing the Tower Project at the fire hall. This involves successfully connecting it to the PREP/CERT trailer.

• Joke Telling Contest to be held at the community center on Saturday, August 19 at 7 p.m. We all need a little humor in our lives!

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to be held in September. This training is to prepare individuals on how they can assist the community in the event of an actual emergency and involves 24 hours of training over a two-weekend period. If you would like to participate, we would love to have you join us!

• New web page for PREP.

For more info, email Prepgroup17@ gmail.com

Breakfast, Flag Raising,

s Jeanette Meursing

s Pat Grubb

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Pat

Independence Day!

and Red, White & BBQ Parade

July 4, 2023

s Louise Mugar

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Stephen Fowler

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

s Pat Grubb

Pat Grubb

All photos by Louise Mugar

Wanted: One worker, one sailor

Kenji Nose is seeking a like-minded individual to share in his dream of embarking on a worldwide sailing journey. Nose needs someone who is willing to dedicate two years to building a unique boat in Point Roberts. That person will have a passion for sailing and a willingness to learn, regardless of prior knowledge of boat building or sailing. In return for their hard work, the volunteer will be provided with accommodation and a small stipend. Once the boat is completed, the dedicated helper will have the opportunity to accompany Nose on a two-year sailing adventure.

The boat, a 42-foot vessel, is a one-ofa-kind creation with retractable outriggers and a unique sail system optimized for

Filling a creative void ...

Bobbie Marquette is the creative mind behind BM Charmed, a silver jewelry business based in Point Roberts. Her passion for art has been a lifelong journey, and she has explored various artistic mediums. About eight years ago she discovered her true calling as a silversmith, and found that making silver jewelry filled a creative void in her soul. Though she is primarily self-taught, Marquette has taken a few classes to enhance her skills.

Marquette’s jewelry pieces are truly oneof-a-kind. Her focus is mostly on crafting necklaces, as they offer a one-size-fits-all appeal. With meticulous attention to detail, she creates unique designs on both sides of her pendants. She has become well-known for her layered shadowbox pieces, which exemplify her artistic style. Emphasizing her true love of nature, Mar-

quette’s favorite themes revolve around birds.

While Marquette finds immense joy in crafting jewelry, living in a small community presents challenges when it comes to selling her creations. “All my life I’ve wanted to make something and sell something so that people can feel what I feel,” she said.

Currently, she is selling her jewelry at the local small market, which next takes place at the community center on Saturday, August 11 and 25. To expand her reach, she has applied to various art shows around the northwest.

This year she will be showcasing her work at “Art on the Green” in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Marquette also has displayed her jewelry in galleries in New Mexico, Colorado and Idaho.

Marquette’s work can be viewed on her website, bmcharmed.com.

harnessing the power of the wind. After a decade of designing and five years of construction, the boat only requires two more years of work.

Having grown up in Japan, where his parents ran a restaurant, Nose’s fascination with sailing began at a young age. As his parents worked from early morning until late at night, he often spent time at a nearby convenience store, engrossed in magazines about sailing, inspiring his dream to sail around the world.

After high school, Nose received a sailboat as a gift from his parents. He learned how to sail and gained knowledge and expertise in boat design. Following college, he led a diverse and exciting entrepreneurial life, starting restaurants, a fish packing plant, a pork packing plant, a marina, as well as the Point Roberts golf course.

This is not Nose’s first venture into designing boats and sailing around the world. In the ’90s, he embarked on a memorable journey with his family, but now he plans to embark on a solo plus-one adventure. Nose is eager to mentor and guide the right person, offering them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Despite setbacks caused by the pandemic, Nose is determined to restart the building process and is eager to make his dream a reality.

If you or anyone you know is interested in this adventurous opportunity, please email Kenjiyamato18@hotmail.com.

s Bobbie Marquette, in her studio. Inset, samples of her work. Photo by Erin Kelly

s Kenji Nose, with sailboat.

Photo by Erin Kelly

Serving Point Roberts

August Tides

Library piCks

K ris LOM e D ic O

Bestsellers:

Swamp Story Dave Barry

The Enchanted Hacienda

J. C. Cervantes

Tom Lake Ann Patchett

Dirty Thirty Janet Evanovich

Movies:

Paint Owen Wilson

Blackberry Jay Baruchel

About My Father Robert De Niro

Robots Shailene Woodley

Music:

Shadow Kingdom Bob Dylan

Seven Psalms Paul Simon

Tales of Time Joe Bonamassa

What Matters Most Ben Folds

Teens:

Some Shall Break Ellie Marney

Star Splitter Matthew J. Kirby

Half Moon Summer Elaine Vickers

Kids:

Iceberg Jennifer A. Nielsen

Mixed Up Gordon Korman

Are We There Yet? Sven Volker

Hours: Tuesdays 1-7 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Express hours: 6 a.m.-11 p.m. wcls.org

sheriff’s report

July 1, 11:59 a.m.: Trespass on Tyee Drive.

July 1, 5:53 p.m.: Domestic physical on Peltier Drive.

July 3, 3:26 p.m.: Harassment on Mill Road.

July 4, 4:25 a.m.: Noise on James Road.

July 5, 3 a.m.: Mental cold call on Boundary Bay Road.

July 6, 2:55 a.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.

July 6, 6:24 a.m.: Noise cold call on James Road.

July 7, 5:37 a.m.: Noise on James Road.

July 7, 11:35 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Diane Circle.

July 8, 9:54 a.m.: Theft cold call on Freeman Lane.

July 8, 10:38 a.m.: Theft cold call on Evergreen Lane.

July 8, 12:16 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Simundson Drive.

July 8, 3:08 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Jonna Drive.

July 10, 12:04 p.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.

July 11, 12:45 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Mackenzie Way.

July 11, 11:24 p.m.: Suspicious person on Benson Road.

July 12, 3:12 p.m.: DUI on Marine Drive.

July 14, 1:47 a.m.: Mental on Boundary Bay Road.

July 14, 9:52 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Edwards Drive.

July 15, 7:58 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Pelican Place.

July 17, 4:17 p.m.: Domestic order violation cold call on Gulf Road.

July 17, 7:55 p.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Maple Street.

July 18, 10:21 a.m.: Trouble with subject on Marine Drive.

July 20, 1:01 a.m.: Hang up (911) on Gulf Road.

July 21, 2:06 p.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.

July 22, 8:54 p.m.: Boating problem on Simundson Drive.

July 23, 4:21 p.m.: Domestic order violation cold call on Columbia Vista.

Coming up ...

Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events

Fill the Boot Campaign: Saturdays through September 2, 9 a.m. to noon, International Marketplace. Benefiting Point Roberts Food Bank. Sponsored by the Point Roberts Volunteer Firefighters Charitable Society.

Point Roberts Clinic Hours: Primary Care: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., appointment needed. Urgent Care can be accessed through telemedicine or at the clinic Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Always call for an appointment before coming in, even for urgent care services. Hours subject to change. Flu shots available. Info: 360/945-2580.

PR Library Hours: Tuesdays 1-7 p.m., Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Library express hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily.

Point Roberts Walkers: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m., coffee to follow 9 a.m., Thursdays at the community center, Saturdays at Lily Point. Tuesday location varies. Info: prwalkers.wordpress.com.

PR Food Bank: Every Wednesday 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the community center. Info: prfoodbank.org.

Seniors and More Lunches: Wednesdays and Fridays, dine-in or park and come inside the community center to pick up your lunches available from 11:45 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., PR community center. All ages welcome. More info: prseniors@whidbey.com or 360/945-5424.

Music from Many Lands: Friday, July 28, 7 p.m., Trinity Church. With Sally and Enrique Sandoval and Eric Samuelson. Donations benefit Trinity Church’s Save this Landmark Building Fund.

Jazz Vespers: Sunday, July 30, 4-6 p.m., Trinity Church. Featuring Shaune Ann and Savilla. Proceeds go to Trinity Church’s Save this Historic Building Fund. Bring a chair, friends and a picnic.

Whatcom County Cemetery District No. 8: Monday, July 31, 5 p.m., community center.

PR Emergency Preparedness: Tuesday, August 1, 7 p.m., community center/Zoom. Info: prepgroup17@ gmail.com.

Plant-Based Potluck Club: Thursday, August 3, 6 p.m., Lighthouse Marine Park. Meets first Thursday of the month. Bring a dish to share (no meat, eggs or dairy) and your own plates/silverware/drinks. All are welcome.

A Musical Interlude with Scott and Scott: Thursday, August 3, 7 p.m., Trinity Church. Joint Fundraiser for Trinity Church and Point Roberts Circle of Care. Scott Baird and Scott Hackleman will perform hindustani music of North India and Karnatak music of South India.

Queers and Allies of Almost Canada: Friday, August 4, 6-8 p.m., Lighthouse Marine Park. If you are 2SLGBTQIA+ or a supporter come to this meet and greet and potluck. Meet friends in the pride community and supporters. Email martin@pointroberts.net if you plan to attend or are interested in future events.

Eagle Sunfest: Saturday, August 5 noon-7 p.m., community center. This is a free event to raise awareness of the eagles in Point Roberts. The event is put on by Eagle Skynet, a local non-profit that supports eagle habitat through educational and monitoring programs. Crafts vendors from 12:30-7 p.m. Classic car show, music from 1:30-7 p.m. Eagle talks between acts. Donations can be made to Eagle Skynet.

Your Local Small Market: Saturday, August 5, noon, community center, 1437 Gulf Road. Come out and shop locally during Eagle Sunfest!

Kora’s Carnival: Saturday, August 5, 5-8 p.m., Talent show at 6:30 p.m., please register now at koras-corner.com/talent-show-registration-form.

PR Amateur Radio Club: Monday, August 7, 7 p.m., via Zoom.

Water District: Tuesday, August 8, 5 p.m., via Zoom.

Fire District 5: Wednesday, August 9, at 4 p.m., in-person and via Zoom. Info: WCFD5.com.

PR Hospital District: Wednesday, August 9, 7 p.m., in-person and via Zoom. Info: pointrobertsclinic.com.

Shaune Ann at Pat Quinn’s: Thursdays, August 10 and 24, 5 to 7 p.m., Pat Quinn’s, 5133 Springs Boulevard, #100, Tsawwassen. Enjoy sunsets, drinks and jazz renditions performed by Shaune Ann Feuz.

PR Taxpayers Association: Thursday, August 10, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: PRTA@pointroberts.net.

PR Garden Club AGM: Friday, August 11, 5 p.m. info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org

Pickleball Tournament: Saturday, August 12, 9 a.m., community center. Awards, BBQ and potluck to follow. Team registration required by Saturday, July 22 at Kora’s Corner or online. Details: Koras-corner.com.

Fire Department Open House: Saturday, August 12, 11 a.m. 3 p.m., fire hall, 2030 Benson Road. Hall tour, 50/50 draw, BBQ, silent auction, games and more! Meet and support the professionals who provide your emergency services and other community volunteers and organizations. Explore emergency vehicles, the firehouse and a helicopter.

PR Park and Recreation: Monday, August 14, at 7 p.m., in-person and via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org.

PR Historical Society: Wednesday, August 16, 7 p.m., in the History Center.

PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, August 17, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: PRCAC.comment@ gmail.com.

Your Local Small Market: Saturdays, August 19 and September 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., PR community center, 1437 Gulf Road. Come out and shop locally!

Joke Telling Contest: Saturday, August 19, 7 p.m., community center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for silent auctions. Fundraiser for Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness, donations appreciated. Sponsored by PREP. Fun clean jokes, no cussing. Traditional pretzels, root beer and seltzer will be served. The winner’s name will be inscribed on the famous Ha-Ha Cup. Music by Savilla and Shaune Ann.

Celebration of Life for Bill Hooites Meursing: Friday, August 25, 1-4 p.m., firehall, 2030 Benson Road. There will be food and drinks and a slideshow of memories of Bill.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event: Saturday, August 26, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Point Roberts

Solid Waste Transfer Station, 2005 Johnson Road. Questions? Contact 360/380-4640. Sponsors: Whatcom County Health Department, the Disposal of Toxics Program, Clean Earth and Cando Recycling and Disposal.

Annual “Every Dog’s a Winner” dog show: Saturday, August 26, Registration is at 11:30 a.m. and judging begins at noon, community center. Event sponsored by PAWS. Come show off your best friend! Entry fee of $10 per dog. All participants will receive swag, but bring your own bag. All dogs welcome. And remember, you don’t need to own a dog to join enjoy this popular Point Roberts event!

History Center: Extended summer hours: Fridays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. –3 p.m., Gulf Road community center.

Play Date: Wednesdays in August, 10:30 to 11 a.m., PR Library. Families with young children play and create at this informal social time. Toys and materials will be provided.

Craft and Game Night: Tuesdays from 5–7 p.m., Point Roberts Library.

Friday Community Market: Fridays, 4–7 p.m., west side of J dock at the Point Roberts Marina. Make it, grow it, bake it, take it (free table). A collection of local farmers and vendors.

Information About Your Water Bill

PRWD bills on a 2-month cycle.

For example, bills for the January-February billing period are sent at the end of February, and payment is due by the end of March. We read meters shortly before issuing bills, and you may see us on your street during this time.

The current residential base rate is $98.10 per billing cycle. This equates to $49.05 per month.

The base usage allotment is 500 cubic feet (3,740 gallons), or about 62 gallons per day. Customers who use this amount or less will pay only the base rate. Usage above this amount increases your bill.

Point Roberts Water District’s operating budget is funded entirely by water sales. We are a special purpose district of Washington State, and are tightly governed by state regulations. The rates we charge must be justifiable, and are determined by an independent rate study based on current and projected costs.

We purchase 840,665 US gallons of water per day from Metro Vancouver. Per the 1987 contract, Metro Vancouver will supply PRWD with up to 840,665 US gallons per day, and PRWD will pay for that full volume of water even if less is drawn. In 2022, the cost of our purchased water was $757,000 USD, accounting for the largest share of our total operating cost of $1,631,000. We anticipate spending approximately $780,000 USD on water in 2023, dependent on exchange rate and transfer fees.

Last billing cycle we circulated a request for assistance in keeping meter boxes clear and accessible. We thank all of you for your overwhelming response, it makes a huge difference for our staff.

Please visit pointrobertswater.com to view our Annual Water Quality Report and additional information.

If you have questions or concerns about your bill or other topics, please contact us directly at 360-945-4696 or PRWD@whidbey.com

The Point’s most famous jail inmate

This month is the 50th anniversary of the most famous person ever held in the Point Roberts jail. On August 9, 1973, John Meier, the man who some credit with bringing down the president of the United States, Richard Nixon, was briefly detained in the Point Roberts jail on South Beach Road.

John Meier was a Democratic U.S. Senate candidate for New Mexico in 1972 and known as being the number two person in Howard Hughes’ organization at the pinnacle of Hughes’ status as the wealthiest man in the world. Meier had witnessed a $1 million bribe in March 1969 paid by the head of Howard Hughes’ charity to a friend of Richard Nixon to fast-track Hughes’ acquisition of Air West. This exchange would go on to hang over the Nixon presidency. Many believe the Watergate burglars were looking for plans on how the Democratic National Committee might use knowledge of this bribe in the 1972 election.

Nixon and the CIA put considerable political pressure on Meier, who was also very active in opposing nuclear testing by

the Atomic Energy Commission, to reveal his files and what he knew and who he had told about the bribe. Meier was living in Tsawwassen, but in the summer of 1973, his family regularly visited Point Roberts for crabbing and beach fun.

Despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence, Nixon had the IRS, secret service agents, and the CIA monitor Meier’s whereabouts, and a visit to the Point on August 9, 1973, gave these operatives a chance to nab Meier on U.S. soil. After seeing government agents at Ben’s Store, Meier drove back toward the border, but he was arrested at gunpoint on Tyee Drive near the customs station. Meier was held in the Point Roberts jail where he refused to agree to hand over his documents. From Point Roberts, he was transported with his feet shackled and his hands in cuffs to a boat which took him to the mainland with guards having their guns drawn on him the entire time.

Meier was held on a $1 million bond; until then, only Patty Hearst had faced such a high amoun. His friend Mike Gravel, a 2008 U.S. presidential candidate, said Meier had faced federal persecution for be-

Classified Advertising

Next Issue: September 2023 Ads Due: August 21

The All Point Bulletin is the only newspaper around that delivers your message to homes and businesses in Point Roberts and Tsawwassen. Only $15 for 15 words (plus 25 each additional word).

Call 360/945-0413 to place your ad!

Home-grown newspaper & home delivery It’s a perfect match!

Announcements

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ing “the man who knew too much about too many bad people.” Meier passed away on June 23 and there are plans to make his fascinating life into a motion picture. The bestselling biography written about Meier, Age of Secrets: The Conspiracy that Toppled Richard Nixon and the Hidden Death of Howard Hughes, details what happened in Point Roberts and the CIA’s affidavit regarding it, which is now forever preserved

at the U.S. National Archives. Ageofsecrets.com has more information.

Many persons of interest and outright fugitives have made their way through Point Roberts. Learn about the Point’s fascinating history at the Point Roberts History Center in the Community Center on Gulf Road. It’s open Fridays and Saturdays this summer.

2 BD, 1 BA, 750 SF, basement of house available for rent. Open concept, newly renovated, close to South Beach. N/P. Open for short term or long term. Ready for September. Call 604-782-7876 or email for pictures. cheri.cogman@gmail.com.

FURNISHED RANCHER Available Nov. 1 - April 30, 2024. 2BR, 2BA. Beautifully furnished w/ 2 large decks and hot tub. N/S. $1200/month. 604961-4761.

MONTHLY RENTALS available. Lily Point Park Lodges. Call 206-227-3186.

Business Services

SUNSHINE CARPET and upholstery steam cleaning, reasonable rates. 360-945-0411 or lawson_brad@yahoo.com.

THIS IS THE BIG ONE! Sat. & Sun. Aug. 5 & 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Furniture, kitchen stuff, assorted tools, something for everyone. 1373 Park Lane. Early birds will be zapped by invisible electric fence.

HANDYMAN Carpentry • Remodeling • Fencing • Decks • Painting • Pressure washing • Gutters • Hauling. 360-945-0521.

YARD MAINTENANCE Lawns • Pruning • Hedge/ shrub trimming • Gutters • Pressure Washing • 24 years experience. 360-945-1957.

and more.

s John Meier, r., visited in his Tsawwassen home by current Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. They discussed what Meier knew about who was behind the RFK assassination and what Meier wrote in his diary regarding it. Photo courtesy Jim Meier.

The 2022 Water Quality Report

To View the Point Roberts Annual Water Quality Report online, please visit our website at: http://pointrobertswater.com/images/ water_quality_reports/Water-Quality-Report-2022.pdf

Point

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts

JUNE 2023

HIGHER END HOUSES: $800,000 AND ABOVE:

2- story condo with 2,333 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 556 SF built-in garage, 242 SFpatio, built in 2018, waterfront; marine and territorial views.

1-story house with 3,383 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, attached garage, built in 2023; marine and territorial view, .26 acres land.

1-story house with 1,830 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 600 SF attached garage, 524 SF deck, built in 2016, .43 acres land.

2-story house with 2,365 SF, 1,158 SF basement, 3 BD, 2 BA, 552 SF attached garage, 257 SF patio, built in 1978 plus 1-story house with 1,156 SF, 2 BD, 2 BA, 585 SF attached garage, 375 SF patio, built in 1994, 9.78 acres land.

1-story house with 2,737 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, 882 SF attached garage, 780 SF patio, built in 2013, 4.85 acres land.

1-and a half story house with 3,807 SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, 631 SF attached garage, 268 SF patio, built in, .36 acres land.

1-story house with 2,490 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 703 SF attached garage, 800 SF patio, built in 2012; territorial view, .38 acres land.

1-story house with 3,018 SF, 3 BD, 6 BA, 609 SF attached garage, 1,006 SF deck, 200 SF patio, built in 2005, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .46 acres land.

New 1- story house with 2,167 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, built 2023, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .28 acres land.

1-story house with 1,746 SF, 1,650 SF basement, 2 BD, 1 BA, 470 SF built-in garage, 329 SF loft, 231 SF deck, built in 2011, waterfront; marine views, .11 acres land.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES: Store with 4,589 SF built in 1924, remodeled in 1965, .11 acres land.

LAND: .14 acres commercial land; marine view.

3.44 acres (4 lots) residential land 252 feet waterfront; marine and territorial views.

Yacht Sales–Power and Sail Service

Unit #23, Semiahmoo Shores Condominiums, 9410 Turnstone Lane, Blaine

5415 Lonicera Drive, Blaine

5487 Canvasback Road, Blaine

3335 Sweet Road, Blaine

2341 Burk

.17 acres residential lot; marine and territorial view.

4.42 acres wooded residential land.

1.28 acres residential land, high bank waterfront; marine view.

2 lots, .16 acres residential land.

20.11 acres residential land, waterfront; marine views.

24.17 acres open space land with 2,400 SF storage, waterfront; marine views.

1.63 acres industrial land.

s

Photos by Louise Mugar

Photo by Erin Kelly

Photo by Louise Mugar

Warm pita bread wrapped around thin strips of beef kabob, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and house made tzatziki sauce, or enjoy the vegetarian featuring grilled portabella mushrooms. Served with a choice of fries, coleslaw, or potato salad.