All Point Bulletin - September 2023

North Whatcom County focal point for invasive crab hunt

Scientists are keeping a close eye on Drayton Harbor and north county waters after discovering a sizable population of juvenile European green crabs, indicating growth of the highly invasive species.

In 2022, scientists found 313 European green crabs, about half of which were juveniles, said Allie Simpson, ecosystem project coordinator for the Northwest Straits Commission. Many of the juvenile crabs were found in a small creek between Dakota and California creeks last September and October.

The crabs are considered one of the world’s worst invasive species and are known to destroy salmon habitats, such as eelgrass, and are a threat to shellfish and aquaculture industries.

Scientists have found over 100 crabs in Drayton Harbor since this year’s trapping season began in the spring, Simpson said. Slightly more crabs have been caught compared to this time last year.

Emily Grason, crab team program lead at Washington Sea Grant, said the warm fall last year allowed scientists to capture crabs later than usual.

“In some cases, sites in Whatcom and Skagit were reporting the highest capture rates during the final capture efforts of the year,” Grason said. “Many groups weren’t ready to stop trapping because there were clearly crabs out there. You want to see the decline in capture rates before pulling your traps out of the water.”

Those juvenile crabs made up the lion’s share of captured green crabs when trapping resumed after winter, Grason said. She added this could be a positive sign because it shows previous trapping has worked if more mature crabs are not being found.

The Northwest Straits Commission, University of Washington’s Washington Sea Grant program and Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, with help from other partners, are leading the fight against the spread of European green crabs in Drayton Harbor and across the

(See Crabs, page 4)

Now on to the general election

B y G race M c c arthy

Preliminary August 1 primary election results give insight into what is to come for the November 2023 general election, including the Whatcom County Executive race, where incumbent Satpal Sidhu and Dan Purdy were the top two finishers and will face each other in the general election.

The two candidates who receive the most votes in each race in the August primary move onto the November 7 election. The following results were certified on August 15:

Six candidates vied for the county executive seat in the primary. Sidhu, who is

finishing his first four-year term as executive, led the race with 34.8 percent. Dan Purdy, a first-time candidate with business leadership experience, followed in second place with 27.7 percent of the votes. State representative Alicia Rule received 17.6 percent, county council chair Barry Buchanan received 13.9 percent, Misty Flowers received 3.2 percent and Sukhwant Gill received 2.5 percent of votes.

The Blaine school board race shows Ben Lazarus, former owner of Westwind Marine in Point Roberts, received 43.8 percent of the votes. Dean Berkeley, a former North

(See Election, page 3)

s Among a number of interesting and informative displays at the fire district’s open house on August 12 was a demonstration of a device that performs CPR on patients. The well-attended event served over 300 lunches.

Photo by Louise Mugar

B y G race M c c arthy

Photo

Election ...

From page 1

Whatcom Fire and Rescue commissioner, placed second at 32.8 percent. Tana Perkins Reneau, who was charged with nearly a dozen counts of child abuse in June, received 22.7 percent, or 1,112 votes.

For the Whatcom County Council At Large Position B, Jon Scanlon, who has 20 years of public policy and diplomacy experience, lead at 37.4 percent. Hannah Ordos, a customer support manager, placed second with 30.7 percent. Atul Deshmane received 22.9 percent and Jerry Burns received 9.2 percent of the votes.

Another race up for election was Whatcom County Council District 4, which represents east of Blaine, north Whatcom

County west of I-5 and the greater Lynden area. Mark Stremler, a first-time candidate and Whatcom County Public Works employee, came in first over incumbent Kathy Kershner, 46.1 percent to 43.4 percent. Katherine Orlowski received 10.1 percent of votes.

Turnout totaled 36.1 percent of registered Whatcom County voters according to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office.

A total 57,786 ballots were tabulated.

Voters will be faced with more races in the November election that were not included in the primary because they only had two candidates. Contested positions up for election will cover Blaine school board, Blaine City Council, Whatcom County Sheriff and Whatcom County Council District 5, which represents the Point Roberts, Blaine and Birch Bay area.

s Alison Chu was one of the performers to entertain at the 5th anniversary party of the Point Roberts library on August 12. The tree at right, made by Amandalyn Wayland, has a branch for every library in the Whatcom County Library System with corresponding photos. Lots of cake and snacks were served.

Photo by Erin Kelly

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

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Letters to the editor

The Editor:

I would like to personally thank all who came out for our fire department open house to enjoy the afternoon with us. We served over 300 meals.

Thanks to all the community volunteer organizations and others who participated and helped make the day great.

See you next year!

Christopher Carleton, Fire Chief Point Roberts

The Editor: Beautiful Northwest Washington!

How wonderful to be living here where it is relatively cool, and happily not suffering from forest fire smoke, so far.

What are climate change deniers thinking 40 years too late? This morning’s news

reported Florida’s 98-degree ocean water will generate hurricanes and kill ocean life affecting real estate, fishing, and tourism industries.

Texas is a real oxymoron! The state and its petroleum industry has been saved from blackouts caused by excessive heat and air conditioners because of high use

of green energy solar power. Yet, the Petroleum State is now spending billions for dikes to protect their refineries from high seas. It would seem that only profit makes decisions affecting all of humanity. (Solar electricity is more efficient and less expensive than oil-generated electricity.)

Isn’t there enough evidence for people who have been deluded by truly fake news and the agenda of climate deniers and fraud believers? We are all victims.

Hopefully, it is not too late to seriously invest in a future where we both adapt to and develop technology to help our comfortable survival.

But we must act now on fthe acts and the truth.

Donna Starr Blaine

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick J. Grubb

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Louise H. Mugar Reporter

Erin Kelly

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Aly McGee

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Printed in Canada • Vol. XXXVIII, No. 5

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.

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Next issue: Oct. 2023

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Crabs ...

From page 1

state. From spring through fall, the crews trap at the old Cherry Street pier and the mouths of Dakota and California creeks. Scientists also survey other areas near Drayton Harbor.

The 313 crabs found in 2022 is more than both 2021 and 2020, which yielded 146 and 253 crabs respectively.

“Even though the numbers in Drayton Harbor are increasing, they’re still very, very low compared to other places,” Simpson said. “We’re still at the early stage of containing the green crabs and making sure we’re dropping those numbers.”

Simpson said the higher crab numbers may indicate scientists are improving their methods through knowing where to trap and using more effective trapping techniques.

“The trapping levels we’ve been able to have has really helped,” Simpson said. “Even though the numbers look crazy, the number of green crabs we catch are less than one percent of the total number of animals we end up trapping.”

Despite the presence of green crabs, they have not caused ecological damage to Drayton Harbor, Simpson said.

The statewide fight

Green crabs were discovered in Washington state in 1998, but it wasn’t until 2018 that scientists began seeing an increasing number; in 2019, they were discovered in Drayton Harbor. WDFW attributes rising water temperatures as a likely reason why the crabs started appearing.

Scientists have been working to combat

green crab infestations along the coast in southern Washington as well as keeping more manageable populations at bay in Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties. The state, tribal and local governments have taken numerous actions over the past few years to assist with the green crab fight – including an emergency proclamation that governor Jay Inslee issued in January

photos on the MyCoast app.

Statewide, the molt search program has trained about 250 volunteers and 22 ovf those volunteers are in Whatcom County, Grason said. The program has not detected a green crab in the over 200 reports it’s received since starting in May, which Grason said is a good sign.

“This program enables us to cover more ground than we can with trapping, so these searches are filling in gaps on places we haven’t yet had a chance to look,” she said.

Cheryl Niles, water resources educator at Washington State University’s Whatcom County extension, encouraged program participants to receive training in the future.

“It is easy to misidentify crabs so we are really encouraging people to get trained,” Niles said. “That said, anyone can download the MyCoast app and submit a report if they know their crabs.”

2022 and a disaster declaration that Lummi Business Council issued in late 2019 after over 70,000 crabs were found in a Lummi sea pond.

Washington state scientists are working to prevent significant damage, as seen in Maine, where green crabs are widely thought to have jeopardized Maine’s softshell clam industry.

Citizen scientist training

Washington State University’s extension offices partnered with Washington Sea Grant this year to create a European Green Crab Molt Search program for the public to help monitor shorelines. The program held its last training of the year virtually on August 23.

The training teaches the public to identify invasive and native green crab molts, where to search and how to upload their

Green crabs can be identified by five spines on both sides of their eyes, a characteristic that separates them from other crabs in the state. Despite their name, the crabs can vary in color from green, red, brown and orange. The crabs are typically found in protected areas along the shore, such as mudflats and river mouths.

Both Simpson and Grason said trapping will be a continuous effort for years to come.

“Now is not the time to let our foot off the gas pedal in terms of trapping because we are keeping the numbers low,” Grason said. “The numbers tell us our efforts are having a large effort on what could have been a much worse situation.”

To register for the European Green Crab Molt Search program, visit bit.ly/VirtualMoltSearch.

Saturday, August 23

Saturday,

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Point Roberts Solid Waste Transfer Station 2005 Johnson Road

Point Roberts Solid Waste Transfer Station 2005 Johnson Road

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:

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.

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

Can now deposit dried latex paint cans with general garbage

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

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

*Limit of 55 gallons per household.

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

*Limit of 55 gallons per household.

*Limit of 55 gallons per household

s Kora’s Carnival on August 5 brought out a crowd of all ages. Games, a live circus, an interactive art show , bounce house and lots of snacks made for a fun community event.

Photo by Louise Mugar

Erickson Bros. Garage

Coming Soon to the Point Roberts Marketplace

ChurCh news

Fall is coming, Bev Mar wrote last month, and with it a new season. As the writer of Ecclesiastes said, “To everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.”

We at Trinity, like the rest of the world since Covid, have been reassessing our life in this part of the world. Sometimes, a time away from what we are used to can give us new vision and open us to new ideas. In the early months of Covid there was no gathering of community for worship, then when we were allowed to open the doors, the doors were shut because of a dangerous building. When it was decided that worship in the parish hall would be safe – we had to figure out what that would look like with no organ, just a piano, folding chairs and a makeshift altar. We just went with what we had and what we knew.

By early December of 2022 we were allowed back into the sanctuary for worship. We were excited! For several years, Father Chuck Cannon and Pastor Gina Gaudet led worship at Trinity, each serving two weeks a month. Sylvia Schoenberg for almost her entire life was our organist. Sylvia, at 90, retired. Father Chuck did his last service on Christmas Eve 2022 and also retired. Pastor Gina was on the Canadian side of the border. If worship was to happen, it was going to have to look different.

Minister Bev Mar, who had done several meditations at the church prior to Covid was willing to try to do those on some Sundays for worship. Lucy Williams learned about Jazz Vespers and brought that to our worship repertoire. I was asked to come back and lead some services. New musicians had moved into the community. The spirit was moving among us.

Once the border opened again, Pastor Gina was able to return. She covered two services a month, Bev and I each took one and Lucy arranged Jazz Vespers to happen when they could. Worship looked very different than it did prior to the Covid shutdown.

And we all liked it! It felt new and fresh and like the spirit was blowing through our heads and hearts.

We talked, we prayed, we wondered what this new thing that was happening was about. We talked about what we would like our congregation to be for oth-

ers and for ourselves. We reflected on God’s word (which we do not interpret literally but do consider sacred). Matthew 28:37-40 Jesus says, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” And Micah 6:8, “What does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, and to love kindness and to walk humbly with God.”

We have come to this vision:

We believe the purpose of a congregation beyond worshiping God, is to be a loving, helpful, welcoming place for all; regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, those with religious history and those with none at all. We strive for the inclusivity that Jesus taught. We also want a community that is free of violence and the threat of violence, in word and deed. A safe place for all.

We believe worship is intended to be:

Where worship and praise are given to God in various ways that are meaningful to a variety of people; A place for all people to develop their spirituality and their relationship with God in ways that are meaningful for them; Encouraging of people’s God given gifts, so those gifts may be shared to God’s glory with each other and the world.

In light of this vision, we will, over the coming few months, be restructuring our worship in the following way:

1st Sunday: Contemporary Worship with Pastor Gina

2nd Sunday: Interfaith Worship with Interfaith readings, concepts and themes with Minister Bev

3rd Sunday: Theme or Healing Focused Worship facilitated by one/all of Trinity pastors and/or a guest

4th Sunday: Traditional Liturgical worship and communion with Pastor Jean

5th Sunday: Jazz Vespers hosted by Lucy Williams

We invite you to join us every Sunday or on the Sunday that speaks to your spirituality, as we all learn ways to be in closer relationship with God and each other. Worship begins at 11 a.m. at Trinity Church, 1880 APA Road. This is God’s church and there is a place for you here.

B y J ean B arrin G ton

s A joint fundraiser for Point Roberts Circle of Care and Trinity Church brought together an outstanding group of musicians on August 3 at Trinity Church. Performers: Joseph Siegle, Shaune Ann Feuz, Scott Baird, Scott Hackleman, Laura Mitchell, Alex Baird, and Gerry Barnum.

Photo by Louise Mugar

Crab season opened August 20

Recreational crabbing season began August 20 with a late, but highly anticipated opening.

The opening covered all of San Juan Island’s Marine Area 7 North, which runs from Lummi Island to Point Roberts. The crabbing area will be open on Thursdays through Mondays until September 30.

The recreational crabbing season was delayed from its scheduled August 17 start allegedly because not enough crabs had hard shells, which can lead to high mortality rates among softshell crabs that

are often discarded for having little meat. WDFW and tribal co-managers are required to test fisheries before the season opening to ensure 80 percent of crabs have hard shells.

Crabbers have a daily limit of five male Dungeness crab, as long as they have hard shells and a minimum carapace width of 6¼ inches. Crabbers may also keep six red rock crab, either male or female, that have hard shells and a carapace width of five inches.

For more info, visit bit.ly/3YHMLai.

Parks district news ...

Special meeting to be held

The Point Roberts Park and Recreation District has tentatively planned a special meeting for mid-September to discuss the results of a survey that ran from May to July to gauge public opinion on future park district facilities.

Chair Mitch Friedman emphasized the importance of discussing the results in a public setting, “We put out a survey to the residents, and I think they have a stake hold in what the data looks like and how the board uses this data.” The date and time of the special meeting will be announced on social media.

AT&T to join tower

The parks board and SBA Communications have agreed to add AT&T cellular equipment to the tower located near Baker Field. The addition would generate a onetime payment of $10,000 to the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District.

Kennedy event violated RCW

During the public comment section of the park district meeting on August 14, Bennett Blaustein informed the board members that they had violated Washington state law by letting a live-streamed campaign event happen on July 24 at the community center without charging organizers to use the center.

“We’ve never had a campaign event at the community center for free, actually we’ve never had a campaign use the community center that I know of before. The only time we’ve had anyone campaign is when there’s been a candidate’s night, and all the candidates have been invited at the same time,” said Blaustein.

Parks board chair Mitch Friedman insisted that he had not violated any RCWs and said that it wasn’t even a campaign event.

“There was nothing in regard to campaign talks that was going on. They were talking about something completely different,” Friedman said.

The live-streamed event was hosted by presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and was entitled “Let’s Heal the Divide.”

According to the website, Kennedy24. com, the purpose of the event was for Kennedy to “take questions from supporters from around the nation, with the overall focus being on healing the divide in our nation, emphasizing the ideas that unite us instead of divide us.”

RCW 42.78.555 states “No elective official … may use or authorize the use of any of the facilities of a public office or agency, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of assisting a campaign for election of any person to any office or for the promotion of or opposition to any ballot proposition.”

Margot

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

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Is your garden a place of solace or aggravation? My garden is both. Does that have more to say about me than about the garden?

Social media is full of garden memes. All are positive: the satisfaction of growing a tomato, it’s not hoarding if it’s plants, gardening is cheaper than therapy, garden bathing, and so on.

Yes, there is indeed the immense satisfaction of growing a special plant from seed and the thrill of the hunt – tracking down that hard-to-find treasure. Puttering around the garden is a great pastime. Even pulling weeds can be very therapeutic, providing an outlet for destructive urges.

But who are they kidding? Do they want to come to my garden? There are weeds growing in the driveway. The lavender will need trimming in the coming months. My slash pile is too large. Is it really time to turn the compost again? Why does my garden look untended and overgrown in comparison to that lovely South Delta Garden Tour entry where each plant was its own spotlighted garden feature? And now, wherever did that dreaded goutweed come from?!

Let’s face it. Gardening can be a lot of work. Late summer is supposed to be a time to simply relax in the shortening sun, to “garden bathe.” Yes, indeed, there is that – although mosquitos hung around later this year than most years.

Yet here are my August tasks: cut fall-fruiting spent raspberry canes to the ground, sow the last of the cool season crops like radishes and beets for a chance at a crop before winter cold halts growth, and fertilize the flowering shrubs and strawberries lightly so they can build up stores for winter dormancy. (This year, I am trying RoseTone for most flowering shrubs on the advice of a Garden Club member.)

And September? I am so very glad that current advice is to neglect ‘putting your garden to bed,’ with the goals of providing protective mulch and a habitat for small

beneficial garden critters. But then I think: oh no, that means the lavender trimming has to be finished in very early spring. Of course, there is an ample number of garden tasks that do not involve cleanup so I really can postpone the lavender trimming as long as I want.

Once regular rain commences and the main bloom period is over, dividing clump-forming perennials is on the task list. Out come the spade, garden forks, and root knife. It’s not a task that every plant tolerates or even needs every year, so my solution is to keep a calendar of what plants might need attention in late summer and early autumn. I find that alternating years for different plants makes the task more manageable. Odd years is for chives and lilies, even years for irises. Of course, I forgot the even-year irises last year, so I got a pretty poor bloom this year. Serves me right.

This year will be different, and I shall tackle all my dividing tasks. But instead of discarding or giving away viable but unwanted divisions, I shall pot them up for the Garden Club Spring Garden Sale, which the club decided to hold in lieu of a garden tour.

This time of year is also great for planting shrubs and trees, as well as some hardy herbaceous plants. The red-flowering currants ordered for the Garden Club’s Tyee Drive beautification project to replace the winter-killed Ceanothus will go in now.

The native tree saplings I ordered at the Whatcom Conservation District can move from their pots near the garden hose to their final home where the coming months of rain will help them settle in before winter dormancy. Even some wildflower seed mixes are best sown now because they need a freeze to crack the hard seed coating and germinate.

And regarding seeds, now is the ideal time to harvest seeds from wanted plants. I’m setting aside my harvested flower seeds to spread on the Club’s Tyee Beautification Project when the Club works on revitalizing the next section of spring bulb mounds. Any vegetable seeds I don’t want to use myself can be packaged and saved for next spring’s Point Roberts Seed Share event.

But gardening is not all tasks like this. There are times to sit on the porch and savor the lush vista and the waves of flowers. The breeze stirs the leaves gently. I can work at my desk and look out on the calm layers of greenery. Even now as the lavender fades, it makes way for the pink flush of emerging Sedum “Autumn Joy” blooms. There is something satisfying about creating order out of chaos. And there is indeed nothing better than a home-grown tomato. I must remember this next time I spot a weed or hear a task calling. It’s a delicate balance.

Dollars for Scholars 2023 recipients

Point Roberts Dollars For Scholars is pleased to award our 2023 scholarship recipients:

Gabriel Botelho, Saffron Burberry, Julia Farkasch, Joshua Fletcher, Alexandra Grubb, Allison Hartley, Ryan Heppner, Sean Heppner, Connor Hettinga, Grace Hettinga, Megan Kelly, Jack Nielson, Piper Nissen, Jack Procter, Nadia Rai, Rhea Rai, Zach Rai (not pictured), Claire Swanson, Jonathan Tuazon

Thanks to the generous and continued

support of the community and businesses of Point Roberts this year we were able to award our 18 students $1,100 which is our largest group of students and the highest scholarship awarded to date. We are blessed with very considerate and supportive citizens who have allowed us to support our students to the highest award level in our Point Roberts Dollars For Scholars 23year history.

Please turn to pages 10 & 11 for photos of the scholars.

Photo: Henri Tsai

s Emily and the Strays was one of several bands at the Eagle SunFest on August 5, sponsored by EagleSkyeNet founded by Jeff Butts, l. Butts talked about protecting eagles in Point Roberts and his experiences communicating telepathically with the raptors. Photos, top, Pat Grubb; l., Louise Mugar

s Maple Beach Bike Parade on July 29 brings out the smiles.

Photo of parade by Stephen Fowler; photo of Elle and Stella Billinger by Carlie Billinger

s A Hankapalooza party in Maple Beach brought out a crowd of more than 80 people celebrating Hank Williams on August 19. The semi-annual Hank Williams Party started in 1976. Three of the original founders, now in their 90s, happily attended: Kay Lackner, Marie Hastings and Lynn Sam.

Photos by Lindsay Michaud

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s Joshua Fletcher.

s Alexandra Grubb.

s Allison Hartley.

s Gabriel Botelho.

s Saffron Burberry.

s Julia Farkasch

s Piper Nissen.

s Jack Procter.

Claire Swanson.

Rhea Rai.

Welcome to the 2023/2024 school year!

We are excited about the new school year that we have ahead of us. We value the opportunity that we have to connect with each child who comes through our doors and becomes a part of our school family.

One of our main goals at Point Roberts Primary is to foster a love of learning that will continue to grow throughout a child’s education at PRPS and beyond. Our multi-age setting allows us to offer our students authentic academic experiences in all subjects which enable our students to learn at their own pace within a child-centered environment.

Throughout the years we have had the opportunity to partner with members of our community to provide our students with academic and hands-on experiences that enrich each child’s learning experience at PRPS. If you are interested in volunteering in our special school or if you have a special expertise you would like to share with our students, please reach out to me to discuss how you can be a part of our school community.

In addition, we would like to invite you to an upcoming Supper with the Superintendent that will be hosted at Point Roberts Primary next month. Please join us for pizza and meaningful conversation at 6 pm on September 13th.

Looking forward to a great year ahead!

Jessie Hettinga, M.S.Ed Principal/K-2 Teacher jhettinga@blainesd.org

Point Roberts Primary

Hello, Blaine School District students, staff, families and community.

As we look forward to the 2023-2024 school year, we are excited about the opportunities ahead for our students, staff and community. Last year, we focused on student outcomes through strong instruction from our amazing teachers along with collaboration between our staff and the families we serve. As a next step in the continual improvement process for providing the best outcomes for your students, we will be starting school one (1) hour late each Wednesday to give our staff time to collaborate in professional learning.

The world of education continues to evolve, and we continue to strive to be the best place for students to receive a high quality well rounded education. We GET to work with your students each day, and that is a tremendous gift you entrust us with.

Please know we are continuing to work to improve, and we want to do that in collaboration with you. I will continue to host a monthly Supper with the Superintendent to provide parents and community members with an opportunity to have open discussion. In addition, I’m working with a Superintendent’s Advisory Committee that provides feedback on items under consideration for the future, such as a balanced school year calendar. If you are interested in participating on that committee, please email me at cgranger@blainesd.org. Whether it is one of the above options, or volunteering in the building, or joining a parent teacher organization or booster club, we look forward to working with you as a partner in supporting the success of each student.

Sincerely,

Dr. Christopher Granger, Superintendent Each Student. Each Day.

Who’s that man in the ranger hat?

You might have caught a glimpse of him cruising along Maple Beach in the white Whatcom County parks department truck, clearing trails at Lily Point, offering friendly reminders to keep dogs leashed at Monument Park, or clearing the boat ramp at Lighthouse Marine Park. But who exactly is the friendly face under the ranger’s hat? He is Iver Jackson, local park ranger, who has been making Point Roberts county parks more accessible and enjoyable for everyone over the past year.

Jackson grew up on the Point and is a recent graduate of Western Washington University where he majored in marketing and business sustainability. He began working for the county parks department as a seasonal employee five years ago, and through dedication and experience, he earned the position of park ranger last summer. “I grew up coming to the park and I want everyone to be happy here,” Jackson said. He is committed to ensuring that everyone who visits the parks experiences the same wonder and happiness that he has cherished throughout his life.

Jackson is a nature enthusiast. Lily Point is his favorite park, where he enjoys watching the many eagles that roost there. He also relishes spotting orcas and porpoises at Lighthouse Marine Park and can

most often be found there working in the campground or in his office.

Jackson’s calendar follows the rhythm of the seasons. Summers are dedicated to tending to the campground, while the shoulder seasons call for trail maintenance. In the winter, he delves into project-based work, and this year he will be replacing fire rings in the campground.

Navigating the seasonal nature of the job presents challenges when it comes to staffing. Each summer, the park looks to hire two full-time seasonal assistants. While Jackson had the fortune of having an assistant last year, this year the positions have both remained unfilled. The Whatcom County Parks District occasionally sends help from Bellingham. Throughout it all, Jackson’s positive attitude prevails, and he remains undaunted by the workload.

In his downtime, Jackson keeps busy playing sports. Whether it’s baseball or roller hockey in Canada, or hockey with friends in Bellingham, he embraces the thrill of competition and the joy of camaraderie.

The next time you encounter the white Whatcom County parks truck on the roads, or see Iver Jackson wearing his ranger’s attire, remember that behind the scenes is a local hero who strives to preserve and share the natural beauty of Point Roberts with everyone.

Local realtor Wayne Lyle recognized on America’s Best Real Estate List for 2023

Wayne Lyle with ReMax Point Roberts has been recognized on the “America’s Best Real Estate Agent List, an annual ranking of the country’s real estate professionals by the independent ranking service RealTrends. He is ranked in the top 1.5 percent of 1.6 million real estate agents in the USA for 2023. (2023 rankings based on 2022 data).

Lyle was ranked #102 in the USA with a total of 46 transactions in Point Roberts and #582 in sales volume for 2022.

Lyle has been involved in the real estate industry continually for over 40 years and has been involved with sales and marketing of real estate from B.C. to the Caribbean to Mexico and Central America and across a number of U.S. states.

His passion for small towns and sailing brought him to the Point Roberts area where he has excelled while only being active here for just 4 years. He has achieved sales awards and recognition across a wide spectrum of projects including a

s Wayne Lyle Courtesy photo

Gold Georgie Award for Best Advertising Campaign in 2021 by the Canadian Home Builders Association of British Columbia.

B y e rin K elly

s Iver Jackson.

Photo by Erin Kelly

s The first day of school in a new school ....

Point Roberts Primary School has 30th anniversary

B y M ar K S wen S on ing the school.

Though primary education on the Point dates back to 1886 when a school was organized in a person’s home in the Freeman Beach area, this month is the 30th anniversary of the current primary school building located next to Baker Field on Benson Road. Its opening in September 1993 ended a 30-year absence of a local school. For the previous three decades, all schoolchildren attending public school, even the kindergartners, were bused to Blaine, requiring four international border crossings every single day.

The first schoolhouse in Point Roberts was on Benson Road in the vicinity of the Gulf Aire mobile home park. After occupying a couple of locations on Gulf Road, in 1937 the school settled into a brick building constructed by the Works Progress Administration, today’s community center.

The need for schoolhouses and teachers has fluctuated with economic conditions on the Point. Enrollment in 1890 was 27, but when Icelanders began arriving in large numbers in the 1890s, attendance was large enough for Point Roberts to be organized as School District 68. From the turn of the century through the early 1930s, there were over 80 children attend-

September Tides

When salmon fish traps were banned in 1934, attendance was immediately cut in half. The Point Roberts school district folded and merged with the Blaine school district in 1940, but a local schoolhouse remained. By 1954, local enrollment had dipped to 24 students in grades one to six, all in one room. After grade six, students were bused to Blaine.

As Point Roberts became more of a summer cottage community, attendance

dipped further. By 1962, only 11 students remained. The brick school was closed, eventually becoming the community center, today owned and administered by the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District.

The presence of a local school is a boon to the education of our children. To educate yourself about the history of Point Roberts, step into the Point Roberts History Center, open Saturdays, located in the former brick schoolhouse’s library.

Residential fires restricted in upgraded burn ban

B y G race M c c arthy

A dry summer has led to the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office upgrading the burn ban to a stage two, which will restrict all open burning in unincorporated county areas.

The fire marshal’s office issued the burn ban on August 16 to prohibit all outdoor burning, including recreational, yard debris and land clearing fires. The county burn ban coincides with statewide burn bans on lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Forest Service.

The fire marshal’s office will continue allowing propane fire pits without solid wood-burning material as well as propane and charcoal barbecues. Charcoal and ash must be discarded in a metal container and put out with water. The container needs to remain 10 feet from structures or vegetation for 72 hours.

The fire marshal’s office does not allow wood-burning fire pits, charcoal pits or similar enclosures with grates or screens. Liquid gas-fired stoves or barbecues, or charcoal barbecues, on private properties

need to be over a nonflammable surface and at least five feet from vegetation or structures.

Burn ban violations carry a $250 minimum fine. Illegal fires that grow can result in additional fines and criminal charges. The fire marshal’s office issued the stage one burn ban in early June.

The Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office can answer questions regarding open burning at 360/778-5900. Current burn ban information is available at 360/778-5903.

sheriff’s report

August 3, 1:26 p.m.: Serve papers on Vista Way.

August 3, 3:02 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on APA Road.

August 3, 3:02 p.m.: Assault simple cold call on Simundson Drive.

August 3, 4:47 p.m.: Subject stop on Benson Road.

August 3, 9:16 p.m.: Threat cold call on Boundary Bay Road.

August 4, 1 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Diane Circle.

August 5, 9:11 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Mill Road.

August 6, 8:22 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Johnson and Boundary Bay roads.

August 7, 9:48 a.m.: Assist agency on Boundary Bay Road.

August 7, 7:22 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Gulf Road.

August 12, 6:35 p.m.: Trespass on Jonna Drive.

August 13, 9:37 p.m.: Serve papers cold call on Simundson Drive.

August 15, 6:24 p.m.: Refer to other agency

Library piCks

K ri S lo M e D ico

Bestsellers:

Resurrection Walk

Michael Connelly

The Women Kristin Hannah

Again and Again Jonathan Evison

The Breakaway Jennifer Weiner

Movies:

Desert Shadows Mitch Pileggi

Avatar 2 Sam Worthington

Gaslit Julia Roberts

The Lost King Sally Hawkins

Music:

Joni Mitchell at Newport

Joni Mitchell

Great Women of Song Nina Simone

Make Me Say It Again, Girl Isley Brothers

Beethoven’s Wig

Richard Perlmutter

Teens:

Defiant Brandon Sanderson

Plan A Deb Calletti

Check & Mate Ali Hazelwood

Kids:

Spy School Goes North Stuart Gibbs

The Lost Library Rebecca Stead

The invitation

Stacey May Fowles

Hours:

Tuesdays: 1-7

Wednesdays and Saturdays: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Express hours: 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily wcls.org

on Shady Glen Avenue.

August 16, 4:33 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Walters Lane.

August 17, 3:12 p.m.: Mental on Boundary Bay Road.

August 17, 5:16 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Madrona Place.

August 17, 8:49 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Madrona Place.

August 17, 9:18b p.m.: Welfare check on Marine Drive.

August 18, 12:53 p.m.: Serve papers on Simundson Drive.

August 18, 1:35 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Benson Road and Tyee Drive.

August 18, 6:11 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Uscandia Lane.

August 18, 6:24 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Peltier Drive.

August 20, 7:50 a.m.: Assist citizen on Evergreen Way.

August 20, 2:52 p.m.: Hazard on Columbia Vista.

August 20, 3:22 p.m.: Welfare check on Simundson Drive.

August 20, 8:40 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Pelican Place.

August 20, 8:45 p.m.: Welfare check on Edwards Drive.

August 22, 10:32 p.m.: Alarm panic on Marine Drive.

CrossinGs >>>

Traffic into Point Roberts June 2023, with figures for 2022 following: June: Personal vehicles 65,822 (52,915); commercial vehicles 737 (498); buses 26 (24); pedestrians 804 (676).

LoCaL stats >>>

Fire Incidents for July 2023

Total calls (39); EMS calls (9), resulting in the following transports: North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (1); Fire classification (13) resulting in outdoor burns – illegal (3), outdoor burns – permit (2), false alarm (4), power lines down (1), wrong address (1), water problem (1), public service (2).

Point Roberts health clinic numbers for July 2023 (2022 figures following)

Total 163 (145); office visit 95 (91); labs 16 (22); PT/INR 8 (4); telemedicine visit 14 (14); Physical exams 4 (0); skin clinic 11 (7); B12 and flu shots 15 (7).

Coming up ...

Scheduled Meetings/Events

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

Fire Department Levy Information Q&A: Saturday, August 26, 11 a.m. Fire Hall and Zoom. Link: bit. ly/43ZuG8t.

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

Solid Waste Transfer Station, 2005 Johnson Road. Bring us household hazardous waste including oil-based paint, solvents, aerosol cans, garden chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline and florescent lamps. No latex paint will be accepted at this event. Questions? Contact 360/380-4640. Sponsored by 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.

Community CPR class: Saturday, August 26, 1 p.m., Fire Hall.

Blackberry Crumble Pie Fundraiser: Pick up Saturday, August 26, afternoon, community center. Orders must be made in advance by email to prcircleofcare@gmail.com. Circle of Care is again creating delicious Point Roberts blackberry pies to bake or freeze for your family’s enjoyment. Supplies are limited. $25 per 9 inch crumble topped pie. $8 for 5-inch personal pie.

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

Fire Department Levy Information Q and A: Saturday, September 2, 11 a.m., Fire Hall and Zoom

Community CPR class: Saturday, September 2, 1 p.m., Fire Hall.

PR Amateur Radio Club: Monday, September 4, 7 p.m., via Zoom.

PR Beekeepers Association: Monday, September 4, 7–8:30 p.m., community center. Info: thelittlegoldenharp@gmail.com.

PR Cast & Crew: Tuesday, September 5, 7–8:30 p.m., community center. Info: thelittlegoldenharp@gmail. com.

PR Emergency Preparedness: Tuesday, September 5, 7 p.m., community center/Zoom. Info: prepgroup17@ gmail.com.

Town Hall: Wednesday, September 6, 2-3 p.m., community center. U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen plans to hold a town hall meeting in Point Roberts. Point Roberts Taxpayers Association is pleased to sponsor this event.

Plant-Based Potluck Club: Thursday, September 7, 6 p.m., Lighthouse Marine Park. Bring a dish to share (no meat, eggs or dairy) and your own plates/silverware/drinks. All are welcome.

PR Park and Recreation: Monday, September 11, at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org.

Supper with the Superintendent: Wednesday, September 13, 6 p.m., Point Roberts Primary School.

PR Hospital District: Wednesday, September 13, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: pointrobertsclinic.com.

PR Taxpayers Association: Thursday, September 14, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Link: bit.ly/3OBb1rn. Info: PRTA@ pointroberts.net.

Fall Harvest Dance: Saturday, September 16, from 7 to 9 p.m., community center. Square dance for people of all ages. Pre-event lessons will be available on Monday, September 4 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and Tuesday, September 5 from 4 to 6 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Friedman family. Dust off your cowboy boots and bring a dessert or snack to share!

Fire Department Levy Information Q and A: Saturday, September 17, 1 p.m. Fire Hall and Zoom.

Community CPR class: Sunday, September 17, 3 p.m., Fire Hall.

PR Historical Society: Wednesday, September 20, 7 p.m., in the History Center.

PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, September 21, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: PRCAC.comment@ gmail.com.

Blaine School Board Meeting: Monday, September 25, 7 p.m., Point Roberts Primary School.

PR Garden Club: Tuesday, September 26, 7 p.m., community center. Catherine Stewart: Caring for Dahlias. info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org.

Point Roberts Apple Harvest Festival: Friday through Sunday, September 29 - October 1, community center and marina. Apple cider pressing on Saturday and Sunday at community center, Bingo games. At the Point Roberts Marina there will be a tiny art gallery opening and auction, wine bar, desserts, dancing and music by Shaune Ann Fuez and Savilla Kress. Sponsored by Point Roberts Circle of Care.

Ongoing Events and Hours

Chess: Every Tuesday, 4-7 p.m., Point Roberts library. Beginners are welcome.

Craft and Game Night: Tuesdays from 5–7 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Bring a craft to work on or a board game to play.

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

PR Food Bank: Every Wednesday 8:30–10:30 a.m., Community Center. Info: prfoodbank.org.

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.

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.

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.

History Center: Extended summer hours through Labor Day: Fridays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. -3 p.m., community center. After Labor Day: Saturdays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

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

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.

obituaries

Gordon James Loewen

May 7, 1955 – July 30, 2023

Gordon (Gordy) James Loewen passed awy at home in Point Roberts, Washington, on July 30, 2023.

Born Cartwright, Manitoba, to Wilhelm (Bill) and Agatha Loewen; he was the second of five children. Gordy was predeceased by his father Bill and younger brother Gerald. Gordy is survived by his loving wife Annette, mother Agatha Siemens, siblings Alma Lee, Wes (Bev) Loewen and Luella (Roy) Pennington, his children Angela, Leslie, Tanya (Sean), Cody (Becky), and Devon (Jacquie), his stepchildren Annette (Jim), Ken (Allison), Beth (Tim), and Scott (Heather), and 17 grandchildren as well as

Classifieds

numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

In his younger years he loved running in track meets at school and playing baseball. Later he enjoyed golfing for exercise and relaxation. Gordy was a commercial truck driver for more than 40 years and transported almost anything you could think of including furniture, fertilizer, lumber, drywall, food products, jet engines and other airline equipment across the United States and Canada.

Congestive heart failure forced him into retirement in 2014. After he came off the road, he helped to care for his mother-inlaw Myra in her final years. Gordy also enjoyed swimming and aquatic exercise both at Winskill and at home.

He was a pet lover and had many cats and dogs of his own throughout his life. Gordy enjoyed music and was also known to dance occasionally! He was a fan of car

racing, wrestling, soccer, the Mariners and the Seahawks. He liked to watch cooking shows too and made a delicious chili every year for the July 4th Independence Day celebration. Gordy had a great sense of humor and loved a good joke. You always knew he was up to something when you saw that twinkle in his eye which inevitably ended with laughter.

Most of all he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, something he didn’t get to do a lot of when he was on the road all those years. Gord was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend who will be deeply missed by all. Should you wish, a donation to the charity of your choice in loving memory of Gord Loewen. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 9, 1:30 p.m. at 1496 Gulf Road in Point Roberts.

(Please see next page)

Announcements

MASSAGE THERAPY Bryan Langsdale, LMT. 10+ years experience. Myofacscial - Deep Tissue - Craniosacral. Pain relief & relaxation. Located in Maple Beach. Contact pointrobertswellness@ gmail.com

Auto

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

Business Services

Top Tier Roofing Services

Brandon 360-592-7617

Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Experienced and Professional customer service. SPECIALIZING IN: Duroid/Sloped, Torchdown/Flat and metal roof installs. Moss spraying and removal, roof, gutter cleaning, repairs.

TopTier Tree Service

Brandon 360-592-7617

Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Experienced and Professional customer service

Specializing in dangerous large tree removal of dead and living trees. Topping, Pruning, Rigging, Felling, Chipping, Excavating, Lot Clearing, Stump Removal and more.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE! Half/Full Chords delivered, Different types of wood and sizes depending on availability. Onsite commercial burning services.

s Gordon Loewen.

s Adela Neill.

Adela Maria Neill (Martinez)

April 30, 1939 - June 30, 2023

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Adela Maria Neill (Martinez) on June 30, 2023. Adela suffered a devastating stroke on Mother’s Day evening. She fought a very hard fight and did so with grace, kindness, and extreme appreciation for everyone who provided her care.

Adela was born in San Jose, Costa Rica on April 30, 1939. At the age of 18 she met John Neill. On August 15, 1955, she decided to travel to the United States to marry John. They called the Seattle area home for the first few years of their marriage. When they wanted to start a family, they soon realized this would not be an easy process. Adela was feeling quite lonely and isolated, so in August 1960 she had her 14-yearold sister Xinia come to live with them and then in 1962 her 18-year-old brother

Alberto joined them. Later in 1962 John accepted a position with the Blaine School District as a bus driver. This job would have them relocate to Point Roberts.

In December of 1965, only child Jane was born. Adela stayed at home with her daughter for the first few years. Once her daughter started school, she decided to join the work force. She spent over 30 years cooking at The Cannery, T.J.’s, and then finally the Breakers. Adela decided to retire in 1992 when she became a firsttime grandmother. She felt that nobody could provide the loving childcare environment she could. Her grandchildren were truly blessed to have so much of her time strictly devoted to them while their parents were at work.

Adela was predeceased by her parents Luis and Isabel, her husband John, broth-

ers Alberto, Mario, and Javier, and sister Dyala (earlier this year). She is survived by daughter Jane (Keith), grandchildren Brett, Jessica, Christina, and Marissa, great granddaughter Aria-Jordan (who occupied the biggest space in her heart), sisters Xinia (Robert) and Ligia, brothers Alex (Flory) and Antonio, sister-in-law Marta, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins in the U.S., Canada, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. We love you to the moon and back a million times over. We will never let go of the love, light, and laughter that you brought to our lives. We would like to thank fire chief Christopher Carleton and the PRVFD for their care and dedication, the amazing team at Airlift Northwest for their kindness and professionalism, and finally the wonderful doctors and nurses at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett; we really can’t thank you enough.

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

November 15, 1936 - July 25, 2023

We are deeply saddened with the passing of Norman Tennock on July 25, 2023. He is together now with Gillian, his beloved wife of over 60 years, who passed away just 3 and a half months before him. He also joins Craig’s partner, Alison, who passed suddenly last September. Norman is survived by his children and their spouses, Craig, Karen and Ivar, Julie and Chris, Ross and Mig, and Kevin and Kathleen, his grandchildren, Lindsay, Kelsey, Marlee, Sara, Amanda, Sophia, Liam, Ashton, and Maya, and his first great grandchild, baby Rae.

Norman, the eldest of three boys, was born in Glasgow, Scotland where he spent

(See Tennock, page 18)

JULY 2023

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts DESCRIPTION

HIGHER END HOUSES:

$800,000 & ABOVE:

1-story house with 2,189 SF, 1,914 SF basement, 3 BD, 5 BA, 648 SF attached garage, 465 SF balcony, 456 SF patio, built in 2000; marine and territorial views, .22 acres land.

2-story house with 2,416 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 416 SF attached garage, 720 SF detached garage, 180 SF loft, 492 SF deck, built in 2004, plus 1-story house with 548 SF, 1 BD, 1 BA, 244 SF deck, waterfront; marine view, .48 acres land.

1-story house with 2,279 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, 1,015 SF attached garage, 125 SF patio, 280 SF guest house, built in 2003; territorial view, .34 acres land.

1-story house with 2,086 SF, 1,276 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 576 SF attached garage, 280 SF deck, built in 2018; marine view, .23 acres land.

1-story house with 2,334 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 428 SF attached garage, 968 SF patio, built in 1990, waterfront; marine view, .25 acres land.

1- and a half story house with 1,929 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 564 SF attached garage, 679 SF patio, built in 1977, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .25 acres land.

1-and a half story condo with 2,333 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 556 SF built-in garage, 242 SF patio, built in 2018, waterfront; marine and territorial view.

1-story house with 2,435 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 905 SF attached garage, 350 SF patio, built in 2002, .39 acres land.

1-and a half story house with 1,320 SF 2 BD, 2 BA, 240 SF patio, built in 1977, 50 feet waterfront; marine view, .11 acres land.

2-story house with 3,376 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 280 SF balcony, 350 SF deck, 367 SF patio, 198 SF storage, built in 1970, 5.13 acres land.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:

2- 1- story duplex with 1,680 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA each, built in 1971, .24 acres land.

2-story office building with 15,290 SFt, 10,250 SF basement, elevator, built in 1994; marine view, 1.52 acres land.

LAND:

.27 acres commercial land; marine view.

.33 acres residential lot; marine view.

.21 acres residential lots. (2 lots)

Waterfront lot; marine view.

.26 acres residential lot; territorial view.

8013 Chinook Way, Blaine

611 Marine Drive, Point Roberts

8656 Great Horned Owl Lane, Blaine

8040 Makah Road, Blaine

8140 Coquitlam Place, Blaine

8228 Cowichan Road, Blaine

Unit #24, Semiahmoo Shore Condominium, 9412 Turnstone Lane, Blaine

5524 Canvasback Road, Blaine

6983 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine

1692 Benson Road, Point Roberts 1221 Mitchell Avenue, Blaine 2150 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine 758 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine.

Norman Chapman Tennock

s Norman Tennock.

Tennock ...

From page 17

his early years getting into mischief with the other tenement boys. As a young man he suffered the tragic loss of his brother, Bruce. Norman survived his parents and his other brother, Alan, by several years.

Norman was a quiet man except when he told stories about his adventures in the Highlands of Scotland. The days of his youth were spent as a member of the Arracher and Craegh Dhu Mountain clubs, camping, hiking, and braving treacherous climbs such as the Cioch Direct, and the Cradl of Doom. Hiking and camping in the mountains remained a lifelong passion.

Norman obtained a degree in civil engineering at Glasgow University. Once graduated, Norman went to London where he lived with a group of young lads at the “Foley Street” flat which became infamous for its after-parties. Out at a London ball one night, Norman took up his friend’s challenge to ask the pretty girl across the room to dance. Her name was Gillian. The rest is history.

Yacht Sales–Power and Sail Service

Import

After marrying Gillian, Norman decided Canada was a good bet. Off they went with $100, a trunk full of belongings, and 6-month-old Craig. After four more children and many moves from Saskatchewan to Nebraska, California, Colorado, B.C., Alberta, and Arizona, they finally settled in Point Roberts, where they spent the last seven years of their lives.

Norman’s life was varied and interesting as he traveled the world, raised his five children, and became an accomplished civil engineer as project manager of several significant jobs such as the Mica and Revelstoke Dams.

He will be dearly remembered as the

mountain man that he was, for the way he fostered a love of adventure and an appreciation of nature in his children, and for his gentle presence and witty, wry sense of humour which he injected into the telling of a good story. Your stories live on dear Dad, in the wonderful memories we hold of you, and every time we look to the mountains, where you most loved to be. As we did many times throughout your 86 years of life, we raise a glass of scotch to you: Slainte Mhath!

Thank you to all of you in Point Roberts who showed kindness and care to Norman, especially in the time after he lost Gillian. A memorial date has yet to be set.

grew up to be a talented actress. She married, and in 1993 gave birth to Dominic. Unfortunately, Amanda died of liver failure in 2001.

Vyna’s husband Ralph turned out to have another wife, leading to divorce in 1973. Vyna was persuaded by friends Patti and Jose to leave Manchester and start over in El Cerrito, California. There she taught voice at the University of California, Berkeley and sang with the San Francisco Opera chorus, while also teaching privately. In 1990 she married Nicholas Lewis in Reno, Nevada. His gambling strained their finances, leading to a divorce after Vyna received her green card.

Vyna Florence Werner

April 6, 1936 – April 8, 2023

Vyna was born on April 6, 1936 in the UK to Carmela Dolores (née Restall) from Malta and John Stanley Throssell from England. She is survived by her brother, John, and grandson, Dominic. She was pre-deceased by her daughter, Amanda, husband, Manfred and brother, Norman.

As a child, her family doctor recommended singing to help childhood asthma, starting her on the path to her career. Vyna began work as a typist at a law company in London, then switched to earning her living singing in clubs. She sang in the style of Ella Fitzgerald, performing and interacting with large audiences in blues clubs.

With professional training she became a soprano, able to perform a full three octave range. She earned her licentiate in teaching and performing voice and piano from the Royal Academy of Music in 1967, and a Masters from the Royal Northern College of Music in 1969. In 1973 she sang the title role in Carmen for the Glyndebourne Opera to enthusiastic reviews, with one critic calling her a tour de force.

In 1958 she gave birth to Amanda, who was adopted by Vyna’s husband Ralph Martin, after their marriage in 1962. Amanda

In 1992 she bought a house in Richmond, and rented out a room. Her renter, Manfred Werner, a master tiler from Germany, quietly admired her for a year before courting her, then became the love of her life. They married in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2001.

Discouraged by crime in Richmond, they tried Gambier Island, Canada to remodel an old hunting lodge into a bed and breakfast, before retiring to Point Roberts in Washington state. Point Roberts is surrounded on three sides by ocean, and on the north side by Canada. There she participated in the community, including adopting a fire hydrant, and joining the Red Hat Society for Women.

In addition to being passionate about teaching voice, Vyna was a dedicated and highly accomplished gardener. In Point Roberts she created a magnificent garden with a huge variety of flowers, vegetables and ornamental plants, doing most of the digging and heavy labor herself. Unfortunately, Manfred suffered a stroke, after which he moved to a nursing home in Bellingham for several years. Vyna relocated to Bellingham, where she visited Manfred every day she could until his death in November 2022. Her asthma prevented full recovery from a case of COVID, leading to her death in April 2023, two days after her 87th birthday.

Vyna’s lively stories are a fond memory for her friends and family, and she is very much missed.

A regular laugh-a-rama!

s Vyna Werner.

s Shirley Cannon, r., is the 2023 winner of the Ha Ha Cup. She told her joke to a full house at the Joke Telling Contest, a PREP fundraiser, on August 19 at the community center. Sandy Baker earned 2nd place, Arthur Reber (not shown) placed 3rd, and Honorable Mention went to Gavin Guilfoyle (8-years-old). The very funny Lucy Williams was the emcee and music was performed by Shaune Ann Feuz and Savilla Kress, and Mark Robbins was the coordinator.

Photo of Shirley by Erin Kelly

Photo of group by Ramona Ramstead