Following months of turmoil and concern that there was a movement to replace SuperTrack, the service provider that is operating the local health clinic on Benson Road, the Point Roberts hospital district commission voted 2-1 at its regular July 10 meeting to offer it a three-year term instead of the current one-year contract extension that has been the case.
Commissioners Noel Newbolt and Sara Oggel voted in favor of the motion while Stephen Falk voted against. Newbolt had proposed a five-year term at the district’s meeting last month but the motion was tabled after Oggel said she wanted to learn more about a two-year-old complaint against the district made by an unnamed Canadian.
Previously, the contract between the district and SuperTrack was based on automatic one-year renewals. SuperTrack principal Dr. Sean Bozorgzad had on a number of occasions raised the issue of lengthening the terms of the contract, saying it would make it easier to plan investments and to hire staff. Falk and Oggel had refused to consider the issue.
Newbolt once again proposed a five-year term which failed for lack of a second. Oggel then proposed extending the contract to a three-year term. Newbolt accepted the compromise and the motion passed. Bozorgzad agreed to the terms as well.
The new term will take effect January 1, 2025 and last until December 31, 2027 unless extended by June 30, 2027.
The meeting was well-attended with a full house present and 32 people attending via Zoom. In the public comment session, local residents Vic and Shannon Riley repeated their earlier calls for commissioner Stephen Falk to resign. “I don’t think [Falk] should be the chair and in particular, I don’t think he should be the primary point of contact” with SuperTrack, he said. Shannon Riley followed later, saying “the amount of damage you could do in the next 17 months is immeasurable, please do the honorable thing and resign.”
s Well over 500 people showed up to the first Strings and Things
played to the immense
ning a
CDC eases rules for dogs crossing the border
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Just days before new rules governing traveling into the U.S. with dogs were scheduled to be implemented, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has relaxed the requirements. Previously, dogs would have needed to be a minimum of six-monthsold, vaccinated for rabies, micro-chipped with a specific microchip and accompanied by an import form. Particularly problematic was the requirement that the rabies vaccination needed to be a U.S. Department of Agriculture-endorsed certificate. The newly revised rules require dogs to appear healthy upon arrival, be at least 6 months old, possess a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner for
identification. In addition, it must be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form (bit.ly/3LD02Lt) completed online and available for inspection.
The import form is simple, asks for basic information from the owner such as name, address, phone number and email address along with a basic description of the dog. It does not appear to require a rabies vaccination. It is reusable for as long as the animal has been in a no- or low-risk country. A form must be filled out for individual dogs. The rules will also apply to American residents who leave the country and then re-enter with their pet.
Whether or not a traveler will ever be
at the Point Roberts marina. Four bands
Mike Bell and Breeda Desmond who are already plan-
Photo by Ashley Strub
From page
17 after he became aware of the new regulations. He said he was “quite concerned” about new rules being promulgated by the U.S. Centers of Disease Control (CDC) governing dogs entering the country.
“I think that was a very poorly thoughtout bit of business and it’s going to have a huge impact for Americans. I don’t think they gave it much thought when it came to the U.S./Canada border,” he said during a press conference “This came as a big surprise to me. To be frank, when I first heard it, I thought ‘Well, this can’t be serious, they surely must be thinking of an exemption’” to Canada, he added. “I remain hopeful that logic will prevail.”
Following a visit to Washington, Holland said the rules had been relaxed somewhat for Canada. Holland said he had received “very positive indications” that his request for a grace period of a couple of months may be approved but that he had not yet been given confirmation.
“Frankly, I just don’t think this is a good use of border officers’ time. There’s a lot of issues at the border. Whether my Maltese is another Maltese and having a border officer figure that out, I’ve said to [U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra] doesn’t make sense to me,” Holland said.
Local immigration attorney Len Saun-
ders had been making the rounds of various Canadian media outlets who were seeking a local perspective on the issue. Given the fact that both Canada and the
U.S. are free of rabies, Saunders scoffed at the need for the new rules. “It’s like the U.S. version of ArriveCan, only for dogs,” he laughed.
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.
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P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281
opinion
Letters to the editor
The Editor:
On Sunday, I came down to our cabin on Park Lane with my new rescue dog of two days. It’s a little black/tan male chihuahua – three years old and a rescue. He somehow wiggled out of his harness and leash. Neighbors tried to help; he cameback for a treat but escaped when I tried picking him up. Off he ran to Gulf Road, up to the Marketplace, turned onto Tyee Drive and on down to Marina Drive. This took 45 minutes.
Everyone was stopping and trying to catch him, offering treats and kind words. Finally, he ran up a gravel driveway close to the grocery store. Several cars followed. Finally, a quick young man and his girlfriend trapped the doggie in an old, fenced garden and managed to grab him. He’s only 5 pounds but was scared and nervous. They wrapped him in a towel, and I put his harness back on.
Thanks to all of you for slowing down and trying. This could have been a very sad day for me if he’d been run over! The experience showed me how kind the folks are down at the Point. Thank you, kind angels. I will be more careful next time.
Leona Oren Point Robert
The Editor:
I am writing to share some thoughts on
our upcoming election, and to encourage everyone to participate. Here’s how:
Learn about the candidates who are running. Research them yourself and know their positions on the issues that are important to you.
Focus on what the candidates’ plans are for solving those issues. Resolve not to get distracted by the negative campaigning of an opposing candidate.
If you have questions, talk to your party’s precinct officer. They have been working to have the information needed, and may be a helpful resource.
Take the time to consider what you find, pray and vote. Your voice matters!
I’ll repeat that – vote. Because your voice matters.
Vote, because we have that blood-earned right – lets’ not give that right away by being silent.
One last thing – I ask that people please stop stealing candidates’ signs. Not only is
it disrespectful, it is illegal. Those signs are protected by law. (RCW 29A.84.040 and RCW 9.20.021, for example).
We all have opinions, and many of our preferences differ, so please, let’s respect one another during this wonderful process of freedom, and resist the urge to silence those we differ with.
Christena Miller Birch Bay
The Editor:
Ranked-choice voting.
Receiving my ballot this week, I grabbed the voter’s pamphlet to review the candidates. As I reviewed eight candidates for insurance commissioner, seven candidates for public lands commissioner, eight candidates for U.S. Representative, 11 candidates for U.S. Senate, 21 for governor and five for lieutenant governor, it occurred to me that we really should consider rankedchoice voting (RCV) for all primaries. RCV allows candidates to focus on their virtues, values, abilities and ideas. Campaign rhetoric could be based on their own vision rather than dissing each other. What a concept proven by several states. Just saying.
Donna Starr Blaine
Commissioners to vote on 2024/2025 schools budget
B y N ola N B aker
The Blaine school board held a special meeting on July 23 to discuss the proposed 2024-25 budget before voting to ratify in its next meeting on August 26.
The budget shows the Blaine School District earning $40.3 million in total revenue for its general fund, mostly from $21.4 million in state funding and $6.5 million in local taxes, and ending the year with a $2.9 million ending balance, larger than the 2023-24 balance.
This budget is the first since the pandemic that the district won’t receive a dime of special purpose funding from the federal government after receiving millions in Covid-era stimulus.
Amber Porter, the district’s former chief financial officer who now works on a contracted basis, presented the 225-page budget report to the board, painting a positive, yet conservative, picture of the district’s financial outlooks.
Per state law, school districts must produce a four-year budget forecast that includes a four-year enrollment projection. In recent years, enrollment has dipped across the school district, from a recent high of 2,220.48 full-time equivalent (FTE) students in 2019-20, to a budgeted count of 1,944.9 FTE students for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
Porter said birthrates in Whatcom Coun-
ty are showing a general slowing down in recent years, meaning the district’s enrollment numbers could continue to dwindle.
According to birthrate data from the Washington State Department of Health, there has been a slight downtrend in total number of births in Whatcom County even as the county’s population continues to rise, with 1,955 births in 2022 compared to 2,364 in 2015.
“We’re not sure if we’re at the bottom of an enrollment decline,” Porter said. “If it does continue, we have to recognize that the larger classes of older students in older grades, as they graduate off, they’re being replaced by smaller kindergarten classes.”
With fewer students, fewer state dollars come into the district’s general fund, and staff layoffs become inevitable. The district employed 162.43 FTE certificated employees in 2022-23, and the budget now has 136.3 FTE certificated employees for the 2024-25 school year.
Even with a kindergarten class budgeted at a conservative 105 students, and pandemic-era federal stimulus funds all dried up, the four-year outlook for the school district isn’t as dire as others in the state, Porter said. The district being able to maintain a positive fund balance by the fourth year of its forecast is a sign of good financial health, Porter said.
“Not seeing a negative number by year four of the forecast means were really
much more balanced,” Porter said. “So congratulations, because not every district can say that.”
To view the proposed 2024-25 budget, visit bit.ly/3WaB1fy.
District switches to safer foam
As of January 2024, the Point Roberts fire department has switched to PFAS-free firefighting foam. It is one of the first fire district in the county to do so, according to fire chief Christopher Carleton.
Firefighting foams form a ‘blanket’ over liquid fuels and flames that acts as a barrier preventing flammable vapors from escaping which helps both to extinguish the fire and to prevent additional ignition. Fluorine-free foam do not contain PFAS and use the same mechanism in knocking down flames.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are labmade chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Some of these chemicals have been in commercial use since the 1940s. PFAS are very stable, do not break down easily and can stay in the environment and the human body for a very long time. They have
(See District, page 5)
Paul Reniers
Arthur Reber
S The Cleveland Guardians have selected RHP Sean Heppner from the University of British Columbia (UBC) as the 355th pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Sean grew up in Point Roberts and played with the Tsawwassen Baseball Association and the North Delta Blue Jays of the Premier Baseball League prior to attending and playing varsity baseball with the UBC Thunderbirds.
been called the ‘Forever chemicals’ and can be found in non-stick cookware, ski wax, Scotchguard, coatings for paper and cardboard food packaging and elsewhere.
The chemicals have been associated with elevated risks of cancer, immune responses, metabolic syndromes, developmental issues, and reproductive effects. These chemicals are classified as potential endocrine disruptors. In other words, very nasty stuff. PFAS has been found in drinking water, rain falling over the Great Lakes, snow in the Antarctic – it is thought to be present in the blood of almost every American.
“We had all the systems flushed out of the trucks last November and then we switched out to PFAS- and PFOS-free foams since then,” Carleton told commissioners at their regular meeting in June. Asked by commissioner Norm Katz when firefighters use the foam, the chief replied, “We use them on all fires. It gives us better fire suppression plus it helps not having fires re-kindle.”
The Pier restaurant is open for business!
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Saltwater Cafe owner Tamra Hansen has returned to her roots with the reopening of The Pier restaurant, a venture she managed and part-owned over a decade ago.
bistro-style meals such as steak, seafood, burgers and pub fare, catering to all palates. ‘“I want to be able to serve to everyone’s likes,” said Hansen.
“It is great for Point Roberts residents to have a place where they can have good food and a fun atmosphere.”
The Pier, located at the marina on Simundson Drive, made its culinary comeback at the Strings and Things International Music Festival.
Leading the kitchen is Cameron Calvert, a self-taught chef hailing from Point Roberts. Calvert has an impressive resume, having gained experience in high-end Washington state eateries.
“He’s remarkably talented,” Hansen said. “I feel very fortunate to have him as my head chef.”
The Pier offers a diverse menu featuring
Operating year-round like the Saltwater Cafe, the restaurant welcomes patrons Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 10 p.m., with meals priced between $15 and $30.
Hansen expressed gratitude for her dedicated team. “I am lucky to have a very solid staff,” she remarked, adding, “We have some great seasonal and full-time employees.” Hansen is especially excited to offer a place that local residents can call home and looks forward to serving them great food and drinks at reasonable prices. Looking ahead, Hansen plans to hold more events, including a musical concert later in the summer.
“With a great chef by my side, the possibilities are endless,” Hansen concluded.
Wings across the border?
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What has wings but can’t cross the border? Injured birds, it seems.
Dave and Jonquil Armstrong were mailing some letters a few days ago at the post office when a couple walking by told them of an injured bird on the road by the community center. There they found an injured blue heron huddled on the shoulder.
Placing a towel over the bird, the two good Samaritans took the bird home, put her in a bin in a darkened garage and gave it some water. So far, so good. After calling around to various agencies, they found Wildlife Rescue in Burnaby would take the bird in and care for it. However, when it came time to get it there, the bird was denied entry by Canada.
“When I pointed out that blue herons fly across the border both ways on their own all of the time, they just shrugged,” he said, referring to the Canada Border Services officers he spoke with. “There’s a lack of common sense,” said Dave.
Eventually, the Armstrongs hooked up with a Washington State Fish and Wildlife officer named Taylor who drove up from Bellingham, picked up the bird and took
it to an animal rescue group in the county. Unfortunately, the bird later died from its injuries. According to the F&W officer, x-rays taken showed the bird had head injuries and a broken hip, most likely from being hit by a car.
This is not the first time a bird has had issues getting into Canada to be treated for injuries. Back in May, the fire department rescued an injured eagle on Maple Beach, took it up to the border and had a hard time trying to take it to a rescue outfit before being allowed to cross.
The Port of Bellingham has announced that it has received a $72,000 state grant and is contributing $18,000 for an economic development study of Point Roberts and to create an economic strategy for Point Roberts including infrastructure investment, business development strategies, housing and workforce needs. The study will begin this fall and take about a year to complete. The grant came from the state commerce department and community and economic revitalization board.
s Al fresco dining is available to take advantage of the summer weather.
Photo by Erin Kelly
New library assistant appointed
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Kids and parents should check out the programs AmandaLyn Wayland has planned for this summer at the local library. Wayland has recently stepped into the public service assistant position previously held by Rose Momsen and is bringing a youth focus to the role.
Originally hired as a summer page in June 2022 after graduating from Portland State University with a double major in English and applied linguistics, Wayland intended to stay just for the season. However, her enthusiasm and skills resulted in her being retained as an adjunct substitute and in May 2024, she stepped up to the position of public service assistant with the departure of Momsen.
Wayland has a longtime connection to Point Roberts, having visited regularly since childhood to stay with her grandmother, who moved here in 2006.
“I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember,” she said. She has already
held a couple of events this summer, including “Wonder and Wander” and “Make a Windchime.” Weekly, Wayland hosts Storytime on Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11 a.m. for children aged two to six.
Upcoming events include two Teen Art Camp sessions for grades six through 12 on Fridays July 26 and August 2.
Teen Art Camp sessions will feature activities including collaging as well as listening to audiobooks while creating neurographic drawings (an artistic process linking unconscious and conscious minds). More information on these events can be found in Coming Up.
In the fall, Wayland will be offering more events tailored to either children or teens. For the full calendar, visit the Whatcom County Library System calendar at bit.ly/3zREUOZ.
Outside of her library duties, Wayland enjoys strolling through the enchanted forest and reading literary fiction and philosophy.
Family Medicine
Emergency Medical Care
Cardiology
Urgent Care
Dermatology
Oncology
P RIVATE PILATES INSTRUCTION in a beautiful studio setting. Group classes offered.
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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
Roberts | 360-945-0420 maureen@pointrobertscounseling.com www.pointrobertscounseling.com
s AmandaLyn Wayland.
Photo by Erin Kelly
The world’s first rubber duck museum?
there is a duck for you.”
Neil and Krystal King, the owners of Kora’s Corner, unveiled (according to the Kings) the world’s first historical rubber duck museum in the back room of their store on July 4. Since the grand opening, the museum has rapidly attracted interest and has been featured in a number of publications spanning from Kenya to Colorado. “It’s been wild,” remarked Krystal, reflecting on the interest shown in the museum.
The museum contains a collection dating back to 1911, showcasing rubber ducks from across the globe. Originally made from hard rubber in the 1800s as chew toys, the first traditional water-friendly rubber ducks were produced in 1949. Among the museum’s prized possessions is one of Ernie’s ducks from Sesame Street, which popularized rubber ducks after their appearance in the 1970 song, “Rubber Duckie.”
“Ernie’s song brought rubber ducks into popularity, shaping them into the familiar form we recognize today,” said Neil.
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The Kings have sold rubber ducks since they opened their shop in 2022. Over time, their collection grew, spurred by themed ducks for various holidays. “We didn’t even realize that we had a rubber duck theme already,” explained Krystal, “We have been talking so long about doing an exhibit, and as we already had a few hundred rubber ducks, we decided to go for it.”
Most of the ducks were sourced from vintage toy auctions. When asked why rubber ducks, the couple replied, “Everyone loves rubber ducks. They create feelings of joy, childhood innocence, and nostalgia. There is a rubber duck for everyone. No matter what you like or what you do,
Educational as well as entertaining, the museum explores topics such as duck derbies and the accidental dumping of 28,800 Friendly Floatees – yellow ducks, red beavers, blue turtles and green frogs – that were washed overboard into the Pacific Ocean in 1992. Seattle oceanographers Curtis Ebbesmeyer and James Ingraham began tracking their landfall and created valuable data on ocean currents based on where the floatees were found.
They first made landfall in Alaska and years later were found in pack ice in the Arctic Circle, along the eastern seaboard and across the Atlantic to Greenland and the United Kingdom.
Entrance to the museum is free, with rubber ducks available for purchase starting at $2, alongside themed merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, stickers and signs.
The Kings plan to expand their collection of rubber ducks and related memorabilia. “This is just the beginning,” Krystal said.
s Neil, Kora and Krystal King with “rubber duckie.”
Photo by Erin Kelly
County executive enacts hiring freeze
In an email sent to Whatcom County employees on July 15, county executive Satpal Sidhu announced a 90-day hiring freeze across all departments due to dwindling federal funds and a leveling out of tax revenue.
Facing a projected budget deficit of $15 million for 2025, the county is looking at ways to tighten its purse strings after years of what it called extensive investment into pay increases and more hiring for the court and law enforcement, according to a June 11 presentation to councilmembers by deputy county executive Kayla SchottBressler.
“With no new revenue streams anticipated and our traditional revenue sources flat, we see budget challenges ahead,” Sidhu stated. “The purpose of this action is to ensure we have the resources to support our current workforce and to give County leadership an opportunity to think strategically about our financial decisions as we approach the budget process for the next biennium.”
LocaL stats >>>
Fire Incidents for June 2024
Total calls (50); EMS calls (13), resulting in the following transports: St. Joseph Hospital (7), Airlift Northwest (2), North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (2); fire classification (13) resulting in outdoor burn – permit (7), outdoor burn – illegal (2), smoke investigation (1), false alarm (1), power lines down (1), animal rescue (1); public service (6); EMS CARES/MIHC (17); assist agency (1).
Point Roberts health clinic numbers for June 2024 (2023 figures following)
July 31: Chicken Caesar salad, garlic bread and fruit.
August 2: Pizza (cheese or sausage), garden salad and dessert.
August 7: Cheeseburger, French fries, coleslaw and ice cream.
August 9: Roast chicken, rice, broccoli and dessert.
August 14: Fish fingers with tartar sauce or ketchup, mashed potatoes, peas and sliced peaches.
August 16: Grilled Polish sausage, pierogi, sauerkraut, salad and dessert.
August 21: Mediterranean quesadilla, Greek salad and baklava.
August 23: Ham with pineapple, sweet potatoes, green beans, dessert.
August 28: Beef enchiladas, Spanish rice, mixed green salad and ice cream.
August 30: Southwest chicken breast on a bun, roasted potatoes, sweet corn and fruit.
Lunches are served from the dining room at the community center 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or until food runs out. Contact prseniors@whidbey.com or call the community center at 360/945-5424 for more information.
The “selective hiring freeze” means vacant positions in most county departments will remain unfilled except for employees hired before the announcement. Whatcom County employs roughly 1,000 full-time employees.
Since 2020, 51 new full-time positions were added to the health department, 12 to the sheriff’s office, 10 to the public defender’s office, with at least one additional full-time staff added to most other departments.
The high-water mark for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding came in 2022 when the county received $22.26 million. The 2024 budget expected around $4 million in ARPA funds, and county executive spokesperson Jed Holmes said no more ARPA funds are coming.
County finance manager Brad Bennett warned councilmembers during the June 11 special meeting that the next two years could see cuts beyond a hiring freeze to keep the county budget balanced.
“Finance is thinking this is going to be a real squeaker of a budget year,” Bennett said.
crossings >>>
Traffic into Point Roberts for April and May 2024, with figures for 2023 following:
ammo, explosives, asbestos, biomedical waste, radioactive waste, waste in drums, latex paint, propane canisters No Business waste.
NOT ACCEPTED: Ammo, Explosives, Asbestos, Biomedical waste Radioactive waste, Waste in drums, Latex paint Propane Canisters No Business waste.
Questions? Contact the Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Program: 360-380-4640
Questions? Contact the Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Programs: 360-380-4640
Sponsored by Whatcom County Health and Community Services, with support from the Disposal of Toxics Program & Cando Recycling and Disposal
Sponsored by Whatcom County Health and Community Services, with support from the Disposal of Toxics Program & Cando Recycling and Disposal
Photo by: Carlie Billinger
July 4, 2024
ROBERTS WA, USA
Photos by: Pat Grubb
in the garden
Summer in the garden is a joy, with long sunny days and warm gentle breezes. Mornings find me wandering through the yard with my coffee mug in one hand and clippers in the other, checking out what’s new, what’s ripe and ready to pick, and what the slugs have been up to while I was sleeping. I cherish this quiet time in the garden, listening to bird song, watching the hummers zip from flower to flower, nibbling a fresh snap pea, and perhaps snipping a bit of thyme or dill for an omelet.
This year, our backyard veggie garden is a haven for pollinators. Lettuce and radishes, arugula and cilantro and other early summer veggies have all gone to seed, sending up tall, flowered stems that shade the soil and provide food and shelter for pollinators and birds. Calendula, poppies, and sweet alyssum have spilled out of the beds and into the pathways. All are delightful and welcome.
We picked our first cherry tomatoes in late July, and there are salad and slicer tomatoes growing bigger by the day. We have 29 tomato plants this year, including 11 that I transplanted on July 20. I prefer dwarf tomato varieties: shorter and stockier than traditional tall indeterminate varieties, dwarfs mature in 50 to 75 days. Dwarf tomatoes produce full-sized fruit until killed by frost. Based on my experience the past two years, these new transplants will provide plenty of tomatoes in September and October.
the temps are running high. If we’re hot and thirsty, we think our plants are, too. People understandably worry when they see plants drooping or wilting. Not all wilting is caused by lack of water; too much water can also cause plants to wilt and/ or turn yellow. Plants can also wilt as a reaction to heat or too much sun; providing shade with an umbrella or light row cover may be all that’s needed. Potted plants should be moved away from structures that reflect heat and can be moved to a cooler shady area.
Instead of watering more often, focus on watering more deeply each time you water. This helps develop deeper roots and more resilient plants. Decrease evaporation by keeping soil covered with mulch or shaded by companion plants: fast-growing marigolds, alyssum and radishes are great, and help deter insect pests. Pause the use of fertilizers containing fish or manure during heat waves, as they contain salts that can cause foliage and roots to burn. Compost is an excellent slow-release fertilizer and ground cover that improves all types of soils.
Now that August is upon us, what should we be doing in and for our gardens as we look ahead and – dare I say it – begin to plan for next year? Here’s what comes to mind.
On my front and back decks, there is always a basket close at hand, and a bucket and jelly jars filled with cool water for freshly cut flowers. There are daily bouquets of snapdragons, salvias, scabiosa, roses, hydrangeas and leafy herbs. Daylilies and clematis are in their prime, rudbeckia and coneflowers sway in the breeze. The dahlias are coming into bloom, and will soon be joined by cosmos, zinnias, and jewel-toned asters. A month from now, there will be an abundance of sunflowers for late summer and autumn bouquets.
A garden does not have to be large, and it does not have to be planted in the ground. Vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers can all be grown in plots, planters and hanging baskets, indoors or out. The joys and benefits of gardening are available to everyone.
I’ve had a lot of questions recently about watering during a heat wave, specifically about whether to water more often while
Look at what’s currently growing and assess the health of your plants. Is there anything that is showing signs of disease or pest infestation? Are you growing vegetables or fruits that no one likes, or that are producing too much for your own use? Are there plants that are past their prime and are taking up space you could use for something else for the rest of the season? If you have any of these issues, it’s time to act. Extra produce can be given to neighbors or donated to the food bank. Unhealthy and/or unwanted plants can be removed and replaced by more desirable plants. Empty spaces and pots can be filled with nursery-grown starts of hardy veggies for fall harvest. You can also plant veggie seeds that need 60 days or less to mature: lettuce and other leafy greens, bush squash and bush cucumbers, green beans and pea pods, broccoli raab and more. Check the seed package for days from seed to harvest, and be sure to provide shade while waiting for the plants to emerge and settle in. Whatever you choose to do this month, take time to enjoy your garden.
church news
B y B ar B ara W ayla ND
Trinity Community Lutheran Church has several events planned for the month of August.
Friday, August 2 at 7 p.m., Trinity Church and Point Roberts Circle of Care are doing a joint fundraiser featuring Scott Baird and Shaune Ann Feuz and Friends. A donation of $20 is suggested for those attending and will be split between the two organizations. Both Scott and Shaune Ann are well known in Point Roberts, and it promises to be a gala evening.
Sunday, August 4, the 11 a.m. service offers a special treat. Those who attended Trinity’s summer camps are invited for a revival of the music learned at the various camps. We will meet in the parking lot before the service for a bit of practice. Come and reexperience the camaraderie and excitement of music camp. There will be a potluck following the service. All are welcome.
Finally, the 11 a.m. service on Sunday, August 11, will be a sound bath on the church lawn with potluck to follow. This isn’t a concert you watch. It’s an experience you relax into.
Lay back on the Trinity Church lawn and enjoy a sound healing and meditation with shamanic drumming, crystal singing bowls, vocal harmonies and didgeridoo with Bryan Langsdale and Megan Kennedy.
Sound baths can encompass a wide array of sound environments and energetics, from calm deep relaxation to intense and powerful drumming.
Dive deep within through this fusion of sound and spiritual journeying, accompanied by a live musical atmosphere to help you clear your mind and rejuvenate your
body, nervous system and soul. We will begin our time together with a guided meditation with intention setting, then move into the sound bath, and end with an extended period of silence to integrate the experience. Afterwards, you may choose to leave or join us for a potluck.
Come, leave your expectations behind, and be open to receive.
What to bring?
• Blankets and pillows or a yoga mat, whatever you will need to be comfortable on the ground. If necessary, you may bring a comfortable lawn chair, but laying on the ground is strongly advised. If you think you may need help getting up off the ground, Bryan is a strong massage therapist, and he can help you get up!
• Sunscreen and adequate hydration
• A potluck dish
• An open mind
Free dental care
Bellingham Technical College (BTC) is offering free dental work during its summer session, running through August 27. BTC will open its dental clinic for exams, X-rays, cleanings, simple fillings and sealants to eligible patients.
Appointments are available on Mondays and Fridays. The clinic is located at on the BTC Campus, 3028 Lindbergh Avenue in Bellingham.
Contact the clinic at dental@btc.edu and indicate what days and times work best for you. For more information, visit btc.edu/ dentalclinic.
Joke Telling Contest
Sponsored Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness Group (PREP)
Saturday, August 17, 2024 – 7:00
Doors open at 6:30 pm for registration Fundraiser for PREP ~ 50/50 Raffle
obituaries
Beverley Joan Nielson passed away June 27, 2024 with family at her side.
Born on March 3, 1933 to Muriel (née Berry) and Frank Wilson. She grew up in Vancouver B.C. along with her sister Janice and graduated from John Oliver High School. During Sports Day in grade 12 she met Ronald Nielson who swept her away in his shiny new red convertible. They married the following year, 1952,
and were loving partners for 50 years until Ron’s death in 2002.
The young couple embraced an entrepreneurial spirit, moving with their three children to Point Roberts, Washington in 1963 where they started the family business, Nielson Lumber and Supply. Beverley assisted with deliveries and was the first bookkeeper. As Ron’s partner and champion, together they expanded their business interests which included opening the Point Roberts Shell gas station. Over the years, they built four homes on the Point which expressed their love of construction and design.
Beverley was a wonderful homemaker known for her sense of style, entertaining and serving up family meals with flair. As a young mother she took advantage of the Northwest’s natural bounty to stock the kitchen pantry with her home-made berry jams, fruit preserves, apple sauce, and canned salmon caught by local fisherman. She took her children beach combing as well as hunting for oysters and Dungeness crab. Birthday parties were celebrated on the driftwood shores at Lily Point. Her undisputed special talent, however, was dessert making, especially pie crust. Her pies
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
were filled with wild blueberries foraged in Delta, blackberries, apples (and occasionally huckleberries) that were handpicked on the Point.
As a model for the LM Modeling Agency in Vancouver, Beverley became an admitted clothes horse. “Bev’s Closet” became a cherished destination for her extended family. She cultivated an elegant, understated sense of dress.
She valued modesty, eschewed controversy and on occasion would reveal a wicked sense of humor to family and friends.
Beverley and Ron eventually became snowbirds, enjoying their winter residence in Palm Desert, California. Her passion was golf. She was an inaugural “lifetime” member of the Ironwood Golf and Country Club in Palm Desert and was a past president and active member of the Women’s Club at the Beach Grove Golf Club
in Tsawwassen, B.C. One of her proudest moments was teeing off on opening day at the Point Roberts Golf Course, which she and Ron worked tirelessly to develop.
She loved Point Roberts and cultivated friendships with the early pioneers as well as summer residents.
A longstanding member of Trinity Community Lutheran Church, her finger sandwiches were appreciated at the social gatherings after services. She was a regular mahjong and bridge player and a book club enthusiast.
She will be deeply missed by her three children: Brenda, Kristen, Lorne (Karen); grandchildren: Benjamin, Michael (Russell), Allan (Charity), Heather, Isabella and Jack and great grandchildren: Penelope, Conor, Emma, Annabelle, Vivienne and Marcus.
She will be interred next to her husband Ron in the Point Roberts Cemetery.
Canada in 1960 to Jacquelyn and Ronald Lewis joining her two older brothers and
(Please see next page)
Mari Geraldine Richards (Lewis), 64, of Birch Bay, died peacefully in Bellingham, WA at the PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice House on the morning of June 21, 2024. She was with family and friends as she embarked on her final journey, guided by the arc of the summer solstice.
Mari was born in Oakville, Ontario,
Beverley Joan Nielson March 3, 1933 – June 27, 2024
Mari Geraldine Richards March 18, 1960 – June 21, 2024
s Beverley Joan Nielson.
s Mari Richards.
awaiting the arrival of her younger sister; all of whom eventually connected with the pack of children who “ran wild” in the neighborhood. After she completed school in Oakville, she headed west to Calgary, Alberta to join the growing workforce of the 1970s oil boom, first in the oil patch but then into banking. Once in banking and finance, Mari had found her niche pursuing a career in the field for more than 35 years.
After Alberta, she made her way to the west coast of B.C. and eventually Washington State where she met and made home with Steve Richards in Point Roberts for over 20 years. About four years ago, with tentative steps into early retirement Mari quickly found community in Birch Bay, WA becoming a pickleball enthusiast and dedicated walker of the environs of Birch Bay.
Mari was preceded in death by her brother Stephen, father Ronald, and nephew Dale, and is survived by her husband Steve, mother Jacquelyn, sister Kitty, brother Patrick, nieces Willow and Jamie, nephews Teiji and Joel, stepchildren Shaunna and Blake, and grandchildren, Kali and Taylor.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the care, kindness, and attention provided to Mari by all the good folks at Whatcom Hospice House. A celebration of Mari’s life will be held at a future date in Birch Bay. In lieu of flowers or cards please consider making donations to PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice House (2806 Douglas Ave. Bellingham, WA).
August Tides
10 4:29 am 6.9 10:15 am 10.6 3:22 pm 8.1 9:54 pm 13.2
11 5:09 am 6.3 11:43 am 10.7 4:00 pm 9.3 10:16 pm 13.0
12:36 am 9.9 5:28 am 13.0 12:29 pm 2.3 8:05 pm 14.3 We 21 1:22 am 8.7 6:30 am 12.8 1:11 pm 3.2 8:05 pm 14.3 Th 22 2:08 am 7.5 7:36 am 12.6 1:53 pm 4.6 8:33
Sales–Power and Sail Service
sheriff’s report
July 1, 6 p.m.: Domestic physical on Maple Street.
July 2, 4:59 a.m.: Assist citizen on Gulf Road.
July 3, 11:37 a.m.: Threat cold call on Gulf Road.
July 3, 11:54 a.m.: Threat cold call on Gulf Road.
July 3, 12:45 p.m.: Threat cold call on Gulf Road.
July 4, 3:41 a.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.
July 4, 12:41 p.m.: Civil problem on Benson Road.
July 4, 2:39 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Peltier Drive.
July 4, 10:21 p.m.: Fireworks on Panorama Drive and Teller Road.
July 4, 10:55 p.m.: Fireworks on Marine Drive and Gulf Road.
July 5, 9:54 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Benson Road.
July 5, 4:36 p.m.: Assist citizen on Benson Road and Greenwood Drive.
July 5, 5:17 p.m.: Noise cold call on Maple Street.
July 5, 5:33 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Maple Street.
July 6, 11:37 a.m.: Overdose on Cedar Street.
July 6, 12:37 p.m.: Assist citizen cold call on Crystal Beach Road.
July 6, 12:41 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Edwards Drive.
July 6, 3:25 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Vista Way.
July 7, 12:11 p.m.: Assist citizen cold call on Boundary Bay Road.
July 7, 10:15 p.m.: Welfare check on Benson Road.
July 8, 3:51 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on
Calder Drive.
July 8, 4:54 p.m.: Follow up on Gulf Road.
July 10, 5:02 p.m.: Theft cold call on Simundson Drive.
July 11, 1:01 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Gulf Road.
July 12, 5:24 a.m.: Request for law enforcement on Tyee Drive.
July 12, 6:38 a.m.: Rape cold call on Province Road and Roosevelt Way.
July 12, 7:01 a.m.: Rape cold call on Province Road and Roosevelt Way.
July 12, 1:59 p.m.: Rape cold call on Province Road and Roosevelt Way.
July 13, 11:02 a.m.: Trespass cold call on Gulf Road.
July 13, 11:07 a.m.: Serve papers on Benson Road.
July 13, 11:24 a.m.: Serve papers on Marine Drive.
July 13, 11:54 a.m.: Missing person cold call on Gulf Road.
July 13, 7:49 p.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.
July 14, 1:24 a.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary
Bay Road.
July 14, 12:14 p.m.: Assist citizen on Gulf Road.
July 16, 6:30 a.m.:
BEAUTIFUL HERITAGE farmhouse on sunny 1/2 acre. Close to beach. Bikes & kayaks available. Internet. "Have fun in the sun" nightly/weekly. 360/945-0521.
Coming up ...
Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events
Teen Art Camp: Fridays, July 26 and August 2, 2:30-4 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Make art and make connections. Grades 6-12. Info: 360/945-6545.
The Commons: Saturday, July 27, from noon to 2:30 p.m., in the back room of the community center. Maple Beach Regatta: Sunday, July 28, noon to 3 p.m., Maple Beach. Road closure from Cedar to Birch streets.
PR Cemetery District: Mondays, July 29 and August 26, 5 p.m., community center.
Resilient Point Roberts meeting: Tuesday, July 30, 7 p.m., community center. Come join us to plan our fall Solar Festival! If you cannot attend but still want to help, please email us at resilientpointroberts@gmail.com.
PR Garden Club: Tuesday, July 30, 7 p.m., members garden visits. info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org.
Point Roberts Book Club: Wednesdays, July 31 and August 28, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Call the library at 360/945-6545 for this month’s selection.
Point Roberts Green Waste: Wednesday, July 31, 7 p.m., community center. Info: proearth1.org.
Hawaii Meets Point Roberts: Friday, August 2, 7 p.m., Trinity Community Lutheran Church. Featuring: Scott Baird and Shaune Ann Feuz with Friends. Reception to follow. Sponsored by Point Roberts Circle of Care. Benefit for the trinity church restoration fund and Point Roberts Circle of Care.
Whatcom Grooves Summer Music Series: Saturday, August 3, 2024, 2-3:30 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Wille Reavis and His Weary Band play roots country-and-western tunes. Bring your blankets and camp chairs; no alcohol, please.
Your Local Small Market: Saturdays, August 3, 17 and 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., community center. Shop locally!
PR Amateur Radio Club: Monday, August 5, 7 p.m., via Zoom.
PR Emergency Preparedness: Tuesday, August 6, 7 p.m., community center/Zoom. prepgroup17@gmail.com.
PR Taxpayers Association: Thursday, August 8, 7 p.m., community center. Info: PRTA@pointroberts.net.
PR Garden Club AGM: Friday, August 9, 5:30 p.m. For info email Info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org.
PR Park and Recreation: Monday, August 12, at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org.
Friends of the Point Roberts Library: Tuesday, August 13, 3 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Come share ideas on how our community and library can support each other. Info: foprl1@gmail.com.
PR Water District: Tuesday, August 13, 5 p.m., 2002 Benson Rd. Info: pointrobertswater.com.
Fire District No. 5: Wednesday, August 14, 4 p.m., fire hall and via Zoom (bit.ly/45YUv9U).
PR Hospital District: Wednesday, August 14, 7 p.m., via Zoom (bit.ly/3Kw9Yp)t.
PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m., community center and via Zoom (bit. ly/3S8GCB3). Info: PRCAC.comment@gmail.com.
Septic System Homeowners Training: Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m. to noon. Registration open now. Free class. Link: bit.ly/WCHDHomeownerTraining2023.
Hazardous Waste Collection Event: Saturday, August 17, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Transfer Station, 2005 Johnson Road. For acceptable/nonacceptable materials, see ad on page 9. Info: 360/380-4640.
Annual Joke Telling Contest: Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m., community center. Sponsored by Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness. There will be a 50/50 raffle and traditional pretzels, root beer and seltzer. Music by Savilla and Shaune Ann Feuz. Fun, clean jokes; no cussing. All ages welcome. Winner will have their name inscribed on the famous Ha-Ha Cup.
Shattering Stereotypes: Early Cross-Cultural Marriages of the Fourth Corner: Wednesday, August 21, 7 p.m., community center. Presented by Washington State University Press author Candace Wellman. Sponsored by the Point Roberts Historical Society. Book signing afterwards and light refreshments will be served. Second Annual Point Roberts Pickleball Tournament: Saturday, August 24, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Paul Bemister Community Park in Maple Beach. Contact melanieosmack@gmail.com to register.
Fire Department Open House: Saturday, August 24, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 2030 Benson Road. Hall tour, BBQ, games, 50/50 draw and more! Come meet the professionals who provide our emergency services, community volunteers and organizations. Explore emergency vehicles, the firehouse and a helicopter. Info: wcfd5.com. Nautical Sale: Saturday, August 31, 1 to 4 p.m., west side of marina J Dock in the field. All invited to sell. Free to vend. Info: jselvey18@gmail.com.
Ongoing Events and Hours
Circle of Care calendar sale: Through Sunday, September 1, email prcircleofcare@gmail.com to place your order. Proceeds benefit Circle of Care.
Fire station CPR classes: Sundays, August 4, 1 p.m., Wednesdays, August 7 and 21, 7 p.m., Saturdays, July 27, August 17, 1 p.m., fire hall. Learn how to help someone in need. Learn adult, child and infant CPR, including the use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).
Basic Tai Chi for seniors: Mondays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m., Mondays at the community center and Fridays at the fire hall. With Shirley Cannon. No registration required. Wear comfortable clothing. 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.
The Raven: Tuesdays and Thursdays, rides to Bellingham and the surrounding area. To book your ride fill out the form at bit.ly/45PVJFP or call 360/788-9473 or email prtheraven@gmail.com. For more info: bit.ly/3RWrRCa.
Point Roberts Walkers: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m., coffee to follow (Thursdays only) at the community center, Saturdays at Lily Point. Tuesdays location varies and can be found at bit.ly/3V5v44l.
PR Food Bank: Every Wednesday 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the community center.
Preschool Storytime: Wednesdays through July, 10:30–11 a.m., Point Roberts Library.
Friday Market: Fridays, 4 to 7 p.m., west side of the Point Roberts Marina. Free to vend. Make it, bake it, grow it market. If you plan to be a vendor or if you have any questions, please email latitude@whidbey.com.
The Flea: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., west side of the marina (J Dock). Free to vend and attend. Ice cream, coffee, upcycled clothing and more.
History Center Summer Hours: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays, noon to 3 p.m. through August 31.
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. Info: 360/945-2580.
JUNE
UPPER END HOUSES: $800,000 AND ABOVE:
2-story house with 2,434 S.F., 1,197 S.F. basement, 3 bedrooms, 5 baths, 369 S.F. built-in garage, 216 S.F. deck, built in 2000, 55ft waterfront; marine and territorial view, .26 acres land.
2-story house with 2,911 S.F., 1,114 S.F. basement, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 588 S.F. attached garage, 964 S.F. deck, built in 2012, waterfront; marine view, .52 acres land.
2-story house with 3,166 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 440 S.F. built-in garage, built in 2023, .17 acres land.
2-story house with 3,701 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, bonus room, attached garage, built in 2023; marine and territorial view, .31 acres land.
2-story house with 3,192 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 1,764 S.F. deck, 2,419 S.F. patio, swimming pool, 271 S.F. storage, built in 2007, 1.48 acres land.
1-story house with 912 S.F. square feet, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 368 S.F. attached garage, 360 S.F. patio, built in 1967, remodeled, 50 feet waterfront; marine view, .17 acres land.
1-story house with 2,094 S.F., 1,680 S.F. basement, 3 bedrooms, 4 baths, 869 S.F. attached garage, 601 S.F. patio, 601 S.F. balcony, built in 1999, waterfront; marine views, .49 acres land.
1-story house with 3,618 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, built in 2024 plus 2,208 S.F. shop with 2-story apartment, 1 bed, 1 bath, built in 2009, 4.85 acres land.
1-story house with 1,942 S.F., 1942 S.F. basement, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 604 S.F. patio, 604 S.F. balcony, 865 S.F. attached garage, built in 2005; marine view, 30 acres land.built in 2005, .30 acres land.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:
Golf course with 4,480 S.F. utility building and 784 S.F. mobile home, built in 1984, 81.17 acres land.
Restaurant with 11,736 S.F., 2,332 S.F. balcony, built in 1928, 960 S.F. store, built in 1967, 317’ tidelands, marine view, 7.00 acres land.
Office (Mixed use building) with 1,494 S.F., built in 1908; marine view, .14 acres land.
Strings & Things International Music Festival wowed a sell-out crowd
The inaugural Strings & Things International Music Festival on Saturday, July 13, marked a return of ticketed live music events to the area after many years. The event, held at the Point Roberts Marina and spanning six hours, featured a lineup of four diverse bands and drew nearly 600 attendees.
Supporting the festival’s operation were
20 firefighters on standby and a dedicated team of 20 volunteers who assisted with setup, ticketing, and post-event tasks. The musical lineup included 11 talented musicians across four bands, showcasing a blend of genres rarely seen at outdoor festivals in the region.
Mike Bell, a member of two featured bands and a key figure in organizing the event, said, “We aimed to showcase exceptional musicianship with unique musical
acts and genres that wouldn’t normally be found at an outdoor music festival.” Bell’s extensive connections within Vancouver’s music scene facilitated the gathering of musicians, fostering unique collaborations and enhancing the event’s chemistry.
Breeda Desmond, co-organizer of the festival alongside her husband Mike Bell, emphasized their joint effort in bringing the event to fruition. “We have complementary skill sets. Mike handled the co-
ordination of musicians, and I focused on marketing and ticket sales,” she said, adding, “We have gotten some amazing feedback.”
Looking ahead, Desmond expressed optimism about turning the festival into an annual event. “We treated this inaugural event as if we were hosting thousands. We would like to continue to build on this and make it an annual event and draw more visitors to the Point.”
