system could cost over $1 million for community center, library
At the meeting of the Point Roberts Park and Recreation Department on December 9, Josh Miller of Cascadia Renewables presented findings from a recently completed solar feasibility study of six Point Roberts sites. Of the locations evaluated, Miller went into detail about two sites, the library and the community center on Gulf Road.
According to Miller, by using the library’s east and west roofs, a system similar to a typical Washington residential size solar system would be able to be installed generating 110 percent of its annual needs and effectively reducing its power bill to zero through net metering. In emergencies, the system, paired with a generator, could operate 23 hours on solar and onehour on the generator in summer, and 19 hours of solar with five hours of generator use in winter.
The community center’s roof was unsuitable for solar due to equipment, drainage systems, and tall parapets. Instead, Cascadia proposed a ground-mounted solar parking structure in the east lot. The system would offset 140 percent of the center’s annual energy use, covering electric bills and providing capacity for up to three EV charging stations. In emergencies, it would reduce generator use similarly to the library system.
The mid-range cost estimate for the complete library system would be $218,898 and $789,617 for the community center. Miller suggested that the district consider possible upcoming grant opportunities, which have previously covered up to 100 percent of project costs.
“It really is a great opportunity to jump on this grant funding while it is available through the Climate Commitment Act, which was just extended,” said Miller.
The feasibility study can be accessed by contacting Resilient Point Roberts through their email, resilientpointroberts@gmail. com.
trict also introduced the welcome home transport program which provides patients with a ride back to the Point after hospital stays.
Another year checked off and what a year it was ... war, disease, pestilence, man, were those the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse trotting down Tyee Drive the other day? Nah, those guys wouldn’t be caught dead on Icelandic horses. Here it is, the annual look back at the year in Point Roberts on an issue by issue basis.
January
• The fire district eliminated charges for ambulance trips to St. Joseph PeaceHealth Medical center in Bellingham. The fire dis-
• Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger held a townhall meeting on January 24 in Point Roberts to discuss the special election (held February 13) where voters were given the opportunity to approve two separate levy and bond requests.
• Whatcom County Council and Whatcom County Executive offices announced over 100 vacant positions across 35 advisory commissions and invited the public
(See Year in Review, page 5)
s A walk on the seashore gave Fae Curet the idea to signal the new year using bull kelp cast onto the beach.
Photo by Fae Curet
Parks to limit kitchen usage
The Point Roberts parks board clarified that they will not allow the community center kitchen to be used commercially, despite a $22,848 septic system upgrade completed in August 2024. The discussion took place at their regular monthly board meeting on December 9.
The septic upgrade project had been awarded to local contractor Ken Calder. Calder had also installed the community center septic system in 2020.
Although the upgrade was intended to allow for expanded kitchen use, Allison Calder, who is married to Ken Calder, ex-
pressed concerns about commercial use. “I don’t know what they’re going to put into it,” she said, referring to potential commercial renters and the upgraded system. “We want to see what the system is going to do. We want to make sure you guys are protecting your investment; you don’t want to be overloading the system.”
Park administrator Dee Gough added, “Anybody who makes food in here turns around and sells it, they have to have state permits and all sorts of things. We’re not getting any part of this. I don’t want any part of it.”
Commissioner Michael Cressy questioned the outcome, asking, “Are we get-
ting what we were anticipating by redoing this septic system? Wasn’t there a push to rent out the kitchen commercially?”
In a phone interview with the All Point Bulletin, Tom Kunesh, food safety program supervisor at the Whatcom County health department, explained that while the upgraded septic system allows for a broader range of food preparation, the parks board had opted to restrict the kitchen to nonprofit groups like Point Roberts Circle of Care and Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness.
“The community center has a kitchen that meets commercial standards for some types of food preparation and service activity,” Kunesh said. “With the work that was completed over the summer, it allows us to consider applications for food establishment permits that go beyond the scope of the senior meals and occasional fundraisers that had been permitted in the past,” Kunesh said.
“However, it sounds like the Point Rob-
erts park board isn’t interested in signing off on all applications to use the kitchen. They’ve expressed an interest in allowing nonprofits to use the kitchen, but not necessarily for-profits,” Kunesh added.
Kunesh explained the process needed for the kitchen to be used commercially.
“From our perspective, it would just require a little bit of extra work for the kitchen to be used commercially, and that work would be done by the person that wants to use it commercially. We would ask the applicant to obtain a signed commissary agreement from the folks that are in charge of the community center, so it wouldn’t be any extra work or money on their part.” He emphasized that “the code requirements are the same whether you’re for-profit or not-for-profit.”
Kitchen rental pricing was finalized by the parks board members at $50 for dining hall use, $75 for kitchen and dining hall use, and $100 for non-residents for a sixhour period.
s Santa kicks back with some admirers at the Point Roberts Community Center on December 7. Photo by Erin Kelly
S Boaters moored at the marina got into the holiday lighting mood.
Photo by Louise Mugar
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.
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All Point Bulletin
P.O. Box 1451 Point Roberts WA USA 98281
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P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281
opinion
Letters to the editor
The Editor: As 2024 draws to a close, we thank you for this opportunity to update the community on the progress of the restoration of Point Roberts’ historic church, and to once again reach out to you in hopes you will be able to contribute a year-end gift during the final push to complete this project. All donations are tax deductible, whether in US or Canadian funds.
Phase One of the restoration has been successfully completed, with the most visible result being the seven steel cables that span the interior of the church, thus supporting the east and west walls. Less visible and equally critical was the lifting and leveling of the southwest corner of the building and the installation of a concrete footing.
Phase Two will involve a new front staircase at the church’s entrance and a concrete foundation poured under the entire building. Due to the process during Phase One (leveling the church) interior damage occurred which will require, among other
needs, the repair of interior plaster.
Trinity Community Church is more than a church. It is the oldest landmark in Point Roberts and is registered with the Washington State Historic Trust. It is the only concert hall and serves as an emergency shelter for the Red Cross.
Please help us preserve our heritage and make the final phase of the restoration of Trinity Community Lutheran Church a reality – a reality that truly reflects the word “community.” This beloved building embodies so much of our past and promises so much for our future. In this season of giving, we are grateful for your support.
Should you be so generous as to join in this, tax deductible donations may be sent by check to TCLC, PO Box 437, Point Roberts, WA 98281, or if you visit our website PointRobertsChurch.com, there is a link to our GoFundMe page. TCLC is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization
Louise Cassidy on behalf of Trinity Church fundraisers
Point Roberts
The Editor
Former prime minister Jean Chretien didn’t cower when Republicans tried to make a scapegoat of the Canadian border with exaggerated claims about illegals and drugs coming from the North; no, Chretien reminded their ilk that the traffic, legal and illegal, across our shared border moves in both directions.
So why isn’t Trudeau demanding that the United States stop illegals, drugs and guns from entering Canada?
Greg J. Edwards Delta B.C.
Photo by Louise Mugar
From
to apply.
• The Washington State Office of Attorney General has required PeaceHealth to refund up to $13.4 million to thousands of low-income patients at five hospitals across the state, including Bellingham, after failing to inform them that they qualified for financial assistance.
• Newly elected sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley appointed Steve Harris as undersheriff.
• Whatcom County Community Health and Services Department released a respiratory virus dashboard that provides data on Covid-19, flu, and RSV transmissions in northwest Washington.
February
• Whatcom County updated its park, recreation and open space draft plan which included $168,350 for a new roof and siding at Lighthouse Marine Park last year and planned expenditures of $255,000 on parking lot improvements at Lily Point Park. The county parks department had earmarked $435,350 for Point Roberts parks for the period of 2023-2028. This represents 1.4 percent of the park department’s planned expenditures in that same period.
• After dedicating 34 years to the Point Roberts Water District, manager Dan Bourks retired. Wes Hubbard was set to be his successor.
• The county tax assessor, Rebecca Xczar, visited the Point to explain the increases in local property values.
• Parks board limited kitchen use to the Council on Aging’s senior lunch program and food bank until necessary septic up-
grades could be completed.
• Although a motion was passed in November to apply for a Washington State Department of Commerce Grant for three electric vehicle chargers, after learning from PSE that the chargers would require a significant upgrade to the transformer that serves the community center, the parks district decided it would not be feasible.
• Security cameras were installed at the community center after supplies and utensils went missing from the kitchen.
• The Point Roberts fire district prepared a request for bid to purchase a Welcome Home vehicle.
• Fire commissioners increased the chief’s salary to $79,000. The last increase was to $72,000 three months previous. March
• The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office results for the February 13 special election
CURBSIDE COLLECTION
EOW AND RECYCLING DATES:
Year in Review ...
From page 5
showed that Blaine, Birch Bay, and Point Roberts voters approved a property tax levy for the Blaine school district while rejecting the school district’s general obligation bond by failing to pass the supermajority threshold.
• Local youth presented a petition with over 200 signatures asking the Point Roberts park district’s board to reconstitute the skateboard committee that had previously been responsible for maintaining the skate park in the past. The board had been dis-
cussing transforming the skatepark into a multi-use court.
• The water district approved salary hikes for the newly appointed district manager and assistant manager.
April
• Resilient Point Roberts: Going Solar teamed up with the parks district to pursue a grant opportunity to fund a feasibility study for solar backup power for the community center, the library, the firehall, the water district office, the health clinic and the Trinity Church.
• Whatcom Transportation Authority and Point Roberts Circle of Care teamed up to provide two round trip rides to Bellingham and two to Blaine per week on a one-year trial basis. Discussion on whether to continue the pilot was scheduled for February 2025.
• The Point Roberts Hospital District voted 2-2 to hear a proposal from Dr. John Anwar to be the Point Roberts Clinic’s medical provider.
• The Blaine school board swore in new members Ryan Swinburnson and Steve Galbraith. The two members were immediately charged with the task of approving a resolution to district superintendent Christopher Granger to prepare for a reduced education plan for the 2024-2025 school year in anticipation of a $2.5 million budget deficit.
May
• Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Robert E. Olsen approved an $8 million settlement on April 19 between the two children of Murray Church and Gail Amundsen and three out of five defendants accused of negligence in the couple’s deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning.
(See Year in Review, page 8)
s Local chapter of Dollars for Scholars receiving a $5,000 check from Whidbey Telecom on December 3. Go, Whidbey!
District interviews for position
B y P at G ru BB
Following two rounds of interviews held on December 13 and 14, Point Roberts Hospital District commissioners are expected to make a decision on which candidate will replace district superintendent Barbara Waylan who retired at the end of the board’s regular December meeting. The district received applications from five local residents, some of whom are recent transplants. The applicants are Sam
Bansal, Dee Gough, Kimberly Kimerer, Oliver Nouripour and Chwynyn Vaughn. Kimerer is currently working part-time at the clinic as a nurse while Vaughn previously worked for the clinic during the pandemic.
While applicants can be interviewed by commissioners in executive session, RCW 70.44.170 requires discussion and hiring decisions to be made during a regular meeting. The board’s next meeting will be held January 8, 2025.
Local resident arrested on child pornography charges
B y P at G ru BB
(Editor’s Note: Reporting on this story was delayed due to a hacking attack on Washington state’s court reporting system.)
Point Roberts resident Morgan Shane Bernd, 55, was arrested October 30 on multiple charges related to possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. He faces 19 criminal counts.
According to court documents filed April 24, 2024 in Whatcom County Superior Court, the investigation began when Microsoft reported suspicious uploads to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. After obtaining search warrants for both subscriber information from Whidbey Telecom and Bernd’s residence, sheriff’s deputies arrested Bernd during a traffic stop.
The Affidavit of Probable Cause (AFC) states that during the arrest, Bernd admitted to viewing child sexual abuse materials daily. He acknowledged knowing the subjects were underage, reportedly stating, “You can tell.”
The AFC details 17 images found on Bernd’s computer depicting victims estimated between 3-11 years old. The materials allegedly included both exploitative nudity
and explicit sexual acts involving prepubescent females and adult males. Again, according to the AFC, the computer held “thousands of images depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as defined in [RCW] 9.68A.70.”
Bernd faces multiple felony charges under Washington state law, including: Seven counts of possessing sexually explicit depictions of minors; Seven counts of dealing (distributing) such materials; Five additional possession-related counts
The charges include both first- and second-degree offenses. Maximum penalties could reach 105 years in prison and $290,000 in fines if sentenced consecutively. However, for a first-time offender, typical sentences range from 3-5 years with concurrent terms, mandatory sex offender registration, supervised release, counseling requirements, and restrictions on internet use and contact with minors.
Bernd remains in custody, unable to post the required $100,000 bond or $10,000 cash bail. He is represented by public defender MaryKate Trainor. While a jury trial date is set for January 21, 2025, such dates are often subject to change.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Courtesy photo
year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
POINT ROBERTS Dollars for Scholars
B y F E rn P E lti E r Supporting Local Students in Unique Challenges
As part of Scholarship America’s national network of locally based, volunteer-driven Dollars for Scholars chapters, Point Roberts Dollars for Scholars (PRDFS) is committed to mobilizing our community to support the post-secondary education success of our students.
Dollars for Scholars chapters like ours play a vital role in helping hometown students achieve their educational goals. We raise scholarship funds, establish endowments, provide assistance with college readiness and the financial aid process, and distribute scholarships each year.
Located in a very small and remote community in Washington state, Point Roberts is a peninsula off Canada, which is accessible only by boat or through Canada. With a year-round population of approximately 1,200 residents, limited businesses, and both grade school and college students, our community faces unique challenges.
One of the biggest hurdles for our local students is our remote location. The closest U.S. college is over 55 miles away, requiring students to cross the Canadian border, travel through Canada, re-enter
Washington, and continue to the campus – all without the availability of public transportation. Consequently, local students typically cannot live at home while pursuing post-secondary education.
Additionally, Point Roberts’ small size provides limited local job opportunities for students to earn funds for their education. These challenges underscore the importance of PRDFS in our community. Our scholarships and support are essential for enabling local students to achieve their educational aspirations.
Despite these obstacles, 2024 was a successful year for PRDFS. Thanks to the generosity of our financial partners, we raised over $18,000 to support the students of Point Roberts. These donations allowed us to increase scholarship amounts and offer $1,300 per student.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our financial partners who contributed $5,000 or more during the 2024 fundraising campaign:
• Whidbey Telecom
• The Helen & Jose Colton Foundation
Thank you for your continued support in helping our students to overcome challenges and reach their educational goals. To learn more or contribute, visit pointroberts.dollarsforscholars.org.
ChurCh news
B y l ucy W illiams year, and here are some of their replies:
We believe that the purpose of a congregation, beyond worshiping God, is to be a loving, helpful, welcoming place of good will for all (regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, religious history, or lack thereof).
We strive for the inclusivity that Jesus taught. We also want a community that is free from violence and the threat of violence, both in word and deed. The congregation is a safe place for all.
In light of this vision, we’ve been structuring our worship in the following way:
First Sunday: The worship committee designed Service of the Word, which is led by congregation members and a lay speaker.
Second Sunday: Liturgical worship with communion with Father Martin Pommerenke.
Third Sunday: Interfaith service of the word with Interfaith readings, concepts, and themes with Reverend Bev Mar. Currently, this is more of an interfaith-friendly service, but in the year to come it will include occasional speakers from other belief systems and spiritual practices.
Fourth Sunday: Traditional liturgical worship and communion with Pastor Jean Barrington.
Fifth Sunday: Jazz Vespers, which is hosted by Lucy Williams.
And we also asked our congregation members what they would like to see this
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
• Correcting and updating gendered words in the services.
• Working to bring young people and their parents back to church and restoring the Summer Youth Music Camp, which brings vitality to the church and enriches all our lives.
• Reviving the “pop-up” fundraisers, such as serving hotdogs and strawberry shortcakes in the garden to help us meet our neighbors.
• Hosting more concerts for the community.
• Continuing our community outreach with charitable organizations, such as Point Roberts Circle of Care and others.
• Inviting our friends and neighbors to enjoy our services.
• Hosting speakers on various subjects, including spiritual topics like meditation and breathwork.
• Hosting a sound bath during the warmer weather.
• Inviting Bishop Shelly Wee to visit us again.
• Completing the restoration on the church.
We invite you to join us every Sunday or on the Sunday that speaks to your spirituality, as we all learn ways to be closer in our relationships with God and each other. Worship begins at 11 a.m. at 1880 APA Road. This is God’s church and there is a place for you here!
Point Roberts | 360-945-0420 maureen@pointrobertscounseling.com www.pointrobertscounseling.com
Private and confidential Call or e-mail for an appointment
Providing non-emergency home medical care, education and referral services. For an appointment or more information, please contact Chief Christopher Carleton at 360-945-3473 or chief@wcfd5.com
s Leaders of the pack: from l., Reverend Bev Mar, Father Martin Pommerenke and Pastor Jean Barrington lead services on an alternating schedule. Courtesy photo
Year in Review ...
From page 6
• Dr. John Anwar made a presentation to the hospital district showcasing the services he could provide as a service provider. The current medical service provider, Dr. Sean Bozorgzad, objected to hospital district chair Stephen Falk’s decision to hear Dr. Anwar’s presentation, pointing out that by doing so, Falk was in contravention of the standard legal process hospital districts follow in Washington state when contracting for service providers.
June
• Around three dozen residents attended the hospital district’s regular monthly meeting, expressing concern that two of the three commissioners were considering replacing the current operators of the local health clinic, SuperTrack Urgent Care, with Dr. John Anwar. These concerns stemmed from an extensive Open Public Records request filed by blogger Vic Riley, which uncovered previously undisclosed meetings and potential violations of the Open Public Meetings Act. The records revealed communications between two commissioners and former clinic P.A. Deb Shields, aimed at securing a contract to manage the clinic.
• The CDC planned on implementing new rules for dogs entering the United States, including those dogs coming from non-U.S. cabin owners into Point Roberts.
• Donna Hilty, the COO of Whidbey Telecom, addressed the community at a monthly PRCAC meeting to explain the stalled progress of the underground fiber optic cable installation. The project had been halted since late 2023 due to significant archaeological findings.
• Part-time resident Melanie Osmack and parks commissioner Allison Calder applied for a $582,500 grant with Washington State’s Community Outdoor Athletic Funding to finance a multi-use court next to the skatepark by Baker Field.
• Point Roberts Historical Society installed historical markers throughout the Point in order to highlight the unique history of the area.
July
• During a monthly meeting of the PRCAC, local resident Lorne Nielson announced his plans for a new campground to be built in the 50-acre wooded property at the junction of Mill and Johnson roads.
• Two hospital commissioners issued public apologies for conducting district business outside of public meetings contrary to the Washington State Open Public Meeting Act.
• The parks district approved a bid made by Ken Calder for $22,848 to upgrade the septic system at the community center. The upgrade was made to expand use of the kitchen facilities. In addition, an estimate for $11,650 was approved for electrical enhancements critical to the new septic system and general facility upgrades.
• Resilient Point Roberts: Going Solar won a grant for $133,000 from the Washington State Clean Energy Community Decarbonation grants program. The grant was matched with $17,000 in community funding. The funds were used to conduct feasibility studies on conducting solar panels and backup systems on community buildings.
• Point Roberts Organic Earth, a group aimed at reducing the loss of organic materials from the Point, was awarded a local and community projects grant worth $94,000 from Washington state. The funds were to be used for a full feasibility study of a local green waste system.
August
• SuperTrack, the service provider that operates the local health clinic, was offered a three-year contract instead of their usual one-year contract renewal.
• Just days before the new rules governing traveling into the United States with dogs were scheduled to be implemented, the CDC relaxed the requirements.
(See Year in Review, page 10)
Erickson Bros. Garage
Call the shop: 360-945-2807 or email ericksonbrothersgarage@gmail.com 1423 Gulf Road • Point Roberts
in the Garden
Happy New Year! The winter solstice has come and gone, as have the traditional fall holidays. The blustery dark days of winter are here, with rain and frost and occasional snow: the days of wewonder-how-cold-it-will-get temperatures that seem to grow colder each year.
Our summer gardens are long gone, and spring feels far away. The familiar cycle of death and rebirth is in full play along the roadside, in the forest and in our own yards, a gentle reminder that there is a time for all things to begin and end. Animals have their winter coats and look harder for food and shelter. Magic goes on beneath the soil, as plants build strength for another year.
In these quieter months, we reflect on the old year and plan for the new. We dress in cuddly layers of warm winter clothing and keep our raincoats and boots next to the door. We put sweaters on our dogs, hats on our heads, and scarves and mittens on our children and our grandkids when we venture outside.
We crave our favorite comfort foods –chicken and dumplings, casseroles, and soups made with home-grown veggies stored in our freezer. We cook more and we eat more, and we usually gain a few pounds, which goes away when we’re back outdoors in the spring.
We notice that we want and need more rest, more downtime. We honor our natural rhythm and our internal clock, the way our ancestors did for thousands of years. We settle into winter and move slowly through it, sometimes counting the days and hours. And steadily, every day, the sun remains above the horizon a few minutes longer.
As a gardener, I look forward to winter. There is much to be done during the quieter months, but the pace is different. I gather my seeds and finally reorganize them and file them away. I review my garden notes and decide on next year’s herbs and veggies. I make rough sketches of new growing beds to be built for flowers, decide where they’ll go and what will grow in them. I fine-tune my schedule for starting seeds indoors, to be certain of space beneath the grow lights.
I do these things at my dining room table, where I can observe winter in all its glory. Birds and squirrels sun themselves on the fence until the cat chases them away. Silent snowflakes whirl past the win-
dow, and raindrops make a lovely sound bouncing off the greenhouse roof. I delight in the romance of winter in my snug and cozy cottage in the woods, and in the gentle ways I live my life in this season. I am snug in my own winter cocoon.
The Danish have a word to describe the feeling I seek in winter: hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”). Hygge is both a noun and a verb, that loosely translates to “cozy.” Hygge is best described as “a feeling of comfortable conviviality in a warm atmosphere that promotes wellbeing,” whether alone or with others. Hygge feels like being wrapped in a warm hug. Hygge is about slowing down, savoring our surroundings, and being present in the moment. Hygge is also about community and sharing ourselves with others.
In our fast-paced American lives, we often rush from one task to the next, one season to another. We miss out on today by thinking about tomorrow. We take down our winter holiday decorations as soon as the holiday is over, removing those special items we eagerly look forward to each year. Why do we put them away so quickly if they bring us joy? Hygge suggests slowing down and savoring the things we enjoy, including the sparkling lights and festive linens, the scented greenery and candles. If winter makes you feel cold and bleak, make a little hygge of your own. Add soft pillows and warm throw blankets to the sofa, to cuddle under while reading. Have coffee, tea, and cocoa supplies at the ready, along with some tasty treats. Fill bowls with apples and oranges, pears and nuts. Use your favorite dishes. Hang extra lights in your windows and add brighter bulbs to your lamps. Simmer cinnamon and orange peels in a pot of hot water or in the crockpot. Have cookies for breakfast.
Community and personal relationships are important, whatever the time of year. Invite friends for dessert and coffee, to watch a movie, or to take a walk. Drive to the beach for sunrise or sunset and watch for eagles and whales. Come to lunch at the community center on Wednesdays and Fridays, where all ages are welcome. Get together with friends at the library or the community center to work on crafts, do a puzzle, play cards or a game. If you can, offer a ride to someone who has no way to get to these places on their own. Smile at strangers and sing in the shower. Happy New Year!
B y V ictoria s mith
s Garden club members oohed and ahhed over a particularly beautiful specimen of a Pacific rhododendron.
Courtesy photo
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
POINT ROBERTS Garden Club
B y K im BE rly B utts
This year was full of growth and community spirit for the Point Roberts Garden Club! Here’s a look back at the highlights: Spring Blossoms
February kicked off with “Tomato Mania,” where Victoria Smith shared tips on tomato cultivation. In March, Susie Black’s online workshop, “Bring Your Garden into Your Home,” inspired us to transform flowers and foliage creatively. April brought an insightful talk entitled, “The Beauty of Weeds,” by Mark Turner, exploring the unexpected beauty of weeds and tips for managing them.
Plant Sales and Garden Visits
May featured our popular plant sale, with all plants donated by members. We also visited stunning gardens in Tsawwassen, including South Delta Baptist Church’s raised beds and The Secret Garden. June saw successful ivy removal at Lily Point, clearing over 25 trees, followed by member garden tours showcasing poppies, sunny landscapes, a wonderful deer-
proofed fruit garden and ocean vistas.
Summer Splendor
July continued the tradition of midsummer garden visits, with members enjoying the gardens of Patti Monaghan-Hacker and Dave and Jenny Stumpo. August brought our annual general meeting and social gathering, a time for reflection and planning.
Autumn Wisdom
September welcomed guest speaker Anjelika Hedley, who shared “A Lazy Gardener’s Guide to Fall Cleanup,” highlighting wildlife-friendly practices. October focused on preparing for winter with advice on surviving El Niña.
Community and Celebration
Throughout the year, our Tyee work parties maintained community spaces, from bulb planting in October to freshening up mounds in November. We wrapped up with a potluck holiday social, celebrating our shared passion for gardening.
Want to join the fun? Membership is just $10 a year. Contact info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org to get involved!
POINT ROBERTS
B y J E an B arin G ton , B EV m ar & l ucy W illiams
In 2023, desiring to become a congregation that serves the entire community, we talked, we prayed, we wondered what this new spiritual thing that was happening was about. We talked about what we would like our congregation to be for others and for ourselves. We came 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, religious history or lack thereof. We strive for the inclusivity that Jesus taught. We also want a community that is free of violence and the threat of violence, in both word and deed. The congregation should be a safe place for all.
We believe worship is intended to be the following: 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 2024 we continued to live into our vision. We celebrated six concerts, two Power of Music events, one sound bath, and five Jazz Vespers, where we welcomed story tellers, singers, jazz musicians, pianists, guitarists, recorder players, a digeridoo player, an oboist, flutist and violinists. We also thrived under that pastoral leadership of Lutheran, Episcopal, Interfaith, and Methodist pastors, and were grateful for the musical talents of Allison Chu and Jim Murphy.
We look forward to 2025 and its adventures and challenges that so often make us grow in new ways, and we look forward to welcoming our community in new and old ways. Let’s share the spirit and discern the path the divine. God is calling us, too. This is God’s church, and you are welcome here.
2024
in REVIEW
POINT ROBERTS Food Bank
The Point Roberts Food Bank continues to serve the community, assisting about 70 clients weekly. The food bank sources its supplies from a network that includes the Bellingham regional food bank and distribution center, local grocery stores, Christ the King farm, bakeries and various community donations. In 2024, the food bank saw a notable increase in demand, with a 13 percent rise in the number of people served compared to 2023, consistent with food banks across the county.
The food bank recently launched two initiatives. The first is establishing a Food Pantry outside the community center. The pantry, stocked with non-perishable items such as canned proteins and vegetables, is accessible to anyone in need, reinforcing the food bank’s mission to provide continuous support.
The second initiative is a more ambitious, long-term project: the construction of a food warehouse storage facility. This facility will be built on property acquired in 2023, and the food bank has already applied for a conditional use permit to move forward. The food bank has relied on temporary solutions for years, including an unheated container and shared refrigeration space at a local store. The new facility will provide much-needed, climate-controlled storage space, ensuring a more efficient operation and better preservation of food.
The Point Roberts Food Bank’s work
is supported entirely by generous contributions from many individual donors, the fire department, and local businesses. Community members can drop off food donations at the International Marketplace or contribute financially at Umpqua Bank or via PayPal on the food bank’s website, prfoodbank.org.
As 2024 comes to a close, the food bank looks forward to 2025 and the significant progress it represents – culminating in a permanent, well-equipped facility that will enhance its ability to serve the community for years to come.
s Garden club members savor a secret garden on a May 28 garden tour.
Courtesy photo
s Standing in front of a new pantry are, from l. Patrick Pritchard, Ray Smith and Adam Rozyskie. Photo by Erin Kelly
Year in Review ...
From page 8
• Whatcom 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.
• Strings & Things International Music Festival was a sold-out event held at the marina. The event featured four bands, spanned six hours, and drew a crowd of nearly 600 attendees.
September
• Port of Bellingham commissioners approved spending nearly $100,000 on a public relations contract to improve its public image.
• Whatcom County applied for a conditional use permit to replace the office at the Johnson Road transfer station.
• The marina applied for permission to do a bypass dredging operation that involves taking sand from the east side of the harbor breakwater and moving it to the west side.
October
• Whatcom County Public Works conducted a drainage study on the Point and presented their initial overview at a monthly meeting of the PRCAC. The study identified 20 distinct flooding locations and 39 problems that would need 16 capital projects to resolve. Public works reminded residents that keeping culverts clear and replacing them if they are undersized or damaged is a property owner’s responsibility. They said they would return early in 2025 to present final results.
• Cascadia Renewables conducted a feasibility study on community buildings and hosted two public workshops. SolarFest, an event aimed to get the community informed on the benefits of solar energy, was held at the firehall.
• The eighth annual Apple Harvest Festival was held by Point Roberts Circle of Care.
November
• During a special meeting, Point Roberts fire commissioners voted to authorize
(See Year in Review, page 17)
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
POINT ROBERTS Emergency Preparedness
B y r EBE cca G ood W in
Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness (PREP) informs and educates residents on how to prepare themselves for emergencies – earthquakes, wildfires, tsunamis, windstorms and other natural disasters.
Achievements of note from 2024:
• Completing, under Lynn Taylor’s valued leadership, installation of a state-ofthe-art tower at 2030 Benson Road to enable critical radio communications during community-level emergencies. The ongoing support of chief Christopher Carleton and assistant chief John Shields of WCFD5, services of Anthony Stephani, technical assistance of Oswald Kienapfel, and financial support of the Helen and Jose Colton Foundation are sincerely appreciated!
• Helping arrange for Certified Emergency Response Team (CERT) training delivered in April and May by Whatcom County’s Emergency Division. Eighteen individuals completed the hands-on curriculum and can now play a crucial support role to WCFD5 in the event of emergencies impacting the community.
• Welcoming local residents on May 7 to
an informative workshop offering tips and guidance about the basics of emergency preparedness.
• Offering a logistics and communications training opportunity for twenty individuals – PREP and newly-trained CERT volunteers – through the Disaster Airlift Response Team Exercise on June 8 and 9 to receive, by float plane, hundreds of pounds of food for the food bank.
Various popular special events – Chili Cook-Off, July 4th Pancake Breakfast and the Joke Telling Contest – raised funds vital to meet PREP’s essential costs. Thanks to all who attended and to the many who tirelessly volunteered to create well-organized, fun and delicious events! Shout out to Judson Meraw for his chalk renderings to announce these events.
In 2025, PREP will shift from monthly meetings to offer occasional, themed educational workshops and other complementary activities for all those in Point Roberts interested in being prepared for emergencies.
To learn about PREP happenings, check for announcements on social media, the All Point Bulletin or email prepgroup17@ gmail.com to join PREP’s contact list.
S Bill Munro was one of a number of participants in this year’s Lighted Bikes Parade, held December 9 at the community center.
Photo by Louise Mugar
POINT ROBERTS Chamber of Commerce
As 2024 is coming to an end I would like to take this opportunity to say thanks to our amazing community, our members and my fellow directors on the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce! It has been an uplifting experience getting involved with the chamber and getting to know my colleagues better. We are blessed with all of their enthusiasm, knowledge, and their unwavering love and caring for our little beach town!
Both Linda Hughes and Louise Mugar are long standing members and directors. Linda has taken the dual role of secretary/ treasurer and does an amazing job at both. We’re privileged with having Louise (our current VP) as we have gained important access to her marketing prowess and close relationship with the media on both sides of the border. With thanks to Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism and their grant support, the chamber is able to promote Point Roberts, its businesses and events, to our Canadian neighbors and the rest of Washington state.
Tamra Hansen has also served for a long time and I appreciate her loyal participation even while running two time-consuming restaurants here, which help keep
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
our town “on the map.” Our newest members are Elliott Smith, a local resident who works for the Port of Bellingham who has a “bigger picture” type of input, and Lorne Nielson whom I’m sure everyone knows and he brings in some obvious business acumen. For myself, I’m a strong believer in “a sense of place” and while we need and want to encourage growth, we need to also preserve what makes Point Roberts the special place it truly is! That’s one of the reasons why the chamber sponsored a holiday lighting contest this year.
All of us, together and individually, encourage input (both positive and negative) and are available at any time for getting together with our members to toss ideas around … we can’t think of everything on our own and a cross-section of ideas are important.
Our first meeting of the year is Tuesday, January 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the RE/MAX office at 465 Tyee Drive. It’s open to members and new members – applications will be available at the door and you can also download the form from the chamber website: www.pointrobertschamberofcommerce.com
We are looking forward to a fantastic 2025 for Point Roberts and wish the entire community a joyous holiday season!
POINT ROBERTS Registered Voters Assoc.
And the winners are ...
Helping to get Point Roberts in the festive spirit this year, the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce held a Shine Bright lighting contest for residents and businesses. And the winners are…
Residential
1st – 646 South Beach Rd. Mike Cressy 2nd – 1496 Gulf Road, Annette Loewen
and family
3rd – 347 Evergreen Way, Marilyn & Ken Ross
Honorable mention 68 Regina Way, Ed and Laurie Dockery
Business 1st – Nielson’s Building Center
Every year the Point Roberts Registered Voters Association (PRRVA) aims to encourage people not only to vote but to be educated voters. We continue to facilitate ‘meet the candidate’ nights as well as informational sessions on levies when they arise in our community.
B y a llison c ald E r such as the park district, the hospital district, and the fire district so that voters can understand how the levies they voted for are spent. We also hope to encourage more community involvement in the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee so that more community input can be forwarded to the county for the benefit of Point Roberts.
We hope to encourage more community engagement with taxation districts
PRRVA is looking forward to an amazing 2025 for Point Roberts!
s 1st Place: 646 South Beach Road, Mike Cressy,.
Photos by Louise Mugar
S 2nd Place: 1496 Gulf Road, Annette Loewen and family.
It was a year of both continuity and change. With the help of community volunteers, we stocked the book cart at Nielson’s Building Center and the two Little Free Libraries that we installed. Friends of the Point Roberts Library (FOPRL) members welcomed the public almost every Saturday to The Commons in the community center.
We continued to provide the library with items not provided by the Whatcom County Library System (WCLS), mainly by supplying stickers and toys for child patrons. We also facilitated communication with the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District about outdoor issues such as lawn rehabilitation, tree care, and conveniences such as the bike rack and reading bench. And we assisted with publicity for WCLS events, especially with the tremendously successful Whatcom Grooves concert held on the back lawn.
We didn’t just stay in town. A number of FOPRL members had a great time taking the Raven community van to Deming
to meet with other WCLS friends groups and share ideas. And yet others attended the Open Book Festival in Ferndale.
Changes at FOPRL this year have been fairly profound. Long-serving respected president Judy Ross, who was instrumental in raising funds to build the existing library, stepped aside to focus more on The Commons.
Jane Donaldson stepped into the breach and will steer us through the coming years. Our dynamic Rose Momsen, whose value as an advocate for children’s services has been greatly appreciated, announced her plans to move on. We thank AmandaLyn Wayland who will bring that special advocacy to our activities in the future.
A celebration of Judy and Rose’s contributions was the focus of our well-attended annual general meeting, with WCLS Executive Director Christine Perkins leading the statements of appreciation.
To become involved, come to a board meeting or The Commons, check out wcls. org/friends-pointroberts or email foprl1@ gmail.
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
POINT ROBERTS Taxpayers Association
During the past year, the Point Roberts Taxpayers Association (PRTA) met monthly, mostly via Zoom during the winter months and in the community center during the summer, plus on the patio of Kiniski’s Reef Tavern for our annual general meeting (AGM) in July.
The public is always welcome to join us, at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. We aim to serve as an open forum for discussion of community matters and, on county matters, to work through the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC) to advance our views and recommendations. In addition to having a PRTA representative on PRCAC, currently two other PRTA board members happen to be at-large members of PRCAC.
We started off the year by dedicating our January meeting to hearing from Whatcom County Assessor Rebecca Xczar, who explained our property tax system and answered questions from the public. We invited her in response to concerns of many residents over increased property assessments.
In February, we hosted special guests Elliott Smith and Gina Stark from the Port of Bellingham (POB). Elliott updated us on POB’s interest in purchasing the Point Roberts Marina; and Gina described the POB’s mandate to promote economic development, as reflected subsequently by a state grant to develop an Economic Development Strategy for Point Roberts in 2025, which PRTA endorsed.
In April, Shauna Sylvester, from Resilient Point Roberts: Going Solar, briefed us on their plans and proposals to assess feasibility of backup solar power at public buildings and to develop local capacity to assess residential properties.
The keynote speaker at our AGM was resident historian Mark Swenson, speaking on the subject, “Point Roberts: Mistake or Theft.”
Years of effort by PRTA culminated in success, with the passage of legislation sponsored by our state senator Sharon
Shewmake to broaden the allowed uses of our local fuel tax revenue to support transportation improvements besides street maintenance and construction, e.g., public transportation. Earlier efforts a decade ago, working with the late senator Doug Ericksen and representative Luanne Van Werven failed in committee. However, this year senator Shewmake and her bipartisan co-sponsors passed the legislation, and Governor Jay Inslee signed it into law.
PRTA partnered with Kelly & Son Roofers to conduct litter collection on our “adopted” Gulf Road. We participated in the fire department’s open house, to share information on PRTA and attract new members.
Our greatest disappointment in 2024 was U.S. Representative Rick Larsen’s inability to hold the usual summertime town hall meeting with our community, breaking an annual tradition initiated by PRTA with former representative Suzan DelBene in 2014.
Some of the ongoing community concerns at PRTA meetings include illegal roadside dumping, illegal off-premise advertising signage clutter, getting high speed broadband in place, removal of Delta Cable’s abandoned cables, and Whatcom County Parks & Recreation priorities at the four county parks in Point Roberts.
s A Friend of the Library, Margot Griffiths checks out the books available in The Commons. Courtesy photo
s Mark Swenson making a point at the AGM.
Photo by Louise Mugar
Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events
Caroling: Friday, December 20, 5 p.m., meet at the fire hall parking lot. Santa will drive the Point Roberts Circle of Care bus around town for some Christmas caroling. First come, first serve for a seat on the bus, but vehicles are welcome to follow along if the bus fills up.
The Commons: Saturday, December 21, from noon to 2:30 p.m. in the back room of the community center. We have free used books for you and your kids and the chance to talk with your friends and neighbors about life in Point Roberts. The History Center will also be open. Come by and see us!
Breakfast with Santa and Firefighters: Sunday, December 22, community center, 8 to 11 a.m. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, warm drinks and Santa. Admission by donation: Proceeds going to your Point Roberts Food Bank. This event is organized by the Point Roberts Volunteer Firefighters Charitable Society.
Lights and Latkes: Sunday, December 29, 5 to 7 pm., community center. Bring your favorite latkes to share and join in a wonderful celebration and prayer. All are welcome.
Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce Membership Meeting: Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m., 465 Tyee Drive (RE/MAX office). Membership applications will be accepted at the meeting. Info: pointrobertschamberofcommerce.com.
PR Amateur Radio Club: Tuesday, January 7, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Link: bit.ly/3yUNk8f. Fire District No. 5: Wednesday, January 8, 4 p.m., fire hall and via Zoom. Link: bit.ly/45YUv9U. Info: WCFD5. com.
PR Hospital District: Wednesday, January 8, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: bit.ly/3Kw9Ypt.
PR Taxpayers Association: Thursday, January 9, 7 p.m., via zoom. Info: PRTA@pointroberts.net. Link: bit. ly/3OBb1rn.
Supper with the superintendent: Friday, January 10, 5 p.m., community center. We invite all members of the community to attend an important meeting regarding the Blaine school district and Point Roberts Primary School. Due to a steady decline in student enrollment over the past decade (excluding COVID-affected years), the school currently has only five students enrolled. During the meeting, we will discuss the current situation and seek valuable feedback from the community. This is an opportunity for your voice to be heard as we navigate this challenging decision together.
PR Park and Recreation: Monday, January 13, at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org. Link: bit.ly/3UCOvAU.
PR Water District: Tuesday, January 14, 5 p.m., 2002 Benson Road. Info: pointrobertswater.com.
Historical Society: Wednesday, January 15, 7 p.m., in the History Center.
PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, January 16, 7 p.m., community center. Info: PRCAC. comment@gmail.com.
Point Roberts Book & Movie Discussion Group: Monday, January 20, 2 to 4 p.m., library. Info: wcls.org. Time to Play movie screening, potluck and discussion: Friday, January 24, 5 p.m., Trinity Church. Time To Play is a film by Kim Hunter, a childhood teacher who will discuss issues around child development and the needs of today’s children. Potluck at 5 p.m., screening and discussion to follow at 6 p.m. Bring a dish to complement the pasta dinner being served. Parents, grandparents and educators are encouraged to come for an uplifting conversation. Info: dailyplanetamazon1@yahoo.com.
Point Roberts Book Club: Wednesday, January 29, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Point Roberts Library. All are welcome to join this lively monthly discussion group at the library. Call the library at 360/945-6545 for this month’s selection. Last Wednesday of the month.
Let’s Make Valentines: Wednesday, February 5, 3 to 4 p.m., Point Roberts library meeting room. Teen corps volunteers needed from 2:45 to 4 p.m. Come to the library to make valentines cards for all the loved ones in your life. Supplies provided.
Whatcom READS presents: Buoy painting workshop: Wednesday, February 12, 1 to 2:30 p.m., Point Roberts Library meeting room. Adult activity. Inspired by Whatcom READS selection No Two Persons. Painted Buoys will be incorporated into a large art installation at Bellingham Seafeast 2025. Info: wcls.org.
Ongoing Events and Hours
Sound off meeting: Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m., community center. his meeting is for interested speakers to voice a Point Roberts Angel Project: Donations needed to purchase grocery gift and cards, and financial assistance for folks in Point Roberts who are going through a rough time and may not have the funds for a holiday dinner, to pay the utility bill, or buy a gift or two for their little ones. If you are aware of a neighbor who is in need, email us at prcircleofcare@gmail.com. Donations can be put in the donation jars at Kora’s Corner, Point Fuel and Pantry or Nielson’s Hardware. Donations can also be made via PayPal by visiting the Circle of Care website (prcircleofcare.com) and clicking the donation button in the upper right-hand corner. Please specify in the PayPal payment note that your donation is for the Angel Project.
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. The Raven does not run on state or U.S. federal holidays. For more info: bit.ly/3RWrRCa. The Raven community shuttle is looking to build its afterschool program. Parents planning to have their children participate in afterschool programs and homeschooling families wishing to do field trips and other events, please contact us at: Prtheraven@gmail.com or 360/788-9473. Info: prtheraven.com.
Point Roberts Walkers: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 8 a.m., Saturdays at Lily Point. Tuesdays and Thursdays vary, and locations can be found at prwalkers.wordpress.com.
PR Food Bank: Every Wednesday 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the community center. Info: prfoodbank.org.
Point Roberts Storytime: Wednesdays,10:30 to 11 a.m., library. Ages two to six. Seniors and More Lunches: Wednesdays and Fridays, community center. Come meet old friends and make new friends while enjoying a nutritious meal. You can also park and and come inside the community center to pick up lunches to go between 11:45 and 12:30 p.m., All ages welcome. More info: 360/945-5424.
Point Roberts Writing Club: Saturdays, 3 to 4 p.m., Point Roberts Library meeting room. Drop by to share and listen along with fellow storytellers looking for feedback.
History Center Holiday hours: Friday November 29, 11 to 2 p.m., Saturdays from November 30 through December 21, 11 to 4 p.m., Sundays, December 15 and 22 noon to 3 p.m., December 24, noon to 3 p.m.
Point Roberts Clinic Hours: Primary care provider schedule: Dr. Lary: Mondays, 9 to 5 p.m.; Dr. Sean: Tuesdays, 9 to 5 p.m.; Dr. Kelly: Wednesdays, 9 to 5 p.m.; Doreen (RN): Thursdays, 9 to 3 p.m.; Sara (RN): Fridays, 9 to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday hours vary with nurse availability. Appointment needed. Urgent care can be accessed through telemedicine or at the clinic Monday – Saturday 10 – 6 p.m., Sundays 10 – 4 p.m. Always call for an appointment before coming in, even for urgent care services. Info: 360/945-2580.
UPPER END HOUSES: $800,000 AND ABOVE:
2-story house with 3,029 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths,attached garage, built in 2024, territorial view; .19 acres land.
2-story house with 3,898 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, attached garage, built in 2024; marine and territorial view, .37 acres land.
1-story house with 2,410 S.F., 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, attached garage, built in 2024; marine and territorial view, .34 acres land.
2-story house with 3,842 S.F., 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, 912 S.F. attached garage, 949 S.F. deck, 215 S.F. patio, built in 1990, waterfront; marine view, .63 acres land.
2-story house with 4,139 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 528 S.F. built-in garage, 558 S.F. deck, built in 2007; marine and territorial view, .27 acres land.
2-story house with 2,500 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, garage, 336 S.F. deck, 242 S.F. storage, outbuildings, studio and guest house, built in 2001, remodeled in 2017, 4.85 acres wooded land.
2-story house with 3,029 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, built-in garage, built in 2024; territorial view, .19 acres land.
2-story house with 3,398 S.F., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, built-in garage, built in 2024; marine and territorial view, .34 acres land.
2-story house with 2,456 S.F., 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 650 S.F. built-in garage, 255 S.F. patio, 1,080 S.F. shop, built in 2004, 4.70 acres land.
2-story house with 2,484 S.F., 1,525 S.F. basement, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 557 S.F. attached garage, 1,817 S.F. deck, built in 1993, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .59 acres land.
LAND: .14 acres residential land.
5669 Garibaldi Lane, Blaine
8489 Camas Drive, Blaine
8475 Camas Drive, Blaine
9169 Great Blue Heron Lane, Blaine
7909 West Golf Course Drive, Blaine
1760 Benson Road, Point Roberts
5683 Garibaldi Lane, Blaine
5447 Lonicera Drive, Blaine
1851 H. Street Road, 9119 Great Blue Heron Lane, Blaine
Despite some tumultuous meetings, Point Roberts Public Hospital District and our clinic had a successful 2024. As reported by SuperTrack Urgent Care, the clinic is serving more and more of our community – monthly office visits continue to gradually increase. This fall, the clinic had another successful seasonal flu vaccine program –and vaccines are still readily available for those under 65 and available in limited quantity for those over 65.
To accommodate staffing needs, the clinic has modified hours for the first time in many years. It now offers in-person appointments with physicians on Mondays (from 9 to 5 p.m. with Dr. Lary), Tuesdays (from 9 to 5 p.m. with Dr. Sean) and Wednesdays (from 9 to 5 p.m. with Dr. Evans). On Thursdays and Fridays from 9 to 2 p.m., RN Kim Kimerer can provide flu vaccines, B-12 shots, AC checks, and INR
checks. Telemedicine appointments can be made with physicians in the Bellingham office every day of the week, including weekends.
For patients who need the service and cannot make the trip to Quest, blood draws are available at the clinic on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 to noon. The clinic is also able to provide certain antibiotics (at no cost) and a variety of other medications (at low cost), to avoid the drive to Blaine, Ferndale or Bellingham.
Mid-year, responding to vocal resident demand, the Point Roberts Hospital District and SuperTrack agreed to modify their contract to provide for three-year renewal terms. When the new term starts in January, it will run through 2027.
Finally, as we end the year, the hospital district is searching for a new superintendent – and gives its thanks to superintendent Barbara Wayland for many years of dedicated service.
POINT ROBERTS Park and Recreation Dist.
members for all sorts of purposes.
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK BACK
POINT ROBERTS Library
B y K ris l om E dico
Monthly library attendance doubled in July and August to around 2,000, due in part to many fun summer events. The summer schedule began with a new-book, give-away day for children and teens.
Summer reading participants earned points towards tree planting projects in Whatcom County. Young families enjoyed pre-school story times. Also popular were the many craft activities for kids and teens. Everyone enjoyed live music with Willie Reavis and his Weary Band.
This fall found Point Roberts Primary School students visiting bi-monthly. Also, author Stewart Gooding spoke this fall about his book, My Friend, My Enemy. Adults attended our two monthly book clubs, one in-person, one on Zoom, and enjoyed Tuesday night crafts and games. Diverse folks reserved the meeting room for large and small events.
Long-time staffer and Point Roberts res-
ident Rose Momsen left her position as public assistant and children’s focus leader at the end of June. Ever helpful and eager, she will be fondly remembered by countless children, parents, and friends in this community. Rose and husband, George Wright, are wished every good fortune settling into their new home in Virginia.
AmandaLyn Wayland filled the vacancy. AmandaLyn holds degrees in linguistics, and two years of experience working at this branch in a page position. Another new hire, Mike Sturgess, also a public assistant, helps with busy summer hours. Along with Liz Otwell, Susan Black, and myself, we all strive to keep library services as vital and excellent as they are now.
As always, our loyal Friends of the Point Roberts Library offers support to many events. Thanks to them the coffee is always on!
Come visit and be sure to ask about the Library of Things!
B y d EE G ou G h
The state of Point Roberts Park and Recreation District is good. This summer, the latest upgrade to the community center septic system has finally made it possible for the kitchen to be used by community
Thanks to the energy and motivation of our park and recreation administrator Dee Gough, other improvements are now being made all over the community center – you can now plug in a coffee maker without blowing a circuit. The many community groups, local markets and even the pickleball enthusiasts will benefit from these upgrades.
The park district took the lead with the fire district, water district and Trinity Lutheran Community Church to secure a Climate Commitment Act grant from the commerce department to assess the suitability of our public buildings for solar energy and battery back-up systems and the final reports will be coming soon.
The park district also received generous grants from the commerce department and Puget Sound Energy to install EV charging stations at the community center. We are still waiting to see if project quotes will make this financially feasible. At Baker Field Park, grounds manager Bill Knowles with help from volunteers has cleaned up around the old skate park and made a dent in a multi-year effort to rid the park of invasive Scotch Broom.
The recent Halloween party was a great success. Get ready for the upcoming community holiday party and next year, the Point Roberts Prom.
2024 year in REVIEW A LOOK
BACK
POINT ROBERTS PAWS
B y m ar G ot G ri FF iths
2024 has been a year of new projects and positive results for the Point Roberts Animal Wellbeing Society (PAWS). PAWS welcomed a new board member to our team this year, as Mary Edgley joins president Fran Rozyskie, treasurer Jan Atkinson-Grosjean, and fellow board members, Marlene Nash and Margot Griffiths.
An important initiative launched this year was the PAWS team undertaking Marine Mammal Rescue training in an effort to mitigate the too frequent baby seal strandings. Public education about the challenges of animals in the wild finding
space and distance from humans is an ongoing goal. Working with the fire department, we can help with the rescue of stranded seal pups and facilitate their evacuation to the Whatcom Humane Society for medical attention.
An ongoing goal of PAWS is to work toward an environment free of rodenticides that may kill other animals in the food chain, including eagles and owls. Options for alternative pest control are presented on the PAWS website (pointrobertspaws. org).
We continue forward in our program of controlling the feral cat population in Point Roberts. Following the “trap, neuter and release” model, adult cats and their kittens are trapped and provided veterinary care in the form of spaying and neutering. We have been supported by volunteers who foster kittens until homes can be found for them. Adult cats are spayed and returned to their colonies, as they are unlikely to be domesticated at an older age. PAWS continues to help find loving homes for pets whose owners can no longer care for them.
At year’s end, the board of PAWS would like to thank our generous donors and volunteers. As an organization that is powered solely by volunteers, we know the value of dedicated supporters who care about animals.
May the new year bring wellbeing and safety to animals both domestic and wild, and peace to us all.
s Bad Santa apparently plying the ladies with liquor at the parks Christmas party on December 7. Photo by Erin Kelly
the purchase of a new ambulance after its frontline ambulance was taken out of service due to a collision.
• Point Roberts hospital district superintendent Barbara Wayland announced her intention to retire following the December regular meeting.
• Contracting practices at the Port of Bellingham have raised concerns about oversight and transparency after two contracts just under the $100,000 limit whereby contracts bids require undergoing formal competitive bidding procedures. December
• Port of Bellingham commissioners authorized a contract to create an economic development strategy for Point Roberts to help its recovery from lingering post-pandemic effects.
• For the second time in ten months, the Blaine school district’s proposed $70 million general obligation bond failed to reach the required 60 percent supermajority threshold at the ballot box.
January Tides
2024
year in
REVIEW A LOOK BACK
B y B rian h unt E r
POINT ROBERTS Community Advisory Committee
The Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC) was created to provide advice and recommendation to the county executive and county council regarding needs and issues pertinent to the community. The county executive recommends membership of the unsalaried committee to the county council who certifies that membership.
Over the past calendar year, PRCAC has included on their agendas, discussed in duly noticed public hearings, and commented as necessary on the following:
• The scoping of the draft environmental impact statement for the 2025 Whatcom County comprehensive plan and development regulations;
• A potential Lighthouse Park dock and dog park;
• The archaeology review process necessary for Whidbey Telecom broadband expansion;
• The Whatcom Transportation Authority/Point Roberts Circle of Care memoran-
dum of agreement to provide shuttle service to Bellingham and points in between;
• The Maple Beach Seawall reconstruction;
• The production of an economic development strategy by the Port of Bellingham;
• The Washington State Department of Commerce Community Decarbonization grants;
• The county’s work on a drainage master plan specific to Point Roberts;
• A Point Roberts Transportation Benefit District amendment via SB 6017 allowing funds wider range of allowable uses, to include presentations by the Whatcom County Public Works director as well as county council member Jon Scanlon;
• A conditional use permit 2024-05 for the Nielsen campground;
• Comment on the public participation plan and population and growth projections to county for the 2025 Whatcom County comprehensive plan update;
• A potential conditional use permit for the Point Roberts Food Bank;
• A conditional use permit 2024-03 for a
POINT ROBERTS
The Point Roberts Historical Society’s most significant achievement in 2024 was completing the Point Roberts History Trail, a multi-year project of installing interpretive historical signage around the Point. A final grant payment of $2,000 helped us install the final signs. We also published a full-color map of the locations of the nearly 30 signs on the History Trail.
In June, we hosted a well-attended book signing by author Candace Wellman, author of several books about the Coast Salish people, including their history in Point Roberts.
The Point Roberts History Center, the Point’s first museum, celebrated its fifth anniversary this year. It has become a focal point for visitors from around the world, many of whom were visiting the Point specifically to visit an exclave. There were visits from maritime researchers, a Seattle TV station and relatives of our original homesteaders.
The Historical Society’s president, Mark Swenson, was the keynote speaker at the Point Roberts Taxpayers Association annual general meeting, where he presented new research which contributes to the large body of work which disproves that Point Roberts was a mistake and refutes popular belief that the United States refused a formal offer by Britain to obtain the Point in the 1850s.
The society published its annual newsletter in October. One notable article described helping Icelanders trace their lineage to early Point Roberts settlers. It’s a good example of the Historical Society’s efforts to keep our rich and unique history alive. We hope to continue our stewardship of the Point’s historical record in 2025.
transfer station upgrade;
• The West Shores Terminal fugitive coal dust in Delta, B.C.;
• The consideration of ArriveCan for dogs;
• The state of Washington watershed adjudication to include a presentation by the state department of ecology;
• Comment on the county’s interpretation of SSB 5290 to limit project review spatially, rather than temporally, via amendment to Whatcom County Codes 20 and 22;
• Future potable water sources for Point Roberts;
• The future potential paving of the Lily Point parking lot.
The above list should not be considered exhaustive, but more an accurate depiction of the overwhelming and broad range of issues and projects the PRCAC considered in 2024.
Do you want a say in how Whatcom County grows in the next 20 years? The county, as part of its comprehensive plan update has opened a survey link to findout what residents want.
To participate, go to bit.ly/41FD1ka. The survey closes January 28 at midnight.
S Wayne Lyle has been named the top realtor in Point Roberts by RealTrends, an independent real estate ranking company that has been a trusted source for news, analysis and information to the residential real estate industry since 1987. Its annual rankings are published in the Wall Street Journal. This is the first year RealTrends has ranked agents by city. This ranking follows Lyle’s earlier RealTrends recognition, which placed him in the top 1,000 agents in the U.S. for 2023 and top 1.5 percent of agents in the U.S. and Washington for 2024. Courtesy photo
sheriff’s report
December 3, 8:47 a.m.: Assist agency cold call on Kilarney Place. December 5, 3:15 p.m.: Drugs on Gulf Road.
December 7, 1:22 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Benson Road.
Yacht Sales–Power and Sail Service
December 11, 8:32 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Tyee Drive and Johnson Road.
December 13, 12:23 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Vista Way.
December 13, 2:21 p.m.: Suspicious circum-
numbers
Fire Incidents for November 2024
Total calls (44); EMS calls (7), resulting in the following transports: county medic (2), Airlift Northwest (2), North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (1); fire classification (9) resulting in false alarm (4), structure (1), power (lines down) (2), gas leak (2); public service (16); EMS CARES/MIHC (12).
Point Roberts health clinic numbers for November 2024 (2023 figures following)
