Fire chief seeks solution from county and medical examiner
After festering for about 18 months, the issue of who is responsible for transporting bodies from Point Roberts to the mainland might finally be getting the attention it requires.
Point Roberts fire chief Christopher Carleton told the All Point Bulletin March 26 that he had been trying to no avail to get the county or state to get involved after the county medical examiner denied responsibility for the infrequent job of taking people who have died on the Point down to Bellingham.
“It’s a very simple thing,” Carleton said. “We have around 3-6 people die up here each year and in order to transport them through Canada to Bellingham, we have to notify Health Canada in Ottawa that the person did not die of a communicable disease. To do so requires an attestation to that effect and the medical examiner is refusing to provide that,” he said. “He has told us to call the person’s primary care physician. Well, you can’t do that at 2 in the morning.”
The county appointed Dr. Aldo Fusaro as medical examiner (ME) in December 2024.
By state law, medical examiners are required by to assume authority when a person has died from unnatural causes such as murder or a communicable disease.
It follows that if an examiner declines to assume jurisdiction over a corpse then the ME has, in effect, determined that the person did not die from a communicable disease and should be able to provide an attestation to that conclusion.
That supposition was posed to county executive spokesperson Jed Holmes when queried to confirm a March 31 meeting between the fire chief and the executive. He replied that he had passed the suggestion to the ME to evaluate.
“We are very interested in a solution,” he added.
School board makes hard cuts to
For the third consecutive year, the Blaine school board has approved budget cuts that will tighten the district’s already barebones budget, this go-around by $3 million. The cuts will eliminate roughly 46 positions, merge first and second grade classes from Blaine Primary School into Blaine Elementary School, cut all C-team high school sports, and significantly reshuffle school district administration.
In a 4-0-1 vote, the board approved the recommended budget reduction, which included cuts to four department directors in the district office, two assistant principal positions, four assistant coaches and
16 certified staff positions. Erika Creydt abstained from the vote, citing a lack of board discussion and preparation.
Blaine school district superintendent Chris Granger said seven transition to kindergarten positions are “up in the air” and could be reinstated with proper funding from the state, and 10 other positions will be added in the next school year.
While each school board member and Granger said the decision to cut more staff is never taken lightly, Granger said it’s now the “unfortunate reality” of public education funding in Washington.
“While this is not our preferred method, nobody at this table or on this team
(See School, page 6)
Photo
Mugar
B y P at G ru BB
Photo by Pat Grubb
Local markets stir to life
The local markets in Point Roberts are opening for the season, offering fresh produce and handmade goods.
The roadside stands off Boundary Bay Road will be open Friday through Sunday, April 18 through 20, featuring the Ollie Otter Bakery Box (located on Sunset Drive off of Madrona Place), Slow Botanicals Gift Stand (Garden stand located on Culp Court), and Fresh Farm Eggs (located on Boundary Bay Road).
The Friday Makers & Growers Farmers Market will hold the first Friday Market of the season on Friday, April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the west side of the Point Roberts Marina. Regular Friday markets begin May 2, running weekly from 4 to 7 p.m. through fall. Anyone making or growing items is invited to vend for free. A recycling table is available for items in good condition, but unclaimed items must be
taken home. The community center’s new Root Program supports vendors with farmers market food permits. Vendors should confirm menu approval with the health department and community center. For more information or to vend, email latitude@whidbey.com.
Stay tuned for the market at the community center slated to open in May of this year.
Crossings >>>
Crossings for January 2025 (2024 numbers following) January: personal vehicles 54,361 (45,963); commercial 676 (404); buses 44 (40); pedestrians 486 (687).
Ladybug Nursery
March 30th No Morning Service Jazz Vespers @ 4:00pm
April Sunday Services at 11:00am:
6th Father Martin Pommerenke Traditional Service with Communion
December Services at 11:00am: (Potluck
13th Palm Sunday with Reverend Sydney Morris Service of the Word
20th Easter Sunday with Pastor Jean Barrington Traditional Service with Communion
27th Reverend Bev Mar Service of the Word
Service Sun. 24th Past o r Je a n B ar ri n gt o n Traditional Service Mon. 25th Interfaith Minister Bev Mar Readings & Carols
Sun. 31st 4:00pm Jazz Vespers Service Music & Inspirational oughts
Note: No Morning Service on the 31st
All Point Bulletin
The All Point Bulletin is published each month by Point Roberts Press Inc. and is delivered to homes and businesses in Point Roberts and Tsawwassen.
The opinion expressed by contributors is their own and is offered for the general interest of our readers.
Mail and classified ads should be addressed to:
All Point Bulletin
P.O. Box 1451 Point Roberts WA USA 98281
Publisher & Managing Editor
Patrick J. Grubb
Associate Publisher & Advertising Manager
Louise H. Mugar
Reporter Erin Kelly
Copy Editor Aly McGee
Creative Services
Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser
Advertising Sales Molly Ernst
Contributors In This Issue
Kris Lomedico
Annelle Norman
Victoria Smith
Bishop Shelley Bryan Wee
Administrative Services Jeanie Luna
Founding Editor
Glennys Christie
Business & Editorial Office
Phone: 360/945-0413
Email: sales@allpointbulletin.com
Visit us online at: www.allpointbulletin.com
Letters to the editor
The
or rejected for reasons of legality and good taste.
A fresh viewpoint on matters of general interest to local readers will increase the likelihood of publication. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Thank you letters should be limited to ten names.
Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.
Please email your letter to: letters@allpointbulletin.com P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281
The Editor:
The same day that Donald Trump announced tariffs against Canada (and Mexico), I bought a Canadian flag and hung it from my apartment balcony in east Vancouver. Canadians aren’t generally given to flag flying as you know, but I felt I had to make some kind of statement.
The other thing I declared was, “I’m not crossing the border until Trump is out of office,” which is how I feel about him, but not how I feel about you.
You, in Point Roberts, who suffered greatly during the pandemic lockdown.
You, in Point Roberts, who are our closest neighbors, with whom we share the west coast plaid-coat vibe.
A friend said, in reply, that she would continue to go into Point Roberts, because the folks there depend on cross-border business (in both directions). And she and I both enjoy walking into Lily Point and Lighthouse Marine Park and stopping for a cuppa at the Saltwater Cafe. So, I’ll be back down, but only to see you, Point Roberts.
Michael Cox Vancouver B.C.
The Editor:
Golf season is here! Are you looking to get out and have some fun with friends on the golf course? If you are, we suggest you consider playing in the Annual Blaine Scholarship Foundation Golf Tournament.
This year’s tournament will be held on June 7 at Loomis Trail Golf Course with a 10 a.m. shotgun start. This tournament sells out quickly, so don’t hesitate, and get your team captain to register your team by logging in to the Blaine Scholarship Foundation website at blainescholarshipfoundation.org.
All money raised during this tournament will be put toward scholarships for graduating Blaine High School seniors who are seeking to further their education and looking for financial assistance.
The Blaine Scholarship Foundation has provided $475,000 in scholarships to hundreds of deserving graduates since 1992.
Todd Berge Blaine
The Editor:
My father, from Philadelphia, and his uncles in Toronto were spiritual leaders in their communities. Both of them agreed on the importance of the Ten Command-
ments as a basic guide for life.
Perhaps this is a good time in the history of the United States to remind President Trump and his followers of the importance of a few of those commandments.
As it relates to Canada, Greenland, Mexico, Ukraine, immigrants, and duly elected judges, the Nineth Commandment is very clear. “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor” (Exodus 20:16). It emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in interactions with others, prohibiting lying and false testimony.
The Tenth Commandment sends a transparent message to the Republican Party and their President. “Thou shalt not covet.” Neither Canada, Greenland, the Gulf of Mexico nor Ukraine are yours or any of your friends, free for the taking.
Which brings me back to an old favorite, “Thou shalt not steal,” even though President Trump’s good friend Putin thinks that stealing by force of arms is just another way in the “art of making the deal.”
He’s wrong. It’s the art of making the steal.With great respect for our traditional American value of free speech, may we suggest that a discussion of the Ten Commandments in light of current politics in our country would make an invigorating topic at local religious settings throughout our country.
Ron Snyder and Cathy Taggett Blaine
s The Point Roberts fire district’s new ambulance goes into service on April 1, replacing an ambulance that was totalled in an accident last October. The 2024 state of the art Type 1 ambulance cost $270,000 less the $164,000 in insurance payout for the old one. The district will also be activating its new radio system thanks to a $241,000 grant
match payment by the district.
Courtesy photos
s Fire chief Christopher Carleton describes the new Motorola radios one of the best on the market and feels confident they will last for 20 years.
Can you lend a hand?
Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger discussed volunteer opportunities at a Point Roberts community meeting at the community center on March 18. Volunteer applications for the district, which serves Point Roberts, will open online in the first week of July. Dr. Granger encouraged community members to apply early, noting, “It’s an opportunity to be in the building and be involved for your kids.”
Volunteers can apply to serve both at the main campus in Blaine and at the Point Roberts Primary School. To have unsupervised access to children, applicants must complete an FBI fingerprint check, which can be obtained at the Blaine Post Office. Supervised volunteers just need to obtain a Washington State Patrol background check.
Applications must be completed online and are located on the school district website at blainesd.org/page/volunteers. Once approved, volunteers will receive instruc-
Provides tree pruning, removals, hazard tree assessment, and Wildfire Risk Management Services for Point Roberts.
Our team is here to help your trees thrive while mitigating your home’s wildfire risks.
tions via email on obtaining a volunteer badge. The district encourages applicants to be patient as the initial months of the school year often experience processing delays.
Questions can be directed to Tanya at 360/332-0717 or tcarter@blainesd.org
Carole Eastin Senior Tax Analyst
Tel/Text 206-486-1472 nexustaxsolution.com carole.eastin@nexustaxsolution.com 2219 Rimland Dr. #301 • Bellingham WA 98226
Doctors
Tuesdays & Thursdays • 9:00 am pick up at Community Center, 4:00 pm (approximately) drop off at Community Center. Call 360-788-9473 to schedule your free ride, or after-school pick up in Blaine.
Tuesdays & Thursdays • 9:00 am pick up at Community Center, 4:30 pm (approximately) drop off at Community Center. Call 360-788-9473 to schedule your ride. Special needs, please call scheduler to discuss. Please call to schedule after school pick up for your children.
Call to inquire about hiring the van for special events in Point Roberts or Whatcom County.
The Immigration Law Firm
school was met by resistance from local parents, who garnered more than 400 signatures in an online petition opposing the merger.
wants to do any of things represented in this plan, but it is a lack of funds from the state that causes these local decisions to be made and continue to have devastating impacts on local communities across the state,” Granger told the packed crowd at the district boardroom prior to the vote.
Most of the blame for the cuts were laid at the state legislature, which the board said has not made up for the loss in pandemic-era relief funding or addressed problems in local levy caps on school districts like Blaine.
According to data from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), Washington is below the national average of K-12 education investment as a percentage of Gross State Product (3.1 percent compared to 3.6 nationally in 2020) and has seen five consecutive years of decreased education funding as a percentage of the state budget, from 52.4 percent in 2018-19 to 43.1 percent in 2023-24.
With a lack of state funding, school districts like Blaine are stuck in a loop of budget cuts, reduced staff and less opportunities for students. That results in reduced enrollment, restricting how much funding the district can receive from the state, further tightening the budget.
“We hate it, as I’m sure you guys do too, but the responsibility lies with the legislature,” board member Steve Galbraith told the crowd. “Inundate the legislature with letters and emails, that’s the only way they’re going to change, and maybe they won’t.”
To preserve as many jobs as it could, the district had to get creative with its savings for the upcoming school year, proposing moving the majority of students in Blaine Primary School to the elementary school, which will save the district $600,000 in energy and maintenance costs.
The decision to move some of Blaine’s youngest students into the elementary
Board member Ryan Swinburnson said the savings from the merger were too significant to not approve.
“The merger, while it’s not ideal, it puts us in a position where we have upwards of $600,000 or more that we don’t have to cut from staff, and that is to me the overriding concern,” Swinburnson said. “Not cutting essential staff, not cutting programs.”
One program proposed to be cut in preliminary budget plans was the Blaine High School theater arts program. The proposal was protested on March 19 when roughly 100 high school students walked out of class and to the district office to express their disdain.
The board was able to retain the drama director position and keep the theater program. It also kept the band program and visual arts program cuts to a minimal, which some saw as a small win among another round of gut-wrenching budget cuts.
“The reason people go to school is to learn, but where they flourish is in the extracurriculars,” Swinburnson said. “We have to maintain those the best we can.”
Washington state law requires all certificated employees whose jobs are impacted by budget cuts to be given notice before May 15. The board will vote again on a finalized version of the budget to send to the state in July.
Board members won’t seek reelection Board president Cliff Freeman and Galbraith announced during the meeting that they would not run for another term on school board.
Freeman said he wanted “someone younger who has a closer connection to the school” to represent the District 3 position he has held since winning the November 2023 election.
The Blaine High School class of 1971 graduate and retired civil engineer was appointed board president, and took defiant stances against the state legislature and other state agencies.
At the end of the meeting, Freeman said another reason he decided to not seek reelection was due to his refusal to participate in a state-required equity training that he called “social justice crap that our legislators continue to drive upon us.”
Galbraith, who was appointed to the Blaine school board in March 2024 to replace the District 5 seat.
Galbraith attended Blaine schools, served on the Blaine City Council from 1989 to 1990, and spent six years on the city planning commission.
Galbraith will step down in December when the newly-elected board member is sworn in. He said he wasn’t able to provide the time and energy required by the unpaid position.
The filing period for the school district open positions is May 5-9.
s Blaine school board deliberating on budget cuts at its March 24 meeting.
Photo by Nolan Baker
Granger accepts new position
The Blaine school district needs to begin a search for a new superintendent.
The Sultan school district voted unanimously to hire current Blaine school district superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger as its next superintendent during a March 6 special board meeting.
Sultan school board chair Gigi Gouldner confirmed to The Northern Light that an offer was made to Granger, and that Granger had signed a letter of intent to join the Sultan school district.
According to the letter of intent, Granger’s contract starts July 1. A contract between Granger and the Sultan school district is still being worked out, and a final salary could not be confirmed by press time. The letter of intent wording shows the salary will likely be in the $200,000 range, which is similar to Granger’s current salary of nearly $216,000.
The Sultan school board began its superintendent search in September 2024. The position received 24 applicants, which was narrowed down to six by February 19. On March 1, the board narrowed down the search to three finalists: Lauri Landerholm, assistant superintendent of La Center school district, Dr. Nathan Plummer, principal of Heritage Tulalip High School, and Granger.
Granger spent a day touring the Sultan school district on March 4, and was awarded the position during the March 6 board meeting.
Granger held the reins as superintendent of Blaine school district for six years of particularly turbulent times in the Blaine community and the country. Granger started during the 2019-20 school year, when classes moved online because of Covid-19.
Granger oversaw the district through multiple bond and levy elections by local voters that brought more funding to the school. While property tax levies invariably passed, the bond levies were consistently rejected.
Granger also presided over three consecutive years of budget cuts that have seen roughly 100 full-time employees lose their jobs at the district due to state funding and enrollment shortfalls.
In February 2024, Granger was named one of three finalists for an open superintendent position at the Ellensburg school district, but ultimately was not selected.
The Sultan school district is on State Highway 2 in Snohomish County, roughly 25 miles east of Everett. It has an enrollment of 2,204 students for the 2024-25 school year and 153 teachers, according to data from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.
PRO Earth seeks composting site
Last June, the Point Roberts Organic Earth (PRO Earth) group received a $94,000 grant from Washington state to fund a feasibility study for a local green waste system. This system aims to reduce the need for trucking, burning, and landfills by composting yard and kitchen waste locally, turning it into mulch and compost products for public use. The initiative will help lower greenhouse gas emissions and provide environmental and economic benefits for Point Roberts.
At a meeting on March 25, PRO Earth introduced RRS, a Michigan-based company, to conduct the study. RRS has extensive experience in waste management and recycling programs. Representative Nicole Chardoul emphasized that locally produced compost offers significant benefits, compared to burning or landfilling waste, “The environmental and economic benefits of locally produced compost are huge.”
www.canvaspilates.com
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 Point Roberts | 360-945-0420 maureen@pointrobertscounseling.com www.pointrobertscounseling.com
Private and confidential Call or e-mail for an
A community survey revealed widespread dissatisfaction with current green waste disposal options. PRO Earth is gathering feedback to help secure additional grants and public support. For more information or to take the survey, visit PRO Earth’s website proearth1.org. B
PRO Earth is seeking a 2.5-acre site to
manage composting using a windrow system. This method, common in the U.S., involves creating long rows of organic material that are periodically turned and aerated to break down into compost that will be sold locally. The site will need to meet zoning, safety and health department requirements. The project is expected to create jobs and reduce green waste disposal costs, which are currently charged at 10 cents per pound at Cando. PRO Earth is exploring various funding options, including state grants and partnerships. The project is expected to become self-sufficient and profitable in the long run, with costs for a windrow site estimated between $200,000 and $500,000.
B y N ola N B aker
s Dr. Christopher Granger, top, during a Supper with the Superintendent meeting at the community center with local parents on March 18.
Photo by Erin Kelly
Point to Point closing down
Point To Point Parcel has announced that it is closing effective April 19 with the last packages accepted on April 11.
Co-owner and manager Beth Calder said, “It was definitely a business decision to close. I wanted to end with dignity and grace. There was lots of blood and sweat shed building the business up for the last 24 years but we can’t make it with all the tariffs that are killing businesses. All the
parcel places across the border are struggling. It’s really sad that the government is doing this to all the small businesses. We’ve had lots of support from our customers but it’s time to close.”
At one point, the business employed 11 people but dwindled down to three full-time and one part-timer. The family-owned and run business opened in 2001.
Tiny Art Gallery to foster creativity and connection
B
A new Tiny Art Gallery, resembling a Little Free Library, will be installed outside the community center this summer. The concept allows visitors to leave or take small pieces of art, fostering creativity and community interaction.
Artwork can include paintings, drawings, sculptures, collages, or other creative pieces. Renee Coe and the History Center will maintain the gallery. Park district administrator Dee Gough emphasized its value, saying, “It is one more thing to bring people here to look at and enjoy.”
Debate over Canadian flag display
At the meeting of the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District on March 10, the commissioners revisited discussions about flying the Canadian flag at the community center. A decision made in March 2024 permits the flag to be flown on special occasions, including July holidays, Veterans Day, and other appropriate times as deemed necessary.
Commissioner Allison Calder explained that the flagpole meant for the Canadian flag, installed two years ago, violates county code because it was placed in the county right of way.
“We had no right to put it there legally,” Calder stated, clarifying the inconsistency with county regulations. The district is
currently seeking guidance from Whatcom County Public Works to determine whether the pole can remain due to its proximity to a grandfathered-in pole.
A survey was put out by the park district, and community opinions on how often the Canadian flag should be flown at the community center were mixed.
According to Gough, feedback was approximately 50/50 between flying the flag year-round or only on special occasions, with a few expressing that they do not want it displayed at all. Despite differing viewpoints, the district plans to fly all three flags (U.S., Washington and Canada) for the time being.
Commissioner Michael Cressy expressed his support for permanently flying the Canadian flag, saying, “I think we should have the Canadian flag up all the time, period. It’s about recognizing a neighbor that is very interconnected with us.”
Community weaving project ongoing There is a Community Peace Banner art project being created at The Commons in the community center.
Every Saturday from noon to 2:30 p.m. anyone from the public is invited to contribute to a colorful tapestry of community and creativity.
The weaving process celebrates imperfections as part of the beauty, blending texture, learning and collaboration.
Point to Point Parcel calls it a day, citing tariffs for the reduced traffic.
Photo by Louise Mugar
s Erin Kelly looks on as Patrick Pritchard tries his hand at the loom.
PRCAC creates committee to push for reconstruction of Seabright stairs
B y a NN elle N orma N
If you are one of the many Point Roberts residents and visitors who have been missing the beach access at Seabright, you may be pleased to know that a committee of concerned residents have been formed to address the issue with the Seabright developer, residents, its management company, Windermere, and Whatcom County.
About 18 months ago, the bottom set of stairs at Seabright were washed away during a storm. Local residents, however, were able to pile up beach debris so that agile visitors could access both the beach and the Seabright development by doing a bit of “log hopping.” After our last big winter storm two of the middle sections of stairs collapsed, leaving the stairs completely inaccessible as well as debris strewn across the bluff.
Residents Lenore and Tom Yeager brought the issue to Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC) in January requesting that the committee take up the issue with Whatcom County as well as the Seabright owners and management. As a result of committee deliberations, a motion to convene a committee to work on the issue passed and Annelle Norman volunteered to recruit and organize the committee.
The committee (comprised of the Yeagers, Leigh Moorhouse, Kathleen McGinness, Mary Edgley and Annelle Norman) has met numerous times and has compiled county planning and development docu-
ments of the Seabright property development. The committee has also initiated conversations with Windermere, the company contracted to manage the property.
The last conversation with Windermere staff led the committee to conclude that no remediation is likely to happen in the near future. The committee requested that they be updated as progress of any sort is made. So far, no updates have been received.
The committee has compiled planning and development documents that will be available for your examination and perusal. Send the committee an email at prstairs@proton.me and we will provide you with the dropbox link.
Additionally, the committee has composed a survey about utilization of the stairs by the community so as to be able to accurately report to both the Whatcom County Planning and Development Services department and Windermere. Please follow the link below so that you can provide answers and comments. Your responses and comments will be reported on the website above and shared with Whatcom County Planning and Development Services Department. Name and address data is optional.
If you have expertise, training or a sincere interest that you believe would be useful, the committee would welcome your involvement. If you have legal expertise and would be willing to offer it pro bono please email prstairs@proton.me.
The link to the survey is here: bit.ly/43uWJjF
Top, the stairs after the storm. Left, as part of the approval process, the developer was required to provide public access easement which included construction, maintenance and repairs to the trails and the stairway. Below left, the public easement trail begins at the top left corner and winds around Seabright to the lower left.
Photo by Elliott Smith
•
•
in the garden
Early April is a great time to pull a few weeds, enjoy the emergence of daffodils and tulips, and to finalize your garden plans. With gardens, a little planning goes a long way, so let’s get started.
The first thing you’ll need is a pencil and paper. I highly suggest a spiral notebook or a three-ring binder, where you can keep all your notes and information together. Make a list of what you’d like to grow: salad greens, vegetables, herbs, cutting flowers, landscape plants, or perhaps some annuals or perennial plants for pollinators. This is a starting point; final selections will follow.
Now, take a walk around your outdoor space and determine which areas are suitable for growing (pro tip: if weeds grow in your soil, other plants can grow there, too). In addition to planting directly into the ground, you can add raised beds, containers and grow bags throughout your yard, including your porch, deck, driveway, and patio. Wheelbarrows and old wagons make great beds for smaller plants and can be easily moved. Pots and containers take advantage of even the smallest spaces.
In your notebook, draw a simple sketch of your planting areas in relation to your house. Label east, west, north and south to remind you which way the sun will be moving. Measure planting areas and add the dimensions to your sketch so you’ll know how much space you have, and jot down a note about the amount of sun in each of your potential growing areas. Also mark the location of outdoor hoses to help you plan.
Do you have space for a trellis for vining plants? Consider green beans or a clematis. Herbs grown near the kitchen and containers of flowers near windows or on the deck provide sweet scents and the chance to watch pollinators at work. It’s a good idea to put low maintenance plants on the outer edges of your yard, and plants that need frequent attention closer to the house.
Before you purchase plants or seeds, it’s important to know where you’re going to put them when they’re ready to go in the ground. Many veggies and flowering plants require full sun to thrive. Full sun means six or more daily hours of direct sunlight, though the hours do not need to be consecutive. For example, an area that gets morning sun followed by a few hours of shade, and then receives additional direct sun is fine if the total hours add up to six or more. There are many plants that are happy to grow in shady or semi-shady areas.
With your planting areas mapped out, go through your wish list to decide what – and how much – to grow this season. A little research, online or at a garden store, will give you the info you need to choose plants that will thrive for you. Seed packets list when to plant your seeds and whether to start your plants indoors in pots or plant the seeds directly into the soil. The packets also state how much sun your plants need, how far apart to plant them, how large they will get, and how long they take to grow. If you’re buying baby plants, you’ll
(See Garden, page 12)
B y V ictoria S mith
s Ladybug Nursery’s Darlene Gibbs has another season of beautiful plants and vegetables for your growing pleasure.
Photo by Louise Mugar
Coming up ...
Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events
Nightfall: A Trinity Church Concert: Friday, March 28, 7 p.m., Trinity Church, 1880 APA Road. Donations appreciated. Featuring Vic Riley performing original music. Jazz Vespers: Sunday, March 30, 4 to 5 p.m., Trinity Church. Music and inspiration. Surprise speakers and guest musicians.
Cemetery District No. 8: Monday, March 31, 5 p.m., community center. Public welcome. PR Amateur Radio Club: Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Link: bit.ly/3yUNk8f.
Let’s Upcycle for Earth Day: Wednesday, April 2, 3 to 4 pm., PR Library. Grades K-5. Resilient Point Roberts Meeting: Thursday, April 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m., community center. Snacks, refreshments and casual conversation starting at 6:45 p.m. Topics: Feasibility study of solar and back up on our community buildings update; residential solar assessments next steps; review of first year of activities and groundwork for the current year; discussion of how the economic development study by the Port of Bellingham ties into our work; discussion of potentially broadening group focus beyond solar energy.
Solidarity with Canada Rally: Saturday, April 5,noon to 4 p.m., Peace Arch State Park. Carpooling encouraged/parking is $10 without a Discover Pass. Bring signs, dignity, humanity and kindness to collectively express our solidarity. Photo ID recommended. Dress for the weather. In concert with National Day of Action campaign.
Friends of the Point Robert Library: Tuesday, April 8, 3 p.m., library. Updates and upcoming activities. Public welcome. Info: foprl1@gmail.com
PR Water District: Tuesday, April 8, 5 p.m., 2002 Benson Road. Info: pointrobertswater.com. Fire District No. 5: Wednesday, April 9, 4 p.m., fire hall and via Zoom. Link: bit.ly/45YUv9U. Info: WCFD5.com.
PR Hospital District: Wednesday, April 9, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: bit.ly/3Kw9Ypt.
PR Taxpayers Association: Thursday, April 10, 7 p.m., via zoom. Info: PRTA@pointroberts.net. Link: bit.ly/3EWEysY.
PR Park and Recreation: Monday, April 14, at 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: prparkandrec.org. Link: bit. ly/3UCOvAU.
Historical Society: Wednesday, April 16, 7 p.m., in the History Center.
PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, April 17, 7 p.m., community center and via Zoom. Zoom Link: bit.ly/3S8GCB3. Info: PRCAC.comment@gmail.com.
Easter Egg Hunt: Sunday, April 20. Egg hunt for ages 0 to 5. Scavenger hunt for ages 6 to 106. More information to come.
Point Roberts Book & Movie Discussion Group: Monday, April 21, 2 to 4 p.m., library. Info: wcls.org.
PR Garden Club: Tuesday, April 22, 7 p.m., community center. Guest speaker Angelika Hedley on Waking Your Garden to Spring. Public welcome. Info: info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org.
Wild Fermented Breads with Genevieve Bardwell: Saturday, April 26, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Point Roberts Library. A hands-on lesson on kneading and presentation about making raised bread without commercial yeast. Participants will be given sourdough starter. Registration required: bit.ly/4iGBlfJ.
Cemetery District No. 8: Monday, April 28, 5 p.m., community center. Public welcome.
Point Roberts Book Club: Wednesday, April 30, 6–7:30 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.
Japanese Storytime: Wednesday, May 14, 3 to 4 pm., PR Library. Grades K-5.
Ongoing Events and Hours
PR Food Bank: Fridays, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., community center. Info: prfoodbank.org 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 information: bit.ly/3RWrRCa. The Raven will now pick up and drop riders off around the Point on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering flexible stops anywhere on the Point including the grocery store, food bank, post office, clinic, bank, etc. Also, The Raven community shuttle is building 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. PR Food Bank: Fridays, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., community center. Info: prfoodbank.org. Point Roberts Storytime: Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11 a.m., library. Ages 2-6. Seniors and More Lunches: Wednesdays and Fridays, community center. Come meet old friends and make new friends while enjoying a nutritious meal. All ages welcome. More info: prseniors@ whidbey.com or 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: Saturdays, 11 to 3, community center. PR Library Hours: Tuesdays 1–7 p.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Library express hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily.
Point Roberts Clinic Hours: Primary care 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.
ChurCh news
As you probably know, thousands of bison once roamed the plains of North America. In the late 1800s they were almost brought to extinction. Thankfully, due to conservation efforts, bison are back in the United States plains – even if they aren’t nearly as ubiquitous as they once were.
You probably also know that bison are the largest mammals in North America. Male bison (called bulls) can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand six feet tall, while females (called cows) weigh up to 1,000 pounds and can reach a height up to five feet. Bison calves weigh 30-70 pounds at birth. These are large and powerful creatures.
But even though bison are formidable, the plains can still be dangerous for them. Their main predators are wolves and mountain lions (what we in the west call cougars), who prey on the weak and the slow – like young bison.
Bison typically run when they sense danger, but when predators approach without warning, bison form a multilayer circle of protection. The cows form a ring around the young, and the bulls form an outer ring surrounding the cows.
Just picture this for a moment. A wolf is coming … the bison cannot run anywhere. And instantly, instinctively, they corral their young in the middle, the females encircle the young, and the males encircle the females. The two rings facing outward. It is a pretty powerful picture. The bison community automatically protects those who cannot protect themselves.
May I ask why we, as humans, seem to do a worse job of protecting the vulnerable than bison? We know God’s imperative from Genesis to Revelation. I mean, who did the prophets cry out for? The laborer, the prisoner, the widow, the orphan, the foreigner, the enslaved, the marginalized. Who did Jesus heal? The blind, the deaf, the paralyzed, the bleeding, the possessed, the outcast, the sinner, the forgotten.
Again and again, God calls for each beloved person to be held safe – to be provided for and protected – and, when necessary, for those able, to encircle those who are defenseless, especially those society has called expendable.
This is the call God places on each of us – to protect and care for the most vulnerable. Yet we are witnessing and experiencing the opposite in our society and through government actions. Beloveds in Christ, do not be deceived.
When food assistance and benefits are slashed, the vulnerable are left defenseless.
When rights are stripped away from women, people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and others, they are being cast to the wolves. Jesus himself warns in Matthew 7, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
As followers of Jesus, in these times that may bring discouragement or a sense of being overwhelmed, in these times when it feels wolves are coming at you or for someone you love, may you feel encircled in love and protection – even as you are called to encircle others.
May we advocate, love boldly, and protect those who are most at risk. Let us take heart in the promise of God’s justice and mercy. Let us be a people who uplift the weary, feed the hungry, and shelter the displaced. May we be a church that embodies Christ’s compassion and courage, refusing to look away, refusing to be silent, refusing to let the wolves win. For all people are beloved in God’s eyes.
I close with this. I have a little miniature bison on my desk in my office. I look at it often to remember that I am protected by God and that I am called by God.
May you remember – as a baptized and beloved child of God, God has called you in this time and in this place.
And you are not alone. For even as you protect others, God protects you. Amen.
County health director let go
Whatcom County Health and Community Services Department director Erika Lautenbach was let go from her position on March 19, with Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu citing “a need for better alignment with the county’s strategic priorities.”
The Whatcom County Executive’s Office announced Lautenbach’s resignation in a March 19 statement provided to The Northern Light. Sidhu gave no specific reasons for Lautenbach’s dismissal but instead offered an anodyne description of a new leadership structure
“Last year Executive Sidhu established a new leadership structure in his office, providing increased departmental oversight and a stronger focus on stabilizing the County’s budget and operations,” the statement read. “As a result, Executive Sidhu ultimately determined that new leadership is needed for alignment on these priorities.”
The county put Lautenbach on administrative leave on March 5. Whatcom County Council was informed of Lautenbach’s leave on March 11.
Lautenbach was appointed as health director on March 18, 2020, at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. At the time of her appointment, she had over 15 years of public health experience, which included previously serving as assistant director of the county health department.
“Ms. Lautenbach led WCHCS through the difficult years of the pandemic and oversaw a significant expansion of the department’s services, including the Response Systems Division, Healthy Children’s Fund, Fentanyl response plan and severe weather shelters,” Sidhu wrote in the statement. “We are very grateful for these accomplishments and wish her well on her future personal and professional endeavors.”
Whatcom County health officer Dr. Amy Harley will lead WCHCS until county council selects an interim director. Assistant director Charlene Ramont will help with the day-to-day administration of the department.
Sidhu intends to name an interim director shortly and will provide more details regarding the recruitment process for a permanent replacement.
Efforts to reach Lautenbach were unsuccessful. However, in a statement she sent to the Bellingham Herald, she said she was surprised to hear she was terminated.
“I believed our legal teams were negotiating a separation agreement in good faith, and we were still within the lawfully required period of time for my consideration. I have served the county with integrity and have, in all matters, put the health and safety of the public first. I did nothing illegal, unethical or otherwise. The reasons stated for my termination are inaccurate. I have been concerned for some time by the executive’s actions and believe this termination is directly related to these concerns,” she wrote in the statement provided to the Bellingham Herald.
Garden ...
From page 10
find similar information on the plant tag. Summer veggies, herbs, and other warm weather plants should not be planted until overnight soil temperatures are between 50- and 60-degrees Fahrenheit. Until then, your plants could be damaged or killed by frost, low temperatures, or too much rain.
A good rule of thumb for our location is to wait until after Mother’s Day to plant outdoors. Our frost-free growing season typically runs from mid-May to mid-October but is often shorter or longer. Be sure to ask friends and neighbors what grows well for them, as there are many micro-climates in Point Roberts.
A couple of other things to consider, based on research versus local lore or word of mouth. Tilling your soil each year or season damages the structure of your soil and the important subsoil edaphon (the marvelous underground life of invertebrates, bacteria, mycelium, and other soil components necessary for your plants to thrive). This means that annually digging and turning your soil is unnecessary. It is also not necessary to amend your soil each year, as adding too much fertilizer, compost, and/or bulky organic materials can also damage your soil as well as your plants. Before spending money on pricey inputs, have a professional soil test done and add only what’s necessary. As always, I’m available to answer gardening questions during Senior Lunch at the community center on Wednesdays and Fridays between noon and 1 pm. We’ll be having our final seed exchange of the year in a few weeks, date and time to be announced soon.
s Hannah, Valerie and Pauli lend a hand cleaning up the local cemetery on March 22.
Photo by Erin Kelly
Question of the Month:
How have the new tariffs affected you?
“It’s not about the tariffs it’s about the divisions that are being caused between us and our neighbors.”
– Sharon Tolagson
“Tariffs have not affected me. Every country has tariffs.”
– Rick Sande
“The tariffs have caused the border regulations to tighten and because of that we were unable to get our extremely sick horse, Maxi, across the border for medical treatment. All horse owners on the Point need to know that now without a current (within 6 months) Coggins test and a health certificate (within 8 weeks) they will not be able to cross the border even to go down to the states in an emergency.”
– Mary Edgley
“The tariffs have affected me because I co-manage Point to Point Parcel and we are closing because we don’t have the revenue to continue.”
– Jordan
Gellatly
April Tides
Merritt Hiram Washburn
January 16, 1942 – March 3, 2025
Merritt Washburn died at home on Monday, March 3, after a long illness. His wife, Suzann, was by his side. Merritt was born in his childhood home in Birch Bay. He was the apple of the eye of his mother, father and three older sisters. Much of his childhood was spent riding his bike along the beach and working his putting green job at Halversons Resort/Seashore Inn for 10 cents an hour. Merritt participated in sports until his high school graduation in 1960 and remained an avid fan
for the remainder of his life. He met the love of his life, Suzann Hawkins, in high school. They married in 1963 and remained together until his passing 61 years later. Merritt and Suzann expanded their family in 1970 with the birth of their son, Merritt Spencer Washburn.
Love of work was a lifelong passion for Merritt. He loved working with people and tried many different professions during his lifetime. His career began at Montoure Chevron at 18 years of age and ended at Hill’s Chevron at 82. During the years between Merritt was a haberdasher, cobbler and tailor as owner and operator of Merritt’s Clothing for 18 years. He also tendered in Alaska, gillnetted in Puget Sound and served at Customs Border Protection
s Merritt Washburn.
in Blaine and Point Roberts for 26 years. Merritt spent his 83 years learning, working hard and enjoying life. Nothing in that 83 years brought him more pleasure than love of his family. Watching his son grow and experience his love of sports, and to pass that passion on to his grandchildren, Rylie and Spencer, was a lifelong source of joy for Merritt. If Merritt was here today, he would want to thank his wonderful family and friends for a great life. 83 years was not enough! Merritt is preceded in death by his par-
Library piCks
Yacht Sales–Power and Sail Service
ents Eddy and Olive Washburn and sisters Eunice (Benny) Larsen and Ethel (Ray) Montoure. He is survived by his wife Suzann; son Merritt Spencer; grandchildren Rylie and Spencer; sister Bonnie Larson; nephew Albert (Judy) Larsen; and nieces Debbie (Jeff) Fisher and Katrina (Kevin) Ramsey.
A celebration of Merritt’s life will be held April 6, 2025, 3:30 p.m. in the Victoria Room at Semiahmoo Resort. In lieu of flowers our family requests you donate to Hospice of Whatcom County.
numbers
Fire Incidents for February 2025
Total calls 22: EMS calls 9, resulting in the following transports: county medic 1, Airlift Northwest 1; fire classification 4 resulting in false alarm 1, animal rescue 1, hazmat 1, carbon monoxide 1; public service 6; EMS CARES/MIHC 3.
Clinic numbers for February 2025 (2024 figures following)
Friends Indeed David Weber About Grace Barbara Shoup
Kids: Still Water Chris Priestly Resist Alan Gratz Ramon Fellini
Guilherme Karsten
Hours: Tuesdays 1 to 7 p.m.
Wednesdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Express hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily
senior’s point
m e N u S for a P ril
Wednesday, April 2: Breakfast for lunch: Cheese omelet, hashbrowns, breakfast sausage and peach crisp Friday, April 4: Baked cod, rice, roast vegetables and dessert
Wednesday, April 9: Greek gyros, Greek salad and dessert
Friday, April 11: Chef’s choice and dessert
Wednesday, April 16: Sweet and sour turkey meatballs, brown rice, broccoli and mandarin oranges
Friday, April 18: Taco salad with taco meat or black beans, cheese, black beans, tomatoes, olives, salsa, tortilla strips and ice cream
Wednesday, April 23: Sausage, sauerkraut, roasted potatoes, green beans and dessert
Friday, April 25: Vegetarian meal: Spiced lentils with carrots, polenta, cucumber salad and dessert
Wednesday, April 30: Salmon burgers on whole wheat bun, potato salad, coleslaw and dessert
vestigation on Pelican Place.
March 18, 12:03 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Austin Road.
March 21, 1:45 p.m.: Serve papers on Bells Grove.
March 22, 1:29 p.m.: Serve papers on Bells Grove.
March 14, 2:31 p.m.: Assist citizen cold call on Tyee Drive.
March 14, 2:39 p.m.: Stop on McKenzie Way.
March 15, 2:23 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Benson Road.
March 15, 2:44 p.m.:
March 22, 3:49 p.m.: Assist citizen on Tyee Drive.
March 22, 5:28 p.m.: Refer to other agency on Claire Lane.
March 23, 1:42 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Gulf Road.
