A new creative initiative is taking shape in Point Roberts as Resilient Point Roberts partners with local artist Rhys-Thorvald Hansen to launch a Makers Guild and explore a shared community studio and cooperative retail space. Residents can help shape the project at a visioning session on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the community center on Gulf Road. The meeting is open to everyone –artists or not.
Hansen said the first session is meant to begin understanding what the community wants. “The major goal is to introduce the project to folks, what the opportunity is right now around the potential for the shared space, and then identify who wants to get involved, who wants to volunteer, who wants to participate,” they said. (Hansen uses they, them and their as personal pronouns.) They hope to understand “not just individual interests, but where there’s overlap and energy.”
Hansen held summer open houses in their studio and those revealed how many makers live quietly on the Point and want more ways to connect. “I heard over and over again what a shame it was that the previous gallery had closed, and how much they missed opportunities to share their work and gather,” Hansen said.
Now based in the former National Real Estate building at 1385 Gulf Road, Hansen sees a range of possibilities for the space but wants direction from residents. “I feel totally open about what it could be,” they said. “I have ideas and assumptions, but I want to hear what the need is.”
A cooperative retail shop is part of the long-term vision. Hansen said the model would allow artists to staff the store themselves while keeping most of the income. “The artists themselves provide the staffing,” they said. “It’s a nonprofit endeavor, where we prioritize the majority of income going back to the artists and makers.”
Organizer Kara Smith said the Makers Guild idea grew directly out of this year’s economic development sessions, where
(See Makers Guild, page 5)
with 27.3%.
There will be a slew of new faces on local boards come this January as newly elected commissioners get sworn in after of the November 4 general election. Whatcom County is also in for some big changes.
The highest vote total in local Point Roberts races was 492 compared to 1,106 in last year’s presidential election. A total of 76,463 ballots out of 169,232 registered voters were received by the Whatcom County election office for a voter turnout of 45.2 percent. This compares to a state turnout of 39.1%; the highest county turnout statewide was Garfield County with 58.4% and the lowest was Yakima County
MISSING PERSON:
County voters approved expanding the Port of Bellingham commission from three to five members with the pro-expansion vote coming in at 45,380 or 65.2%. The commission race for District 2 was also heated, with business owner Carly James beating incumbent Ken Bell with 35,951 votes or 51%. The percentages for Point Roberts voters were 75.8% and 58%, respectively.
Voters took a divided look at 12 measures that were part of a decennial review of the county code from the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission with some passing while others didn’t.
Following is the November 5 ballot
(See Election, page 3)
David Scott Anderson, 73, has dementia and was last seen walking in Point Roberts on November 3. He may have his AARP card with tracker attached, and contact info on back He is a gentle person trying to get somewhere. If you see him please contact Delta Police at 604/946-4411 or Whatcom County Sheriff at 360/676-6911.
Other Contacts: Madeleine Anderson (Home) 360/945-5474 & (Cel) 360/224-2148 or Holger Michelsen (Cel) 360/224-5401.
s Fire chief Christopher Carleton explained the capabilities of a new $15,000 drone
tion and dedicated to the family of David Ho who perished in Point Roberts on November 1, 2023.
Election ...
From page 1
Write-in 4
Total 484
(Parks and cemetery districts do not have primaries; all candidates go directly to the general election.)
Hospital District Pos. 2
Port of Bellingham expansion
The Port of Bellingham’s commission will make room for two new seats at the table as voters were largely in support of Proposition 2025-04, which will expand the commission from three to five members and create new commission districts. Voters overwhelming surpassed the 51 percent simple majority threshold with a 65.2 percent approval, turning the tide from the last time the measure went before voters in 2012.
Proponents of the port expansion have said it will improve communication among commissioners as it allows two members to discuss port business outside of meetings, something state law doesn’t allow with only three commissioners.
Port staff have said they would draw five districts by January and races for the two new seats would be included in the August 2026 primary. The new commissioners would then take office as soon as election results are certified in November 2026.
The new port candidate with the highest number of voters would serve three years, while the candidate with the second highest votes would only serve for one year. Those commissioners would be elected in odd numbered years, which is in line with the port’s current election cycle. Voters of the entire district would elect the new commissioners.
Port of Bellingham Commission
The Port of Bellingham race between incumbent Ken Bell and Bellingham businesswoman Carly James for District 2 was a bit of a squeaker, with James 96 votes ahead on election night. a lead that has since widened to 35,951 for James to Bell’s 34,409 votes. The race was the only contested one for the port and followed a year of controversial decisions on development and removal of leadership positions from port commissions that drew public criticism.
The other port race, District 1, was uncontested with incumbent Michael Shepard receiving a tepid 50,377 votes compared to the 70,492 votes cast for the Bell/ James contest. Write-in ballots tallied 942, or 1.9 percent.
Blaine school board
The Blaine school board will soon have new faces with the election of Bob Feaster in District 3 and Chelsey Belarmino in District 5. Feaster, an experienced educator, came
out ahead in his race against cybersecurity engineer Jim Shaver, winning 61.0 percent to 38.3 percent. Feaster has 35 years’ experience in public education that includes serving as an assistant superintendent. He is the interim coordinator for the district’s Family Service Center.
Belarmino, a preschool and kindergarten teacher, ran unopposed for the District 5 position.
Whatcom County Council
Whatcom County Council will also have new input in the coming year with two of the four council races bringing new members.
The At-Large Position A seat, which represents the entire county, saw incumbent Barry Buchanan win another term against community activist Misty Flowers, who has previous vied for the seat. Buchanan received 63.1 percent of votes, while Flowers earned 36.7 percent.
Incumbent Kaylee Galloway ran unopposed for her District 1 seat. As for the other two contested county council races, Elizabeth Boyle won District 2 with 71.1 percent against Maya Morales, and Jessica Rienstra won District 3. Rienstra received 56.8 percent support, while opponent Kyle Christensen had 43.1 percent.
Whatcom County measures
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, a 15-member group that convenes every 10 years to review the county code, put forward 12 propositions on county government, some of which passed and others that were nixed by voters.
• Proposition 1, authorizing county councilmembers to hire legislative aides, was rejected by 62.8 percent.
• Proposition 2, establishing a Whatcom County Office of the Ombuds to investigate complaints and inquiries into county government, was rejected at the first ballot count by 52 percent.
• Proposition 3, creating performance audits, was approved by a whooping 85 percent.
• Proposition 4, clarifying the powers and duties of county elected officials, was also passed with an overwhelming 92 percent of support.
• Proposition 5, amending Whatcom County’s redistricting process to better comply with state law and require a public hearing, was approved with 79 percent.
• Proposition 6, adjusting the calculation of signatures required to place a referendum on ballots, was rejected with 53.2 percent of voters against it.
• Proposition 7, prohibiting the county government from interfering with initiatives or charter amendments, passed with 60.6 percent in support.
• Proposition 8, requiring more public disclosure requirements upon the county executive prior to approving budgets, was approved with 93.4 percent of support.
• Proposition 9, which added accountability to financial reporting requirements, was approved with 93.3 percent support.
• Proposition 10, creating rules of procedure for charter review commission meetings, passed by 84.1 percent.
• Proposition 11, adjusting the calculation of signatures required to place a charter amendment on ballots, was rejected as it had 59.0 percent of voters against it.
• Proposition 12, requiring the county executive to publish an analysis of how new legislation could affect land supply and construction costs, passed by 87 percent.
State Joint Resolution 8201
The lone state measure, Senate Joint Resolution No. 8201, was approved with 56.8 percent of state voters in support and 43.2 percent against.
The measure would approve a constitutional amendment that the state legislature proposed allowing taxpayer money in the state’s long-term care fund to be invested.
s The Point Roberts Historical Society has installed a holiday display at the Gulf Road community center.
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.
Mail and classified ads should be addressed to:
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P.O. Box 1451 Point Roberts WA USA 98281
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Louise H. Mugar
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PRCAC seeks new member
Are you interested in making a difference to the Point Roberts community? PRCAC is looking for dedicated individuals to join our committee as a volunteer at-large member.
As such, you will bring a fresh perspective to the committee’s decision-making process. You don’t need a specific professional background – just a passion for our community and a desire to engage, work and contribute.
Key responsibilities include:
• Attending and actively participating in monthly committee meetings.
• Providing valuable feedback to help guide strategic goals.
• Representing the interests of the wider community.
• Assisting with projects and initiatives.
The All Point Bulletin welcomes letters to the editor; however, the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Letters must include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters must not exceed 450 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality and good taste.
A fresh viewpoint on matters of general interest to local readers will increase the likelihood of publication. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis.
Thank you letters should be limited to ten names.
Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.
Please email your letter to: letters@allpointbulletin.com P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281
• Participating in town halls and community outreach.
Benefits of joining PRCAC:
• Your energy and ideas can help build a stronger and vibrant community for everyone.
• Your contribution to the greater good offers a personal sense of purpose and happiness.
Applicants will be asked to attend one of our committee meetings and tell us why you would be a good candidate. Please submit your application here: PRCAC.comment@gmail.com
Kirwin and pet pal Bridgette
s The Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce held a lively and successful annual general meeting on November 13 at the Pier Restaurant. The chamber is making a concerted effort to increase membership of home-based businesses and short-term rentals. Wayne Lyle, president of the chamber, highlighted projects for 2026 along with expanded marketing in large part due to a grant from Whatcom County Lodging Tax fund.
Photo by Louise Mugar
Makers Guild ...
From page 1
residents called for more community connection, creativity, and collaboration. “A makerspace and a guild felt like a path that could grow with us, shaped by whoever shows up,” Smith said. The early meetings, she added, will be intentionally open-ended. “This is very much a listening phase. We want people to feel like they can help guide the direction.”
As a project of Resilient Point Roberts, the guild will be able to pursue a variety of arts and economic development grants. Hansen said those applications will reflect whatever the community decides it wants. Interest is already building, but they plan to wait until the cooperative is formally
organized before accepting work. If plans move smoothly, the retail shop could open by late spring or early summer.
A second visioning session is scheduled for December 9 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the new Makers Guild location. Smith said the feedback process will continue into next year. “It’s not going to be one meeting and done,” she said. “People need room to dream a little.”
Hansen hopes the effort draws in a broad range of residents. “Even if someone says, ‘I’m not artistic, I don’t make things,’ but they care about the future of our community — we would really love to have them participate,” they said. “There’s something for everybody to do.”
For more information, residents can email resilient.pointroberts@gmail.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
Fire district acquires drone
Thanks in part to a private donation of $5,000, the Point Roberts fire district now has a $15,000 drone that will help the district in multiple ways, according to fire chief Christorpher Carleton, speaking to the fire commission on November 13.
The DJI drone comes equipped with advanced sensors such as:
searches in low light or total darkness.
Imaging & AI: The drone includes advanced zoom capabilities, enabling identification of fine details from afar (e.g., reading the registration on a boat from 350 feet). Its AI software can automatically search for human forms or heat signatures, vastly accelerating coverage—searching an acre of open area each minute and quickly pinpointing individuals in challenging conditions.
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
LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor (donated): For navigation, obstacle avoidance, and flying under canopies.
Thermal Imaging and Night Vision for detecting heat signatures and conducting
Live Streaming & Control: It streams live video and data to a large monitoring screen indoors, allowing the operations (See Drone, page 7)
Search for missing man suspended
will continue to monitor the situation and respond to any new credible information.
David Anderson, a 73 year-old-man, is still missing from his residence in Point Roberts. He was last seen at 9 a.m. November 3 by family members. A unified command post was established and CERT teams were activated on November 4.
On November 5, fire chief Christopher Carleton stated, “After days of searching and multi-agency collaboration, I regret to inform the community that the search and rescue operations for David Anderson have been suspended at this time. It is important to understand that David remains a missing person, and our dedicated teams
“We ask the public to stay vigilant and to contact 911 (360/676-6911) with any information that could assist in locating David or clarifying his whereabouts.”
Carleton pointed out that search teams are unable to access private property without the owner’s permission and urged people to contact neighbors who are away to seek permission to search cabins and outbuildings.
Anderson suffered from dementia and until proven otherwise, the possiblitity exists that he has taken shelter somewhere safe from the elements. The public is asked to remain watchful.
s Top, the drone is able to capture thermal images of people and animals and fly on predetermined search patterns.
Photos by Louise Mugar
B y P at G ru BB
Drone ...
From page 7 team to coordinate and respond in real time. The controller is sophisticated and can HDMI directly to a central display.
Weather & Durability: The system is weather-rated for operations in rain and challenging conditions.
Safety: FAA compliance and piloting expertise within the team ensures safe, effective operation in critical situations.
Role in Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations
Rapid Area Coverage: The drone can autonomously fly programmed search patterns (waypoints), quickly ruling out large open areas and reducing the amount of time and manpower needed for surface searches.
Integrated Searching: By focusing its searches on open areas and using so-
phisticated sensors for partial visibility, the drone frees up human searchers for ground-based, wooded, or obstructed locations – making collective efforts much more efficient.
Real-World Use: During demonstrations and active SAR operations, the drone has proven its capability by finding test subjects (such as a person lying in the rain at night) in minutes. In actual community cases, it has helped coordinate multi-day, multi-team search efforts, alongside other drones, ground searchers, and even helicopters.
Community Engagement: The fire district plans public demonstrations and presentations, highlighting its commitment to transparency and ensuring the community understands the drone’s critical role.
Limitations: While highly effective in open and partially obstructed areas, the drone cannot “see” through solid canopies or structures – thus, full search coverage
still requires coordination between the drone team and ground-based personnel. Overall, the new drone gives the agency one of the most advanced airborne SAR assets in the region, boosting readiness for lost person incidents and other community needs.
Crossings >>>
Crossings for September 2025 (2024 figures following): September: Personal vehicles 48,088 (61,052); pedestrian 482 (1,011); buses 38 (38); Trucks 674 (558).
s Drone and controller.
Photo by Louise Mugar
WCSO hit with $30 million tort
officials on October 23 on behalf of Detective Samantha Robinson.
A female Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office detective has filed a $30 million tort claim against the county alleging sexbased discrimination and a hostile work environment over the past decade, among a number of complaints. The tort also alleges that a fellow detective circulated a sexual video of the woman that was created with artificial intelligence.
A Seattle-based law firm, Carney Badley Spellman, submitted the claim to county
The claim described a record of alleged misconduct that began when Robinson was interviewing with the sheriff’s office in 2015 and grew as she climbed the ranks. In addition to the alleged AI video, Robinson claimed to have been hit twice with prosthetic penises by sheriff’s office investigators, with one of those incidents occurring when she was pregnant.
The following allegations are based on Robinson’s tort claim filed with the county.
AI video allegations
In her claim, Robinson alleged that Whatcom County detective Derek Jones created an AI-generated video of Robinson having sexual contact with his father, and that he shared it with the detective unit and patrol deputies. Jones served as Birch Bay neighborhood deputy from 2021 to 2023 before being promoted to detective.
Robinson was at a homicide trial in April when she received hostile texts from people ridiculing her about the video and later overheard Jones joking about the video. Robinson asked lieutenant Keith Liderman for an investigation to be launched. An investigation into Jones was not initiated and Jones was not disciplined.
independently reviewed the video. The sheriff declined to comment further due to potential pending litigation or the ongoing internal investigation.
Jed Holmes, spokesperson for the Whatcom County Executive’s Office, said the office was unaware of the specific allegations contained in the report prior to receiving it late last month.
Harassment from day one
In the complaint, Robinson’s lawyers outline that the hostile work environment with the sheriff’s office started before she had even been hired as a deputy in 2015. After her panel interview for the position, Robinson was told by an unidentified lieutenant that now-retired undersheriff Jeff Parks reportedly described Robinson as “looking like she would cause someone to have an affair,” according to the complaint.
Free Concert, Donations Appreciated! Saturday December 6th at 3pm
Bergamasca Consort Christmas Concert Saturday, December 6th at 3:00pm The Holly and the
Bergamasca Consort Christmas Concert
Instead, Robinson said Jones retaliated against her by falsely accusing her of helping Homeland Security Investigations deport immigrants, which is a fireable offense in Washington state. Sheriff Donnell Tanksley requested an investigation into Robinson, who was cleared of wrongdoing.
County actions
In a statement to the All Point Bulletin, Tanksley wrote that upon learning of the tort claim allegations, he requested an outside firm, PST Investigations, conduct an internal investigation.
A couple of years later, Robinson was promoted to a crisis negotiation position to which other male deputies had also applied. Robinson was told she had slept her way to the top, which caused her emotional distress and made her reconsider accepting the position. In 2019, Robinson was selected as a field training officer and told by coworkers that the promotion was because she was a woman.
Ivy
Free Concert, Donations Appreciated!
Trinity Community Choir presents
Suggested Donation $20. Reception after Concert Friday December 12 at 7pm
Tanksley also placed Jones on administrative leave and asked the Mount Vernon Police Department to conduct a criminal investigation into the alleged AI video. Jones, whose LinkedIn profile shows he is open to work, did not respond to requests for comment. The All Point Bulletin has not
In early 2020 while Robinson was pregnant, she was helping recover stolen Halloween costumes when detective Derek Bogle allegedly threw a costume with a prosthetic penis at Robinson’s face, causing male deputies to laugh. A similar incident occurred that November, with Robinson’s supervisor, then-sergeant Keith Linderman, allegedly hitting Robinson in the face with a stolen dildo. Humiliated, Robinson told Linderman this was not appropriate behavior for a sergeant, to which he reportedly agreed. Linderman was later promoted to lieutenant.
Robinson considered quitting in 2021 after she had queried Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu about when the sheriff’s office lobby, which had been closed because of Covid-19, would reopen to the public. Now-retired chief Kevin Hester publicly reprimanded Robinson after learning of the email, despite other male colleagues having emailed Sidhu, who reportedly had an “open door” policy. A lieutenant reportedly told Robinson the
(See Tort, page 9)
s Derek Jones.
File photo
treatment from both Hester and Sidhu was unacceptable.
In 2024, Robinson became increasingly concerned about the conduct of undersheriff Steve Harris, which included denying Robinson additional resources while working on an attempted murder case where the suspect was on the run. Robinson asked Chief Erik Francis to intervene on several occasions; as well, a female sergeant requested Francis help Robinson. Francis eventually told Robinson to make a written report, which she sent to the Human Resources Department.
Robinson was among 12 other colleagues who reported Harris, who was subsequently put on paid administrative leave for over a month while an independent investigation took place. Tanksley reinstated Harris once investigators determined that while Harris’ conduct was unprofessional, it did not meet the threshold of unlawful discrimination or retaliation. Robinson’s claim described the investigation’s conclusion as a “gravely erroneous determination.”
Robinson’s mental health also deteriorated in 2024 as a result of allegedly being pressured to join a new Internet Crimes Against Children taskforce, which Robinson didn’t believe she had proper training or equipment to minimize potential harm from reviewing graphic images and videos.
A year later, in January, Robinson requested a meeting with sheriff’s office officials about her concerns about being on the taskforce but that meeting was repeatedly denied until April. During that period, Robinson described her deteriorating mental health to Francis but the sheriff’s office declined two leave requests.
During the April meeting, Robinson cried about the emotional toll from work, which had brought her to the point of being unable to bathe her daughter. Robinson informed Francis that she was leaving
the taskforce after he denied her request to transfer from it during the meeting. She was asked to return to the taskforce two weeks later on condition that she wouldn’t be exposed to graphic images, which was broken during an emergency operation a few months later.
The alleged AI-generated video of Robinson having sexual contact with Jones’ father also circulated in April.
By mid-2025, Robinson reportedly began having panic attacks and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder from the hostile work environment. Despite taking anxiety medication, her panic attacks and nightmares continued, and the sheriff’s office granted Robinson medical leave.
In the October 23 complaint, Robinson’s lawyers argued that Robinson’s experiences showed a toxic, male-dominated work culture that sexualized and marginalized women.
Whatcom County has two months to respond to the tort claim before Robinson is able to file a lawsuit against the government.
numbers
Fire Incidents for October 2025
Total calls 32: EMS calls 11, resulting in the following transports: Airlift Northwest/LifeFlight 1, Saint Joseph Hospital 3, county medic 3, North Whatcom Fire Rescue 1; fire classification 10 resulting in outdoor burn – illegal 4, false alarm 5, power lines down 1; public service 1; EMS CARES/MIHC 10.
Clinic numbers for October 2025 (2024 figures following)
Wayne Lyle, Realtor, with assistants Zinnia and Sage.
in The garden
B y V ictoria S M ith
In November, I visit my sons in California, where the weather is still mild and there are more hours of daylight than there are along the northern border. Today – November 17 – the So Cal sun rose at 6:33 a.m. and will set at 4:48 p.m., providing 10 hours and 15 minutes of “daytime” despite heavy clouds and a few hours of light rain. I gleefully compared that to today’s stats for Point Roberts, with 9 hours and 3 minutes of “daytime” between 7:35 a.m. and 4:28 p.m.
While Bakersfield winters are mild with a mere six inches of annual rain, today definitely looks and feels like winter. That means I’m spending the day indoors, tending to my oldest son’s houseplants that reside on the kitchen counter next to a shaded window.
Chances are that some of you have houseplants that resemble his: outgrowing their pots and sporting an abundance of pale green leaves with brown spots and crispy dried-out tips. I know for a fact that the last time these plants were groomed was when I visited in March and gave them a bath to remove the dust and the light coat of cooking oil that often settles on kitchen plants, followed by a much-needed indoor plant haircut.
So that’s what I did this morning. I began by washing my hands and wiping the leaves with damp towel. Then I sterilized the sharp kitchen scissors with rubbing alcohol and removed the deeply yellowed
and/or shriveled leaves that had no chance of recovery, cutting their stems at the soil level.
I also wiped down the outside of the plastic pot with a rubbing alcohol saturated paper towel and checked the soil for gnats or other insects. I then placed the pot in a bowl of cool water and let it sit for an hour to saturate the soil.
I noticed the crown of the plant was now nearly two inches above the soil line and there were many roots exposed to the air. I removed the plant from the pot to check the condition of the buried roots: they were tightly packed and had grown in circles around the sides and bottom of the pot. I carefully trimmed back nearly an inch of roots on the bottom and a bit less on the sides, then loosened the remaining roots with my fingers, gently removing a bit of the old soil.
Having freed up some space in the pot, I moved forward. I wiped the inside of the pot with rubbing alcohol and rinsed thoroughly. Then I added two inches of fresh potting soil, set the plant on top of the new soil, and carefully added about half an inch of soil along the sides, tapping the pot gently against the counter to help the soil settle. I watered again, tapped again, and added a bit more soil and water.
Grooming your indoor plants is an important task that should be done at least twice a year. Potting soil does not contain actual soil – AKA dirt – but it does contain
enough bedding material and plant food in the form of synthetic or organic fertilizers to keep your plant well-nested and wellfed for three to six months.
If your indoor plants look sad, droopy, or are losing a lot of leaves, it’s generally a sign that they need more water or less water, more or less light, a warmer or cooler environment, or perhaps a gentle cleaning and trim. And be sure to check for soil pests and signs or disease. If your plants are well cared for, the cause of plant issues is more likely to be too much fertilizer rather than too little.
Several local gardeners have told me about the success they’ve had feeding banana peels to their houseplants. Banana peels are an excellent source of potassium, a nutrient all plants require: it’s the “K” in NPK initials on the soil and fertilizer packages. Some people swear by watering with
banana peel tea made with boiling water. Others chop up banana peels and lay them on top of the soil.
Is there any scientific evidence that the use of banana peels works? None that I’m aware of, and it’s my job as a Master Gardener to stay abreast of current developments and offer science-based information and advice. There’s no way to know if your plants need a specific nutrient without a soil test.
If you’re concerned about the health of your houseplants, and you’ve tried the changes shown above, changing or refreshing your potting soil is usually a safe option that won’t make the problem worse. The bottom line is that not all plants thrive and survive. Growing plants makes the world a better place, so keep at it and enjoy the process and the joy it brings.
B y e rin K elly the group is preparing a small Christmas performance planned for Sunday, December 21.
A new free music program called “Sing and Shine” is being offered weekly at the Trinity Community Lutheran Church on APA Road. The parent-led class is organized by Tennessee Briand, who hopes to create a welcoming space where children can learn music, move, sing, and build confidence. “We want kids to feel excited about music and to have a place where they can explore it together,” she said.
The class is open to all ages, though most participants are currently five and six years old. Sessions begin with a short discussion of a Bible verse before shifting into rhythm, tone, and basic musical education. Children learn about instruments, sing, dance, and even create their own. This week they made maracas and practiced rhythm with them.
The idea came from a similar weekly program Briand attended while growing up at the same church, led by Ernie and Lola Loreen with help from their daughters Val and Erica. “It made such an impact on me as a kid that I felt we should have something like it again,” she said.
The program is entirely parent led. One parent plays guitar and guides the musical portion, while others rotate responsibilities. New families are welcome, and parents are asked to stay during class while supervision guidelines are still being worked out.
Six children are currently enrolled, and
Holiday Weekend Fair set for December 5 – 7
The Point Roberts Park and Recreation District will host its annual Holiday Weekend at the community center on Gulf Road from December 5 through 7, featuring local crafters, artisans and vendors.
The event opens Friday, December 5, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. with a holiday party and community tree-lighting ceremony. Vendors may set up and sell during the celebration.
The market continues Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and Sunday, December 7, from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
The food bank will be accepting food donations at the community center throughout the weekend.
Organizers encourage a winter theme this year, with optional winter-white tablecloths available for vendors.
A raffle will run throughout the weekend to support improvements to the community center playground, with each vendor asked to contribute a donated item.
Vendor space is limited, and registration must be submitted to the community center by 5 p.m. on Friday, November 21. Questions can be directed to Heather at rec.prpr@gmail.com.
No registration is needed. Families can simply arrive at the building behind the church at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays. Questions can be directed to Tennessee Briand at tennesseebriand@gmail.com.
December Tides
14 2:18 am 6.2 6:07 am 5.3 12:39 pm 9.3 8:20 pm 1.3 Mo 15 3:40 am 7.1 7:15 am 6.4 1:05 pm 9.2 8:52 pm 0.5 Tu 16 4:38 am 8.0 8:25 am 7.1 1:33 pm 9.1 9:24 pm -0.2 We 17 5:24 am 8.8 9:29 am 7.6 2:01 pm 9.0 9:56 pm -0.7 Th 18 6:02 am 9.3 10:29 am 7.7 2:31 pm 8.8 10:30 pm -1.1 Fr 19 6:36 am 9.7 11:21 am 7.8 3:01 pm 8.6 11:04 pm -1.3 Sa 20 7:10 am 9.9 12:09 pm 7.8 3:33 pm 8.5 11:38 pm -1.4 Su 21 7:46 am 10.1 12:55 pm 7.7 4:05 pm 8.3
Mo 22 12:12 am -1.4 8:18 am 10.1 1:43 pm 7.5 4:39 pm 8.0 Tu 23 12:46 am -1.2 8:50 am 10.1 2:33 pm 7.2 5:19 pm 7.5 We 24 1:20 am -0.7 9:20 am 10.1 3:25
Coming up ...
Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events
Cemetery District No. 8: Mondays, November 24 and December 29, 5 p.m., community center.
Resilient Point Roberts makers guild visioning session: Friday, November 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., community center. Artisans and makers: participate in our micro show. If you want to show work, bring 1 to 3 pieces to set up at 6 p.m. Info: bit.ly/47GE4TP.
Thanksgiving Dinner: Thursday, November 27, 6 p.m., community center. Hosted by Calvary Sonrise Church. Come and enjoy a festal atmosphere with your neighbors while sharing a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Free. RSVP: bit.ly/4o1K523.
Roadside stands: Friday, November 28, Saturdays, November 29, December 6, 13 and 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Slow Botanicals will be on Culp Court and Ollie Otter Bakery Box on Sunrise Drive.
Point Roberts Pickleball Committee: Monday, December 1. Public meetings via zoom. Contact melanieosmack@gmail.com for the meeting link.
PR Park and Recreation: Tuesday, December 2, 7 p.m., Zoom. Prparkandrec.org. Bit.ly/3UCOvAU.
PR Amateur Radio Club: Tuesday, December 2, 7 p.m., at the community center.
PR Book Club: Wednesday, December 3, 6 p.m., PR Library. Info: wcls.org.
Holiday Weekend 2025: Tree Lighting and Holiday Party: Friday, December 5, 5:30 to 9 p.m., community center. Raffle and 50/50 draw all weekend. Raffle proceeds benefit a new community center playground. Sponsored by Point Roberts Park and Recreation and Point Roberts Circle of Care.
Holiday Weekend Fair: Saturday, December 6, 10 to 3 p.m., and Sunday, December 7, 11 to 3 p.m., community center. Raffle and 50/50 draw all weekend. Raffle proceeds benefit new community center playground. Sponsored by PR Park and Recreation and Point Roberts Circle of Care.
Bergamasca Consort Christmas Concert: Saturday, December 6, 3 p.m., Trinity Church. Holly and the Ivy. Free concert. Donations appreciated!
PR Water District: Monday, December 8, 5 p.m., 2002 Benson Road. Info: pointrobertswater. com.
Friends of the Point Roberts Library: Tuesday, December 9, 3 p.m., Library.
PR Seniors Association board meeting: Wednesday, December 10, 12:30 p.m., The Commons at the community center. Open to all.
Fire District No. 5: Wednesday, December 10, 4 p.m., fire hall and Zoom. Link: bit.ly/45YUv9U. Info: WCFD5.com.
PR Hospital District: Wednesday, December 10, 7 p.m., via Zoom. Info: bit.ly/3Kw9Ypt.
A Midwinter Noel: Friday, December 12, 7 p.m., Trinity Church. Presented by Trinity Community Choir. Reception to follow. Suggested donation: $20.
Paper Star Ornament Workshop: Saturday, December 13, 11 to 2:30 p.m., library. Learn how to make two kinds of paper star ornaments. Space limited; registration required. Materials provided.
Gingerbread House Decorating: Saturday, December 13, 2 p.m., Trinity Church. Join Ollie Otter Bakery for a fun event. All skill levels welcome. Instructions, supplies and a light snack provided.
Point Roberts Book/Movie Discussion Group: Monday, December 15, 2-4 p.m., library. Wcls.org.
Let’s Make Presents: Wednesday, December 17, 3 to 4 p.m., library meeting room. This event is for kids. Teen corps volunteers needed from 2:45 to 4:15 p.m. Info: wcls.org.
PR Community Advisory Committee: Thursday, December 19, 7 p.m., community center and via Zoom. Zoom Link: bit.ly/3S8GCB3. Info: PRCAC.comment@gmail.com.
Point Roberts New Years at Noon: Wednesday, December 31, 11:30 to 12:30 p.m., library. Celebrate the New Year with stories and activities. For young children and their families. Ongoing Events and Hours
Point Roberts Angel Project: Ongoing, through Point Roberts Circle of Care. Since 2020, we, as a community, have raised funds to provide neighbors in need with a little holiday cheer. Donation buckets on counters at Nielson’s, Point Fuel and Pantry and Kora’s Corner or you can make a deposit at Columbia Bank. Info: prcircleofcare@gmail.com.
Craft and Game Night: Tuesdays from 5–7 p.m., Point Roberts Library. Bring a craft or a game.
The Raven: Tuesdays and Thursdays, rides to Bellingham and the surrounding area. on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering flexible stops anywhere on the Point. Does not run on state/U.S. federal holidays. Pick up for most Blaine School District activities/events with transportation back to Point Roberts. Homeschool families, contact for field trips/special events. Info: prtheraven.com. Book your ride: bit.ly/45PVJFP, call 360/788-9473 or email prtheraven@ gmail.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.
Point Roberts Storytime: Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11 a.m., library. Ages 2-6. Seniors and More Lunches: Wednesdays and Fridays, community center. All ages welcome. Info: prseniors@whidbey.com or 360/945-5424.
PR Food Bank: Fridays, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., community center. Info: prfoodbank.org.
The Commons: Saturdays, noon to 2:30 p.m., back room at the community center. 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 p.m., community center. Holiday Hours: Friday, November 28, noon to 3 p.m., Saturdays, November 29 through December 20, 11 to 4 p.m., Sundays, December 7 to 21, noon to 3 p.m., Wednesday, December 24, noon to 3 p.m.
Point Roberts Eagles Club: Sundays, 1 to 3 p.m., community center. Parent attendance
ChurCh news
B y B i S ho P S helley B ryan W ee
Trinity Church –the Spirit of Christmas
Have you ever paused to consider how the Christmas story includes the very sordid tale of an engaged young woman who, to all appearances, was unfaithful to her fiancé? We sing about hope and joy because we know how the story ends, but those living it in real time felt something far different. Heartache abounded. Joseph wondered who the father of this child truly was. Mary’s parents feared for her reputation and her future. And Mary? Mary did not walk through any of this untouched by pain. What a miserable, tangled mess. Poor Joseph. Poor Mary. And what a precarious, almost unthinkable situation for God to choose as the entry point into the world.
own fears. Every one of us knows frustration and grief and those heavy, unspoken things that keep us awake at night. And so this story is not only something we know – it’s a story that knows us.
In Matthew 1 there is a genealogy of characters. At first glance it reads like a list of heroes. But scratch the surface, and we find something far more complex. Abraham nearly sacrificed his own son. Jacob cheated his brother out of his birthright. David arranged a man’s death to cover a scandal. And then there are the women – Bathsheba, Rahab, Ruth – women whose stories, or at least the way they have been remembered, are filled with struggle, tragedy or suspicion.
Perhaps this is exactly why we love this story so deeply. Because God is coming as a baby. God is becoming flesh and entering humanity. This story was never meant to be only miraculous and beautiful and awe-inspiring. It was never merely a night of angels singing or shepherds worshiping. It was never the story of a couple who serenely accepted this new thing without questions or fear.
No.
In this story of incarnation, we are given truth. The truth that life is often difficult and confusing, filled with heartbreak and uncertainty. The truth that our world is riddled with brokenness and messiness. Though no angel has come to interrupt our lives with such extraordinary news, each of us carries our own anxieties, our
Yet here is the astonishing thing: God was with every one of them. God worked through their lives even in the midst of fear, failure, and profound imperfection. Abraham’s son Isaac was spared. Rahab saved God’s people. Ruth became the ancestor of kings. And above all those stories, we have the Christmas story.
Through all of this, we learn that God comes into the lives of messy, complicated people. The Spirit moves through broken places to bring wholeness and new life. Always God comes – even when everything appears hopeless or chaotic.
So perhaps now, in a time filled with uncertainty and anxiety, we might hear the Christmas story anew. And hearing it, mvay we trust that God is here, always, in our stories and lives, bringing true peace to this world. And until then, may the promise hold us. Come, Lord Jesus, come.
mandatory. Weekly educational activities for kids aged 5 to 11. Info: pointrobertseaglesclub@ gmail.com.
Point Roberts Clinic Hours: Primary care provider schedule: Dr. Lary: Thursdays, 9 to 5 p.m.; Dr. Sean: Mondays and Tuesdays, 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.
Classified Advertising
Next Issue: Jan. 2026 Ads Due: Dec. 12
Kara’s Corner to close end of month
Kora’s Corner will be closing its current location at the end of December after four years in business. Owners Neil and Krystal King say rising costs and falling tourism finally made the operation unsustainable.
The shop began its most recent iteration when the previous owner, Auntie Pam, approached the Kings about taking over her store. At first, they hesitated because Krystal was in her third trimester, but the idea of a small country shop felt right. They had found community in Point Roberts and wanted to give back. The store opened under the Kora’s Corner name when their daughter, Koraline, was just eight weeks old, and she quite literally grew up in the store.
“She’s spent almost every weekend of her life here since she was born,” Neil said. Over time, the shop evolved from its inherited inventory into a mix of novelty candy, toys, housewares, plants, and their own Point Roberts merchandise. Last year they added the Rubber Duck Museum, which drew media attention and plenty of curious visitors.
Kora’s Corner quickly became known for its community involvement. The Kings hosted four annual Trunk or Treats, outdoor sales, a full summer carnival with a
Richard Theodore Braffet 1932-2025
With sorrow but with gratitude for 93 years well lived, we announce the passing of Richard Theodore “Ted” Braffet on September 13, 2025, husband, father, grandfas Ted Braffet.
circus, a Secret Santa program, and many seasonal activities. They supported local fundraisers such as The Angel Project and Round Up for Roger, sold tickets for town events, and kept the long tradition of the penny candy table alive. In the summer, children rode their bikes to the store, and tourists often treated the shop as an informal visitors center.
Financial pressures began building last fall. Despite the excitement surrounding the Rubber Duck Museum, the Kings were struggling to deal with a rent increase and then cross border traffic dropped sharply, while new tariffs raised the cost of inventory. Because Canadian visitors made up most of their customer base, the impact was immediate.
“Every major cost went up at once,” Neil said. “When a business becomes much more expensive to operate at the same time traffic falls by a wide margin, even operating without taking paychecks cannot make the numbers work.”
The community’s reaction to the pending closure has been emotional. “People have been coming in almost in tears,” Neil said. “Parents tell us this was their kids’ favorite place in Point Roberts. It’s been heartbreaking.”
The Kings hope this is not a final good-
bye. “We would love to keep Kora’s Corner going,” Neil said. “We are looking for a new space, ideally something collaborative that can reduce overhead until border crossings return to normal. We would truly appreciate any leads or ideas.”
ther (plus great and great-great), brother, uncle, friend, teacher, veteran, artist, traveler, boat builder, luthier, guitar player and so much more.
He was an adventurous soul who lived in many places over the years, from Guam to Newfoundland and several places in between.
In retirement, he lived in Point Roberts for many years with his second wife Cheryl, before moving back to his hometown of Kingman, Arizona in 2019.
He was predeceased by his parents Casey and Mary Lou (Roe), first wife Dee, and sisters Bette Baldwin, Chris Rubio, and Peggy Duey.
He is survived by his second wife Cheryl, siblings Jim Braffet and Nancy Hawkins, children Mark Braffet, Chris Delnat, Mary Braffet, Elizabeth Ratliff, and Robin Pengelly, god-daughter Janey Pratt, stepdaughter Liz Chamberlain, 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren, as well as treasured in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends.
He is deeply missed.
Yacht Sales–Power and Sail Service
Semiahmoo
If a new location cannot be found, they will spend December and January closing out the space, with most inventory discounted.
“Serving Point Roberts has been one of the greatest privileges of our lives,” Neil said. “We hope this is not the end. We just need a new place to land.”
s Dr. Paul van Westendorp, who recently retired after 35
culturist, was the guest speaker at the
senior’s poinT
M enu S for D ece MB er
Wednesday, December 3: Lemon pepper cod, roasted potatoes, Normandy vegetable blend and dessert
Friday, December 5: Chili con carne, corn bread, garden salad and orange wedges
Wednesday, December 10: Vegetarian lunch: Broccoli and cheese quiche, garden salad and tropical fruit salad
Friday, December 12: Italian sausage link, macaroni and cheese, broccoli and apple pie
Wednesday, December 17: Andouille sausage gumbo, brown rice, Cajun coleslaw and coconut cream pudding
Friday, December 19: Chicken and Swiss sandwich, sweet potato fries, salad and dessert
Wednesday, December 24: Salmon chowder, artisan roll, garden salad and dessert
Friday, December 26: Chef’s choice
Wednesday, December 31: Baked ham, sweet potatoes, collards, black eyed peas and berry crumble
Lunches are served in the dining room at the community center from 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or until food runs out. Contact prseniors@whidbey. com or 360/945-5424 for info.
November 2, 2:38 p.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road. November 2, 4:50 p.m.: Drugs on Marine Drive.
November 4, 11:53 a.m.: Watch for on Johnson Road and Washington Drive.
November 4, 1:04 p.m.: Watch for on James Road.
Library piCks
K ri S lo M e D ico
Bestsellers: Bog Queen Anna North The Widow John Grisham Heart the Lover Lily King Apostle’s Cove William Krueger
Movies: The Last Rodeo Neal McDonough The Fantastic 4 Vanessa Kirby Black Snow Travis Fimmel
The Annihilation of Fish Lynn Redgrave
Music: Play Ed Sheeran Life of a Showgirl Taylor Swift Here & Nowhere
Autumn Defense
Better Broken Sarah McLachlan Teens: The Scammer Tiffany D Jackson Wild Reverence Rebecca Ross
Codebreaker Jay Martel Kids:
Rock, Paper, Incisors Amy Timberlake
Snoop Gordon Korman
I Am We Leslie Barnard Booth
Hours: Tuesdays: 1 to 7 p.m.
Wednesdays and Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Express Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily wcls.org
November 4, 2 p.m.: Assist agency on Periwinkle Lane.
November 4, 3:57 p.m.: Assist citizen on Periwinkle Lane.
November 4, 6:12 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Periwinkle Lane.
November 4, 8:32 p.m.: Follow up on Sunset and Marine drives.
November 4, 11:54 p.m.: Follow up on Periwinkle Lane.
November 5, 7:45 a.m.: Follow up on Gulf Road.
November 5, 11:51 a.m.: Assault simple cold call on Gulf Road.
November 5, 6:07 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Diane Circle.
November 5, 10:16 p.m.: Landlord Tenant dispute cold call on Marine Drive.
November 6, 10:04 a.m.: Assist agency on S Beach Road.
November 7, 4:12 p.m.: Follow up on Periwinkle Lane.
November 7, 6:24 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Periwinkle Lane.
November 7, 7 p.m.: Missing person cold call on Periwinkle Lane.
November 7, 8:13 p.m.: Follow up on Periwinkle Road.
November 8, 3:26 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Tyee Drive.
November 8, 6:15 p.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.
November 10, 9:47 a.m.: Not available on Gulf and Marsh roads.
November 11, 12:29 a.m.: Security check on Marine Drive.
November 11, 5:49 p.m.: Welfare check on Monte Drive and Periwinkle Lane.
November 12, 12:49 a.m.: Missing person cold call on Periwinkle Lane.
November 12, 6:04 p.m.: Follow up on Benson Road.
November 13, 9:05 p.m.: Follow up on Periwinkle Lane.
November 14, 2:20 p.m.: Assist agency on Simundson Drive.
November 16, 9:26 a.m.: Refer to other agency on Churchill Drive.
November 16, 11:20 a.m.: Assist citizen on Boundary Bay Road.
years as the B.C. Provincial Api-
Point Roberts Beekeepers meeting on November 3. From l., Dr. van Westendorp, beekeepers founder and president Linda Marie Bruce, Tessa Pinckston, Trevor Pearson, Kimberly Burnett and David Weldon.
