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Lloyd the cardboard dragon, a whimsical creation by Birch Bay artist Kim Morris, resides in the Whatcom County Library System's lobby, captivating visitors with its charm. Funded by donations to the Whatcom County Library Foundation, this impressive piece of art showcases Morris's diverse artistic skills and serves as a testament to the community's appreciation for creativity.
Bellingham residents living in multiplexes can now request a waiver to combine recycling and waste collection services, addressing space constraints and high costs associated with the city's new FoodPlus program. The initiative aims to reduce landfill waste as organics collection becomes mandatory, despite ongoing concerns about the cost and logistics of managing multiple waste bins.
The Mount Vernon Senior Center, a vital hub for over 2,000 seniors monthly, is facing significant funding and facility challenges, prompting discussions about potential upgrades or relocation. Built in 1937, the center's deteriorating condition and limited space have led to proposals that include housing on the upper floors of a new building, raising skepticism among attendees. County officials acknowledge the urgent need for a solution, as community services continue to thrive in a space that many believe has outlived its usefulness.
Bellingham City Council member Michael Lilliquist has become the target of a fake YouTube account that has been posting offensive comments using his name and likeness. The impersonation was brought to his attention by Fox 13, which reported that the account was linked to discussions on highway congestion and K-pop. Lilliquist has reported the account to YouTube and is concerned about potential reputational harm.
Washington's agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to recent ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants, whose labor is essential for food production. Farmers and advocates warn that these actions foster fear and uncertainty, threatening both crop yields and the livelihoods of those who work in the industry.
Thomas Morrison, a 71-year-old vulnerable adult, was reported missing after walking away from a Bellingham care facility on February 22, 2025. Fortunately, he was later found safe riding a Whatcom Transportation Authority bus. The Bellingham Police Department had issued a public request for assistance in locating him, highlighting his medical fragility due to dementia and a traumatic brain injury.
Over 200 attendees gathered in Bellingham on February 22, 2025, braving severe weather to protest against Trump’s executive orders targeting transgender rights. The protest, which emphasized that "trans joy is resistance," highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community under current federal policies. Activists voiced their concerns over restrictions on gender-affirming care and the erasure of transgender references from notable historical sites.
Faber Construction is currently building a new Operations Center for the Bellingham Public Works Department at 1410 Old Woburn Street, aimed at enhancing the storage and maintenance of large road maintenance equipment. The facility will incorporate eco-friendly utilities and is set for completion by June, accompanying improvements such as a new bus stop and sidewalks in the area.
Washington's Superintendent of Public Instruction, Chris Reykdal, is urging schools to defy the Trump administration's directive aimed at ending Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Highlighting that the recent "Dear Colleague Letter" from the U.S. Department of Education lacks legal authority, Reykdal reassures schools that his office is exploring legal responses to potential federal funding cuts.
The Deming Library has secured an $82,470 grant from Washington's Clean Energy Fund for a solar panel installation, aimed at reducing energy costs and enhancing community programming. Local solar provider Ecotech Solar will begin the installation on March 4, with expected annual savings of $5,000 to be reinvested in programs for the Nooksack Tribe. A community event discussing energy topics will take place at the library on March 28.