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This article highlights various local events taking place in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, including the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and the 33rd Annual Drag Show at WWU. It emphasizes the vibrant community activities, such as art exhibits and live music, that cater to a wide audience. The piece effectively promotes local culture while providing essential event details.
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen criticizes the Trump administration's immigration policies, arguing they focus on lawful residents instead of violent criminals. Amid recent ICE raids, he warns that U.S. citizens could also face rights violations. Trump's controversial suggestion of deporting American citizens convicted of serious crimes raises concerns about due process and civil liberties.
A gathering called "Peace, Love and a Handshake" is set for April 12 at Peace Arch Park, where Americans and Canadians are coming together to express solidarity amid strained relations. Organizers Haidee Landry and Jeff Smith highlight the emotional impact of the hockey-style handshake that symbolizes the enduring friendship between the two nations. The events have gained traction, reflecting grassroots efforts to mend ties in light of recent political tensions.
The Bellingham Public Schools Foundation is calling for support for students affected by recent ICE operations in the region. Their Family Support Fund aims to provide essential resources like food and clothing to vulnerable students impacted by these actions. While the exact number of detained individuals with children in the school district is unclear, the foundation emphasizes the widespread need for assistance.
A new Southern Resident Orca calf, designated J63, was sighted near Victoria, B.C., swimming alongside its mother, J40. This marks a significant addition to the J Pod, representing the fourth Southern Resident Orca born in the past year. However, researchers are cautious due to the high mortality rate among calves in their first year.
Ethan Hunger, a real estate agent, has been awarded a service award by Serve Washington for his fundraising efforts through his fitness challenge, Hunger vs. Hunger. The initiative, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to combat food insecurity in Bellingham, where the local food bank serves thousands of households weekly. Hunger's upcoming goal is to raise $300,000 for the Bellingham Food Bank through his extreme fitness challenges.
Whatcom County Library System's Board of Trustees has put forth a ballot measure for the upcoming August election to increase the library levy rate from 26 cents to 42 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. This decision comes after 16 years without an increase, driven by rising costs for materials and staff wages. If the measure fails, the library warns of potential staff cuts and reduced hours for services.
Barkley Village in Bellingham is on the brink of becoming an officially designated urban village, which would allow for significant development over the next two decades. The Talbot Group, the area's primary owner, aims to expand retail, office, and residential spaces substantially, enhancing the community's infrastructure and amenities. This transformation, pending the completion of regulatory processes, promises to reshape the village's landscape and improve connectivity for residents.
The City of Bellingham will pay $2.25 million in damages to the ex-wife and children of former police officer Brooks Laughlin after a jury found the city failed to act on allegations of domestic abuse against him. The lawsuit highlighted the lack of intervention from the Bellingham Police despite prior notifications from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office about Laughlin’s behavior. This case underlines significant concerns regarding police accountability and the impact of domestic violence.
Last week, 37 workers from Mt. Baker Roofing Company were arrested in an ICE raid, prompting local organizations to mobilize support for the affected families. The Bellingham Public Schools Foundation and other groups are providing immediate relief, including food and legal assistance. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in the region.