What's Happening



This is a list of various activities, meetings, and get togethers that are happening in the near future around Northwest Washington. Continuous events are listed first with date specific events following in chronological order.

Whatcom READS! Mystery Hunt


Mystery writer Elizabeth George is coming to Whatcom County February 21-23 as part of the Whatcom READS! One Book Together program. To celebrate, Whatcom County Library System and the Bellingham Public Library are teaming-up on a clue-finding mystery hunt. Readers who like puzzles should stop by their local library once a week starting January, 14 to pick up clues that will lead them to "evidence" hidden in the library. The "evidence" can be used to solve puzzles to qualify them for a drawing of Elizabeth's newest novel.  For more information visit www.whatcomreads.org.

Time For Tales


Beginning on Wednesday, February 1st (continuing every Wednesday through February), join us for Time For Tales to enjoy stories, songs, movement and a craft. Located in the Dodson Room in the Children's Library at the Central Library from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m  Ages 5 to 8 with families welcome.

The Upfront Theatre presents Evil Space Trek


Space Trek returns with a twist! The Upfront Theatre presents Evil Space Trek! Space Trek is a completely improvised space adventure show beginning February 3rd until February 25th, each Friday and Saturday, with 8 p.m. and 10 p.m shows. At the top of each performance, the audience assists in creating the crew and their mission for that specific show making every show completely unique. The twist this year is that the 10 p.m. show will have the cast playing a menacing crew of baddies and instead of saving the day, the audience will have an oppurtunity to blow something up instead! Tickets are $10, $8 for students. The Upfront Theatre is located at 1208 Bay Street, Bellingham. More information is available at www.theupfront.com or by calling (360) 733-8855.

Chinese Cultural Festival Art Show


Allied Arts of Whatcom County is proud to partner with the Bellingham Chinese Cultural Festival on their art exhibit February 3rd through the 28th. The show will feature works of many local Chinese artists in a variety of media with both traditional and modern subject matter. There will be two receptions for this show, both open to the public: Art Walk Reception on Friday, February 3rd, 6:00-9:00 p.m. and an Opening Ceremony on Saturday, Feb 4th at 11:00 a.m. For more information visit www.alliedarts.org or contact Katy Borden at 360-676-8548 x 5 or katy@alliedarts.org.

4th Annual Heart for the Hungry


The Heart for the Hungry Community Food Drive kicks off this Saturday. Volunteers will collect food donations at the Lakeway Fred Meyer and the Barkley and Ferndale Haggen from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Drop off bins will remain through February 13th. Food donations can also be taken to Haggen's Meridian, Sehome and Fairhaven locations, or any Bank of the Pacific branch. All donations go to the Bellingham Food Bank.

Food4Tots


Western Washington University's Communication Club and the Bellingham Food Bank have collaborated for Food4Tots. They will be  collecting baby food and monetary donations outside the Fairhaven and Sehome Haggen locations February 4th from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Oysterfest


Bellingham Sunrise Rotary Club's upcoming Oysterfest will be auctioning off a one-week stay in Cabo San Lucas presidential suite as part of an effort to raise money to benefit local youth services. This 21st annual event will be February 4th at 6:00 p.m. at the Bellingham Golf and Country Club. Funds will benefit Amy's Place, Explorations Academy and Bellingham Childcare and Learning Center. Tickets are $100 and are available at the door.

Mt. Baker Snowshoe Hikes


Mt. Baker guided snowshoe hikes start in February and offer 90-minute trips at Heather Meadows and an approximately two-hour tour up Hannegan Road off the Mt. Baker Highway. Rangers will discuss the area's history, winter ecosystems and wildlife. As with all snowshoe programs, no experience is necessary and snowshoes are provided. Participants should wear layered and insulated clothing, sturdy, waterproof shoes, hats and gloves. Make reservations the Wednesday prior to the scheduled trip by calling Glacier Public Service Center, 360-599-2714 on weekends 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or Mt. Baker Ranger District Office, 360-856-5700, ext. 515 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To offset the costs of the program a donation of $10 is suggested. Cash or checks payable to Discover Your Northwest Interpretive Association.

Extreme Couponing


Saturday, February 4th, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., get together with others who love to save money by clipping coupons. Share hints on where to find coupons, participating stores, and how to best get the most savings out of couponing. Experienced couponers, come to share and trade at this monthly gathering, and help newcomers learn how they too, can save on their grocery bills. Located at the Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. For more information contact Debby Farmer at 360-332-8146.

WWU Extended Education - Writing/Editing course


WWU Extended Education is offering a course where you develop editing skills for your own work or business. The first draft of a story or essay can be wonderful inspired, and unfinished. Learn developmental editing techniques successful writers and editors use to turn a good start into a great finish with minimal artistic pain. Attend an information session at 12 p.m.  on February 4th at Village Books in Bellingham. The course begins on April 5th, with 8 evening classes. More details can be found at www.extendeded.wwu.edu, emailing eesp@wwu.edu or call (360) 650-3308.

Ferndale Band, Color Guard Benefit Action and Dinner


Ferdale Band Booster will host their annual benefit dinner and auction at Hampton Inn's Fox Hall on Saturday, February 4. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m. to allow guests to browse auction items prior to dinner, which will be provided by Ferndale-based North Shore Catering. An assortment of items will be available for guests to bid on during the silent and live auctions, followed by a dessert auction after dinner to complete the evening. Tickets are $35 per person for a prime rib dinner, and are available to the general public. For more information call (360) 510-8590 or email ferndaleband@gmail.com 

8th Annual FREE Sealant Day


Interfaith Dental Clinic is hosting the 8th Annual Whatcom County Free Sealant Day.  This is a great chance for low-income families to have their children checked out with a free dental screening, x-rays, sealants, and flouride treatment.  Services are provided by 80 volunteer dental professionals.  Put on by the Mt. Baker Dental Hygienists' Society, call 360-714-9010 to make an appointment.

Open House- Harmony Northwest Chorus (Sweet Adelines Intl).


Love to sing? On January 30th and Febraury 6th at 7:00 p.m., join the fun, the music, the friendship at Harmony Northwest Chorus at their Open House at the Mount Vernon Community Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave, Mount Vernon. For more information contact 360-435-0808 or www.harmonynorthwest.org

Anti-Valentines Day for Teens


Tuesday, February 7th, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Decorate your Anti-Valentine's day cookie. Do some Anti-Valentine's day crafts or just play on the new Xbox Kinect. Located at the Lynden Public Library, 216 4th Street. For more information, contact Kyla at 360-354-4883.

Chuckanut Radio Hour


On February 7th, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., come enjoy Chuckanut Radio Hour- Seattle's World Fair! Tickets are $5, available at the door. Advance tickets are available at Village Books or online at Brown Paper Tickets. Located at The Leopold 1224 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, WA. Please call Village Books at (360) 671-2626 for more information.

Community Family Night


There will be a family night at Shuksan Middle School from 6:00 - 8:30 on February 8th. Parents and children from Shuksan, Squalicum, Alderwood, Cordata, Sunnyland, and Northern Heights are welcome to participate. The night will be full of learning, fun, and networking!

Todd Meyers on Ocean Zoning and Environmental Issues


Todd Meyers, Director of the Center for the Environment, Washington Policy Center, will speak to the Northwest Business Club at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at the Elks Lodge. His topic will be ocean zoning and environmental issues. The Elks Lodge buffet will open at 11:45 a.m., the cost is $10 for annual members and $15 for others, which includes lunch. The Elks Lodge is located at 710 S. Samish Way, Bellingham.

Whatcom Hills Waldorf School Guided Tour


Thursday, February 9th, Whatcom Hills Waldorf School will have a guided tour from 9:15 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Come find out why Waldorf works during a Walk 'Through the Grades', which is a guided tour visits and observes students and teachers during their Main Lesson in the grade school, providing a glimpse of Waldorf education from the student's perspective. Q & A with the teachers following the tour. Registration required. Email enroll@whws.org or call Holly Roger at 360-733-3164.

Western Washington University's Winter Career Fair


Job Seekers will want to circle Thursday, February 9th on their calendars! That's the day that Western Washington University will hold its Winter Career Fair. The recruiting even will allow students and the general public to meet with hiring managers from a wide range of employers. It will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Viking Union Multi-Purpose Room. For more information, log on to the Career Services Center website at www.careers.wwu.edu

SchmoozeFest!


On February 9th, 2012, your invited to SchoomzeFest!, hosted at the Blue Horse Gallery. SchmoozeFest! is an oppurtunity to network and schmooze with other nonprofit professionals and volunteers. Bring your business card to help you do that and for our raffle. SchmoozeFest starts at 4:30 p.m., ends at 6:30 p.m. The Blue Horse Gallery is located at 301 W Holly Street, Bellingham WA.

Teen Monster Valentines: Love with a bite!


February 10th, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., teens come make Valentines! An hour long program to express your ardor with candor! Both traditional and non-valentine material provided. Light snacks too. Free to all. Sponsored by Friends of Everson Library. For grades 6 to 12. Located at the Everson Library, 104 Kirsch Dr. For more information contact Eileen Shaw at 360-966-5100.

"It's All About Love" Valentine's Dance Party


Friday February 10th from 7 pm to Midnight, Adults 15 and up are invited to come to the "It's All About Love" Valentine's Dance Party at the Dakota Creek Center. There will be a live band, showcase ballroom dance, east and west coast swing, Cha Cha and Rumba. Tickets include snacks, beverages, and door prizes! Adavnce tickets are $12 and found on-line. Tickets will be $15 at the door, and non perishable food item at the door. More info can be found at www.dakotacreekcenter.com or call 360-371-2444.

An Affair to Remember


Please join The Alzheimer Society of Washington for a Valentine celebration: An Affair to Remember, Friday February 10, 2012 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m at The Leopold's Crystal Ballroom, The Leopold Retirement Residence, located at 1224 Cornwall Ave. Cocktail attire, complimentary wine tasting by Vartanyan Wineyards, robust hors d'oeuvres, delectable desserts, and cash bar by Hilltop Catering. Live jazz music by the Spence Redmond Quartet, dancing, and a silent auction. $30 per person advance purchase, $40 at the door. For tickets in advance call (360) 671-3316 or at alzsociety.org. Must be 21 to attend. All proceeds will benefit those served by The Alzheimer Society of Washington.

Fairhaven Family Movie: Before they were movies... they were books!


On Feburary 10th, all ages and families are welcome to enjoy a movie at the Fireplace Room at the Fairhaven Library from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Call 360-778-7200 for movie titles. 

FREE Ferndale Community Meal


Everyone is welcome to a free, nutritious meal February 11th and 25th from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the United Church of Ferndale (2034 Washington St.). For more information please email fcm.ferndale@gmail.com or call (360)384-1422 and for monthly meal date and menu information call (360)714-9029. 

Sweetheart Dance


Ferndale Senior Activity Center will host the Sweetheart Dance Saturday, February 11th from 6:30 p.m-9:00 p.m. Doors will open at 6:00 and the limited tickets can be purchased for $15 or $17 after February 9th. Proceeds go to the Jet Oldsters. For more information call (360)384-6244.

Benefit Dance


The Corinthian Yacht Club presents a Benefit Dance supporting the Community Boating Center Saturday, February 11th at 7:00 p.m. at Melody Hall in Bellingham. For $25 at the door you can join in the dancing with live music from Walrus, a cash bar, and appetizers. For more information contact Debroah Jones at (360)380-3538.

Roller Betties Opening Bout


The Bellingham Roller Betties invite you to their season debut on Saturday February 11th at Whatcom Community College. Seats are limited so get your tickets at www.brownpaperbagtickets.com or from Casa Que Pasa, The Community Food Co-Ops, Merchbot, Tubb's Tavern or Mod Socks. Adults $14, Kids 6-12 $6, 5 and under FREE. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. and the bout starts at 5:00. Go to www.bellinghamrollerbetties.com for more information.

Family Game Night


It's TIME to PLAY GAMES again! On Saturday, February 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., enjoy board games, pool, card games, and fun for all ages at the Point Roberts Library. Bring something to eat and the whole family for a fun evening here on the Point. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library and the Point Roberts Parks Board. Points Robert Library is located at 1487 Gulf Road. For more information contact Tracy Aiken at 360-945-2910.

Swing Connection


On February 11th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., your invited to the Swing Connection - A Big Band Performance in the Crystal Ballroom! Admission is FREE, donations appreciated. Located The Leopold, 1224 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA. Please call the Leopold for more information at (360) 733-3500.

"Your LOVE is out of this world" Valentine's Dance


"Your LOVE is out of this world" Valentine's Dance is a Relay for Life event being held at the Ferndale Main St. Bar and Grill, February 11th from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., with Spaceband performing. There is a $5 cover charge, along with a 50/50 raffle, raffle for a Silver Reef one night stay (includes Red River Silver Signature buffet for 2 and 2 one hour spa services) and an area for photo fun.

My Furry Valentine Cat Show


The Evergreen Cat Fanciers presents My Furry Valentine Cat Show Saturday February 11th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ferndale Event Center. Admission is $6, seniors/kids under 13 is $4, while kids under 6 is FREE! Along with 150 cats in competition, there is cat adoptions and specialty items. For more information call 206-920-9214 or www.evergreencatfanciers.org/catshow.

Lake Whatcom Railway Valentine Train


On Saturday, February 11, the Lake Whatcom Railway will run two special trains to celebrate Valentine's Day. The 1.5 hour trips will start at Wickersham, on Washington State Highway 9, ten miles north of Sedro Woolley. They go a short distance along Highway 9, then through a small tunnel, along a lake and out of the woods.

The trains are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The fare is $20 for adults (18+), $10 for children (2-17), and 1 and younger are free. On the Valentine trains only, couples can ride for $35 per couple. The railway is selling tickets by advance reservation only.  For tickets and driving instructions, write to Lake Whatcom Railway, P.O. Box 91 Acme, WA 98220 and include a check for the money, a self-addressed stamped envelope, a note with number and age of passengers and preferred time. Please include a phone number. For more information call (360) 595-2218 or go to www.lakewhatcomrailway.com

Kids's Central Preschool presents: Hearts and Roses Dinner


Sunday, February 12th, Kids' Central Preschool presents: Hearts and Roses Dinner, a four course Italian meal! Seatings available at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., or 7 p.m. Tickets available by calling 360-734-7180 or email office@centrallutheran.net. $15 for single, $25 for couples, which includes the dinner and childcare. Located at Central Lutheran Church 925 N. Forest St. Bellingham.

Family Valentine Party


Familes are invited to enjoy games, crafts, treats and carnival booth activities and more at the Cupid's Folly. February 12th from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Bloedel Donovan Community Building. $2/person, children under 3 FREE. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

FREE Developmental Screening Clinic


A free developmental screening clinic for children ages birth to five is scheduled for February 13th from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.  at St. Luke's Community Health Education Center. For more information please call (360) 676-6470, ext. 4408.

Ferndale High School Choir Valentine Fundraiser


Members of the Ferndale High School Swing Choir will serenade your Valentine with songs, a rose, and chocolates for $25 in celebration of Valentine's day. Singing Valentine deliveries are available February 13 and 14 in the Bellingham, Blaine, and Ferndale areas. Please call the Ferndale High School Choir department at 360-383-9313 to schedule a time for more information.

Teen Anime Night


On Feburary 13th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., ages 12 to 18 are welcome down to the Dodson Room (located in the Children's Library at the Central Library) and enjoy Teen Anime Night. Teen Anime Night is the second monday of each month. Join us to watch anime and the chance to win fantastic prizes. Pizza provided by Pizza Pipeline. 

Evening Family Storytime


From 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. on Feburary 14th, families with children ages 3 to 8 (younger siblings welcome as well) come down to the Dodson Room in the Children's Library at the Central Library to hear stories and sing songs that the family can enjoy together!

The Diary of Anne Frank


The Lynden Performing Arts Guild presents The Diary of Anne Frank at the Claire vg Thomas Theatre. The show runs February 15th - March 4th. The Box Office is open Tues - Sat from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. (360)354-4425. Adults/$12, Senior/Student/$10, Children/$8. For more information visit www.clairevgtheatre.com.

Zombie Alien Crafts


Wednesday, February 15th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m, teens come make gruesome zombie aliens with felt, socks, and glue guns! Located at the Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. For more information, contact Patty at 360-332-8146.

Vicious Plants of the Southwest


The Komo Kulshan Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society is meeting February 16th at 7:30 p.m. at the Burlington Community Center (1011 Greenleaf St.). The program will be Vicious Plants of the Southwest presented by Dalen Bayes. For more information visit www.flounder.ca/komokulshan/index/asp.

Bingo in the Barn


Friday, February 17th, join in the Bingo fun and help build the South Whatcom Public Library at Sudden Valley! Families welcome! Mary Jayne, the Hot Diggety Dog lady, will be bringing her cart, providing a yummy selection of hot dogs. Bingo is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. but come early at 6:30! All proceeds will benefit the building fund. Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Gate 2, follow the signs. Sponsored by the Friends of Sudden Valley Library.

Family Story Night with Bellingham Storyteller's Guild


On Feburary 17th from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., come enjoy listening to professional storytellers weave their tales at the Fireplace Room in the Fairhaven Branch Library. Ages 6 to adult and for more information, call the Fairhaven Branch at 360-778-7188.  

Pancake Breakfast


The Ferndale Senior Activity Center will host a pancake breakfast Saturday, February 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $2.50 for kids. Proceeds go to the Jet Oldsters. For more information call (360)384-6244.

Food Inc.


The Academy Award nominated film Food Inc., will be shown at the Everson McBeath Community Library, Saturday, February 14th, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Food Inc.  explains the story behind the way food is produced, shipped, and marketed to the consumer. The public is welcome to this free event sponsored by the Friends of Everson Library in cooperation with the Community Food Coop, Sustainable Connections, and Bellingham Farm to School Committee. Everson McBeath Community Library is located at 104 Kirsch Drive, Everson, WA.

Mt. Baker Rock and Gem Club


The monthly meeting of the Mt. Baker Rock and Gem club will be February 20th at 7:00 p.m. at the Blodel Donovan Community Building in Bellingham. Featured speaker will be WWU Associate Geology Professor Doug Clark who will describe the universities ice-core project. For more information call Eric Gustafson at (360)739-0769 or visit www.mtbakerrockclub.org.

Red Cross Asks for Heroes Nominations


The Islands Chapter of American Red Cross will honor "everyday heroes" at our Real Heroes Breakfast on March 29th, 2012. We ask that companies, municipalities, first responders, and individuals consider nominating someone who has shown exemplary courage by performing CPR, providing first aid at an accident scene, saving a struggling swimmer, etc. Nominations will be accepted for heroic actions involving citizens of Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, and San Juan County. Please submit your nominations by February 22nd to the Islands Red Cross, PO Box 249, Anacortes, WA 98221 or to akemib@theislandsredcross.org

Ebenezer Christian School Open House


Ebenezer Christian is having an open house on Thursday, February 23 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Make it a point to come and the school, meet the staff and fellowship with families. Pre-school through 8th grade. For more information visit www.ebenezerchristianschool.org or call 360-354-2632.

12th Annual 'Heart to Heart'


The Cardiovascular Center at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center will present the 12th annual 'Heart to Heart' program twice in February. This year's "Heart to Heart" speakers will address the effects that stress or diabetes can have on one's heart, along with tips to heart health. The program "Stress and Your Heart" will be presented in Bellingham Feb. 23 by Pete Beglin, MD, interventional cardiologist at PeaceHealth North Cascade Caridology, and yoga instructor Elizabeth Beglin. Diabetes will be the program topic in Skagit County on Feb. 24, presented by Anthony "Abe" DeSantis, MD. The programs will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Hotel Bellwether in Bellingham and the Skagit Casino in Bow on Friday, Feb. 24. The cost is $20, including lunch or $30 for both. To register, phone 360-788-6808 or 800-541-7209 (x6808) before Friday February 17.

Backcountry Horsemen Auction


The Whatcom County chapter of Backcountry Horsemen invite you to their 15th annual fundraiser auction Friday, February 24th. The silent auction will be held at the Everson Auction Barn (7291 Everson-Goshen Rd.) from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with the live auction starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information or to donate call Bill McKenna at (360)599-2526, Sam Miller at (360)398-7992 or Nancy Giordano at (360)961-0822. 

Middle School Open Swim


Bellingham Parks and Recreation is sponsoring FREE open swims for middle school age youth at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. Middle schoolers are invited to slide, swim, soak, splash around, dive, play water polo, and hang out with friends in a safe, supervised setting. Fridays, January 20th - February 24 from 8:00-10:00 p.m. For more information call 778-7000.

Kuntz and Company and The Whatcom Museum present: Shimmer


Saturday, February 25th at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday February 26th at 2:00 p.m., Kuntz and Company and The Whatcom Museum present: Shimmer, a dance piece inspired by the current Lesley Dill Exhibit. "Shimmer" is a movement response to Lesley Dill's work, accompanied by an original sound score done by frequent Kuntz & Company collaborator Spencer Thun. Tickets available at the door one hour before the performances begin. General admission is $10, students/military is $8, children 5 and younger $4.50, museum members free. Seating for this event is limited.

Independent Schools Fair


Saturday, February 25th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Leopold Ballroom, discover the best school for your child. This free informative fair offers parents the chance to learn about independent schools, preschool through 12th grade, in Whatcom County. Each school will have a booth with representatives available to talk with students and parents. Call 360-778-3681 for more information.

Snowshoe Hikes


Mt. Baker guided snowshoe hikes offer 90-minute trips at Heather Meadows and two-hour tours up Hannegan Road off the Mt. Baker Highway. Rangers will discuss the area's history, winter ecosystems and wildlife. No experience is necessary and snowshoes are provided. A donation of $10 is suggested. Make reservations the Wednesday prior to the scheduled program by calling the Mt. Baker District Office at (360)856-5700 ext. 515.

Heather Medows: Feb. 4,18,19, 25 @11:00 a.m.
Hannegan Road: Feb. 11 @11:00 a.m.

Whatcom County Railroad History Presentation


George Werkema will be making a presentation of Whatcom County Railroad History at the Everson McBeath Community Library at 104 Kirsch Drive in Everson on Saturday, February 25th at 3:00pm.  You're invited to see photos of trains and structures on the two Burlington Northern routes.  The presentation is FREE.

Teen Graphic Novel Book Club


Do you like graphic novels and mangas? If you said yes, this book club is for you! Come book talk, meet new people and have some snacks! Monday February 27th from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Grades 6 through 12. Located at the Ferndale Library, 2007 Cherry Street. For more information contact Sarah Koehler at 360-384-3647. 

Bellingham Reads


On Tuesday, February 28th, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., join us at the Dodson Room at the Central Library as we discuss Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks. Bellingham Reads meets every 4th Tuesday of the month. New members are always welcome, and more information contact Suzanne Carlson-Prandini at 360-778-7326 for more information.

WDRC Offers Spring 2012 Understanding Conflict Workshop


The Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center is offering a six hour Understanding Conflict Workshop on February 22nd and 29th, Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. This interactive workshop is designed to develop interpersonal communication and conflict resolution skills and is applicable to the workplace, in the community, and at home. Cost of the workshop is $75. For more information, please contact: 360-67-0122 or visit www.whatcomdrc.org

Library Friends Announce Scholarship


High school juniors who live in Bellingham can enter a contest to win a $500 scholarship, courtesy of the Friends of the Bellingham Public Library. The prize is intended for use towards educational expenses after high school - for admission fees or textbooks, for example. The winner will also be able to use the recognition to enhance for his or her college applications. Applicants will submit a typed, original essay of approximately 500 words describing how libraries have influenced their lives, along with a completed application by March 1, 2012. The winner will be announced at the Friends of the Bellingham Public Library Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 28. Details about the scholarship, including application forms, can be found on the Bellingham Public Library Website (www.bellinghampubliclibrary.org) under Friends of the Library.

33rd Annual Whatcom County Home and Garden Show


Come check out the biggest and best display of products for your home and garden in Northwest Washington March 2-4 at the Northwest Washington Fair & Event Center (1775 Front Street, Lynden). With over 200 vendors there is something for everyone. Stop by and take advantage of advice from the experts including new products, unique ideas, and tips to save you time and money.  Don't miss Ciscoe Morris on the main stage Saturday, March 3 at 3:00 p.m. as well as many other interesting and informative demonstrations throughout the weekend.

Open to the public on Friday and Saturday from 10-8 and Sunday from 10-5. Tickets are $7 for adults (16+), $6 for seniors (55+) and free for children under 16. For more information visit www.whatcomhomeshow.com or call the BIAWC at (360)671-4247.

Samish Sip 'n Slurp


Taylor Shellfish Farms presents Samish Sip 'n Slurp: a unique opportunity to enjoy the freshest oysters and oyster-wine right on our beach. This fundraiser for Skagit Conservation Education Alliance will be held March 3rd from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Taylor Shellfish Farm at Samish Bay (2182 Chuckanut Drive). Tickets are $75/person and can be purchased online only.

The Mount Baker Theatre presents Junie B. Jones


The Mount Baker Theatre presents Junie B. Jones! Junie B. Jones is a musical based on the books by Barbara Park, will be performed at the Mount Baker Theatre on Thursday, March 8 at 10:00 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie B. Jones stars in a colorful, funny, fast-paced musical about new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament and other various first-grade angst-ridden situtations. Follow her adventures as she writes down the story of her life in her "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal." This 60 minute musical is recommended for ages 5 and up. Tickets are $5. Tickets are $6.50 for students in the Bellingham School District. The additional $1.50 offsets a portion of the district transportation costs.

Dance Gallery's 21st Annual Spring Concert


Local performing group Dance Gallery's annual spring concert will feature the works of local and national choreographers at 7:30 p.m. March 9-10 and 16-17 and at 5:00 p.m. March 18th at the Firehouse Performing Arts Center (1314 Harris Ave.) The event includes a silent auction and a free reception open to the public after the final performance. Tickets are $12 and are available at the Community Food Coop, Village Books, www.brownpapertickets.com and at the door. For more information call 676-4113.

Ferndale High Presents West Side Story


Ferndale High School's presentation of West Side Story will be March 1st-3rd and 8th-10th at 7:00 p.m. in the FHS Auditorium. Tickets will be sold at the door. $10 Adult, $7 Students/Seniors and younger than 6 are free.  

Film at The Firehouse


The Firehouse Performing Arts Center in Fairhaven in starting off their 2nd season of films, which start at 7pm. Door Prizes are available, and their "Best of YouTube" runs before the film. Admission is $7, and the full schedule is listed below:

Jan 26: Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
Feb 16: The Importance of Being Earnest
Mar 22: The Matrix 
 

Free Media Class Series


You're invited to attend a series of free classes in Video Pre-Production, Access Orientation, and iPhone Journalism being offered by the Center for New Media sarting on January 21 at the Bellingham Public Library Conference Room. All classes are at 11:00 a.m.

2/4: Access Orientation: Rules for Use
2/11: iPad Journalism: Tips and Hints for Citizen Reporters
3/2: Access Orientation: Rules for Use
3/31: Pre Production, or How Do I Start a Show?

Voters' Pamphlet Kids' Art Contest


Students in grades 4 and 5 are invited to enter the 2012 Kid's Art Contest. The winning artwork will be featured in the Washington State Voters' Pamphlet for the 2012 General Election. The winning artist will also receive a surprise visit from Secretary of State Sam Reed at their school. The theme is "If I Could Vote". Submit art with an entry form no later than April 16th. Contact JulieAnne Behar at julieanne.behar@sos.wa.gov with questions.

9th Annual Red Raider Baseball Golf Tournament Fundraiser


Come down to the 9th Annual Red Raider Baseball Golf Tournament  Fundraiser at Sudden Valley Golf Course at 8 a.m. on April 29, 2012. Hosted by the Raider Diamond Club, all proceeds go to the Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman baseball teams. For information on how to participate, contact 360-927-0444.

WWU Offers Free Counseling


Beginning January 17, graduate students in Western Washington University's Psychology Department will provide free individual counseling, under faculty supervision. Western's Counseling Training Clinic has openings for individual counseling of adults, adolescents and children. Appointments for individual counseling are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. monday through Friday. Anyone interested can call Cindy Savage in the Psychology Department at 650-3184 and leave a confidential message with a contact phone number.

2012 World of Jazz


The Sudden Valley Library is celebrating the world-wide influence of jazz with the 2012 World of Jazz Builds a Library concert series. The series features some of the Northwest's best jazz musicians from the U.S., Canada, and Brazil.
All concerts take place from 3-6 p.m. in the Sudden Valley Dance Barn. For more information visit www.suddenvalleylibrary.org or call K.C. Sulkin at (360)671-1709.

April 14: WWU Faculty Jazz Collective
June 9: Pearl Django
October 13: Jovino Santos Neto
December 8: Greta Matassa with Jovon Miller

WESTERN LINE DANCE LESSONS


Come join for an hour of fun and exercise! From the "oldies" to the "latest" western line dances, we dance it all. Teens through seniors are welcome.

Cost: $4 for adults and $3 for students. Weekly classes at Ten Mile Grange, 6958 Hanegan Rd. (close to Pole Rd.) in Lynden, call for the dates and time.

Charlene Lenn - 354-4325

Family Day at Bookworm Burrow


The Bookworm Burrow at the Bellingham Public Market is planning fun for the entire family on the first Sunday of every month.  Bring your family to the Market for games, stories, puppets, music, face painting, and more.  Cost is FREE.  For more information, visit www.bookwormburrow.com.

WILD WHATCOM WALKS - NATURE BABIES


Ongoing
Join Wild Whatcom Walks ongoing Nature Babies designed for parents with children under 6 years old. Explore a different park each month during the morning program, every Tuesday from 9:30 -11:00 am.

The goal of Nature Babies is to experience nature through a child's eyes. The Nature Babies program is equipped with guides to provide a safe, interactive program - come join the exploration!

Donation suggestion of $5 per person.

For more information visit http://wildwhatcomwalks.wordpress.com/nature-babies/

BELLINGHAM PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP


Ongoing
Bellingham Pet Loss Support Group meets the 2nd and 4th Monday each month from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at St. Luke's Community Health Education Center - 3333 Squalicum Parkway. Look for the meeting room posted on board as you enter the building.

For more information email bhampetloss@yahoo.com

HELP OUT LOCAL YOUTH


ongoing
Amy's Place for Youth NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT.  Amy's Place (2006 James st.) in Bellingham offers a clean, safe and sober place for youth to get off the street to recieve food, clothing, counseling, mentoring and peer support.  Visit www.amysplaceforyouth.org for more information.