Bellingham Scoop: February 12th

February 12, 2025

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Good morning, Bellingham! It’s February 12! Whether you're looking to sip and paint, dance the night away, test your trivia skills, or embark on a ghostly adventure, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover all the exciting events happening in and around town!

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Upcoming Events in Bellingham

Get ready for a fun-filled week with an exciting lineup of events happening in and around Bellingham! Whether you’re into arts, outdoor adventures, live music, or unique experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming up:

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

  • Painting with Pints – Grab a brush and a pint at Larrabee Lager Company while unleashing your inner artist.

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Thursday, February 13, 2025

  • My Circus Valentine – A dazzling circus performance celebrating love at The Bellingham Circus Guild.

Friday, February 14, 2025 (Valentine’s Day!)

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Sunday, February 16, 2025

  • February Drag Brunch – A lively and colorful drag performance paired with brunch at El Sueñito Brewing.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these incredible events! Whether you’re looking for a romantic Valentine’s outing, a spooky adventure, or an inspiring performance, Bellingham has something special in store for you.

Here’s the craziest photo I saw from this past weeks snow. An absolutely crazy mess.

Meador Avenue and James Street Bridge Replacements Moving Forward

Bellingham’s infrastructure is getting a much-needed upgrade as work continues on the Meador Avenue and James Street bridge replacement projects over Whatcom Creek. Originally built in 1936 and reconstructed in 1962, both bridges have been showing signs of deterioration due to aging timber piers. The City of Bellingham launched this major redevelopment effort to replace the aging structures with modern single-span bridges designed to enhance safety and accommodate future needs.

Progress and Upcoming Changes Construction on the Meador Avenue bridge has been progressing steadily, and city officials have announced that the new bridge is set to reopen by Wednesday, February 12, weather permitting. While the bridge will soon be accessible to vehicles, the sidewalk remains unfinished, requiring extra caution from pedestrians.

As the Meador Avenue bridge reopens, the focus shifts to the James Street bridge, which will close again for the construction of a permanent replacement. Work on this bridge is expected to continue into early summer, with efforts to minimize disruptions to businesses and the Bellingham Public School Bus Yard in the project vicinity.

Impact on the Community Although traffic patterns will continue to shift as the project progresses, local businesses remain open. Some may have modified entrance and exit routes to accommodate construction activities. The city urges residents and commuters to remain vigilant and patient as crews work to complete these vital infrastructure upgrades.

The project also includes stormwater management improvements in line with current City of Bellingham and Department of Ecology standards. This ensures better water quality and flow control, reducing the environmental impact of the new bridge structures.

Looking Ahead With the Meador Avenue bridge soon to be back in operation and steady progress on the James Street replacement, Bellingham residents can expect improved connectivity and safer roadways in the near future. City officials appreciate the community’s patience and support as they work toward a stronger, more resilient infrastructure for years to come.

Stay tuned for further updates as construction continues, and remember to check for traffic advisories before heading out. All details and updates here.

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Bellingham Celebrates Love with a Heart-Centered Sound Bath Meditation

Valentine’s Day in Bellingham doesn’t have to be all about chocolates and fancy dinners—this year, locals can immerse themselves in a different kind of love-filled experience: a heart-opening Sound Bath Meditation at the FireHouse Art & Event Center. On Friday, February 14, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM, attendees will trade the hustle and bustle of traditional celebrations for a deeply rejuvenating sonic journey designed to nourish the soul.

The event, aptly named “Celebrating Love! Sound Bath Meditation,” invites participants to dive into their heart space through a guided experience of breathwork, spoken words, and a soothing sound bath meditation. The session will focus on exploring the inner landscape of the heart and embracing our immense capacity for love—not just romantic love, but self-love, friendship, and universal connection.

What is a Sound Bath Meditation? Imagine being gently “bathed” in the resonant vibrations of gongs and other sound healing instruments, washing over you like waves in the ocean. Participants will nestle into cozy spots on yoga mats, blankets, or other soft padding while the sound waves help induce a deep state of relaxation. It’s a chance to simply receive—no effort required—allowing the body and mind to rest, reset, and rejuvenate. Think of it as a sonic massage for the spirit.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own comfort items: a yoga mat, plenty of padding, a warm blanket, and a small pillow. For an extra touch of relaxation, an eye pillow or cloth is recommended to aid in deeper meditation. Those with sensitive lower backs may also benefit from bringing a bolster or rolled towel to support their knees.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, February 14, 2025

  • Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Location: FireHouse Art & Event Center

  • Capacity: 55 participants max

  • Tickets: $28 per person in advance, $33 at the door

  • Parking: Free parking available; doors open 20-25 minutes before the event

With limited spots available, pre-registration is encouraged for those looking to secure a space at this unique Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether attending solo, with a partner, or alongside friends, this event promises an evening of deep relaxation, connection, and love in its purest form. See all the events here.

So, if the idea of being wrapped in cozy blankets while the healing vibrations of a gong soothe your heart sounds like the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day, this may just be your new favorite tradition. After all, what better way to celebrate love than by giving yourself the gift of rest, renewal, and pure, unfiltered peace?

Sudden Valley Fire Station Renovation Update In addition to bridge upgrades, progress is being made on the Sudden Valley Fire Station renovation project. After months of preparation, the Whatcom County Planning & Development Services Department has officially accepted the permit application as of Monday, February 10, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the project, which has been in the works to ensure all necessary architectural and engineering plans meet safety and code compliance standards.

While the permit review process could take up to 120 days, work is being done concurrently to prepare for the public works bid proposal process. This ensures the project is ready to move forward once the county gives the green light. Though the process has been lengthy, officials are dedicated to restoring service and response from the Sudden Valley Fire Station as efficiently as possible.

Looking Ahead With the Meador Avenue bridge soon to be back in operation, progress on the James Street replacement, and movement on the Sudden Valley Fire Station renovation, Bellingham residents can expect continued improvements to critical infrastructure. City and county officials appreciate the community’s patience and support as they work toward a stronger, more resilient future.

All details here.

Deputy Injured in Accidental Discharge Following Arrest on Guide Meridian

On Tuesday, February 11, around 1:00 p.m., deputies responded to assist the Lynden Police Department (LPD) after a suspect brandished a firearm in the 8000 block of Guide Meridian and fled the scene. The suspect, later identified as 52-year-old Wayne Moses of Blaine, was located and pulled over by deputies near the intersection of Guide Meridian and Axton Road. He was taken into custody without incident.

Following the arrest, a recovered firearm was accidentally discharged, resulting in a deputy sustaining a non-life-threatening injury. The deputy remained conscious and was transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center for treatment. Fortunately, they have since been treated and released.

Moses was taken into custody by LPD on probable cause for their investigation and will be booked into the Whatcom County Jail on charges of Assault 2nd Degree, Malicious Mischief 3rd Degree, and Theft 3rd Degree.

Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley expressed gratitude for the quick response and support from fellow law enforcement officers: “Every day our deputies stand between harm and the community we are sworn to serve. While there is always a risk to deputies, events like today’s are unfortunate. We are grateful the deputy’s injuries are not worse and wish them a full and swift recovery.”

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has requested the Bellingham Police Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge. The incident remains under active investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.

A Reminder About Ongoing Investigations Law enforcement agencies often withhold information during ongoing investigations for critical reasons. Releasing sensitive details too early can compromise the integrity of the investigation, jeopardize leads, and potentially put others in harm’s way. While it can be frustrating to wait for updates, respecting the investigative process allows law enforcement to do its job effectively. Avoid speculation and rely on verified information from officials.

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