Your art on every "I Voted" lapel in town? (Here’s how)

Today's Weather: Rain is on the way, Bellingham. Expect a soggy Tuesday with a high near 54 and south winds at 6 to 9 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Rain continues into Tuesday night before tapering off around 1 a.m. Keep the umbrella handy. Full forecast from the National Weather Service.

Help Design Whatcom County's Next "I Voted" Sticker

Here's a fun one for the artists in the room. The Whatcom County Auditor's Office has launched an "I Voted" Sticker Contest, and they want your original artwork to celebrate voting in Whatcom County.

The contest is open to residents of all ages. Submissions are accepted now through 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026. Online public voting kicks off May 8. The county is encouraging schools, classrooms, and community organizations to spread the word and get kids involved.

If you want to participate, the contest flyer, design template, and required Art Release Form are all available on the Whatcom County "I Voted" Sticker Contest page.

Auditor Seeks Committee Members for April 28 Special Election

Ahead of the April 28, 2026 Special Election, the Whatcom County Auditor's Office is looking for volunteers to serve on a "against" committee for the Lynden School District 504 Proposition 2026-01. That measure deals with Facilities, Safety, and Technology levies, and the district did not appoint against committee members on its own.

Under state law, the Auditor steps in to recruit up to three members for the committee. Qualifications: you must be a registered voter and resident within the district, be willing to work cooperatively with other committee members, and have access to email. At least one member must be willing to be named in the published voters' pamphlet. More details and ballot resolutions are at whatcomcounty.us.

Ferndale Police Testing at Bellingham PD on March 14

Thinking about a career in public safety? The Ferndale Police Department is hosting a public safety testing event at the Bellingham Police Department on Saturday, March 14. Check-in opens at 9:00 a.m. and testing begins at 9:30 a.m.

Ferndale PD representatives will be on hand to answer questions about the department, career opportunities, and what their hiring process looks like. You can register here to secure your spot. This is open to anyone considering a career in law enforcement.

WWU Hosting Immigration Enforcement Info Session on March 9

Western Washington University is holding a public information session and Q&A on immigration enforcement procedures at 2 p.m. Monday, March 9. The session is designed to clarify what immigration enforcement activity could mean for a university like Western and address questions from students, faculty, and the broader community.

If you or someone you know has questions about how immigration enforcement intersects with campus life, this is a good opportunity to get answers directly from university administrators. Check the WWU events calendar for location details as they are confirmed.

Class of 2026 Graduation Dates Are Set

Bellingham Public Schools has announced the finalized graduation ceremony schedule for the Class of 2026. Mark your calendars:

• Community Transitions: Thursday, June 4 at 5 p.m. at the District Office

• Options High School: Friday, June 5 at 6 p.m. at Civic Field

• Sehome High School: Saturday, June 6 at 10 a.m. at Civic Field

• Squalicum High School: Saturday, June 6 at 1 p.m. at Civic Field

• Bellingham High School: Saturday, June 6 at 4 p.m. at Civic Field

A few other dates to note: Thursday, June 4 is the last day for seniors to complete academic coursework. The last day of school for all other students is Friday, June 12. All ceremonies will be livestreamed. Read the full announcement at Bellingham Schools.

Families: BSD Wants to Hear From You

Bellingham Public Schools has opened its annual family feedback form as part of The Bellingham Promise strategic plan. The survey takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is open to all families through 5 p.m. on Friday, April 3. Find the form and details here.

Trivia Nights, Cat Cafes, and Community Hang Spots

Tuesday night in Bellingham has some good options if you need to get out of the house. Larrabee Lager Company over on Guide Meridian runs a bi-weekly Trivia Night, and tonight is one of those nights. Doors and drinks from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 4151 Guide Meridian Rd., Suite 100.

If you would rather keep it low-key, Badminton Open Play is happening at Bloedel Donovan Community Building from 6 to 8 p.m. That one runs through March 24. And Cheba Hut on West Holly hosts Bingo Night every Tuesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. through the end of the year.

Bellingham has no shortage of small venues making Tuesday feel like a neighborhood. Support them when you can.

The Upcoming Week