Weekend Updates: Music, Art, and Community Feedback in Bellingham

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Friday, March 21, 2025. As we head into the weekend, there's plenty happening around town. Music lovers have several options tonight, including the Neighborhood Songwriters Showcase at Stones Throw Brewery starting at 6 PM. If you're in the mood for something heavier, Wild Buffalo is hosting a metal show featuring High on Fire, Melancholia, and Venenosum at 9 PM. For those who prefer a more intimate setting, the New Prospect Theatre welcomes the Jenner Fox Band at 7:30 PM. Art enthusiasts won't want to miss the opening of "Not the Whole Picture" exhibit at the Whatcom Museum's Lightcatcher building. Museum members can enjoy a special preview tonight from 5 to 7 PM, complete with wine, hors d'oeuvres, and live music. In local news, Bellingham Public Schools is seeking community feedback on proposed budget cuts to address a projected $15 million deficit. One proposal would reduce the school calendar to 179 days, moving the first day of school to after Labor Day. The district is also considering implementing optional fees for high school sports and driver's education classes. Residents can provide input through the school district's website until March 28 at 4 PM. Looking ahead to Monday, the Bellingham City Council will hold a work session on middle housing during their Committee of the Whole meeting. This comes in advance of a future public hearing on an interim ordinance that would allow middle housing development citywide, part of Mayor Kim Lund's strategy to increase housing opportunities. For those interested in environmental issues, the city is inviting feedback on proposed water use efficiency goals and conservation measures. You can review the proposals on the Engage Bellingham website and attend the Water Resources Advisory Board meeting on February 25 at 6 PM to provide comments. Sports fans, don't forget about the Men's March Madness event at Christ the King Community Church tonight from 5 to 8 PM. And if you're in need of a laugh, the Southside Comedy Hour starring Sam Miller kicks off at 8 PM, with tickets available at the door. Lastly, a reminder that the Bellingham Severe Weather Shelter remains open through tonight for those in need of a warm place to stay. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.