TODAY'S FEATURED WEBSITE: www.whatcommrc.org

--Whatcom Homeschool Association presents the Homemade Memories Holiday Craft Fair--featuring handcrafted goods from 29 vendors--today (8:30am-4pm) at Bloedel Donovan Park (2214 Electric Avenue) in Bellingham. (www.whatcomhomeschool.org)

--Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association is looking for volunteers to help plant native trees and shrubs along Lynden's Ten Mile Creek--today (9am). They'll provide tools and gloves. (www.n-sea.org)

--Our Saviour's Lutheran Church (1720 Harris Avenue) in Bellingham is hosting a Free Money-Management Workshop today (9am-1pm). Topics include "Paying The Bills", "Making Choices", "Be A Smart Shopper" and "Earning More". Free childcare is provided. SPACE IS LIMITED. R.S.V.P. by calling 733-6749. (office@oursavioursbham.org)

--Bellingham's Hillcrest Chapel (1400 Larabee) is holding their 5th annual Holiday Craft Fair And Bake Sale today (9am-4pm).  Proceeds go to the Hillcrest Chapel Adoption Fund, which helps families who want to adopt. (www.hillcrestchapel.com)

--Ferndale's Good News Fellowship Church (1252 West Axton Road) is hosting a "Crafts Of The World" Sale--featuring handmade gifts, baskets, textiles, jewelry and more--today (9am-4pm). (www.goodnewsfellowship.org or www.tenthousandvillages.com)

--Bellingham's Sacred Heart Church (1110 14th Street) is hosting their 40th annual Potpourri Of Art today (10am-7:30pm) and Sunday (9:30am-3pm).

--Bellingham Gluten Intolerance Group is hosting their 8th annual Community Awareness Event today (10am-3:30pm) at St. Luke's Health Education Center (3333 Squalicum Parkway). The free event features a variety of presentations, vendors, food samples, a panel discussion and more. Keynote speaker Dr. Joan Stevenson presents "Did Cavemen Eat Wheat? The Evolution Of The Human Diet" (11am). (www.glutenfreeway.info)

--Everson's Cloud Mountain Farm (6906 Goodwin Road) is hosting a free workshop--"Holiday Gifts Featuring Fruit"--today (10:30am). (www.cloudmountainfarm.com)

--Bellingham's Mixing Bowl Studio (1100 Larrabee Avenue, Suite B2) is hosting a free, interactive program--"Puppets And Popcorn"--designed to help kids (age 4-8) discover healthful snacks and lunches--today (11am). (www.mixingbowlstudio.com)

--Lynden's Claire vg Thomas Theatre and J.E.M. Special Events & Beauty are hosting a Workshop--"Basic Theatrical Makeup Techniques"--today (4pm). The cost is $25. (Makeup's included) SPACE IS LIMITED. TO R.S.V.P. call 739-9226 or email jemevents@live.com.

--Northwest Therapeutic Riding Center (1884 Kelly Road) presents their 6th annual "Denim To Diamonds" Dinner And Auction today (5:30pm) at the Bellingham Elks Club (710 Samish Way) in Bellingham. Tickets are $50. (www.nwtrc.org)

--The annual Big Brothers/Big Sisters Of Northwest Washington fundraising auction is tonight (6:00) at Bellingham Golf And Country Club. (www.bbbs-nw.org)

--Mt. Baker High School is hosting a Community Talent Show tonight (7:00). It's a benefit for the Deming library. Admission is $5. (592-2429 or 592-2036)

--Western Washington University's Department Of Music presents "Fresh Hot Songs 3"--a revue of new music--tonight (8:00)--in Western's Old Main Theatre. Admission's $9.

--Dr. Ed Rutschman is giving a free Pre-Concert Lecture, prior to violinist Sarah Chang's performance--at Mount Baker Theatre--tomorrow (2pm). SEATING IS LIMITED. (756-6752 or www.whatcomsymphony.com)

--Bellingham's Erik Dyrland Insurance Agency (2105 Park Street) is ACCEPTING NONPERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS for the Bellingham Food Bank MONDAY-THROUGH-DECEMBER 14TH. Baby food, Diapers and Pet Food are also needed. (www.dyrlandinsurance.com)

--Lynn Christoferson and Don Wick are teaching Swing Dance steps Monday, November 16th, 23rd and 30th (5:30pm). The lessons are free with the purchase of a ticket to the upcoming "Swing Into The Holidays Dinner, Dance & Auction." SPACE IS LIMITED. (336-6114)

--The Sehome High School Chess Club is sponsoring the Sehome Grand Prix Monday and November 23rd--for chessplayers in 2nd-12th grades. TO PRE-REGISTER and for information visit http://mysite.verizon.net/kaech/sehome2009grandprix.doc.

--The State Department Of Ecology is accepting comments THROUGH NOVEMBER 6TH about proposed B.A.R.T. ("best available retrofit technology") emission standards designed to reduce visibility-limiting haze in national parks and wilderness areas. The proposed standards would affect the B.P. Cherry Point refinery and Alcoa Intalco Works smelter in Whatcom County and the Tesoro refinery in Skagit County. (www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/globalwarm_RegHaze/bart/bartinformation.html)

--You're invited to review and comment on new curriculum materials that have been selected for Mt. Baker School District's Geometry classrooms. Information about "Discovering Geometry" is available for review at the Mt. Baker School District office THROUGH NOVEMBER 12TH. (383-2011)

--The 2009 TOYS FOR TOTS campaign is underway. Local businesses (Hardware Sales, Quarterback Pub and others) are selling toy train cut-outs for $1 each. Also, donations can be made online at www.bellingham-wa.toysfortots.org.

--The arrival of Autumn means falling leaves--the most common cause of catch basin and culvert drainage problems. The Whatcom County Public Works Department reminds local residents that maintenance of driveway culverts--including removal of weeds, brush, rocks, dirt, toys and other debris--is the property owner's responsibility. (676-6759 or 380-8111)

--The 2009 H1N1 Pandemic Unified Command--put together by the City Of Bellingham, Whatcom County and Saint Joseph Hospital--is LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS WITH MEDICAL TRAINING to help handle swine flu vaccinations. If you're a current or retired physician, nurse, emergency medical technician, paramedic, respiratory technician or other health care professional and are willing to volunteer time to help with a potentially large influx of flu patients and to help with flu vaccination clinics, call 676-6724, extension 50852. (www.whatcommrc.org)

--Now you can watch the City Of Bellingham's government and educational t.v. channel--BTV10--anytime via the Internet. The channel is streamed at the City website: www.cob.org/services/education/btv10/live-stream.aspx.

--The Bellingham Home Depot store is teaming up with the local appliance repair and recycle facility Appliance Depot to prevent waste. When Home Depot customers buy a major appliance their old appliance will go to Appliance Depot. (www.reuseworks.org)

--The Edmonds-based organization "M.S. Helping Hands" is looking for people with multiple sclerosis--to let them know what services and resources are available (many of which are free). (www.mshelp.org)

--DONATIONS ARE NEEDED TO HELP PAY FOR PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT at Peace Arch State Park. For information call 332-8221 or email foursnows@comcast.net.

--Blue Skies For Children is LOOKING FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN SPONSORING A CHILD. For information about their "Little Wishes" and "Sponsor-A-Child" programs visit www.blueskiesforchildren.org.

--The Bellingham public library offers a new email service, featuring 23 different NEWSLETTERS FOR BOOK LOVERS. No library card is needed. For information about the "NextReads" newsletter visit www.bellinghampubliclibrary.org.

--Bellingham's STICKMEN BASEBALL CLUB is SEEKING DONATIONS to help fund team play at upcoming tournaments. Donations can be dropped off at Inside Pitch (1750 Moore Street). (www.eteamz.com/stickmen)

--Amy's Place For Youth NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT. Amy's place (2006 J Street) in Bellingham offers a clean and sober, safe place for youth to get off the streets and to receive food, clothing, counseling, mentoring and peer support. (www.amysplaceforyouth.org)

--For information about upcoming SWINE FLU CLINICS call 778-8170. (www.whatcomcounty.us/health/h1n1)

IMMINENT OR URGENT:

--The Bellingham office of the State Department Of Revenue (1720 Ellis Street) is hosting a FREE TAX INFORMATION WORKSHOP for new and small business owners--NOVEMBER 10TH (1pm). (www.dor.wa.gov)

--The 10th annual "BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS" FUNDRAISER for Bellingham Boys & Girls Club is NOVEMBER 12TH (7:15am) at the club facility (1715 Kentucky Street). This year's featured speakers are t.v. host John Curley and State Attorney General Rob McKenna. Admission is free, but a donation to the Boys & Girls Club is requested. To R.S.V.P. call 527-9777 or email Breakfast@whatcomclubs.org. (www.whatcomclubs.org)

--The Bellingham chapter of Washington State Music Teachers Association presents a DRUMMING WORKSHOP with Lyle Povah--"Awestruck In Rhythm: Drumming For Creativity, Passion And Healing"--NOVEMBER 21ST at Faith Lutheran Church. There's a morning, adults-only session and an afternoon, all-ages session. You can bring your own drum or rent one. No prior experience is necessary. For cost and other information call 734-9083. THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 13TH. (www.bmta.wsmta.net)

--Bellingham Tennis Club & Fairhaven Fitness presents the 3rd annual "SWEAT 24" 24-HOUR FUNDRAISER to benefit the homeless and hungry in Whatcom County--NOVEMBER 13TH. Individual and team participants can play tennis, ride an indoor bike or workout anytime between 6pm, November 13th and 6pm, November 14th. Proceeds benefit Bellingham Food Bank and Lighthouse Mission. For information call 733-5050 or email robin@bellinghamtennis.com. (www.bellinghamtennis.com)

--Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center (13 Prospect Street, Suite 201) in Bellingham is hosting the 7th annual PEACE BUILDER AWARDS program November 13th at The Majestic. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP FINANCIALLY SPONSOR THE AWARDS call 676-0122 for information. (www.whatcomdrc.org)

--The Washington chapter of Soldiers' Angels presents "A Night For Our Heroes"--featuring an auction, dinner and a "dessert dash"--November 13th (6pm) at Lakeway Inn in Bellingham. Tickets are $40. IF YOU HAVE ITEMS TO DONATE call 224-5915. (www.soldiersangels.org)

--Bellingham Theatre Guild is holding AUDITIONS for the British farce "Taking Steps"--NOVEMBER 15TH AND 16TH (7pm). (www.bellinghamtheatreguild.com)

--Lynn Christoferson and Don Wick are teaching SWING DANCE STEPS November 16th, 23rd and 30th (5:30pm). The lessons are free with the purchase of a ticket to the upcoming "Swing Into The Holidays Dinner, Dance & Auction." SPACE IS LIMITED. (336-6114)

--The Lynden public library is hosting a free program (in English and Spanish) for parents and childcare providers--"HELPING KIDS COOPERATE"--NOVEMBER 16TH (7pm). YOU'RE ASKED TO PRE-REGISTER: 354-4883.

--The Sehome High School CHESS Club is sponsoring the SEHOME GRAND PRIX NOVEMBER 23RD--for chessplayers in 2nd-12th grades. TO PRE-REGISTER and for information visit http://mysite.verizon.net/kaech/sehome2009grandprix.doc.

--The State Department Of Ecology is TAKING PUBLIC COMMENT THROUGH NOVEMBER 30TH on a proposal to study the Blaine Mini Mart site on Drayton Harbor for possible cleanup under the "Puget Sound Initiative". (www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/tcp/sites/blaineMM/blaineMiniMart_hp.html)

--Blaine Community Senior Center's 3rd annual Christmas Bazaar--featuring homemade arts and crafts--is December 4th and 5th (9am-4pm). VENDORS ARE NEEDED (HOMEMADE ITEMS ONLY) For information call 332-8040 or email DDHanks@co.whatcom.wa.us.

--Golf Savings Bank is holding a FOOD DRIVE for the Bellingham Food Bank--DECEMBER 4TH (10am-3pm) in the parking lot of the Barley Haggen store. The bank is also donating $1,000 to the food bank.

--KIDS ARE INVITED TO BUY HOLIDAY GIFTS for family, friends, teachers and pets at a special Children's Shop--featuring 30 vendors selling handmade crafts--DECEMBER 5TH (10am-3pm) at Bellingham's Bloedel Donovan Park. All items are $8 or less. Admission is free. (778-7000)

--You're invited to a CHRISTMAS PROGRAM at Bellingham's Birchwood Presbyterian Church (400 Meadowbrook Court)--featuring traditional carols with an orchestra, contemporary carols with a rock band, crafts, food and more--DECEMBER 5TH (3pm). VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED to help put on the show: 733-8860, extension 209 or mary@bpchurch.org. (www.bpchurch.org)

--Bellingham Arts Commission is ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS for the 31st annual MAYOR'S ARTS AWARDS--THROUGH DECEMBER 31ST. Nomination forms and a list of previous recipients are available at www.cob.org/services/arts/mayor-award.aspx.

--You're invited to DESIGN A NEW LOGO FOR CAMP KIRBY. THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS JANUARY 31ST. (www.campkirby.org or www.campfiresamishcouncil.org)

--Western Washington University's offering scholarships of up to $2,000 to prospective new students, based on their creative VIDEO entries. The COMPETITION--facilitated by www.youtube.com--is open to high school seniors interested in attending Western next Fall. For information call 650-3442, email kayle.walls@wwu.edu or visit www.admissions.wwu.edu/whywestern. ENTRIES ARE DUE JANUARY 31ST.

--Bellingham House Concerts presents "TALENTED YOUTH SHOWCASE"--featuring Western Washington Scholarship students--MAY 23RD (3pm). SEATING IS LIMITED; tickets must be purchased in advance: $15. (671-6104 or bellinghamhouseconcerts@gmail.com)

MEMORIAL AND SUPPORT FUNDS:

--Friends of Cancer survivor Jill Patterson are trying to raise money for her medical bills.  If you can help call 733-0246 for information.

--The family of Erik Gelhar is trying to raise money for his medical bills.  He suffers from a rare heart condition. Donations can be made at Whatcom Educational Credit Union branches. (752-0177 or www.bellinghamherald.com/255/story/1086678.html)

--Friends are trying to raise money to pay medical bills for Deb Cummings, who has a rare and aggressive form of cancer. For information on how you can help, call 961-1337 or email minibean96@yahoo.com

--Friends and family of stroke survivor BERNADINE ROGSTAD have set up a fund on her behalf at Whatcom Educational Credit Union. (201-2454)

--Friends of KYLE WOLDEN have set up a fund on behalf of Kyle, who's suffering from Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome. You can donate at any Wells Fargo Bank location. (360-856-2100 or 360-391-3438)

--The Bellingham Community Food Co-op and Whatcom Educational Credit Union are accepting donations for the family of MATTHEW CHASE, who was killed in a snowboarding accident January 9th, 2006.

--A fund has been set up for Bellingham radio (KISM 92.9 FM) morning show co-host LAURIE MICHAELS, as she recovers from brain surgery. Donations can be made at Industrial Credit Union locations. (733-KISM or www.kism.com)