Whatcom Community College’s Auxiliary Services Building has earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The building opened in spring 2013. It houses the campus’ facilities department, as well as the copy, print and mail centers.

All new buildings constructed at WCC will be designed to meet LEED standards, according to the college.

The Auxiliary Services Building incorporates a number of sustainable-design elements, including:

– Native and adapted plants to maximize irrigation and provide natural storm water management
– Restoration and protection of the category III wetland near the project
– Biking infrastructure to minimize single-occupancy vehicle trips
– An electric vehicle charging station and designated parking for alternative-fuel vehicles
– Light pollution reduction to reduce adverse effects of artificial light, including disruption to wildlife patterns, sky glow and energy waste
– Plumbing fixtures that will reduce water use by 40 percent, compared to conventional buildings
– Rain gardens for pre-treatment of storm water, and rainwater harvesting for irrigation
– Lighting fixtures that are 29 percent more efficient than conventional design (exterior lighting is 50 percent more efficient)
– 56 240-watt solar panels on the roof, with a total power rating of 13.44 kilowatts. The system will produce an estimated 14,000 kilowatt-hours per year (equivalent energy would run three high efficiency, single-family homes)

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Weber of Management Services NW earns HR credential

Meg Weber, human resources manager for Management Services Northwest in Ferndale, has received a Senior Professional in Human Resources credential from the HR Certification Institute.

Eligibility for the designation requires at least four years’ experience in exempt-level human-resources management, and a master’s or higher educational degree. Weber holds several degrees, including an MBA from the University of Rochester.

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Auction for Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, April 25

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County will host its 35th annual KidsFest Auction at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, April 25, at the nonprofit’s office at 1715 Kentucky St. in Bellingham.

The fundraising dinner will include live and silent auctions, raffles and a dessert dash. Proceeds benefit the 3,500 youth served by the organization each year.

Tickets cost $65 each until March 25, and $75 afterward. VIP whiskey-tasting tickets are available for an extra $45. More information is available at www.whatcomclubs.org.

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