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Washington Governor Bob Ferguson announced $2 million weekly funding for food banks as federal SNAP benefits face suspension due to a government shutdown. The funding, effective November 3, aims to mitigate the impact on nearly 1 million residents reliant on SNAP. Food banks, including Bellingham's, expect significant challenges despite the support.
An atmospheric river is set to bring heavy rain to Bellingham, WA, this Halloween weekend. The National Weather Service forecasts up to an inch of rain and wind gusts reaching 40 mph along the coast. Snow may also fall in the North Cascades, with snow levels expected to drop on Sunday.
Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) proposes changes to bus routes serving Western Washington University to address overcrowding and punctuality issues. The plan includes cutting four routes and increasing shuttle trips during peak times, pending public feedback. If approved, the adjustments will take effect next summer.
Washington Secretary of State encourages voters to deliver ballots directly to drop boxes or voting centers ahead of the November 4 election. This recommendation follows a new USPS rule that may delay postmarks, putting mailed ballots at risk of not being counted on time. As of Monday, Whatcom County has received around eight percent of expected ballots from registered voters.
Bellingham's Mount Baker Theatre will host a shadow cast performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show this Halloween, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Co-directors Megan Sutton and Paul Henderson lead the cast, which allows performers to explore their identities in a fun, campy atmosphere. Sutton, a lifelong theater enthusiast, emphasizes the importance of creating an engaging experience for both cast and audience.
The Seattle Kraken lost to the Montreal Canadiens 4-3 in overtime, marking their second overtime defeat to Montreal this season. Meanwhile, Cal Raleigh of the Mariners received the MLB Players Association's Player of the Year award, becoming the first Mariner to earn this honor since its inception in 1998. The Seahawks face uncertainty as Pro Bowl safety Julian Love suffered a setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The Salvation Army and Walmart will host food drives in Bellingham and Anacortes this weekend as SNAP benefits face potential suspension next month. Community members can donate non-perishables, boxed meals, and canned proteins to support those in need. The Bellingham Food Bank has doubled its weekly food spending budget to assist affected individuals.
PeaceHealth plans to eliminate 241 positions across Washington and Oregon, including 56 roles at St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. Layoffs will take effect on December 27, impacting supply chain specialists, informaticists, and administrative staff. The final number of affected employees may vary depending on union responses.
Food assistance benefits, including SNAP, will cease in November due to a lack of federal funding. Approximately 1 million Washington residents rely on these benefits each month to purchase food, as stated by Gov. Bob Ferguson. This funding gap raises concerns about food security for vulnerable populations.
The Seattle Sounders lost their opening MLS Playoff match to Minnesota United, falling 3-2 in penalty kicks after a scoreless draw in regulation. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken aim for their third consecutive win against the Montreal Canadiens tonight at home. Rookie fullback Robbie Ouzts is set to return to practice for the Seahawks after an ankle injury.