Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Ski to Sea race in Whatcom County is set to take place on May 25, with organizers announcing April 15 as the final day for teams to request refunds. This year marks a significant change, as refunds are typically not permitted due to a lengthy waitlist. Former race director Anna Rankin expressed confidence in the snow conditions, stating that the base is solid after recent snowfall.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee has criticized FEMA for denying the state's request for disaster relief funds following the November bomb cyclone, which caused significant damage and loss of life. He asserts that the state met all necessary criteria for funding and plans to appeal the decision. The storm inflicted an estimated $34 million in damage, further complicating recovery efforts for affected communities.
The article provides an engaging overview of recent sports developments in the Pacific Northwest, highlighting the Seattle Mariners' successful series against the Texas Rangers, the anticipation surrounding the WNBA Draft for the Seattle Storm, and the Kraken's thrilling win over the St. Louis Blues. It also touches on the Sounders' recent victory and the Seattle Reign's struggles. This comprehensive update showcases the vibrant sports culture in Seattle.
Upcoming public hearings by the Whatcom County Council will address proposed electoral boundary changes in Lynden, necessitated by the city's recent annexation of land. The changes primarily impact the 128th and 611th precincts, with adjustments aimed at maintaining compliance with voter registration limits. This development comes as Lynden's population continues to grow, now exceeding 16,000 residents.
The Trump administration has denied Washington's request for federal disaster relief following last year's bomb cyclone, which inflicted significant damage on the state. Governor Bob Ferguson plans to appeal the decision, expressing concern over the delays in recovery for affected communities. The denial highlights ongoing tensions between state leadership and federal disaster aid policies.
Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown has joined a coalition of 21 other state attorneys general in filing amicus briefs against executive orders issued by former President Trump. These orders threaten law firms by suspending security clearances for their employees and severing federal contracts due to their political affiliations. The coalition emphasizes that legal professionals should not face retribution for representing controversial clients.
A Michigan-based warehouse company, Lineage, is acquiring Bellingham Cold Storage for $42 million. This acquisition is expected to enhance service offerings in the Pacific Northwest, particularly benefiting the seafood and agriculture sectors, while maintaining approximately 1,200 jobs. The transaction follows a recent lease extension for BCS with the Port of Bellingham, highlighting the strategic importance of this facility.
Morgan Foster, a Bellingham resident, has developed an AI-driven platform called BoardLink to simplify access to school board meeting data in Washington. Drawing from her experience in tech giants like Facebook and Google, Foster's tool collates and analyzes diverse public documents, making it easier for nonprofits and community groups to engage with local education issues. BoardLink aims to enhance transparency and accessibility in school governance.
The article discusses the challenges faced by Northline Seafoods and its processing barge, the Hannah, after an electrical fire and financial difficulties. Despite these setbacks, the vessel is set to return to Bristol Bay for its second season, with millions in liens hanging over the company due to unpaid contractor debts. The piece highlights the complexities of the seafood processing industry and the impact on local businesses.
The article explores the historical significance of the brick pavement on Harris Avenue in Fairhaven, Bellingham, which reflects the area’s past as part of the city’s streetcar system. Historian Jeff Jewell provides insights into the evolution of the street from wooden planks to its current state, highlighting the impact of urban development on its historical features. This local history piece emphasizes the importance of preserving the character of Fairhaven as a historic district.