Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A second stuffed sloth that gained attention along I-5 near Bellingham has been removed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) after a short appearance. The sloth was located in the same area where another stuffed sloth, dubbed “Slothy,” had delighted travelers for over a year. WSDOT emphasized the safety risks associated with placing objects in trees along busy highways.
The average gas price in Bellingham has increased by 30 cents over the past month, now averaging $4.37 per gallon. Despite this rise, prices remain lower than last year's figures and the peak recorded in October 2022. Factors such as refinery maintenance and legislative proposals for gas tax increases may contribute to ongoing fluctuations in gas prices.
Unemployment rates in Whatcom and Skagit counties have risen to their highest levels since last September, with February rates at 5.5% and 5.9%, respectively. The Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County is set to host a regional job fair, while two downtown Bellingham eateries have closed due to inconsistent business. New coffee shops have opened in the area, and Club Pilates plans to launch a studio in Barkley Village this summer.
The article discusses the increasing fear within immigrant and non-immigrant communities in northwest Washington due to heightened federal immigration actions, including recent large-scale detentions. It emphasizes the importance of understanding legal protections and rights, particularly in relation to the "100-mile rule" that allows immigration enforcement near borders. Legal experts advocate for individuals to be informed about their status and rights, highlighting that the Constitution protects all individuals, regardless of immigration status.
The article highlights the innovative measures taken by Bellingham schools to improve student attendance following a significant decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It features personal stories, such as that of a student benefiting from a quiet online class environment, while also presenting state attendance data that reflects broader trends. The piece underscores the challenges schools face in re-establishing in-person learning habits among students.
KAVZ 102.5, a community radio station in Van Zandt, operates from a small, modern broadcasting room managed by Breanna Anderson. With a focus on local music, the station thrives on donations and showcases artists' work, offering a unique catalog that contrasts with mainstream streaming services. Anderson, a musician and software engineer, emphasizes the importance of community engagement and eclectic programming.
Skagit Commons, a cohousing community in Anacortes, offers a unique model of living that fosters deep connections among its residents, particularly among seniors. The community's collaborative spirit was recently highlighted when neighbors quickly rallied to help a resident facing a plumbing emergency. This initiative reflects a growing trend in cohousing as an alternative to traditional living arrangements, addressing issues like loneliness and isolation among older adults.
Over 6,000 individuals gathered in Whatcom and Skagit counties on April 5, 2025, to participate in nationwide demonstrations against the Trump administration's policies. The protests, titled "Hands Off!", focused on issues such as Social Security, immigration, and healthcare, drawing personal accounts from attendees on how these policies have affected their lives. The event was part of a larger national movement, with more than 1,110 rallies taking place across the United States.
Local lawmakers in Bellingham, including U.S. Representative Rick Larsen, are demanding accountability from ICE following a recent raid that resulted in the detention of 37 workers. The representatives have expressed concerns over the aggressive tactics used by ICE officers, warning that such actions are instilling fear within the community and impacting local businesses. They are calling for more transparency regarding the individuals arrested during the operation.
State lawmakers in Washington are evaluating a bill that would allow striking workers to receive unemployment benefits for up to 12 weeks, a significant shift in support for labor rights. Sponsored by Democratic Senator Marcus Riccelli, the bill aims to create a “social safety net” for workers, particularly as healthcare employees in Bellingham prepare to strike. With only two states currently offering such benefits, this legislation could have a profound impact on labor relations in the region.