Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Over 1,000 student workers at Western Washington University began a strike at 5 a.m. on Wednesday, demanding union recognition and fair contract terms similar to those secured by academic student employees last year. The strike, supported by 94% of the voting members, includes various non-academic positions such as resident advisors and lifeguards.
Skagit County officials warn of a surge in opioid overdoses, particularly among individuals in their 20s, following a spike reported on May 25. Local law enforcement suspects a potent supply of fentanyl may be contributing to this trend. The health department encourages residents to carry Naloxone and spread awareness of the overdose risk.
Bellingham City Council approved a construction contract to remove fish passage barriers near the Interurban Trail at Lake Padden Creek. The work will close a section of the trail from late June until February 2026, with detours in place for trail users. An informational open house is scheduled for June 9 at Happy Valley Elementary School.
The Mariners defeated the Nationals 9-1 in Game 1, led by Logan Evans' standout pitching and Cal Raleigh's two home runs. George Kirby aims for a stronger performance in Game 2, while the Astros face significant injury woes in their rotation.
Birch Equipment secured victory in the Ski to Sea race for the fourth consecutive year, finishing with a time of 5 hours, 44 minutes. Western Washington University's softball team ended their postseason run after a 2-0 loss to UT Tyler in the College World Series semifinals. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners faced a setback, losing three of four games to the Astros, but remain in first place in the AL West.
As summer break approaches, families are encouraged to discuss mental health with their children. Washington ranked 48th in youth mental health in 2024, highlighting the need for open conversations about emotions and feelings. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington offers five tips to facilitate these discussions.
Whatcom County anticipates a warm spell this week, with Bellingham reaching a high of 82 degrees on Wednesday, the year's warmest day. The National Weather Service warns of moderate heat risk across Western Washington, excluding coastal areas. Temperatures are expected to decline slightly on Thursday before returning to the 70s on Friday.
The former Oculis Lodge site in Glacier, WA, will be auctioned starting June 9, with bids beginning at $75,000. The 2-acre property, initially listed for $725,000, features one dome and a pre-approved septic system. Interested bidders must submit a $10,000 deposit.
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources will host a free vessel turn-in event in Whatcom County this summer for Washington residents with proof of ownership. The initiative aims to reduce boat abandonment and prevent water pollution, with applications due by July 1 for pre-approval.
PeaceHealth nurses ratified a new contract that includes a $4.25 hourly raise and 3% wage increases over the next two years. The Washington State Nurses Association announced that the agreement, which features significant improvements from a previously rejected deal, will take effect on June 1.