Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Bellingham City Council member Michael Lilliquist has become the target of a fake YouTube account that has been posting offensive comments using his name and likeness. The impersonation was brought to his attention by Fox 13, which reported that the account was linked to discussions on highway congestion and K-pop. Lilliquist has reported the account to YouTube and is concerned about potential reputational harm.
Thomas Morrison, a 71-year-old vulnerable adult, was reported missing after walking away from a Bellingham care facility on February 22, 2025. Fortunately, he was later found safe riding a Whatcom Transportation Authority bus. The Bellingham Police Department had issued a public request for assistance in locating him, highlighting his medical fragility due to dementia and a traumatic brain injury.
Over 200 attendees gathered in Bellingham on February 22, 2025, braving severe weather to protest against Trump’s executive orders targeting transgender rights. The protest, which emphasized that "trans joy is resistance," highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community under current federal policies. Activists voiced their concerns over restrictions on gender-affirming care and the erasure of transgender references from notable historical sites.
The Bellingham Police Department is actively searching for a suspect involved in a burglary at a business on E. Maple Street. The incident occurred early on February 21, 2025, when the suspect broke the front door glass and stole cash, prompting a K9 perimeter search by law enforcement. Community members are encouraged to provide any information related to the crime to assist the investigation.
Bellingham's City Council is set to discuss middle housing development and proposed changes to the tree protection ordinance during its upcoming meeting. Additionally, the community is invited to provide input on a new homelessness plan and water conservation efforts, highlighting the city's commitment to addressing pressing local issues.
The Deming Library has secured an $82,470 grant from Washington's Clean Energy Fund for a solar panel installation, aimed at reducing energy costs and enhancing community programming. Local solar provider Ecotech Solar will begin the installation on March 4, with expected annual savings of $5,000 to be reinvested in programs for the Nooksack Tribe. A community event discussing energy topics will take place at the library on March 28.
A 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Squamish, B.C., on February 21, 2025, shaking Bellingham and parts of British Columbia. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompted a response from local reporters who felt the tremors, but no tsunami warning was issued. The event highlights the seismic activity in the region and its potential impact on local communities.
Justin Guillory has been appointed as the new president of Whatcom Community College, starting May 1, 2025, after serving for 12 years at Northwest Indian College. His appointment follows the retirement of Kathi Hiyane-Brown, who led the institution for 18 years. Guillory's leadership experience and commitment to student success position him to enhance opportunities and community partnerships at WCC.
Falafel Feast, a new Mediterranean eatery in North Bellingham, revives a beloved food truck, offering a concise menu featuring falafel, chicken schnitzel, beef kebabs, and chicken shawarma. The article highlights the restaurant's generous portions and quality, positioning it as a standout option in an area lacking affordable grab-and-go choices. Author Mark Saleeb draws on personal experience to emphasize the authenticity and flavor of the dishes.
U.S. Forest Service workers in Washington are expressing concerns over staffing cuts ahead of the wildfire season, which could jeopardize public safety amid rising wildfire intensity linked to climate change. Layoff notices sent by the Trump administration have raised alarms among local officials, including Congresswoman Kim Schrier, who emphasize the urgent need for adequate resources to combat wildfires. The article highlights the detrimental impact of frozen funding on wildfire prevention efforts in the state.