Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A man and his dog were rescued from a cave near Sudden Valley without injuries after the dog fell in during their hike. Bellingham Mountain Rescue and Summit to Sound Search and Rescue used ropes and pulleys to extract them safely. Both were able to walk out with their rescuers.
Whatcom County embraces spring with various outdoor activities and cultural events this weekend. Hikers can explore lowland trails while downtown Bellingham hosts an art walk and the Bellingham Children’s Art Walk. Additionally, Kulshan Brewing Company opens its waterfront beer garden, and El Sueñito Brewing Company celebrates Cinco de Mayo with festivities.
Mt. Baker Ski Area President Gwyn Howat announced her decision to step down after 34 years, citing a desire for better work-life balance. Evan Haskell, a third-generation board member, will take over her position, focusing on local improvements and sustainability projects.
Bellingham International Airport appointed Matthew Rodriguez as its new Director of Aviation, effective May 2. Rodriguez, who previously served as the Airport Operations Manager, will oversee significant projects, including a multimillion-dollar runway upgrade.
Candidate filing week for public office in Whatcom County runs from May 5 to May 9. Local offices available for reelection include four positions on the county council and four on the Bellingham City Council. Prospective candidates must review the filing guide for updated requirements.
A Whatcom County Jail employee was arrested for smuggling contraband into the facility, including methamphetamine and vapes. An investigation revealed that the inmate's fiancé provided the contraband to the employee, who then delivered it during shifts. Both the employee and the fiancé were arrested but released on bail shortly after.
Washington state budget cuts eliminate funding for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, threatening its free literacy program for children. The program, which provides a monthly book to over 120,000 kids, requires $2 million in public fundraising to continue after June.
Over 1,000 unionized workers at PeaceHealth in Bellingham, WA, will strike for five days starting May 12, citing wages, understaffing, and patient care concerns. The unions involved, UAPD and SEIU, claim negotiations have stalled, prompting the decision to strike. PeaceHealth assures the community that patient care will remain uninterrupted during the work stoppage.
A Lynden school bus driver, Annette Lyon, died following a collision with a white SUV on W. Main Street on May 1. The Lynden School District confirmed there were no students on board at the time of the accident. The crash is under investigation, and witnesses are urged to contact local police.
Whatcom County Parks and Recreation will close the Stimpson Family Nature Preserve parking lot on May 6 for sign installation. The lot will reopen the following morning, although construction will continue beyond that day. Visitors should plan accordingly.