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Drivers in Bellingham should expect construction delays on I-5 next week due to shoulder work causing lane closures. The Washington State Department of Transportation plans to close the left lanes on both the southbound and northbound sides from April 28 to May 1, between 1 a.m. and 12 p.m.
The Seattle Seahawks selected offensive guard Grey Zabel with the 18th overall pick in the NFL draft, aiming to bolster their struggling offensive line. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners return home to face the Miami Marlins, looking to secure their sixth consecutive series win. Fishing season opens tomorrow in Whatcom County, featuring the annual Trout Derby with over $50,000 in prizes.
Whatcom County's unemployment rate dropped to 4.3% in March, down from 5.5% in February. Skagit County also reported a decline, with a rate of 4.7%. The statewide unemployment rate remained unchanged compared to February but decreased from the previous year.
Whatcom County hosts a weekend filled with cultural events, including the CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival, Bellingham’s April Brews Day, and a Bollywood and Bhangra dance event. The film festival features diverse genres and supports women directors, while the beer festival supports the Max Higbee Center. Live music from local bands will enhance the vibrant atmosphere.
Whatcom County received an “A” grade for ground-level ozone pollution but a “D” for particle pollution in the American Lung Association's annual report. The Northwest Clean Air Agency attributed the lower grade to high levels of wildfire smoke over the past three summers. Residents generally experience good air quality despite the mixed ratings.
A suspected feud between coworkers led to an RV fire at VanderPol Building Components in Lynden, WA. Police arrested a 35-year-old man on charges of burglary and arson after witnesses reported him throwing belongings out of the trailer before it ignited. No injuries were reported in the incident.
A boating accident near San Juan Island resulted in one death and one rescue over the weekend. A sailing vessel crashed into rocks, causing it to flood and break apart, leading to the occupants entering the water. The U.S. Coast Guard rescued one man, while the other was later pronounced dead.
The University of Washington reports that federal authorities revoked visas for 13 students and 10 recent graduates without prior notice. In contrast, Western Washington University confirmed that no international student visas were canceled. Nationwide, over 1,000 students face similar visa cancellations.
Lynden City Council voted 5-2 to repeal its fluoridation program, initially established in 1959. A motion to place the issue on the November ballot failed by one vote, leaving Mayor Scott Korthuis with the option to veto or accept the decision within 10 days. If the repeal stands, fluoride will be removed from the water supply by late April.
Whatcom County residents can safely dispose of old medications on National Drug Takeback Day, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and Ferndale Police will provide drop-off locations without questions asked.