Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Whatcom County enters peak apple picking season as Bellewood Farms and Sm’Apples Orchard welcome families for fall activities. Bellewood Farms operates until October 31, featuring a corn maze and a distillery, while Sm’Apples Orchard remains open until November 22, offering fresh produce.
A coalition of West Coast states has issued vaccine recommendations for the upcoming flu season, advising all residents to receive both the updated COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The states also recommend the RSV vaccine for children under eight months and seniors over 75. Washington State's Secretary of Health emphasized the importance of vaccinations in protecting communities.
Bellingham will hold a public hearing on September 18 to gather community feedback on the Bellingham Plan, which outlines the city's growth strategy for the next 20 years. Key topics include housing, jobs, transportation, and climate resilience, with a final decision expected in December.
A 21-year-old man was arrested in Bellingham after fleeing on foot following a high-speed race on I-5. Washington State Patrol reported the vehicles reached speeds of approximately 120 mph before one driver abandoned his car near Samish Way. The suspect remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail without bail.
Devin Champlin, a musician and owner of Champlin Guitars in Bellingham, WA, blends his passions for crafting string instruments and performing. After relocating his shop four years ago, Champlin continues to evolve musically, recently recording new material with his band, The Sons of Rainier. His diverse musical journey spans punk roots to folk influences, highlighting his dedication to the craft.
Bellingham Parks and Rec plans to limit access to Boulevard Park for the Shoreline project starting in October and lasting until December. The initiative aims to enhance public access to Bellingham Bay while implementing environmental improvements. Construction will reduce access to several park areas, with detours available for visitors.
Bellingham City Council unanimously approved changes to temporary shelter guidelines, eliminating capacity maximums. The council also voted to reconsider an annexation near Squalicum High School, with discussions postponed for a year.
Bellingham Technical College received an $80,000 grant to provide scholarships for parenting students in aerospace programs. The funding aims to alleviate childcare barriers, allowing students to focus on their education. State officials highlight childcare as a significant challenge for student retention and success.
The Lynden School Board will discuss a resolution to designate the Monday before September 10 as “Charles James Kirk Day.” This proposal follows Kirk's assassination at Utah Valley University and aims to promote civil discourse through student-led initiatives. The board meeting is scheduled for September 18.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has closed all fishing on the North Fork Nooksack River indefinitely to protect spawning Chinook salmon. Recent surveys revealed that endangered Chinook remain active in the area, prompting the closure until spawning concludes. The mainstream Nooksack River has returned to permanent fishing regulations.