Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Whatcom County kicks off August with several festivals, including the Ferndale Block Party and the 2025 Bigfoot Festival. The Ferndale Block Party features live music, food trucks, and activities for kids, while the Bigfoot Festival celebrates the mythical creature with vendors and live entertainment. The Acid Ball Psych Rock Music Festival also takes place, offering a lineup of various bands.
A Bellingham man was arrested for allegedly stealing over $9,500 worth of sports cards from his neighbor, including a prized autographed Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. The suspect, who had been given a key to the victim's home, attempted to sell the stolen cards at local shops. He was arrested on July 24 and released the following day.
Bellingham implements new renter protections starting August 1, prohibiting landlords from charging excessive fees. The ordinances cover fees for in-unit appliances, common areas, and mobile home parking. These rules apply to all new leases and renewals.
The Bellingham Bells baseball team invites the community to a game on August 5, hosted by My Bellingham Now and KGMI. Attendees can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while meeting newsroom staff and fellow locals. Free tickets are available at Dewey Griffin Subaru in Bellingham.
A contractor at Whatcom County Jail, Dylan Ramion, was sentenced to six months for smuggling drugs to inmates. Authorities discovered vapes, medication, and pills hidden inside the facility, linked to Ramion's collusion with an inmate's wife.
Jesus Penuelas-Agramon, 23, faces multiple charges including attempted murder and firearm offenses after allegedly shooting a Lummi Police officer seven times. He is also wanted in Colorado for a probation violation and will remain in Whatcom County jail without bail. The incident occurred early Monday morning, prompting a court hearing and subsequent press conference.
The Washington State Department of Health closed recreational shellfish harvesting in Skagit Bay due to high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins. The ban affects all molluscan shellfish, while crab meat remains safe for consumption if properly prepared. Harvesters are urged to consult the state’s shellfish closure map before collecting shellfish.
The Washington State Department of Ecology lifted a swimming advisory at Bay View State Park in Skagit County due to improved water quality. However, advisories remain in effect at Wildcat Cove and Little Squalicum Park, where high levels of fecal bacteria were detected. Health officials warn that swimming in contaminated waters poses risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.
Whatcom County Health and Community Services will operate a severe weather shelter in Bellingham, reducing bed capacity from 80 to 60. The department plans to increase temporary staff and enhance transportation and food donations while seeking organizations to run an additional shelter outside the city. A lease for the shelter location is expected to be authorized in September.
Bellingham Parks and Recreation will install a new inspection gate at Bloedel Donovan Park's boat launch to prevent aquatic invasive species in Lake Whatcom. The boat launch will remain open during the construction, which includes the removal of non-native plants.