Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Blaine City Council approved Sarbie Bains as its newest member to fill a short-term seat. Bains, owner of Blaine Bouquets, will serve until the general election results are certified in late November, following the resignation of Mike Hill. Hill has endorsed Bains, who will be sworn in at the council’s next meeting on August 11.
Whatcom County Council plans to discuss reducing the speed limit to 20 mph on Alderwood Avenue near Alderwood Elementary School. The change, supported by local law enforcement and the Bellingham School District, aims to enhance student safety in the area.
The Seattle Mariners face the Houston Astros in a key AL West matchup after the All-Star break, with Luis Castillo starting on the mound. Meanwhile, the Bells host the Victoria HarbourCats in a three-game series, looking to extend their winning streak to five games. The Seahawks finalize a fully guaranteed contract with rookie Nick Emmanwori, marking a significant moment in NFL history.
The North Division defeated the South 5-3 in the West Coast League All-Star Game, marking their second consecutive win. Bells pitcher Devyn Hernandez delivered a perfect inning, while the team celebrated in front of over 3,300 fans at Joe Martin Field. The Bells will play a three-game series against the Victoria HarbourCats starting tomorrow.
Whatcom County, WA, hosts a variety of events this weekend, including the Northwest Raspberry Festival starting July 18 and the inaugural Ferndale PRIDE Weekend. Concerts featuring notable bands like Toad the Wet Sprocket and Jackie Venson add to the excitement. Local residents can enjoy these community celebrations and performances under sunny weather.
High levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) biotoxins prompted the closure of recreational shellfish harvesting from Sandy Point to the Canadian border, including Point Roberts. Whatcom County Health and Community Services warns that PSP cannot be eliminated through cooking or freezing. Harvesters must consult the state’s shellfish closure map before harvesting.
An Oak Harbor man, 57-year-old Andres Venegas Hernandez, faces multiple charges linked to drug trafficking in Whatcom County. Authorities seized cocaine, heroin, and approximately 5,000 suspected fentanyl pills during a raid of his home. Additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues.
Lummi Police named Terry Bowman a person of interest in the disappearance of Besalynn James, a 62-year-old Lummi Nation elder missing since January 21. Authorities confirmed they have interviewed Bowman and are working to gather more information. The FBI is urging anyone with tips to contact them.
Whatcom County fire officials raised the fire danger level to "very high" due to hot and dry conditions. These conditions increase the risk of wildfires, especially from small sparks or heat sources, which can spread rapidly. Residents are urged to exercise caution outdoors.
Ferndale will close several lanes at the Vista roundabout starting July 22 for road upgrades. Traffic will alternate in single lanes on Vista Drive, while Malloy Avenue will partially close for local traffic only. The changes aim to improve access to Ferndale Terrace.