Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A traffic accident in Lynden, WA, claimed the life of school bus driver Annette Lyon on Thursday morning. The bus collided with an SUV, but no students were on board at the time. The cause of the crash is under investigation, and authorities seek witnesses or dashcam footage.
Unionized student workers at Western Washington University protested against $13 million in state budget cuts, fearing higher tuition and job insecurity. The Operational Student Employees and Educational Student Employees unions demand recognition to negotiate a new contract, with a potential strike on the horizon.
Western Washington University faces an $8 million budget cut following a $400 million reduction in state funding for higher education. The university's total budget deficit now stands at $13 million, prompting the need for further cost-cutting measures. Despite these challenges, the state budget continues to support some of WWU's financial requests.
The U.S. Department of Education has launched a Title IX investigation into Washington state's Superintendent's Office regarding gender inclusivity policies. Complaints allege that the state mandates schools to allow biological males in female sports and facilities, potentially violating Title IX and risking federal funding.