Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Two women were rescued in separate incidents in Okanagan County's North Cascades this week. A 25-year-old woman fell 80 feet on Silver Star Mountain, while a 48-year-old woman injured herself on the Pacific Crest Trail. Both were transported to a local hospital in stable condition.
Lieutenant Leslee Smith, a pioneering firefighter from Whatcom County, will be honored at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Olympia this Sunday. Smith, who passed away from work-related cancer in March 2024, was the first woman to serve as a career firefighter with North Whatcom Fire and Rescue.
Miracle Jones, owner of Miraculous Braidz & Beauty in Bellingham, WA, has successfully integrated her hair braiding business with community-oriented events. After moving to the area eight years ago, she has expanded her services and organized local celebrations such as Juneteenth, which she emphasizes is for everyone.
Authorities investigate a large explosion at an Oak Harbor residence, occurring on the evening of June 17. Three adults were present; two escaped with minor injuries, while one remains unaccounted for. The Island County Sheriff’s Office seeks public assistance through an online portal for any footage of the incident.
The Trump administration transmitted personal data of millions of Medicaid enrollees, including names and social security numbers, to federal immigration officials. State leaders in Washington expressed outrage, labeling the data sharing as unethical and a gross misuse of sensitive information. They are exploring options to address the situation.
The new "Canada Strong Pass" allows travelers and residents to access national parks for free and enjoy discounted rates at museums and galleries from June 20 to September 2. This initiative aims to encourage tourism and cultural engagement in Canada. Visitors can save money while exploring the country's natural and cultural offerings.
The James Street bridge in Bellingham is set to reopen by the end of the month following the installation of new sidewalks and curbs. Paving of the roadway started earlier this week, and lane closures may occur as final touches are completed.
Property owners Kathryn and J. Patrick Sutton sued the City of Bellingham for enforcing short-term rental restrictions that they claim are unconstitutional. The city argues that their accessory dwelling units do not comply with a 2018 ordinance requiring owners to reside in rentals for at least 270 days. A motion to dismiss the lawsuit was filed, citing similarities to a previous case brought by the Suttons.
Washington state experienced a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with 25 times more cases reported in 2024 compared to 2023. The Washington State Department of Health urges parents to keep their children's vaccinations up to date, as vaccination rates have dropped by eight percent among children aged one-and-a-half to three years old.
Two people were hospitalized after a fire broke out at an apartment building in Bellingham, WA, on Friday. Firefighters responded to the scene at 11 a.m., rescuing one resident from a second-story balcony and transporting two individuals to a local medical center. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.