Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Last week, 37 workers from Mt. Baker Roofing Company were arrested in an ICE raid, prompting local organizations to mobilize support for the affected families. The Bellingham Public Schools Foundation and other groups are providing immediate relief, including food and legal assistance. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in the region.
Aurielle Buermann has been appointed as the new race director for the Ski to Sea race, a prestigious annual event in Whatcom County, WA, that spans from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay. With her extensive background in fitness and event production, Buermann aims to enhance the community-driven experience of the race, which features multiple legs and requires about 500 volunteers. She emphasizes the event's significance to local identity and community engagement, encouraging participation and volunteerism.
Bellingham is experiencing a surge in apartment construction, with 797 housing units currently underway. However, challenges such as rising interest rates and material costs are prompting developers to request project extensions or delays. The city aims to incentivize new housing to address a critical shortage, with a need for thousands of units in the coming years.
Jorge Polanco's two-run single in the eighth inning propelled the Seattle Mariners to a 4-3 victory over the Houston Astros on April 7. The game featured a late rally from the Mariners, who overcame a brief deficit after the Astros scored two unearned runs. Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert delivered a strong performance, striking out seven batters and allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings.
The article discusses the increasing fear within immigrant and non-immigrant communities in northwest Washington due to heightened federal immigration actions, including recent large-scale detentions. It emphasizes the importance of understanding legal protections and rights, particularly in relation to the "100-mile rule" that allows immigration enforcement near borders. Legal experts advocate for individuals to be informed about their status and rights, highlighting that the Constitution protects all individuals, regardless of immigration status.
A Whatcom County ambulance crew was struck by a bullet while transporting a patient on Mount Baker Highway, prompting a reminder about firearm safety in the area. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident highlights the risks associated with stray bullets. Local authorities confirmed that the bullet was fired from a rifle and ricocheted off the windshield.
Thousands gathered in Bellingham, WA, as part of a nationwide protest against the Trump administration's policies, including cuts to federal jobs and social services. The Hands Off! demonstrations, organized by over 150 advocacy groups, occurred peacefully across all 50 states. No arrests were reported, highlighting the civil nature of the protests.
Unemployment rates in Whatcom and Skagit counties have risen to their highest levels since last September, with February rates at 5.5% and 5.9%, respectively. The Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County is set to host a regional job fair, while two downtown Bellingham eateries have closed due to inconsistent business. New coffee shops have opened in the area, and Club Pilates plans to launch a studio in Barkley Village this summer.
The average gas price in Bellingham has increased by 30 cents over the past month, now averaging $4.37 per gallon. Despite this rise, prices remain lower than last year's figures and the peak recorded in October 2022. Factors such as refinery maintenance and legislative proposals for gas tax increases may contribute to ongoing fluctuations in gas prices.
The City of Ferndale has appointed Sean O’Laughlin as its new chief of police, succeeding Kevin Turner. O’Laughlin brings over two decades of law enforcement and military experience and aims to enhance community engagement through initiatives like surveys and school events. His official start date is set for July 2, following a successful completion of various evaluations.