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.
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.
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.
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.
Bellingham International Airport appointed Matthew Rodriguez as its new Director of Aviation, effective May 2. Rodriguez, who previously served as the Airport Operations Manager, will oversee significant projects, including a multimillion-dollar runway upgrade.
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.
A Lynden school bus driver, Annette Lyon, died following a collision with a white SUV on W. Main Street on May 1. The Lynden School District confirmed there were no students on board at the time of the accident. The crash is under investigation, and witnesses are urged to contact local police.
Rookie safety Nick Emmanwori will wear the No. 3 jersey for the Seahawks, the first player to do so since Russell Wilson's departure in 2022. Sounders forward Jordan Morris will miss six weeks due to a hamstring injury, while the Mariners prepare for a critical series against the Rangers after a recent offensive surge.
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.