Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Washington joined a multistate lawsuit against the Trump administration over the unauthorized sharing of personal health data of 1.7 million Medicaid enrollees with ICE. The lawsuit claims this action violates federal law and threatens the privacy of immigrant communities.
A Sedro-Woolley man faces first-degree murder charges following a fatal incident on Dunbar Road. Murray James Monroe, 30, allegedly confessed to a family member and police about killing a friend, prompting his arrest. He remains in custody with a bail set at $1 million.
Local law enforcement seeks witnesses to an altercation involving a Washington State Patrol trooper in Ferndale. The incident occurred on Sunday, June 29, at approximately 8:20 a.m. Investigators request that anyone with information contact Detective Shelby Brown.
Washington leads a coalition of 16 states suing the U.S. Department of Education over cuts to mental health program funding. The lawsuit claims the Department illegally revoked grants that provided mental health professionals to K-12 schools, threatening vital services for students.
The Blaine Harbor Music Festival returns to downtown Blaine from July 6 to July 12, offering free concerts and music education opportunities. Young musicians ages 12 to 20 can learn skills in music theory, jazz, and improvisation from award-winning artists. The festival culminates with a Student Showcase Spectacular on July 11 and a street fair on July 12.
The Mariners aim for their third consecutive victory against the Royals tonight after a 6-2 win, highlighted by Cal Raleigh's 33rd home run. Meanwhile, the Kraken signed defenseman Ryan Lindgren and goaltender Matt Murray as NHL free agency begins. Seattle University rejoins the West Coast Conference after 45 years, enhancing local collegiate sports dynamics.
Whatcom County residents can provide feedback on 12 proposed amendments to the county charter ahead of the November General Election. The council seeks volunteers to draft pro and con statements, with applications due by July 14. Proposed changes include establishing an "Office of the Ombuds" for government complaints and modifying referendum signature requirements.
Rite Aid locations in Whatcom County will transition to CVS pharmacies following Rite Aid's bankruptcy announcement. The Sehome Village Rite Aid will close on August 19 and reopen as a CVS the next day, with additional locations following suit in mid-September. All prescriptions will be transferred to CVS automatically, requiring no action from patients.
A hiker was rescued after falling in a snowy area near Twin Lakes in the North Cascades on June 26. The Bellingham Mountain Rescue Council reported that a pair of National Forest Service employees heard the hiker's calls for help and provided assistance until a rescue team arrived. Hikers are reminded to pack essential gear and prepare for wintery conditions, even in late June.
East Whatcom County will ban campfires, fire pits, and barbecue grills in the North Cascades National Park Service Complex starting Thursday, July 3, due to heightened wildfire risks. Stoves or grills powered by bottled fuel are permitted if they have an on/off switch. Park officials urge visitors to be cautious with smoking and prohibit fireworks on federal lands.