Mobile blood donation stations will operate in Bellingham next month, addressing a critical shortage of all blood types, especially type O. Stations will be available at locations like Sehome Haggen, City Hall, and WWU campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on designated days.
Joe Ryan secured his seventh win in eight decisions as the Minnesota Twins defeated the Seattle Mariners 2-0 on June 25, halting a five-game losing streak. Ryan allowed only three hits in six innings, while Kody Clemens contributed with a seventh-inning home run. The victory marked Minnesota's second win in their last 13 games.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will reopen the final 2.7-mile stretch of the Mount Baker Highway, known as the Road to Artist Point, on June 27. Crews have removed up to 20 feet of snow from the road, although nearby trails remain covered and signs are not visible. Visitors should plan ahead due to limited cell service in the area.
Bellingham City Council made recent pedestrian crosswalks and protected bike lanes on Eldridge Avenue permanent. Improvements aimed to enhance safety following community concerns about speeding and have already increased foot traffic and reduced speeding incidents.
A jury ruled that PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and an emergency room physician were not liable for a misdiagnosis in a 2019 lawsuit filed by Patricia and Carson Parker. The Parkers claimed that a failure to properly investigate symptoms led to severe consequences for Patricia, including a stroke and permanent vision loss. The jury concluded that the doctor met the standard of care throughout the treatment.
Washington state's request for federal disaster aid following last fall's bomb cyclone has been denied by FEMA. The storm inflicted $34 million in damages and resulted in two fatalities, prompting Governor Bob Ferguson to express disappointment over the decision.
Bellingham City Council approved a Transportation Improvement Plan that includes funding to replace the washed-out Chuckanut Creek Bridge, providing relief to residents near Chuckanut Bay. The project, estimated to cost $5.1 million, will be funded by FEMA and local street funds, with completion anticipated by 2028.
Osbaldo Hernández and Dennis Ramey, a queer couple, founded El Sueñito Brewing Company in Bellingham, WA, after years of running a successful tamale business in Seattle. Their brewery, which opened in early 2023, emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement, hosting events such as drag brunches and selling pride-themed merchandise. They aim to create a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and celebrate diverse identities year-round.
Cal Raleigh continues his home run streak, hitting his 32nd home run in the Mariners' 11-2 win over the Twins. The Bells host the Wenatchee AppleSox in a pivotal divisional series, while the Storm aim for a fourth straight win against the Indiana Fever. Lynden High School introduces girls flag football, joining four other local schools in the new WIAA-sanctioned sport.
A missing Indigenous person alert was issued for 15-year-old Abriana Powell from Bellingham, WA, who was last seen on June 23. The Washington State Patrol requests anyone with information about her whereabouts to call 911.
The City of Bellingham agreed to a $150,000 settlement in a lawsuit regarding the destruction of a motorhome owned by Jerry and Terri-Lynn Land. The Lands alleged that city employees wrongfully declared their vehicle a "junk vehicle" without verifying its operability. The settlement dismisses the lawsuit with prejudice, barring any future claims on this matter.
Western Washington University announced layoffs impacting 20 positions amid a budget deficit exceeding $20 million. The university's president indicated that the cuts are part of a broader plan to reduce the deficit, which has grown to $23 million since the state’s legislative session.
Bellingham City Council voted unanimously to eliminate “junk fees” for renters, prohibiting landlords from imposing excessive charges. The ordinances will take effect on August 1 and require landlords to disclose any additional fees before lease signing. Over 20,000 renters in Bellingham are currently cost burdened.
Notorious serial killer Anthony D’Amato, known as the “Hillside Strangler,” will appear before a parole board on June 25. D’Amato, 74, has been imprisoned since the late 1970s for the murders of multiple women, including two Western Washington University students. If the board denies his parole request, he may face an extension of his sentence.
Washington state officials seek public input on the Washington State Rail Plan before the feedback window closes Tuesday. The plan aims to enhance passenger and freight rail services to alleviate congestion, stimulate economic growth, and lower emissions.
Health officials confirmed two measles cases in Whatcom County, with the first individual quarantined at home. The second case emerged after a visit to a local urgent care center, raising concerns about potential exposure for others present. The overall risk to the community remains low, according to health authorities.
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen toured a privately-run ICE facility in Tacoma, highlighting the need for improved staffing and services for the 1,500 detainees. He criticized Trump’s policy of mass arrests and pledged to assist a detained activist in seeing his family before a court date.
Whatcom County opened a new trail system in the Olsen Creek State Forest, providing seven miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails are accessible from the Y Street trailhead, and no Discover Pass is required, although parking is limited.
The Port of Bellingham is considering expanding its commission from three to five members, allowing for private discussions among commissioners. Some commissioners support the change for better communication, while others warn it could politicize the port's operations. A vote on the issue is scheduled for July 15.
Whatcom County, WA, implements a Stage 1 burn ban from June 15 to September 15 to mitigate wildfire risks during the dry summer months. Recreational fires are permitted under strict guidelines, including distance from structures and required safety equipment. Violations may incur fines starting at $250 and liability for fire containment costs.
The Oklahoma City Thunder won their first NBA championship by defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in a thrilling Game 7. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 29 points and 12 assists, while the Pacers suffered a major setback with Tyrese Haliburton's injury. Meanwhile, the Seattle Sounders were eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup, finishing the tournament with an 0-3 record.
Mount Baker Ski Area faces potential sale under President Trump’s proposed spending bill that could allow 250 million acres of public land to be sold. Senator Patty Murray warns that the measure could harm local recreation and wildlife, while supporters argue it would increase housing availability. The ski area’s spokesperson believes it will likely be spared due to its location and the proposed bill's focus.
The Washington State Department of Ecology added the Northwest Youth Services property in Mount Vernon to its contaminated sites list due to gas and oil contamination found in the soil and groundwater. The site, which previously served at-risk youth, closed its buildings in March 2025. A timeline for cleanup and reopening remains undetermined.
Washington State proposes a 3% increase in ferry fares for vehicles and passengers in October 2025, followed by another 3% hike in May 2026. Public comments on these proposed fare changes are being accepted until the commission's final vote on August 6.
