Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

It is a big day in Whatcom County as voters head to the polls for special elections. If you live in the Meridian School District, remember your ballot needs to be in a drop box or cast in person by 8 p.m. tonight. This vote is about much more than the school alone, as the district covers parts of Lynden, Everson, and Ferndale, and it is a pivotal moment for securing funding that supports educational programs and facilities. The district has a proud tradition of community involvement, and today is a chance for residents to help build on that legacy. For Skagit County listeners in the 98221 ZIP code, Island Health is asking for your support on a tax levy measure that could influence hospital operations and future services on Fidalgo, Guemes, Cypress, and Sinclair Islands, so make sure your voices are heard at the ballot box.

Commuters and travelers, there are a few traffic advisories to keep in mind. Expect intermittent lane closures on Interstate 5 through Bellingham through Friday as road crews continue scheduled maintenance from the early morning until 2 p.m. each day. Earlier this morning, a load dropped on the Guide Meridian led to temporary road closure, but both lanes have since reopened and traffic is flowing again. If your plans take you east, keep an eye out for the long-awaited reopening of the North Cascades Highway this month as crews wrap up their spring road clearing.

Turning to the weather, a frost advisory is in effect for the lowlands, so gardeners should cover or bring in sensitive plants to avoid any overnight chills. The forecast is also calling for possible severe weather tomorrow, with expectations of thunderstorms, gusty winds, and even a chance of hail or heavy downpours. Be sure to secure any outdoor items and drive cautiously if conditions worsen.

In local events, Earth Day is here and Bellingham is bustling with ways to celebrate. The city is hosting family-friendly activities throughout the week, including nature walks, beach cleanups, and eco-friendly workshops. It is a perfect time to get outside, connect with your neighbors, and give back to our stunning Pacific Northwest community. For those interested in local happenings, there is still buzz from the recent Bellingham Business Expo. Keep an eye out for collaborations and new business ventures popping up around the city this month.

Finally, community services are stepping up in response to the colder temperatures. The Bellingham Severe Weather Shelter remains ready to open additional nights to support our vulnerable neighbors, so if you know someone in need, help spread the word about the available resources.

That wraps up today’s stories, events, and need-to-knows for our neck of the woods. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Spring is in full swing and the city is buzzing with events, changes, and opportunities to connect with your community. Today kicks off National Park Week, and if you’re feeling adventurous, entrance fees to all national parks are waived—making it the perfect day to explore nearby gems like North Cascades. Don’t forget, today is also National Junior Ranger Day, so it’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce the younger ones to the wonders of our national parks and maybe even earn a badge or two.

Back in Bellingham, the highly anticipated Maritime Spring Fest is happening today from ten in the morning to two in the afternoon at Maritime Heritage Park. This event promises family-friendly fun with egg hunts for kids of all ages, local vendor booths offering handcrafted goods and tasty treats, and a live DJ set from Black Noise Records to keep the mood festive. There are plenty of activities and yard games, and the Bellingham Bells will be on hand hosting a special activity. If you’re hunting for golden eggs, look out for prizes from favorite local spots like the SPARK Museum, Fiamma Burger, NEKO Cat Cafe, and more. With the weather a bit unpredictable, the organizers remind everyone the festivities will go on rain or shine, so bring a jacket to be safe.

For those interested in civic happenings, the city is nearing completion of the North Haven tiny home village, a new housing project managed by HomesNOW. This initiative promises to provide vital shelter and amenities for those experiencing homelessness, with the first residents expected to move in by mid-May. The city is also making strides to improve the transition to FoodPlus, responding to community concerns with new options for smaller bins and expanded assistance programs, so keep an eye out for updates if your household is adjusting to the new composting requirements.

Travelers should be aware of some detours—Old Woburn Street is temporarily closed between Wildflower Way and Sweetbay Drive as the city installs a new crosswalk, and on the highways, there are temporary lane closures on I-5 through Bellingham this morning until two in the afternoon. If you’re planning a road trip, the North Cascades Highway is expected to reopen this month, another sign of spring’s arrival.

Finally, keep your plants covered—there’s a frost advisory in effect for the lowlands, so tender gardens should be protected tonight.

This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Thursday, April 17, 2025.

Today marks the kickoff of Bellingham Beer Week, so if you love craft brews, you are in luck. The festivities start tonight with a backyard barbecue party at Boundary Bay Brewery, where two new collaboration beers will be unveiled, brewed together with Stones Throw and Beach Cat Brewing. This launches eleven days of tap takeovers, food pairings, drag brunches, block parties and more, all celebrating Bellingham’s vibrant beer scene. The week builds towards the big April Brews Day festival at the Downtown Waterfront, so get ready for plenty of hoppy happenings around town.

Art lovers and bookworms should check out the buoy painting workshop happening at the Island Library from one to two thirty this afternoon. This free event is hosted by Whatcom READS and Bellingham SeaFeast, where participants will decorate small buoys that will later become part of a public art installation for SeaFeast. Space is limited, so if you want to get creative and join a lively discussion about Erica Bauermeister’s “No Two Persons,” you’ll want to register quickly.

If you’re looking for something a bit more hands-on this weekend, consider pitching in for Bellingham’s annual Earth Day events on Saturday. Volunteers are invited to help restore fish and wildlife habitat at the Squalicum Creek Re-Route Project from nine to noon, and if you have recyclables or old documents piling up, there’s a free recycling and shredding event in the Civic Stadium parking lot from noon to three. Families with young children can also look forward to earth-themed storytimes at the Bellingham Public Library all next week, making it a great opportunity to foster eco-friendly habits with the little ones.

On the community front, the city continues to listen to concerns about the organic waste collection program. In response to resident feedback, smaller compost bins are being made available, and the Customer Assistance Program is expanding to help more people access reduced rates for collection services.

Construction is nearing completion at the North Haven tiny home village, which will soon provide new facilities for residents in need. Managed by HomesNOW!, the village offers kitchen, laundry and bathroom amenities, with move-in scheduled for mid-May.

Before you get on the road today, be aware of temporary lane closures on I-5 through Bellingham for hillside rebuilding, expected to last through two in the afternoon. Plus, a frost advisory remains in effect for Whatcom County lowlands, so keep a close eye on those sensitive garden plants.

And finally, hundreds of nurses at PeaceHealth St. Joseph continue to negotiate for a new contract, with an informational picket planned for April 29 if talks don’t make progress. Both sides are meeting again this week, and the community is watching closely given the impact on local healthcare.

There’s always more happening. Check out local calendars for concerts, museums, and seasonal markets popping up all across Bellingham and Whatcom County. Whether you want to support our creative community, make a difference for the environment, or simply enjoy some of the best beer in the Northwest, there’s something for everyone.

This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

Today’s headlines start with some exciting local developments. The iconic Bellingham Cold Storage, a cornerstone of the city’s seafood and agriculture industries, is on the cusp of new ownership. Michigan-based Lineage Logistics is purchasing the company for $42 million, securing the long-term future of its waterfront facilities and supporting 1,200 year-round jobs. This move strengthens Bellingham’s role in global and regional supply chains.

On a different note, today marks the final deadline for refunds for the upcoming Ski to Sea race, Whatcom County’s biggest annual sporting event, scheduled for May 25. With a sold-out roster and a waitlist of 49 eager teams, excitement is already building. The excellent snowpack this year ensures no last-minute adjustments to the race’s ski leg, setting the stage for an unforgettable event.

Looking ahead, the library’s Drop-In Home Item Repair Workshop happens later today from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. at the Central Library’s SkillShare Space. Bring your broken household items and learn how to fix them with the help of skilled volunteers. And if you’re feeling creative, the Bellingham Queer Collective is hosting its FLINTA Night from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at L & L Libations. It’s a welcoming evening for queer people and allies who identify as female, lesbian, intersex, nonbinary, transgender, or agender.

Traffic updates are worth noting today as well. The I-5 through Bellingham will see lane closures later this week, but for now, commuters should take it easy as frost advisories linger in Whatcom County’s lowlands. Sensitive plants may need a little extra care this week.

For live entertainment, don’t miss Vaudevillingham, the monthly circus variety show, lighting up the stage tonight at 7 and 9 p.m. This quirky celebration of performance arts is always a crowd pleaser. And if you’re a music fan, check ahead for the Mount Baker Theatre’s thrilling lineup later this season.

Lastly, the Bellingham City Council and Whatcom County Council both meet today. Key topics include financial updates for the Port of Bellingham and remediation plans at the Plantation Rifle Range. If civic engagement is your thing, these meetings are invaluable opportunities to stay connected to the decisions shaping our community.

That’s your update for today! This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Saturday, April 12, 2025.

We’re starting off with a reminder to grab your umbrellas and watch those gusts—heavy rain and strong winds are in the forecast today. Areas near the Nooksack River are keeping a close eye on water levels as the river approaches flood action stages. If you're out and about, drive carefully and watch for debris on roads, especially after yesterday's severe weather.

Looking for something fun to do indoors? The Bellingham Public Library is hosting its Correspondence Club this morning from 10:30 to 12:30 in the SkillShare Space. Whether it’s postcards or pen pals, this gathering celebrates the art of letter-writing for all ages. Over at Mount Baker Theatre, you can step back into cinematic history at 2 p.m. with a screening of Charlie Chaplin’s *The Circus*, complete with a live organ score by Dennis James. Later, head to The Shakedown for an evening of live music starting at 8 p.m.

If you're feeling crafty, downtown Bellingham has the 13th Annual Recycled Arts & Resource Exhibition happening at 11 a.m. This event showcases stunning art pieces made from upcycled materials and includes hands-on, family-friendly activities. And for the gardeners out there, drop into the Spring Terrariums workshop at the Central Library, also starting at 11 a.m. It’s a chance to craft your own tiny, green ecosystem to take home.

Over in Blaine, the “Peace, Love, and a Handshake” rally continues at the Peace Arch Monument from noon to 2 p.m. This cross-border gathering aims to strengthen U.S.-Canada relationships and support local businesses hit hard by recent travel restrictions. Expect live music and a symbolic hockey-style handshake to cap the event.

In local news, the City of Bellingham was ordered to pay $2.25 million to the family of a former officer involved in domestic abuse. This verdict highlights how systemic accountability for public officials impacts the trust we place in local institutions. Meanwhile, Amtrak service through Bellingham is still rerouted, but partial service is expected to resume soon, offering some relief to frequent travelers.

And finally, a rare wildlife encounter delighted locals earlier this week as orcas were spotted in Bellingham Bay. If you’re by the shoreline, keep your eyes peeled; you might just catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

That’s it for today, Bellingham. Bundle up, stay safe, and enjoy all the events our vibrant community has to offer despite the weather. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Friday, April 11, 2025.

Let’s kick things off with your weather update. Rain is likely to persist today, with some potential heavy downpours and wind gusts reaching up to 45 miles per hour. While it might be a wet one, the weekend looks somewhat brighter—though rivers, including the Nooksack, could be nearing action levels due to the continued rainfall, so stay cautious near waterways.

In local news, the City of Bellingham has been ordered to pay $2.25 million in damages after a jury found it failed to act on domestic abuse allegations against a former police officer. This ruling has been a major talking point locally, shining a light on accountability within public institutions. Meanwhile, the community is also discussing concerns surrounding a recent ICE raid, which led to the detention of 37 individuals, drawing responses from state representatives and advocacy groups alike.

For commuters, heads up: a continued two-day lane closure on I-5 in Bellingham for hillside repairs might slow things down. Make sure to plan for delays. Additionally, for train travelers, Amtrak service is still facing disruptions due to ongoing inspections, with partial service expected to resume soon.

Looking for something to do today? There’s plenty happening across town. Comedy fans can head to the Great Blue Heron Grill at 7 p.m. tonight for a night of laughs featuring Gabriel Rutledge. Music lovers might enjoy live performances from 6 to 8 p.m. at Stones Throw Brewery in Fairhaven. For bookworms, Village Books and Paper Dreams will host Carolyn Russo Kinne for a discussion of *The True Adventures of Milton Ginsberg.*

If art is your vibe, the Lightcatcher Building is featuring a variety of exhibits by local and regional artists. Or, if you’re itching for some outdoor fun before the rain kicks in too hard, Bellingham’s parks and trails are always a good bet for a fresh-air break.

Finally, looking ahead, public engagement opportunities include providing feedback on updates to Bellingham’s Urban Forest Plan and draft chapters of the city’s comprehensive plan. It’s your chance to have a say in the future of our green spaces and community development.

That wraps up today’s update. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Stay safe, stay informed, and have a fantastic Friday!

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Thursday, April 10, 2025.

Spring is in full swing, and there’s plenty happening around Bellingham today. Let’s start with the weather. After a round of storms earlier this week, today looks much calmer. Expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures hovering around the mid-50s—perfect for getting outside and enjoying the beautiful day. Just a heads up, though, as the Nooksack River remains high after heavy rain, so be cautious near low-lying areas.

In local news, Bellingham police have already logged over 100 DUI arrests this year, so if you’re going out, make sure you’ve got a sober ride. On the transportation front, Amtrak service through Bellingham continues to be limited due to inspections, but partial service is expected to resume soon. If you're driving, watch for lane closures on I-5 through town as crews work on repairing damage from last year’s landslides.

For those looking to get involved, the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission meets tonight at 6 p.m. at 311 Grand Avenue. This is your chance to weigh in on key local policies, including initiatives and referendums. If public planning is more your scene, Bellingham is still collecting feedback on its Urban Forest Plan, which aims to preserve the greenery that makes our city so special.

Now, let’s talk events! If you’re in the mood for some community fun, head over to the Central Library today for the Building and Crafting Fun event—a great activity for all ages. Theater lovers can check out the Bellingham Theatre Guild’s performance of "Play On!" this evening. It’s a hilarious play within a play that promises plenty of laughs. Meanwhile, if you’re downtown, pop into one of the many live music venues—you’re bound to find something to match your vibe.

For sports fans, prep athletes across the county are kicking off their spring seasons, and it’s a great time to support your local teams. The Mariners are also in action tonight, hoping to extend a strong start to their season.

Finally, a couple of quick reminders: Everson has issued a boil-water advisory out of precaution, so residents there should take note. And for those heading to Mt. Baker, avalanche advisories remain active, so be careful if you plan to explore the backcountry.

That’s all for today. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates!

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

Today’s news begins with a heads-up for the weather. Keep an eye out for potential storms this evening, as meteorologists are warning of thunder, gusts up to 45 miles per hour, and even hail. It’s a good day to secure those patio chairs and drive cautiously on slick roads. On the bright side, when the weather clears up, our lush landscapes will look even more vibrant.

If you’re out and about today, consider stopping by the Bellingham Public Library for their Drop-In Home Item Repair Workshop from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. at the SkillShare Space. Bring along broken household items—think small appliances or toys—and work with skilled volunteers to learn how to fix them. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and pick up some handy skills. Earlier in the day, kids aged 11 to 14 can join the Spring Terrariums workshop from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Lecture Room. Snacks and all materials are provided, but make sure to pre-register.

For fans of the arts and live events, tonight at 6 p.m., the Bellingham Transportation Commission meets at City Hall to discuss developments, including exciting changes for Barkley Village. Meanwhile, over at Larrabee Lager Company, unwind with their Tuesday evening gathering from 6 to 8:30 p.m., a recurring staple for locals looking to socialize.

Outdoor enthusiasts, don’t forget about opportunities later this week, like joining a hands-on effort to remove invasive species and plant native trees along Padden Creek. All ages are welcome, and tools will be provided. It’s a great way to connect with the community and make an environmental impact.

In other news, Amtrak service through Bellingham is making strides toward resumption after recent disruptions, with additional replacement cars set to arrive soon. This is especially good news for those who rely on train travel to Seattle or Vancouver. On the roads, I-5 near Bellingham will see a two-day lane closure later this week as crews repair a hillside damaged by last year’s rains. Plan your commutes accordingly.

For sports fans, spring prep sports are in full swing. Keep an eye on your local high school teams as they compete across the region. It’s a perfect time to show your support and celebrate the hard work of our young athletes.

Lastly, if you’re looking to spend some quality time exploring, why not take a walk through Fairhaven or the Downtown Arts District? Both neighborhoods are brimming with charm, art, and local history that make Bellingham a truly special place to live.

That’s it for today. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Saturday, April 5, 2025.

Today in Bellingham, the skies are gray, and the rain is making its presence felt. Heavy rainfall continues this weekend, and the Nooksack River is forecasted to approach action levels by Monday night. Make sure to prepare for localized flooding and exercise caution on wet roads. Speaking of travel, a recent rollover crash on I-5 sent two to the hospital and has reminded us all to drive safely, especially in these slick conditions.

In event news, there’s plenty to do around town! At noon, the Federal Building downtown will host **Hands Off! Bellingham Fights Back**, a gathering by the EcoReformers Movement to unite the community against injustice. Over at the Firehouse Arts and Events Center, Deb Talan will be performing from 2 to 4:30 p.m., offering a musical treat for your afternoon. Fans of live music can also head to The Shakedown tonight for *DEAL: An Evening of Grateful Dead Music*. If you love the classics, this event starts at 8 p.m. for some good vibes and great tunes.

For those in the mood for culture and culinary delights, don’t miss the Bellingham Festival of Music’s *Around the World in 22 Days* dinner and live auction. This elegant evening starts at 6 p.m. and promises an exciting mix of food, music, and community. Tickets are still available for this premier event.

Also, a reminder for those interested in civic engagement: next week, the Bellingham Transportation Commission will meet on Tuesday, April 8, to discuss making Barkley Village more multimodal-friendly. It’s a great opportunity to weigh in on how we design our city for pedestrians and cyclists.

On a more serious note, the community is still responding to the ICE raid earlier this week at Mount Baker Roofing, which detained 37 workers. Local representatives, including U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, have called for accountability and greater transparency from federal agencies, citing concerns about fear and economic impacts on small businesses. It’s a developing story that has left many in the community uneasy.

Looking ahead to recreation: while the Mt. Baker Ski Area remains closed for avalanche safety, this is an ideal time to explore local indoor options or enjoy a cozy weekend at home with a cup of tea while the rain comes down.

That’s a wrap for today! This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Friday, April 4, 2025.

It’s shaping up to be a lively day in Bellingham with an array of events and news developments to keep you informed and entertained. Kicking off the weekend, the Whatcom Museum is hosting its Free First Friday Conservation and Sustainability event today at Old City Hall and The Lightcatcher. This Earth Day-themed event features a Fix-It Fair, recycled art-making workshops with local artists, and a screening of the documentary "Fish Wars." It’s a fantastic way to celebrate our planet ahead of Earth Day while exploring the museum's exhibits.

For those looking to enjoy a vibrant evening, Bar Two Eleven is hosting "HUNKS The Show" tonight starting at 8 p.m. If you’re over 21 and looking for a fun girls’ night out, this high-energy entertainment promises laughter and excitement. Make sure to grab your tickets beforehand as this event is expected to sell out quickly!

Live music lovers can head over to the Corner Taphouse, where Dvas will be performing from 7 to 9 p.m., setting the stage for a cozy night with good vibes and great music. And for those into unique experiences, the Whatcom Home & Lifestyle Show kicks off today at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds from 4 to 7 p.m. This event showcases home improvement ideas and lifestyle products alongside a Freedom Vans Rally—perfect for anyone dreaming of vanlife adventures.

While events bring joy to the community, there’s pressing news to discuss as well. Families in Bellingham are rallying this weekend following the recent detention of 37 workers by immigration officials at Mount Baker Roofing. This raid has brought forth heartfelt calls for accountability and support for affected families. A rally is scheduled for tomorrow at noon as the community comes together to address these concerns.

On the weather front, the rain will continue this evening, and the Nooksack River is nearing its action level, potentially cresting late Monday. Stay safe by keeping an eye on flood alerts and adjusting travel routes if necessary. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mt. Baker Ski Area remains closed today due to avalanche risks, so plan accordingly.

Finally, as the weekend begins, remember local community engagement opportunities. Share your feedback on Bellingham’s Urban Forest Plan or proposed rental fee ordinances. Input from residents is vital to shaping these initiatives.

This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.