Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of April.
Good morning, Bellingham.
Secure bike lockers are now installed at the airport and Fairhaven Transit Station in Bellingham.
Rent them via the Movatic app for 5 cents per hour for ten days and 12 cents for four days, helping residents choose secure, active transportation.
Local coffee roaster Alexarc Mastema has called Bellingham home for over 30 years and now operates Maniac Roasting from a shop on Franklin Street (near Options High School), where he produces about 500 pounds of beans weekly for local cafes and home roasters.
Allegiant Airlines will close its crew base in November and rotate staff from its other bases while flights remain unchanged – according to Port of Bellingham Aviation Director Matt Rodriguez.
Puget Sound Energy has proposed rate changes for Whatcom County customers.
Effective May 1, natural gas bills will drop slightly while residential electric rates may rise by less than 2% — with full increases expected by 2029 to fund infrastructure upgrades.
Bellingham Public Schools said it will cut around 60 staff positions next year due to a $7.5 million deficit (shortfall) but will not close any elementary schools this fall after community feedback.
The district will hold sessions in April at its District Office on 1985 Barkley Boulevard.
Homeowners in Whatcom County can save on utility bills this spring by adjusting their HVAC systems—lowering thermostats, replacing filters, and sealing air leaks—and scheduling routine maintenance to cope with fluctuating temperatures and prepare for warmer months.
Local veterinarians advise Whatcom County pet owners to keep pets leashed and update vaccinations today as longer days increase wildlife encounters, toxic plant exposure, and parasite risks (such as ticks and fleas), urging careful supervision during outdoor activities.
WWU Vikings' senior shortstop Haily Rath earned GNAC Player of the Week after a four-game sweep of Central + her key plays helped the team top conference standings.
The Vikings return to Bellingham this weekend for doubleheaders against Northwest Nazarene.
Bootsy Holler in Conversation with Kyle Logghe: MAKiNG iT
6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Dive into the Seattle music scene of the 90s and 2000s with photographer Bootsy Holler discussing her new book, 'MAKiNG iT!'.
Book Discussion with Nancy Y. Levine and Rachel Levine-Spates
2-3 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Explore a powerful dual POV memoir on recovery and hope with the authors in person.
The Bolshoi Brothers Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — Tickets starting at $76 — Experience an unforgettable performance by The Bolshoi Brothers in Bellingham.
BRD Presents: Hindsight - A Celebration of 20 Years
7-8:30 p.m. — Firehouse Arts & Events Center Bellingham — Ticket information to be announced — Celebrate two decades of contemporary dance with a vibrant mix of beloved repertory and new works by BRD alumni.
Terry Tempest Williams in Conversation with Brenda Miller: The Glorians
6-7 p.m. — Sehome High School, 2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy, Bellingham, WA — General admission sold out, but book/reservation combo still available — Explore the beauty of the ordinary with eco-visionary Terry Tempest Williams.
Kenadie Lee: Handwritten Poetry Reading
6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Experience a poetic journey through gratitude and nature with local writer Kenadie Lee.
Intro to the Laser Cutter
6-7 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get your laser cutter questions answered by an expert in a casual Q&A session.
TJ Poortinga Book Launch
6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — In-person event — Explore TJ Poortinga's debut darkly-comic psychological fiction, 'Electric Orange!'.
April Brews Day Festival 2026
3-8 p.m. — Civic Stadium — Ticket prices may vary — Celebrate craft beverages with 40+ breweries, cideries, live music, and local food.
David Mason: Cold Fire
8 AM – 5 PM — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Contact via email for details — Attend a day of literary exploration at this local venue.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Bellingham.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.