Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of May.
Good morning, Bellingham.
A Lynden school bus driver, Annette Lyon, died after a two-vehicle crash on W.
Main Street just before 8 a.m. on Thursday—no students were on board.
Beach Cat Brewing is building a new taproom on the Bellingham waterfront that will offer indoor and outdoor seating with views of Bellingham Bay—construction continues as the space will increase brew capacity from seven to 30 kegs per brew.
Homeowners in Whatcom County are saving money and enjoying smoother indoor temperatures with new variable-speed HVAC units that run quietly and efficiently.
Government rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act help cover up to 30 percent of upgrade costs—making these upgrades more affordable.
The U.S. Department of Education started a Title IX investigation into the state Superintendent’s Office on April 30 after reports said the office made schools let boys join girls' sports and use girls' locker rooms—this could put federal money at risk.
The Lynden School Board discussed the issue on May 1 while state Superintendent Chris Reykdal said state law protects all students from discrimination.
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary Communication Service is asking people who are good with social media to learn ham radio for emergency calls and community events.
Training is set for Saturday, May 31 (9 a.m. to noon) at the Emergency Operations Center at 3888 Sound Way in Bellingham.
Lawmakers approved a new state budget that will cut $400 million from higher education spending, causing WWU to lose $8 million.
WWU took cost-saving steps last fall and now faces a total net loss of $13 million — but funding continues for projects like a $41 million heating conversion, classroom upgrades and security improvements.
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office ACS invites locals with social media skills to join its ham radio training session designed to improve emergency communications during community events.
The session will be held on Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Emergency Operations Center at 3888 Sound Way in Bellingham — the training helps volunteers earn FCC licenses.
A local real estate expert answered the top 10 common questions about buying and selling houses in Whatcom County, noting steady demand and limited supply in areas like Ferndale and Birch Bay and explaining that buyers can use low down payment options (as little as 3 to 5% is possible) to secure a home.
Procession of the Species 2025
2 PM — Downtown Bellingham Partnership — Free entry — Celebrate nature and creativity with a vibrant costume procession and festival.
3rd Annual Living Donor Forum
12-2 p.m. — Squalicum Boathouse — Lunch Provided — Hear inspiring stories and learn about the impact of kidney donation.
Drink Beer for a Good Cause
El Sueñito will donate $1 per pint of beer sold from open to close to IRIS. Chicas Reinas and Chicos de Oro-Folklorico Dance Group will be performing at 6:00pm.
An Evening of Poetry with Dion O'Reilly and Kami Westhoff
6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Experience a poignant exploration of love, grief, and memory through the eyes of two celebrated local poets.
Introduction to the Laser Cutter
6-7 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get insights on laser projects with expert guidance from Jason Davies.
Quartet San Francisco Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the Bay Area’s leading crossover string ensemble with Grammy-winning performances.
Women's Only Spring Fling Hike
9-11 a.m. — Clayton Beach Trailhead — Discovery pass required — Explore a scenic forest trail and relax at the beach with fellow nature lovers.
Sunday Jazz Brunch at Hotel Leo
8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Hotel Leo — Enjoy a delightful brunch accompanied by live jazz music.
The Chuckanut Radio Hour with Patrick Hutchison
7-8 p.m. — The Hotel Leo Crystal Ballroom — $5 — Enjoy an evening of music and storytelling featuring author Patrick Hutchison and musician Phil Paige.
Intro to Vector Graphics Workshop
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — See event details for registration costs — Learn to create vector graphics using Inkscape for laser and vinyl cutting.
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