Good morning, Bellingham.

Western Washington University has launched a new fund to support investigative journalism by student reporters using money from a 2019 lawsuit settlement that was resolved in 2024; former student journalists donated $42,000 to ensure $1,600 per year for these projects.

The fund aims to provide resources for future investigations and to help hold the university accountable.

Student workers at Western Washington University paused their five-day strike after a Monday morning meeting with administrators—prompted by state Rep. Joe Timmons.

The university said it will work with the roughly 1,200 non-academic employees in the coming days as the union seeks voluntary recognition since state law does not extend bargaining rights to student workers.

A portion of the Skagit River will reopen for salmon fishing from June 16 through July 15.

Fishermen may only fish during the day between the Memorial Highway Bridge in Mount Vernon and the Dalles Bridge in Concrete with a daily limit of four sockeye salmon (at least 12 inches long).

On Friday, a semi-truck carrying 70,000 pounds of honey bee hives crashed in Whatcom County, causing approximately 250 million bees to escape—officials are now working to contain the swarm.

The Mariners won walk-off games against the Twins as Cole Young earned his first win and Randy Arozarena hit the game-winning single, and today they announced that Randy Johnson’s No. 51 jersey will be retired in 2026—marking the 35th anniversary of his first no-hitter—while the Bells won a series in Nanaimo and will open their home season tomorrow at Joe Martin Field. Meanwhile, the Sounders, Reign and Storm suffered losses, Sehome boys soccer finished third at state, Mount Vernon won a 3A baseball championship and Western’s rowing team earned a bronze medal at nationals.

Intro to Laser Cutter Workshop

6-7 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Class fees applicable — Learn to safely operate the laser cutter and create your own acrylic keychain.

Bellingham Scottish Gathering

8 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Blaine Marine Park-kids play area — Free entry — Celebrate Scotland's vibrant culture in the heart of Blaine.

Comedy Night with Scott Losse

9:30-11:30 p.m. — Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs with national headliner Scott Losse in Bellingham.

Ann Aguirre Book Launch with Sarah Hawley

6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — $6.44 - $20.44 — Celebrate the launch of Ann Aguirre's newest book with an engaging conversation and a book voucher.

Intro to the Laser Cutter

6-7 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get insights on laser projects and learn about design tools with expert Jason Davies.

Tenderpile Smile Aisle Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Aslan Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy a melodic evening of jazz music from the local group Tenderpile Smile Aisle.

Intro to Vector Graphics Workshop

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Bellingham Makerspace — $ — Learn to create stunning vector graphics using Inkscape for your creative projects.

Boulevard Park Concert Series: SpaceBand

6-8 p.m. — Boulevard Park Stage — Free — Enjoy an evening of old-school dance covers and new classics with the local favorite, SpaceBand.

Bellingham Festival of Music Opening Night 2025

7:30 p.m. — Performing Arts Center — $50--$60 — Experience a global musical tour with Artistic Director Marcelo Lehninger and pianist Simon Trpceski starting with The Russian Masters.

2025 Literary Citizenship Awards Ceremony

6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Celebrate local literary citizens recognized for their contributions to the community.