Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of June.
Good morning, Bellingham.
On June 15, 2026, Mayor Kim Lund signed an executive order in Bellingham to boost local business by streamlining permitting, creating a business concierge, and proposing a seven-year downtown tax holiday – measures aimed at strengthening the City Center and waterfront for future job growth.
WSDOT is asking local residents for input on future paving projects in Lynden, including a 2-mile Guide Meridian stretch and improvements to E Badger Road via an online survey open until July 1.
The work will begin in 2028 (feedback will guide final plans).
Bellingham will get four regular and 12 fast-charging EV ports funded by state grants that will be active by late 2027 — two sites for public use and one for a multifamily complex.
Both lanes of northbound I-5 near Chuckanut Creek are moving to a temporary bypass at 8:00 p.m. Wednesday night while crews begin installing a fish-passable culvert, and the speed limit is set at 50 mph until repairs finish—with southbound lanes shifting on June 15.
Health officials are investigating a recalled powdered infant formula by Nara Organics after an infant was hospitalized in Thurston County.
Parents are urged to check cupboards and return any affected products to the store.
Bellingham's Bells start a three-game road series in Port Angeles today at 6:35 — they climb to second in the North Division after a series win over the Portland Pickles.
Fans can expect a competitive game as the team builds on its recent success.
The Bells are hitting the road today for a three-game series in Port Angeles at 6:35 p.m. + a recent series win moved them to second place in the North Division.
Tool Fair
Join us Father's Day Weekend, June 19–20, for the Hardware Sales 30th Annual Tool Fair — Bellingham's favorite tradition celebrating 30 years of community, featuring live demos, vendor booth raffles, a Super Raffle, exclusive Tool Fair merch, and a Beer Garden at Stemma West. Meet reps from your favorite tool brands, score deals, and keep the fun going at participating local businesses all weekend long.
Tool Fair
Join us Father's Day Weekend, June 19–20, for the Hardware Sales 30th Annual Tool Fair — Bellingham's favorite tradition celebrating 30 years of community, featuring live demos, vendor booth raffles, a Super Raffle, exclusive Tool Fair merch, and a Beer Garden at Stemma West. Meet reps from your favorite tool brands, score deals, and keep the fun going at participating local businesses all weekend long.
Mason Bee Revolution with Dave Hunter
6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Explore the crucial role of mason bees in pollination with expert insights and engaging discussions.
Laughs @ Larrabee Comedy Night featuring Brett Emerson
8:00 – 9:30 PM — Larrabee Lager Co — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of nonstop laughs with standout comedians Brett Emerson, Mariah Dodd, and Jay Markowitz.
Rhys Langston Live at The Shakedown
8-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — Tickets required — Experience the genre-defying sounds of Rhys Langston and his eclectic live set.
Eternal Wave Live Concert
Jul 3-4 — The Shakedown — Tickets not specified — Experience infectious surf rock vibes with Eternal Wave and Where’s West? in a night of catchy tunes and dance moves.
Jontavious Willis Live
8-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — Ticket info available — Experience the vibrant fusion of traditional and modern Blues that brings audiences to their feet.
NW Tune-Up 2026
5-10 p.m. — Waterfront Pump Track — Ticket required — Experience world-class mountain biking, live music, and community culture in Bellingham, WA.
Northwest Tune-Up 2026
5:50-9:50 p.m. — Waypoint Park — Cost not specified — Enjoy an evening with modern crooner Stephen Day in the heart of Bellingham.
Iris Fisher Smith Book Launch
4-5 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Discover a heartfelt memoir that inspires hope and resilience through the journey of faith.
Club Weezer with DJ Mandy Moorhol
9 p.m. — The Shakedown — Tickets available — Indie rock and slacker rock fans unite for a vibrant dance party with DJ Mandy Moorhol.
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