Good morning, Bellingham.

Census Bureau data shows that more people aged 65 and older were counted than those under 18 in Whatcom County last year.

This shift mirrors a national trend as state figures show children's numbers dropping by over 42,000 while seniors increased by nearly 160,000 — a change observed in several counties.

Henry Bierlink retired on June 30 after a 25-year career as executive director of the Washington Red Raspberry Commission and as administrator of Whatcom County’s Ag Water Board—he worked on water rights, water quality and raspberries to support local agriculture.

Clean Cut Futures is hosting its first annual car show at Bellis Fair Mall on Sunday, July 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature a range of vehicles from classic American muscle cars to Hellcats and Harleys.

Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County was selected as one of 100 community nominees for Lowe’s Hometowns grant—an award of $160K—for renovating a youth center that will serve local families.

The funds will support improvements aimed at strengthening this community hub.

Two people were rescued on Fragrance Lake Trail south of Bellingham after a tree fell on them at around 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday—rangers, staff, and fire crews worked together to free them—and both were taken to PeaceHealth St Joseph Medical Center for treatment.

Nico Sanchez started Black Noise Records in 2016 after he moved to Bellingham to attend WWU, eventually opening a record store on Bay Street that sells Blues, Soul, Jazz and Hip-Hop/Rap records — he hosts $5 album release parties and vinyl DJ events that support local music.

He makes music under the name OG Neeks and built the label to serve his underground community amid economic challenges.

Retail vacancies in Bellingham grew by nearly 90,000 square feet between April and June as closures of Rite Aid and JoAnn Fabrics pushed rates from 3.6% to 4.5% outside Bellis Fair Mall.

Office vacancies reached about 5% and lease prices climbed roughly one dollar per square foot—signaling continued landlord optimism.

Horseshoe Tournament

All day — Lynden / Bellingham KOA Journey — Entry fee required — Compete in a thrilling horseshoe tournament while enjoying scavenger hunts and tractor rides.

Cascadia Dirt Cup 2025 – Galbraith Mountain Enduro

July 12-13 — Galbraith Mountain and Padden Trails Parking Lot — Entry fee varies — Experience thrilling mountain bike racing at the fourth stop of the Cascadia Dirt Cup series.

Intro to the Laser Cutter

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Learn from laser expert Jason Davies and get your questions answered about laser projects and techniques.

Midsummer Cider Tasting

4-7 p.m. — Elizabeth Station — Free entry — Sample specialty ciders from local farms and enjoy beautiful bouquets in a vibrant community setting.

Northwest Raspberry Festival

9 AM – 8 PM — Downtown Lynden — Free entry — Celebrate Whatcom County's raspberry bounty with live music, food sampling, and community fun.

Vietnam Veterans Car Show

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Barkley Village Green — Free admission — Celebrate veterans with a showcase of classic cars and community camaraderie.

Bad Posture Club's Album Release Show

8-10 p.m. — New Prospect Theatre — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the release of Affinity with the enchanting sounds of Bad Posture Club and special guests.

Blues, Brews & BBQ featuring The Atlantics

5-9 p.m. — Hotel Bellwether — Alcohol not included in ticket price — Enjoy live Rhythm & Blues and BBQ with stunning waterfront views.

Ian's Ride: A Journey to Joy with Ian MacKay & Karen Polinsky

6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Explore the inspiring biography of a quadriplegic athlete who found healing through nature and community.

PawArty Paint & Sip Party

12-1:30 p.m. — Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro — $20 (+fees) — Unleash your creativity while supporting local shelter animals with a fun afternoon of painting and sipping.