Good morning, Bellingham.

Foothills Food Bank remained secure despite federal funding cuts, with Executive Director Henry Fisher saying the organization is not going under anytime soon — it will adjust services to face reduced funds.

The bank plans to make the necessary decisions to continue serving the community.

The Whatcom County 4-H Livestock Judging Team competed on July 11 — earning both individual and team honors across multiple divisions, showing their dedication and skill.

State Attorney General Nick Brown announced a plan to stop machine gun converters from being returned in Washington since the devices are found on guns used in mass shootings and crimes.

The federal ATF and Rare Breed Triggers agreed—following a lawsuit by more than a dozen state attorneys general—to not send the devices to states involved in the suit.

Gov. Bob Ferguson decried a federal budget bill that cuts Medicaid funding—threatening hospital closures and leaving a quarter million residents without coverage while another 150,000 may lose healthcare exchange access.

He said the bill also takes $11 million from Planned Parenthood and reduces SNAP assistance for rural areas, and Washington will use Health Care Authority funds to help if the lawsuit fails.

The City of Bellingham plans to improve the bike lanes on Holly Street in the coming weeks, starting the week of July 21.

The work will last one to two days with lane closures that may cause traffic delays — the project will change parking-protected lanes to buffered ones and add upgraded intersections and striping for safer crossings.

AG Brown announced today that Washington state will block sales of devices that convert guns into machine guns following a federal lawsuit by several state attorneys general.

The ATF & Rare Breed Triggers agreed not to return these devices after they were found more often on weapons used in mass shootings and other crimes.

Gov. Bob Ferguson criticized the federal budget bill that cuts Medicaid and SNAP, saying the funding loss will force hospitals to close and many residents to lose healthcare coverage.

He warned that if Planned Parenthood's lawsuit fails, the state will provide backup funds from the Health Care Authority — rural areas could suffer long-term effects.

Bellingham hosts a busy weekend with NW Tune-Up running from Friday, July 11 through Sunday, July 13 on the waterfront—featuring mountain bike races, live music, free bike demos, and local vendors—while PRIDE Bellingham offers a family picnic and all-ages dance today and a parade on Sunday. A car show takes place at Pioneer Park on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and another is scheduled for Sunday at Bellis Fair Mall, with a live rock show by local bands at Shakedown today at 9 p.m.

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.

Soccer Summer Camp in Bellingham

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. — Phillips 66 Soccer Park — Registration required — Learn soccer skills from Real Madrid Foundation coaches while making new friends.

Intro to the Laser Cutter Workshop

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Class fees apply — Learn to safely operate a powerful laser cutter and create your own acrylic keychain.