Good morning, Bellingham.

Twelve new volunteer firefighters graduated from the East County Recruit Academy in Deming after 15 weeks of training, celebrated by friends, family and local community members.

The Lynden Public Schools Foundation Board is hosting a pillow & backpack drive today, collecting new standard-size items for students in need throughout the district to help them start the school year with comfort and confidence.

Local real estate agent Ethan Hunger will attempt 72 super-sprint triathlons in a world record bid to raise $500,000 for the Food Bank.

The event begins at 6:00 p.m. Friday, July 24 at Bloedel Donovan Park (a hometown effort).

Whatcom County’s unemployment rate dropped from 4.5% to 4.1% in June as a shrinking labor force led to 1,044 job losses from May (the labor force fell by over 1,600 workers), and Skagit County saw a decline from 5% to 4.4%, leaving both counties below the 4.7% state rate.

The Nooksack Valley School Board approved the 2026-2027 budget today in Lynden.

The decision lays out the district's financial plan for the upcoming school year.

Residents in western Washington are experiencing hazy air today as wildfire smoke drifts from eastern Washington and Oregon with a heat advisory in effect, and forecasts predict cooler temperatures by Saturday; Skagit and Whatcom counties report the heaviest smoke.

Local Bells won 11 to 4 yesterday with a third inning scoring six runs and now will try for a fourth straight win tonight at Joe Martin Field (tickets half price).

Key players Bryce Johnson, Tyler Peshke and Seddrick Henderson helped build the victory.

Florry Live at The Shakedown

7-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — $10+ — Experience the vibrant indie-country sounds of Florry and their eclectic lineup in downtown Bellingham.

Laughs with Richard Bowen

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Larrabee Lager Co — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night full of laughs with Seattle's own Richard Bowen and friends.

Soul Fire: A 70's Soul Tribute

7-11:30 p.m. — Blue Room — $15 — Enjoy a vibrant night filled with smooth grooves and fiery soul as you dance to the best hits of the 70's.

Baby Cakes Concert at Hotel Bellwether

5-9 p.m. — Hotel Bellwether — $15 adults, $10 kids — Enjoy BBQ, craft brews, and a lively performance by the high-energy Baby Cakes band.