Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of August.
Good morning, Bellingham.
📰 Economy
Gas prices in Whatcom County are $4.30 a gallon, which is over 5% higher than last year—residents now pay 36% more than the national average that dropped 8%.
AAA said storms might affect supply as peak hurricane season nears, but no major change is expected.
🎓 Education
The Bellingham Technical College Foundation awarded a record-setting $1,422,000 in scholarships for the 2025-2026 school year, with nearly 600 students receiving an average of $2,400 each—about 80% of those who applied.
The award broke last year's record by including nearly 100 more students and an extra $300,000.
🏛️ Government
The Washington State Transportation Commission released Transportation Plan Vision 2050, a new 20-year roadmap for the transportation network that supports zero-emission transportation, flexible transit systems, and cross-jurisdictional partnerships.
The plan was developed over two years of research and public outreach, including a comment period.
Bellingham City Council approved another six-month extension for the Landmark Tree Ordinance today — the policy stops cutting trees that are 36 inches or more in diameter and fines violators between $800 and $5,000 per incident.
The decision comes as developers and environmental advocates debate its impact on housing and climate benefits.
🏥 Health
Shellfish harvesting in Birch Bay is closed because unsafe levels of toxins were found that can cause serious illness, reported by Whatcom County Health and Community Services.
The closure affects molluscan shellfish along the coast from Sandy Point to Point Roberts — this is the second summer closure — and harvesters must check the Washington Shellfish Closure map or call the Biotoxin Hotline before gathering.
🏈 Sports
The Bells are in Portland tonight for the WCL Championship against the Pickles with a 7:05 first pitch following their North Division win—Mariners lost to the Orioles earlier today in a rain-delayed game.
The Storm dropped their sixth game and will try to rebound in Atlanta tomorrow while the Seahawks host the Chiefs at 7:00 with former Coug Minshew expected to start—NBA star Jamal Crawford also plans a pro-am next summer.
The Bells are in Portland tonight for the WCL Championship with a chance at their first title since 2014 after being named North Division champions on Tuesday, while the Mariners lost to the Orioles today.
The Seahawks will start their preseason tomorrow at 7:00 p.m. at Lumen Field with former Coug Gardner Minshew likely starting, and the Storm, who fell to Atlanta last night, are set for a rematch tomorrow—Jamal Crawford plans a pro-am league next summer that may attract NBA stars.
🎉 Bellingham Events
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Bellingham Off-Road Triathlon
8:30 a.m. — Lake Padden Park — Registration required — Experience thrilling swimming, mountain biking, and trail running around Lake Padden.
Intro to Vector Graphics with Inkscape
6:00–7:30 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Class fees apply — Learn to create vector graphics using free software to craft art and cutting files.
Elizabeth Park Concert Series: bandZandt
6-8 p.m. — Elizabeth Park — Free entry — Dance along to East County’s favorite band at the 31st season of summer concerts.
Children's Printmaking Workshop
10-11 a.m. — Bellingham Public Library - Central Branch — Free entry — Explore the art of printmaking with all supplies provided and welcome to all ages.
Rizo and Making Movies present Fun House, with Lilo Sanchez
The Making Movies band will donate the proceeds from merchandise sales at the concert to IRIS, an organization supporting local immigrant families affected by deportations. Get your tickets at the Shakedown.
Josh Turner Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience the classic country sounds of Josh Turner as he showcases his 10th studio album with dynamic vocals and vibrant instrumentation.
Intro to the Laser Cutter
4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get your laser project questions answered by expert Jason Davies in an informal Q&A session.
The Neighborhood Kids Live at Sh'Bang Festival 2025
12-6 p.m. — Lookout Arts Quarry — Free entry — Enjoy a lively performance by The Neighborhood Kids and local hip hop artists at the Sh'Bang Festival.
Mat Kearney Live Concert
7-9 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening with the acclaimed singer-songwriter Mat Kearney as he performs fan favorites.
Wilderness First Aid Training
9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. — Larrabee State Park — Pricing varies — Gain crucial wilderness medical skills while enjoying the scenic beauty of Bellingham.
🏠 Bellingham Real Estate
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💼 Bellingham Job Board
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📣 Bellingham Announcements
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