Good morning, Bellingham.

Everson Police are investigating a neighborhood prowler on Reeds Lane after reports that a darker-skinned man in his 20s—approximately 5’10” tall with a thin build and short, curly hair—entered a home through an unlocked door on July 30 and was seen again at a locked door on August 15; residents are urged to secure their homes and call 360-676-6911 with any information.

US tariffs on Canada hurt Bellingham businesses — more than half of surveyed companies reported lower sales after Canadian tourism declined, the Chamber of Commerce said.

Crews are hauling out contaminated soil from Padden Creek after a diesel spill from a faulty pump, and technicians are taking soil samples to decide when excavation will end.

Bellingham Public Works replaced the pump and enhanced secondary containment—steps that may set a new safety standard as the fish passage project remains halted until cleanup is complete.

Bloedel-Donovan Park will close for playground upgrades starting Monday, Aug 25 and will reopen in October.

The park will have over 40 play features—slides, climbers, swings and 11 elevated, wheelchair-accessible items.

Champ Thomaskutty was named as the new director of Health and Community Services in Whatcom County and will take over at the end of October—pending county council confirmation.

He served as deputy health officer in Maryland since 2017 and looks forward to improving local health outcomes.

Government officials advise residents to learn how to shut off natural gas, electricity and propane when disasters like earthquakes or lightning strikes occur.

Amy Cloud explained steps such as using a crescent wrench—turning a shut-off valve 90 degrees—and urged households to practice these safety measures during upcoming blue sky days.

Residents are advised by local emergency management to learn how to turn off natural gas, electricity and propane so that if a disaster like an earthquake, tsunami or lightning strike occurs the risk of fire or explosion is lowered—using a 12-inch wrench to turn the shut-off valve a quarter turn.

Whatcom County offers a variety of summer activities as residents enjoy hikes on Horseshoe Bend, Church Mountain, and Lake Ann trails while checking for possible trailhead closures.

Today, Wild Buffalo hosts live reggae by Mihali at 9 p.m.—StoneStock runs Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Cordata Gallery shows free local art until Sept. 27.

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.

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.

Introduction to the Laser Cutter

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free entry for members — Learn about laser cutting, vector graphics, and more with expert Jason Davies.

An Evening of Self-Compassion

6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Discover how to cultivate kindness towards yourself and manage difficult emotions effectively.

Intro to Vector Graphics Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — $Cost info available via inquiry — Master the art of vector graphics using Inkscape with expert guidance.

The Lone Bellow Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the transcendent harmonies and live energy of Brooklyn's rising band.