Good morning, Bellingham.

Bloedel Donovan Park reopened today after nearly two months of construction that upgraded its playground with over 40 features — including accessible ramps and separate areas for young and school-aged children.

Bellingham Parks and Recreation said final touches will be completed in the coming weeks.

Bellingham's retail spaces saw more vacancies in the third quarter as rates climbed to 5.3 percent from closures at Sunset Square and Bellis Fair—landlords raised lease prices to $20.48 per square foot while industrial spaces remained nearly full.

Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said that a federal judge blocked layoffs affecting education department staff while the state’s special education services remain fully funded to support students with disabilities.

He warned that without strong federal backup, legal protections for students could vary across states.

Mitch Nolze is the fire chief at South Whatcom Fire Authority who directs policy, budgeting, and resource allocation for emergency services in Whatcom County.

He leads a team that handles mainly EMS calls and coordinates county-wide mobilization—ensuring his department is ready for emergencies while managing his family time.

WSDOT closed the last 2.7 miles of SR 542 at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday—ending road access to Artist Point as officials warn that the road will remain closed until likely June if weather follows past trends.

The Mariners aim for a 3-0 ALCS lead tonight at T-Mobile with George Kirby on the mound, while the Dodgers took a 2-0 lead and the Kraken lost 5–4 in overtime last night.

Local sports stay busy as WWU opens its basketball season with Viking Jam at Carver Gym tonight and Lummi Nation School celebrated two new mini soccer pitches built with FIFA support—highlighting a busy sports day in the region—.

Volunteer Opportunity: Community Work Party at Big Rock Garden Park

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Big Rock Garden Park — Free entry — Help clean sculptures and tidy this peaceful park suitable for all ages.

DESERT ANGEL

Join us this Sunday, October 17th at 12:30 pm, at the Pickford Film Center to watch one of their October's Official Selection DESERT ANGEL. We will have a table in the lobby with information, and we will be discussing the struggles our immigrant community is currently facing.

Intro to the Laser Cutter

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get expert laser cutter insights and project tips with Jason Davies.

How Birds Fly: The Art and Science of Avian Flight

4-5 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Dive into the fascinating world of avian flight with Peter Cavanagh's artful and scientific exploration.

High Step Society Dance Party

9 PM - 1 AM — Wild Buffalo House Of Music — Cost Info not specified — Experience a dynamic blend of jazz with a big band atmosphere at this unique dance party.

Beyond the Veil Concert

7-9 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — $34 — Celebrate Halloween with a spine-tingling concert featuring ghostly tunes and a costume catwalk.

The Sea - Film Screening

3-4 p.m. — Firehouse Arts & Events Center Bellingham — $5-$15 — Experience a poignant exploration of aging and relationships through the art of dance and film.

Intro to the Laser Cutter

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Ask questions and get insights on your laser projects with expert guidance from Jason Davies.

25th Annual Nordic Fest

10 AM – 4 PM — Ferndale Events Center — $5, FREE Under 13 — Celebrate Nordic culture with crafts, baked goods, and all-day entertainment.

Building Hope: Numan Gala

12-5 a.m. — 1650 Baker Creek Pl, Bellingham, WA — Fundraising event — An evening of dinner, a silent auction, and 80's dancing to support orphaned children in Ethiopia.