Lavonte David intercepted Sam Darnold with 58 seconds left, setting up Chase McLaughlin's game-winning field goal as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 38-35. Baker Mayfield completed 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Bucs secure their fourth win by three points or fewer this season.
Skagit County Commissioners implemented a 90-day hiring freeze due to a $19 million deficit in the 2026 budget. They are exploring options such as layoffs and a new public safety sales tax to address the shortfall. Public comment on the preliminary budget will open on November 17th.
Silver Beach Elementary School in Bellingham has been identified as having the highest lead contamination levels in Washington state. Testing revealed lead levels over 800 times higher than safe limits, leading to the removal of one sink, while another's levels returned to safety. Bellingham Public Schools stated that contractors could not replicate the DOH's findings.
The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) approved the $6.2 million purchase of the former Base Camp property in Bellingham for redevelopment. Plans include creating offices, tenant spaces, and a new bus station, with construction expected to begin in 2030. WTA aims to incorporate workforce and market-rate housing through collaboration with a private developer.
An Orcas Island resident, Jasmine Ikeda, was detained by the Israeli military while participating in an aid flotilla aimed at delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza. The flotilla, which included over 500 participants, was intercepted on October 1, prompting U.S. Representative Rick Larsen to advocate for Ikeda's humane treatment and release.
The Mariners confirmed George Kirby and Luis Castillo as their starting pitchers for the first two playoff games against the Detroit Tigers this weekend. Coverage for Game 1 begins at 4:30 PM on KPUG, while the Seahawks prepare to host the Buccaneers on Sunday amid injury challenges.
A 41-year-old Lynden man was arrested for carrying a firearm on the property of Lynden High School. Staff reported that he appeared aggressive and smelled of alcohol, prompting police intervention. He is a registered sex offender, prohibiting him from legally owning a firearm.
The Trump administration cut over $1 billion in funding for energy projects in Washington, impacting 11 initiatives, including the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene criticized the decision as politically motivated, claiming it threatens jobs and raises utility costs for residents.
Skagit County officials will lift a burn ban for unincorporated areas starting Friday, Oct. 3. The decision follows cooler weather and substantial rainfall, ending a ban that had been in place since June 15. A similar ban in Whatcom County will also conclude this weekend.
The federal government shutdown affects thousands in Whatcom County, according to U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen. Essential federal workers remain on the job while non-essential staff face unpaid leave, impacting local services and nutrition programs. Larsen emphasizes the economic challenges exacerbated by the shutdown.
Seattle Mariners will host the Detroit Tigers in the American League Divisional Series after the Tigers defeated the Cleveland Guardians 6-3 in the Wild Card round. The start time for Game 1 will depend on the outcome of the Yankees vs. Red Sox game, with options at 1 pm or 5:30 pm. Mariners' All-Star pitcher Bryan Woo is uncertain for the series but is expected to play if it extends beyond three games.
Whatcom County celebrates the arrival of fall with various events, including the Blaine-Birch Bay Fall Festival and Ferndale Oktoberfest on October 4. The 2025 Whatcom Artist Studio Tour will showcase nearly 50 local artists this weekend, while Stones Throw Brewery hosts a Fresh Hop Block Party.
Bellingham Councilmember Lisa Anderson accused Andrew Reding, a candidate for the city council, of ethical misconduct regarding manipulation of endorsement processes within the Whatcom Democrat party. Reding denied the allegations, citing a lack of evidence and claiming that the Executive Board collectively made decisions.
The Seattle Mariners will learn their playoff opponent tomorrow after the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Detroit Tigers 6-1. The Mariners will host the winner on Saturday for Game 1 of the American League Divisional Series, with game times contingent on the outcome of the Yankees-Red Sox matchup. Meanwhile, the Kraken face injuries to key players ahead of their season opener next week.
The owners of Thai Maison have finalized the purchase of the Carnal restaurant space in downtown Bellingham. They plan to reopen the venue as Iki Izakaya and Bar by early December or January, emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere despite offering a full bar.
Western Washington University Police investigate a threat made against the campus, which included racist language and a nonspecific threat near Wilson Library. An all-clear was issued after police sweeps determined the threat was not credible. The investigation remains ongoing.
Washington State Patrol located 15-year-old Kamran Finkbonner, who was reported missing in Ferndale. Finkbonner, who is autistic, was last seen on September 29 wearing black sweatpants and a T-shirt. Authorities urged anyone with information to call 911.
An Everett woman sustained serious injuries in a two-car crash near the I-5 on-ramp in Ferndale on Wednesday morning. The driver of a pickup truck failed to negotiate a curve, causing the truck to go airborne and collide with a Nissan, injuring its 54-year-old driver. The incident is under investigation, and the pickup driver may face charges.
Glass artist David Wight creates approximately 1,000 sculptures annually in his Bellingham, WA, studio. His works, inspired by a transformative experience at a waterfall in the Caribbean, are featured in galleries and on cruise ships. Wight emphasizes personal involvement in crafting each piece, despite having a skilled team.
Washington's minimum wage will increase to $17.13 per hour starting January 1, 2026, marking a 2.8% rise. Bellingham will set its minimum wage at $19.13 per hour, $2 above the state level, beginning in May 2025. The state also raises the overtime exemption salary threshold to roughly $80,000 annually.
Scam calls impersonating Skagit County deputies have targeted local residents, with claims of bench warrants for missing jury duty. Authorities urge anyone receiving such calls to avoid sharing personal information and to contact the Sheriff's Office directly.
Washington state will implement an expanded retail sales tax starting October 1, impacting over 90,000 businesses. The new tax will cover previously exempt services, including digital advertising and temporary staffing, amid a projected $15 billion budget shortfall.
Governor Bob Ferguson established the Immigration Sub-Cabinet in Washington to enhance protections for immigrant rights. The cabinet will coordinate state agencies on issues like data privacy and healthcare, responding to federal actions against immigrant communities. The governor emphasized the state's commitment to ensuring safety and privacy for all residents.
Whatcom County officials warn residents to prepare for strong winds and high waves as a gale warning takes effect from Tuesday morning through Wednesday. Wind gusts may reach 30 mph, affecting coastal areas, particularly Point Roberts and Sandy Point. Residents should secure boats and outdoor items in anticipation of the weather changes.
