Commerce
Showtime in Mount Vernon: Lincoln Theatre is a star in downtown renewal
A symbol for local revival, the century-old Lincoln Theatre has helped stimulate business and bring back visitors to riverfront downtown Mount Vernon.
Can small businesses survive in Friday Harbor?
Friday Harbor small businesses struggling to stay afloat cite rent prices, failing infrastructure and workforce shortage — and, some say, difficult landlord relationships.
B.C. metal recycler may site shredder on Bellingham Bay
A scrap metal recycling company which has been the subject of noise complaints from neighbors is reportedly looking to expand its operations along Bellingham Bay.
Expectations are high, questions remain as waterfront neighborhood takes shape
In early planning, Bellingham envisioned an urban village, public spaces, new jobs and low-income housing on the former GP property on Bellingham Bay. What’s actually in development?
Mind the gap: Whatcom providers face challenges in meeting need for childcare
Video: A look at a day in the life of a childcare worker reveals the growing gap in meeting the needs of families, providers and employers throughout the community.
Era ends with sale of Lovrić’s Sea-Craft of Anacortes
A Seattle-based company is bringing a new look to a long-time shipyard and marina in Anacortes.
Retail — and illicit — cannabis markets endure; medical in ‘dire straits’
The illegal cannabis market still exists alongside Washington’s growing legal retail and struggling medical cannabis markets. Changes may be in store.
Pollution cleaned up, Anacortes shoreline preps for development
MJB Properties proposes residences, retail businesses and restaurants, and an event center on the once pollution-contaminated shoreline of Fidalgo Bay.
Port promises to dampen loading noise in wake of complaints
Port of Bellingham officials responded to neighborhood complaints with promises to lower the noise level related to a new work contract.
Ship-loading noise tests Bellingham port’s neighborliness
Nighttime scrap metal activity at Port of Bellingham draws noise complaints from hillside residents.
Marijuana 2022: strong market, evolving rules after 10 years of legal pot
Ten years after retail legalization, the local cannabis industry continues to grow green, both literally and financially.
New options change choices for that final resting place
A cultural shift is underway from traditional burials and cremations to terramation, a composting process, and aquamation, a water-based process.
Child care shortfall frustrates families, hampers local economy
Demand far outstrips the supply of available and affordable child care locally. The problem is multifaceted, as solutions also will need to be: Part 1.
Local unionization efforts aim to raise wages, lower burnout
Unionization efforts in retail, healthcare and journalism have become more frequent since the pandemic heightened awareness of risks and hazards for workers.
‘Not normal’ high prices, low availability challenge car shoppers
In a semi-post-pandemic world, the automobile market is among many businesses suffering from factory shutdowns, computer chip shortages and inflation, leaving prices rising and inventory low.
Retail theft surge prompts varied responses
As the presence of security guards grows in response to increased retail theft, some residents say de-escalation is a better strategy.