NEWS

(WHATCOM COUNTY)- A Stage 2 air quality burn ban has been canceled for the Columbia Valley urban growth area (including the Peaceful Valley and Paradise Lakes developments) in Whatcom County, according to the Northwest Clean Air Agency. Air quality has improved at this time, but NWCAA urges residents to limit indoor wood burning as much as possible to avoid another burn ban in the near future, according to a news release from the agency. Burn bans are based on weather forecasts and current air pollution from small particles. They are called when air quality is predicted to be worse than     (read more)

(SKAGIT COUNTY)- The Skagit County Fire Marshal's Office is committed to helping residents stay safe throughout the winter season. By taking a few proactive steps, you can reduce the risks of fire and keep your home and family protected, according to a news release from the county. 1. Maintain Your Heating Equipment Winter is the time when heating systems work overtime to keep our homes warm. Whether you use a furnace, space heater, or fireplace, proper maintenance is essential to ensure everything is working safely. - Furnaces: Have your furnace inspected and serviced by a licensed professional before the heating     (read more)

(MOUNT VERNON)— Skagit Valley College (SVC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Vhari Rust-Clark of Burlington to the college’s Board of Trustees. Rust-Clark was appointed by Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, with her term beginning December 30, to fill the vacant trustee position previously held by Megan Scott O’Brien, according to a news release from SVC. Rust-Clark brings extensive experience in healthcare leadership, operations, and advocacy. She currently serves as Area Manager for MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care and previously held leadership roles as Senior Practice Manager at Skagit Regional Health. Earlier in her career, she worked as a     (read more)

(MOUNT VERNON)- Skagit Valley College (SVC) has announced the approval of its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program, following a vote by the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges at its Oct. 16 meeting last fall. The program becomes the college’s seventh bachelor’s degree and marks a significant expansion in educational opportunities for current and future nurses in the region. Enrollment will begin in January 2027, according to a news release from SVC. Designed to support working nurses and nursing students, the RN to BSN program will offer 10 courses focused on research, community health,     (read more)

(OLYMPIA)– Washington counties participating in the Feb. 10 Special Election have officially mailed ballots to eligible voters. The 18-day voting period began on Friday, Jan. 23, according to a news release from Office of the Secretary of State. Approximately 49% of voters statewide will be eligible to vote in the election. The special election will include 213 total measures covering school districts, fire districts, park districts, and other local districts. Clallam County is the only county not participating in the February Special Election. This election marks the debut of the new election results page. The new election results page will still be linked to     (read more)