Search underway for suspects in assault and vehicle theft near Aldrich Road, Blaine man arrested after allegedly menacing victim with knife, Lynden teachers reach tentative agreement, Bellingham woman sues WCSO after deputy allegedly struck her car, Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts, Construction begins on Fairhaven public kayak dock, Remaining stretch of Mt. Baker Highway to Artist Point formally closes for winter, WA health plan open enrollment, WA police use-of-force dashboard, WA police use-of-force dashboard, Suicide rates increase, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Seattle-based Uwajimaya to expand, WDFW seeking public comment on plan to establish permanent requirement for fishing endorsements Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October, 26. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Search underway for suspects in assault and vehicle theft near Aldrich Road An elderly man was attacked and robbed during a test drive in Whatcom County. The Sheriff’s Office says it happened Thursday on Aldrich Road, where two suspects — a man and a woman — assaulted the 82-year-old victim and stole his vehicle. Deputies are looking for a dark blue or black early‑2000s Honda CR‑V with a white stripe along the sides and a rear‑mounted spare tire. Investigators say the woman was driving that vehicle. The male suspect reportedly fled in the victim’s 2001 Toyota Highlander, which has not been recovered. The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information to contact them — and reminds the public not to approach anyone who may be involved. STORY: Blaine man arrested after allegedly menacing victim with knife A 63-year-old man is in custody after allegedly threatening to kill another person with a knife in Blaine. Police say the victim encountered the attacker outside their apartment building Wednesday afternoon. Investigators say the man was holding a hunting knife and a rock, making death threats and directing slurs at the victim. The victim tried to enter the building through another entrance but was allegedly confronted by the attacker again. A property manager called police, who took the man into custody after obtaining a warrant. He remains in the Whatcom County Jail without bail following his arraignment last Thursday. STORY: Lynden teachers reach tentative agreement Lynden teachers have ratified a tentative contract agreement with the school district, averting a potential strike. The Lynden Education Association says the agreement was reached last Wednesday after months of bargaining. Union members had previously voted to authorize a strike, then returned to negotiations in hopes of securing more time and resources to support students. Union members voted to ratify the agreement, but it still needs school board approval before it becomes final. The union thanked its members and the Lynden community for their support throughout negotiations. STORY: Bellingham woman sues WCSO after deputy allegedly struck her car A Bellingham woman has filed a lawsuit against the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. Court documents say Tracey Wiebe (WEE-bee) was waiting behind a school bus on January 20, preparing to turn left onto Saratoga Place, when she saw Deputy Carson Laughlin (LOF-lin) allegedly cross the center line and pass several vehicles at high speed. Wiebe says she couldn’t move out of the way before the deputy’s vehicle struck her car. Her car spun out, and the deputy’s vehicle rolled over. Both drivers were hospitalized. No one else was injured. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages from the sheriff’s office, Laughlin and other parties. The allegations have not been proven in court. STORY: Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts Local immigration lawyers say they’re bracing for a surge in deportation cases. King 5 News reports the federal government appears to be using Washington’s voter rolls to flag permanent residents as part of a crackdown on illegal voting — a shift attorneys say could overwhelm the few local lawyers who handle removal defense. A Point Roberts woman was detained for hours over questions about her voting history. She later died after avoiding medical care because she feared crossing the border. Lawyers say others now worry they could be detained or unable to re‑enter the U.S. The state bar lists about 40 immigration attorneys in the region, but only a handful specialize in deportation work. Attorneys say removal cases are complex, time‑consuming, and often financially out of reach. They say the new focus on voter rolls marks a major change. In the past, accidental registration or voting could usually be corrected without triggering deportation. Now, lawyers say discretion appears to be gone — and they expect the caseload to grow. STORY: Construction begins on Fairhaven public kayak dock Work has begun on a new waterfront project to expand public access to the water. The Port of Bellingham is building a kayak dock and pocket beach next to the Community Boating Center in Fairhaven. The 140‑foot floating dock is designed as a universally accessible hand‑launch area, created in partnership with paddling professionals at the Community Boating Center. Executive Director Bryan Rust says the new dock will make human‑powered boating safer and more accessible for people of all abilities, including participants in the center’s adaptive sailing and paddling programs. The project is funded in part by a half-million-dollar state grant, with a total estimated cost of $2.4 million. The dock expected to open in early 2027 STORY: Remaining stretch of Mt. Baker Highway to Artist Point formally closes for winter The road to Artist Point on Mount Baker Highway is now closed to vehicle traffic for the winter season. Washington State Department of Transportation crews closed the gate at 3 p.m. Sunday, shutting off the final 2-point-7 miles of State Route 542. The narrow road has sharp curves and steep slopes, making winter driving unsafe. Part of the route also becomes ski terrain at Mount Baker Ski Area. This year’s closure came 10 days later than last year’s. Backcountry recreation is still possible, but visitors should check conditions with the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and the Northwest Avalanche Center before heading out. STORY: WA …
October 23, 2026 News Transcript
Investigation ongoing after body found in Sehome Hill Arboretum, Arrest made in animal-cruelty case, Point Roberts man indicted following altercation and bomb threat at border crossing, County court launches calendar to speed up trials, Allied Arts hires new Executive Director, Judge blocks Homeland Security from conducting election-related sweeps in nine states, including WA, DFI dings Digital Access crypto-kiosk operator, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts, WA health plan open enrollment, WA police use-of-force dashboard, WDFW seeking public comment on plan to establish permanent requirement for fishing endorsements, Seattle-based Uawajimaya to expand Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Investigation ongoing after body found in Sehome Hill Arboretum A body was found in the Sehome Hill Arboretum. Western Washington University reported last night that hikers discovered a body near personal belongings off of a main trail. University Police and BPD responded and say there were no obvious signs of foul play. Officers closed the immediate area to document the scene and collect evidence. A tent and items nearby suggested the person may have been living in the arboretum, though police have not confirmed that. The university says the person’s identity will be released once next of kin are notified. Officials maintain they don’t believe there’s any danger to students or the public. STORY: Arrest made in animal-cruelty case An arrest has been made in a Whatcom County animal‑cruelty case. Detectives say they were alerted earlier this month to dozens of dogs being kept in poor conditions at a property on Russet Avenue, where the animals were being housed by Pittie Project PNW. Investigators seized the dogs for immediate medical care and learned that 38‑year‑old Ashley Georgia of Bellingham was solely responsible for their care. Detectives established probable cause for 30 counts of first‑degree animal cruelty. Georgia was arrested today and booked into Whatcom County Jail. All of the dogs were treated at the Whatcom Humane Society and are now being transferred to rescue partners. Officials say the animals are recovering well and are expected to be placed in adoptive homes. STORY: Point Roberts man indicted following altercation and bomb threat at border crossing A Point Roberts man has been indicted on federal charges tied to a bomb threat at the border. According to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, court documents were filed this week against 34‑year‑old Brandon Brandreth‑Gibbs in connection with a February incident at the Point Roberts Port of Entry. Deputies say he showed up at the crossing with an axe, smashed windows as well as a government vehicle, and threatened to return with a bomb. Brandreth‑Gibbs was arrested after returning to the port and has been in Whatcom County Jail since February. Federal charges include destruction of government property and threatening federal officers. STORY: County court launches calendar to speed up trials Whatcom County Superior Court will launch a new calendar aimed at moving old criminal cases. Judges can now schedule special discovery hearings for aging cases before they reach trial. At those hearings, the judge asks both sides to explain the delays — whether it’s incomplete discovery, ongoing investigations, witness interviews, cases in other jurisdictions, or plea negotiations. The judge can then issue specific orders and deadlines to resolve those issues more quickly, and the same judge will review the case later to monitor compliance. Court officials say the goal is to identify problems earlier on, so that cases can reach resolution more quickly. STORY: Allied Arts hires new Executive Director Allied Arts of Whatcom County has hired a new executive director. The organization announced that longtime local communications and community‑engagement leader Vanessa Blackburn will step into the role, following the departure of Kelly Hart earlier this year. Blackburn’s experience includes leading the Bellingham Business Journal, helping to launch a downtown business improvement district, and serving eight years in the mayor’s office. The hire comes as Allied Arts continues to reshape its mission and programming. The 47‑year‑old organization recently moved its gallery on Cornwall Avenue and has expanded its workshops, performances, and community gatherings after a year of public input. The organization says it’s looking ahead to its next chapter under Blackburn’s leadership. STORY: Judge blocks Homeland Security from conducting election-related sweeps in nine states, including WA A federal judge has temporarily blocked Homeland Security from carrying out election‑related field operations in nine states, including Washington. The Washington State Standard reports the injunction came after voting‑rights groups said armed agents were showing up at residences to question people about their voter status — raising concern about intimidation in the run-up to Election Day. The ruling is a setback for the Trump administration’s effort to target alleged noncitizen voting, which studies show is extremely rare. The judge found that protecting voters from fear and interference outweighs the government’s interest in pursuing potential violations, and paused the order until today to allow time for appeal. STORY: DFI dings Digital Access crypto-kiosk operator The state has taken action against another crypto kiosk operator. Washington’s Department of Financial Institutions (or DFI) filed charges against Digital Access LLC, alleging the company added markups as high as 31 percent on digital‑asset purchases — fees regulators say were not properly disclosed and totaled more than $1 million over two years. Digital Access operates 50 kiosks statewide, including one on Main Street in Ferndale. DFI says the company also failed to follow anti‑money‑laundering rules, did not verify customer identities or sources of funds, lacked adequate transaction monitoring, and mishandled required reporting & record‑keeping. Regulators are seeking to revoke the company’s license, bar Digital Access and its responsible individual from the industry, order more than $1 million in customer refunds, and impose a fine of over one million dollars. DFI also brought charges in recent months against Coinme, Bitcoin Depot, and CoinFlip — companies with multiple kiosks in Whatcom County. F&C 10/24 Looking for some Halloween fun this weekend? …
October 22, 2026 News Transcript
Two arrested following high-speed chase through Bellingham, Ferndale councilmember must pay up, Canadian resident of Point Roberts passes away amid fears of crossing border to seek medical assistance, MIPA issued in Ferndale, Local brewers join Hall of Fame, WSP seeking information on recent rash of police impersonators in Skagit County, WA job count and unemployment rate both continue to fall, Governor issues statement on unanimous budget approval by state worker unions, State launches veterans website, Seattle-based Uawajimaya to expand, Have you voted?, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for , Webneday, October, 22. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Two arrested following high-speed chase through BellinghamPolice used a Grappler device to stop a high-speed chase through Bellingham. The pursuit began around 11:35 p.m. Monday when a Whatcom County sheriff’s deputy tried to stop a black Kia without license plates. The vehicle traveled onto I-5 and through downtown Bellingham and residential streets, reaching speeds of 80 miles per hour on the freeway. Washington State Patrol troopers and Bellingham police joined the pursuit. Officers deployed the Grappler, which uses a net to catch a vehicle’s rear wheels, ending the chase at the on-ramp near Sunset Drive at around midnight. The Kia’s two occupants were taken into custody, and southbound I-5 lanes were temporarily closed. State Patrol says this was the first field deployment of the Grappler device in Whatcom County. STORY: Ferndale councilmember must pay up A Ferndale city council member is facing legal fallout from a partnership dispute. The Whatcom Business Journal reports a Superior Court judge found Robert Pinkley and two former general managers operated Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery as an implied partnership rather than an employer‑employee setup. The ruling came after former general manager Amberleigh Brownson sued, saying Pinkley promised her an ownership stake but later reclassified her as an employee and fired her in 2022. After a two‑day bench trial, the court determined she was entitled to one‑third of the restaurant’s value — a judgment totaling $333,333.33 — based on Pinkley’s earlier offer to sell the business for $1 million. Pinkley denied the claims, saying Brownson was simply one of several managers he employed. The judge cited shared signature authority on the business bank account and public representations that the three were partners. Pinkley has 30 days to appeal. A second lawsuit, filed by former manager Brett Wiltse, is still pending. STORY: Canadian resident of Point Roberts passes away amid fears of crossing border to seek medical assistance A recent border detention involving a Point Roberts resident has ended in tragedy. Cascadia Daily News reports 61‑year‑old Paige Adamson — a Canadian citizen and U.S. permanent resident — had been afraid to cross the border for medical care in the days before her death Sunday. Adamson had been held and questioned for six hours by U.S. border agents in September and given a notice to appear for a deportation hearing. Friends and a Blaine immigration attorney said she had recently fallen at home and was in pain but refused treatment, fearing she wouldn’t be allowed back into the U.S. because of the pending case. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office said she died of what appeared to be natural causes. Federal agencies recently requested Washington’s voter files amid increased scrutiny of alleged election violations. Public records show Adamson had voted in past elections — something permanent residents are not allowed to do. She is survived by two sons. STORY: MIPA issued in FerndaleA Missing Indigenous Person Alert has been issued for a 13 year old Ferndale girl. Victoria Mervine was last seen Tuesday evening, October 20th, between 6 and 7 p.m. near South Red River Road. She’s described as five-foot-one, weighing about 115 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black shirt, black shorts and possibly sandals. Anyone who sees Victoria or has information about her whereabouts is asked to call 911. STORY: Local brewers join Hall of Fame Two longtime Bellingham brewing pioneers are being inducted into the Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame. According to My Bellingham Now, Ed Bennett and Janet Lightner—co-founders of the original Boundary Bay Brewery— are among this year’s inductees. The couple opened Boundary Bay on Railroad Avenue in 1995, serving craft beer for 30 years before the brewery closed last year after the property was sold. They now own Boundary on State, which is operated by Lightner’s daughter and a local brewer. Bennett and Lightner join Mari and Will Kemper of Chuckanut Brewery in the Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is November second at the Washington Craft Beer Summit in SeaTac. STORY: WSP seeking information on recent rash of police impersonators in Skagit CountyWashington State Patrol is asking for the public’s help identifying police impersonators in Skagit Valley. Troopers are looking for information about people posing as law enforcement officers, including anyone driving a Ford Crown Victoria equipped with push bars. State law makes it a crime to falsely claim to be a police officer or act in a way intended to make others believe you’re an officer. If you encounter a suspected police impersonator on state highways in the Skagit Valley, contact the State Patrol. STORY: WA job count and unemployment rate both continue to fall Whatcom County’s job market showed some encouraging movement last month. State labor officials say jobs held steady from August to September, but about 11-hundred fewer people reported being unemployed. That pushed Whatcom’s unemployment rate down a full point to 3.5% — its biggest drop since September 2024. Skagit County saw a similar shift, with its jobless rate falling a full point to 3.7%. Both counties are slightly below last year’s levels. Statewide, Washington’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is 4.8%, even as employers cut more than 15-thousand jobs in September — the second straight month of losses. Washington’s broader U 6 measure — which counts not just unemployed workers but also people stuck …
October 20, 2026 News Transcript
Mount Baker Middle School student taken into custody after allegedly threatening school shooting, Bellingham man formally charged with child rape, pleads not guilty, Man arrested following assault and standoff with police in Maple Falls, County considers fee for private boat launches, WSDOT allows City to lower road speed, Police investigating missing medications in Sedro-Woolley schools, Whatcom Chief down for several hours Wednesday (MUST RUN ON 10/20), Gas prices dip slightly, Staff at Skagit Valley College file to unionize, WA joins coalition opposing corporate merger, citing potential widespread spiking of costs to operate playgrounds, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October, 20. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Mount Baker Middle School student taken into custody after allegedly threatening school shooting A potential threat ended with the arrest of a middle school student in Mount Vernon yesterday. Staff at Mount Baker Middle School alerted their school resource officer yesterday morning to a social media post. That post suggested a possible school‑shooting threat. The officer and school staff immediately launched an investigation. A 14‑year‑old male student was taken into custody in connection with the post. Police believe he acted alone. Mount Vernon Police say quick reporting and close coordination with the school district helped ensure student and staff safety. UPDATE: Bellingham man formally charged with child rape, pleads not guilty A Bellingham man has pleaded not guilty to child rape charges. The Bellingham Herald reports police arrested 29‑year‑old Andrew James Blessington on October 12th after a multi‑week investigation. Court records say a high school principal contacted Bellingham Police last month after a student disclosed she had been raped. Investigators say the girl met Blessington on Snapchat in March, when she was 13. She told police he provided her and her friends with marijuana and alcohol. She allegedly met Blessington again in May; police say he gave her alcohol and raped her in his car while she was intoxicated. Court documents note the girl’s mother reported her daughter “has not been herself” since the assault. Blessington is charged with two counts of second‑degree child rape, and one count of supplying liquor to a minor. He pleaded not guilty and posted bail of $10,000. His trial is set for November 30th. STORY: Man arrested following assault and standoff with police in Maple Falls An argument over WiFi between two neighbors escalated into a stand-off in Maple Falls Saturday afternoon. Investigators said the suspect, a 42-year-old man, smashed a glass bottle over the victim’s head and threatened to kill him. When police arrived, the suspect was armed with a machete and refused to leave the building. The victim was taken to hospital with life-threatening head injuries. The suspect was held in jail without bail. He was expected to be arraigned yesterday. STORY: County considers fee for private boat launches Officials are considering a yearly 60-dollar fee for private boat launches on Lake Whatcom. The charge is part of an effort to prevent the spread of invasive plants and animals. The city already inspects boats launched from public facilities, including Bloedel-Donovan Park. However, officials say about 60 private launch sites around the lake are not currently regulated. The permit program would require registration and provide education to property owners and their guests. A similar measure is being considered for the portion of the lake under Whatcom County jurisdiction. The Bellingham City Council is scheduled to consider the proposal, which would take effect after final approval. Lake Whatcom provides drinking water to about 100-thousand people. STORY: WSDOT allows City to lower road speed Bellingham drivers will see lower speed limits on Old Fairhaven Parkway starting next summer. The Washington State Department of Transportation has agreed to reduce the limit from 35 to 30 miles per hour between 14th Street and Interstate 5. They will not, however, reduce it to 25. City officials wanted a 25-mile-per-hour limit on a part of the road closer to the Interurban Trail, but the state rejected that request. A state study found most drivers were traveling between about 29 and 40 miles per hour. City officials say they want speed limits to reflect pedestrian safety, bike lanes, and nearby bus stops — not just how fast people are already driving. STORY: Police investigating missing medications in Sedro-Woolley schools Sedro‑Woolley Schools are investigating problems with student medications. A routine audit first flagged missing medication at one campus. When staff expanded the review districtwide, they found more discrepancies — including liquid medications that appeared diluted. The district has turned the matter over to Sedro‑Woolley Police. Families whose medications were impacted have already been contacted, and the district is covering the cost of replacements. No medication from the affected supplies is being administered. The district is now reviewing storage, access, inventory, and accountability procedures. Because the case involves confidential student and personnel information, officials say no further details will be released while police continue their investigation. STORY: Whatcom Chief down for several hours Wednesday (MUST RUN ON 10/20) The Whatcom Chief will be offline for several hours tomorrow for terminal maintenance. Public Works says the ferry will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. to 3 p.m. while crews inspect facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. The last morning run from Gooseberry Point is 9:50 a.m., and the last run from Lummi Island is 10 a.m. No additional morning trips will be made afterwards, in order to allow crews to complete a full inspection. The timing is weather‑dependent, and any changes will be posted on the ferry webpage. STORY: Gas prices dip slightly Washington drivers are seeing lower prices at the pump, continuing a downward trend. Triple-A reports the statewide average for regular gas now sits at $5.37, down 8 cents from a week ago. In Bellingham, the price for a gallon of regular gas has dropped nine cents over the week, averaging $5.18. Triple-A says the national average for regular gas is $4.33, down slightly …
October 19, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham woman long-suspected in overdose death arrested in connection with investigation into narcotics ring, Ferndale city councilor and restaurateur found liable for damages against former employee, Western acquires old PeaceHealth property, Planned upgrades to Lynden and Sumas border crossings appear to be stuck in limbo, One bridge completed, another reopens in Skagit County, Citizen panel moves against proposed salary increase for Governor Ferguson, AG’s office asks for leave to intervene in court case on behalf of refugees and asylees covered by Medicaid, Whatcom Chief down for several hours Wednesday (MUST RUN ON 10/20), F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October, 19. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham woman long-suspected in overdose death arrested in connection with investigation into narcotics ringA Bellingham woman awaiting trial for manslaughter is back in jail following a separate investigation. Sixty-two-year-old Kim Ribble was arrested last Thursday in connection with an investigation into a drug ring. Authorities say the investigation, which began in early 2025, involves local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Investigators say there’s probable cause to charge Ribble with drug dealing and maintaining a drug house. She’s being held without bail on those separate charges. This is not Ribble’s first brush with the law; she has pleaded not guilty to charges of manslaughter and controlled substance homicide. Ribble is accused of facilitating the purchase of the fentanyl-laced pills that killed 31-year-old Evan Parberry in 2020. Her trial is scheduled to begin on November 9th. STORY: Ferndale city councilor and restaurateur found liable for damages against former employeeA Ferndale business owner and City Council member must pay a former manager more than 333-thousand dollars. A Whatcom County judge found that Robert Pinkley, former general manager Amberleigh Brownson, and contractor Brett Wiltse had formed a legal partnership to operate the Leader Block Wine Company and Eatery. This legally entitled Brownson to a one-third share of the business. In her lawsuit, Brownson stated she was promised an ownership stake and a share of the profits. Instead, she claims, she was treated as an employee before her termination in 2022. Pinkley denied that Brownson was a partner in the business. A separate lawsuit by Wiltse, who also claims he was promised an ownership stake and unpaid compensation, is scheduled for trial on December 29th. Pinkley has disputed those claims as well. STORY: Western acquires old PeaceHealth property Western Washington University has reached an agreement to buy the former St. Luke’s Hospital site. The university’s foundation has approved a 12-and-a-half-million-dollar grant to help pay for the purchase. The property includes the former hospital building, a nearby professional building, and an eight-unit apartment complex. Western plans to use the site as a future home for its proposed College of Health Sciences. The new site, in their words, would serve as an anchor to health sciences education, research, outreach, and training. The university also envisions creating a community health hub that would provide physical and behavioral health services for students and the broader community. As part of the deal, PeaceHealth will receive about two-and-a-half acres at Western’s Lincoln Street Park and Ride site. PeaceHealth says it plans to leave that land undeveloped for future health care needs. Western will now begin planning for the former hospital property. Both organizations say they’ll continue working with community partners as plans develop. STORY: Planned upgrades to Lynden and Sumas border crossings appear to be stuck in limbo Senator Patty Murray and Representative Rick Larsen are urging the Trump administration to fund upgrades planned for the Lynden and Sumas border crossings. In a letter sent last month to the General Services Administration, the lawmakers asked the agency to prioritize upgrades at the Lynden and Sumas ports of entry. They say the projects are among nine nationwide that have been temporarily halted. Congress approved three-point-four billion dollars in 2021 to modernize 26 land border crossings. Murray and Larsen say delays could affect trade, supply chains, and national security. They also warn that uncertainty about construction timelines makes it harder for both cities to plan for additional commercial traffic and disruptions to downtown businesses. The lawmakers say they have not yet received a response from the federal agency. STORY: One bridge completed, another reopens in Skagit County East‑county travel just got easier with two major bridge projects now finished. The 96‑year‑old Marblemount Bridge just wrapped up a major rehabilitation, funded by an eighteen-and-a-half-million dollar federal grant. Crews repaired corroded steel, replaced failing deck patches, and restored the bridge to full two‑lane traffic – all while preserving its historic structure. The other bridge – the Jordan Creek Bridge – saw major damage during last December’s flooding. A log jam forced the creek to cut a new path and wipe out about 70 feet of Rockport Cascade Road. To restore access, the county installed a temporary Acrow bridge over the washout. FEMA disaster funding is reimbursing the construction and leasing costs. The span will stay in place as long as needed while a permanent replacement is designed and built — a process expected to take several years. County leaders will mark both milestones with a ribbon‑cutting at the Marblemount Bridge on October 29th. STORY: Citizen panel moves against proposed salary increase for Governor Ferguson Governor Bob Ferguson will not get a pay raise. The Washington Citizens Commission panel has recommended freezing the governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general’s wages for the next two years. Other elected officials, including state lawmakers, would receive raises of two percent in July 2027, followed by another two percent in July 2028. The secretary of state, state auditor, and insurance commissioner would receive five-percent raises in each of those years. Commissioners adopted their recommendation accounting for the state’s tight budget. The belief that the governor and attorney general’s job responsibilities had not changed significantly was also a factor. Finally, many of the commissioners pointed to new state employee contracts that do not include across-the-board raises …
October 16, 2026 News Transcript
MIPA issued for Lummi teenager, Lummi Nation member and registered sex offender arraigned for alleged assault of houseguest, No Kings rallies held this weekend, Bham Mitigation Bank to open in spring 2027, Biotoxin warning lifted for Toad Lake, Fleet of air quality monitoring vans set to be deployed statewide this winter, Settlements reached in cases against three generic drug manufacturers, F&C 10/17-18, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October, 16. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: MIPA issued for Lummi teenager A Missing Indigenous Person Alert has been issued for a Lummi Nation teen. Washington State Patrol activated the alert for 13‑year‑old Victoria Mervine. She was last seen Saturday, October 12th, off South Red River Road in Ferndale. She’s described as 5‑foot‑1, about 115 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, and was wearing a grey hoodie, blue jeans, and a black vest. Anyone who sees Victoria is urged to call 9‑1‑1. STORY: Lummi Nation member and registered sex offender arraigned for alleged assault of houseguest A Lummi Nation man is accused of sexually assaulting a woman on tribal land. The Department of Justics says 35‑year‑old Gideon Bewley pleaded not guilty to a sexual abuse charge yesterday in U.S. District Court in Seattle. Prosecutors say the assault happened April 24th after the victim spent the evening at Bewley’s girlfriend’s home after drinking alcohol and later woke up to Bewley sexually assaulting her. Court records say Bewley is required to register as a Level III sex offender because of a prior federal conviction for sexually abusing a minor. Trial is set for December 21st. If convicted, Bewley faces up to life in prison. STORY: No Kings rallies held this weekendNo Kings rallies to encourage early voting are happening tomorrow. Rallies encouraging early-voting are scheduled for Bellingham, Everson and Blaine. Indivisible Bellingham will host a No Kings Vote Early event from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Bellingham City Hall, featuring songs led by the Singing Resistance. Additional rallies are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. in Everson and 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at G Street Plaza in Blaine. Organizers are encouraging eligible voters to make a plan to vote early and learn about ballot drop-off options. STORY: Bham Mitigation Bank to open in spring 2027 A major environmental restoration project in Bellingham is set to open early next year. City officials say the Bellingham Mitigation Bank should be operating by February or March. The project will improve water quality, reduce flooding, and protect fish and wildlife, while giving developers a more efficient way to meet environmental rules. The City bought the land in 2018 and has been restoring its streams, wetlands and forest habitat to create environmental credits developers can purchase to offset unavoidable impacts. Once open, Bellingham’s bank will streamline permitting and complete ecological improvements before development occurs. STORY: Biotoxin warning lifted for Toad LakeIt’s safe to swim in Toad Lake again. County Health and Community Services says recent water samples found toxin levels below the federal safety limit. The Health department says there are no other lake biotoxin advisories currently in effect in Whatcom County. Officials still urge caution around harmful algae blooms, which can look like green pea soup or spilled paint on the water. Keep children and pets away from affected areas, and watch for changing conditions as wind can move algae around the lake. Toxic algae can make people and animals sick. STORY: Fleet of air quality monitoring vans set to be deployed statewide this winterWashington has announced a year-long study on air pollution across the state. Beginning in December, the Department of Ecology plans to send specially equipped vehicles into more than 20 communities and participating Tribal Nations, including Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and Burlington. The vehicles will measure pollutants as they travel through neighborhoods. The data will help scientists identify pollution hotspots that stationary monitors may miss. The study will focus on communities where residents may face greater health risks from air pollution. Funded by the Climate Commitment Act, the project is expected to collect information for about a year, with findings scheduled for release in 2028. STORY: Settlements reached in cases against three generic drug manufacturers Washington has reached new settlements with three generic drug companies. The Attorney General’s Office says Ascend Laboratories, Citron Pharma and Mayne Pharma settled allegations that they took part in a long‑running conspiracy to inflate prices and limit competition for generic prescription drugs. Ascend will pay $400,000 and Mayne will pay $650,000. Citron has shut down and agreed to non‑monetary terms. The AG’s Office says these agreements build on earlier settlements with eight other drug companies, totaling more than $496 million. Washington has now recovered funds through a series of actions targeting what investigators describe as widespread price‑fixing in the generic drug market. Consumers who bought generic prescription drugs between 2009 and 2019 are encouraged to apply for compensation. More information and a preliminary claim form is available at AGgenericDrugs.com. F&C 10/17-18 If you’re looking for free or low‑cost things to do this weekend, there’s plenty happening across Whatcom and Skagit counties. In Mount Vernon, the Skagit Valley Family YMCA on Hoag Road hosts its free Halloween Spooktacular Saturday at 5 p.m., with carnival games, crafts and costumed community booths. The Bellingham Dockside Market returns Saturday from 10 to 2 at Squalicum Harbor. Local fishermen sell their catch right off the boats, and the market now includes artists, crafters and hot food vendors. Admission is free. Also Saturday, volunteers can take part in Orca Recovery Day at Lower Kenney Creek near Deming. The habitat‑restoration event runs 9 to noon, and prior registration with the Whatcom Land Trust is required. Western Washington University hosts a free Insect Collection Open House Saturday from 1 to 4 at the WWU Biology Building. Parking is free in Lot C. And on Sunday, Northwest Free Repairs meets at the Makerspace in Bellis Fair Mall from 1 to …
October 15, 2026 News Transcript
Lynden teachers authorize first labor strike in nearly 50 years, Bellingham man arrested on suspicion of child rape, Bellingham resident accused of aiding Canadian school shooter indicted by grand jury, Break-in at Bellingham restaurant, Ballots mailed for Whatcom residents, Whatcom drug overdoses continue to decline from summer spike, down significantly from last year, Washington’s top schools official urges governor to reject a new federal K-12 tax credit program. F&C 10/17-18, F&C `10/18, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October, 15. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Lynden teachers authorize first labor strike in nearly 50 years Lynden teachers have voted to authorize a strike. Cascadia Daily News reports educators approved the move after months of bargaining without a new contract. Teachers have been working under the old agreement since the start of the school year, and more than 100 rejected the district’s latest offer Tuesday. The union says core issues include more planning time, competitive pay and respect for teachers’ professional judgment. Superintendent David VanderYacht says the district is facing financial headwinds, including reduced enrollment, rising insurance costs and continued state underfunding of special education. The district says Lynden teachers have received nearly a 25‑percent salary increase since 2022 and offered a 3‑percent total raise next year, which the union rejected. Educators are also asking for more support for psychologists and counselors, and flexibility in how they use late‑arrival time. Both sides return to bargaining Monday morning. STORY: Bellingham man arrested on suspicion of child rape Bellingham police have arrested a man accused of raping a child. Officers say the assault happened in May. According to investigators, the suspect met the victim through social media and had been providing alcohol and drugs to the victim and friends as early as March. Police say he gave alcohol to the victim — who was under 14 — and then raped the child. The victim later reported the assault, and police identified the suspect. Officers arrested him on Tuesday and booked him into the Whatcom County Jail. He has since been released on bond. UPDATE: Bellingham resident accused of aiding Canadian school shooter indicted by grand jury A grand jury has indicted an alleged accomplice in a deadly school shooting in British Columbia. Federal prosecutors say 30‑year‑old James Cody Bryant spent months communicating with shooter Jesse Van Rootselaar before the February attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six people were killed and others injured. Bryant is charged with conspiracy to murder persons in a foreign country and is scheduled for arraignment on Oct. 22. According to the indictment, Bryant agreed to record and livestream the attack, tested the setup multiple times, offered advice on targets and weapons, and sent money for supplies used in an improvised explosive device. Prosecutors say he also discussed ways to hide their communications, acknowledging the planning was illegal. If convicted, Bryant faces up to life in prison. STORY: Break-in at Bellingham restaurant Police are investigating an early‑morning break‑in at a Bellingham restaurant. Officers say the burglary happened around 5:19 yesterday morning at Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine on East Bakerview. An unknown suspect broke through the front door, went inside, and stole the restaurant’s cash register. Staff say the drawer doesn’t hold money, but it does contain credit and debit cards left behind by customers. Anyone who thinks they may have left a card there is urged to contact their bank and cancel it. Police say they’re reviewing evidence and working to identify the suspect. STORY: Ballots mailed for Whatcom residents Ballots are now in the mail for Whatcom County voters. The Auditor’s Office says all registered voters should receive their November election ballots within the next few days. Anyone who doesn’t get one by early next week is asked to contact the Elections Division. Ballot drop boxes across the county are open, and voters can also return ballots through the mail with no stamp needed. The county reminds voters to sign their envelopes and return ballots early to avoid last‑minute delays. Election information and sample ballots are available through the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. STORY: Whatcom drug overdoses continue to decline from summer spike, down significantly from last year Overdose incidents are declining in Whatcom County. New data from Whatcom Hope shows fewer EMS calls for overdoses, fewer emergency‑department visits, and fewer opioid‑related incidents compared with recent years. The county’s EMS dashboard also reports a drop in overdose‑related dispatches, including calls involving opioids. The opioid data tools linked through Whatcom Hope — including dashboards from the Washington Department of Health, the CDC, and the UW Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute — reflect the same trend: overdose activity has fallen from earlier peaks, though fentanyl remains the primary driver of deaths statewide and locally. The data points to a clear pattern: fewer severe overdoses are reaching EMS and emergency rooms, more people are being stabilized before an overdose becomes fatal, and opioid‑related incidents are down across all reporting systems. Health officials say the regularly updated dashboards give residents a real‑time look at overdose patterns, treatment needs, and the impact of local prevention efforts. STORY: Washington’s top schools official urges governor to reject a new federal K-12 tax credit program. Washington’s top schools official is urging Governor Bob Ferguson to reject a new federal K-12 tax. Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal says the Education Freedom Tax Credit would expand school choice without addressing public school funding needs. The program would offer federal tax credits to people who donate to scholarship funds. While the scholarships are primarily intended for private school students, they could also pay for tutoring, books, supplies, and disability services for public school students. The Washington State Standard reports Ferguson has not yet decided whether Washington will participate and is reviewing new federal guidance. Supporters say the program could bring significant new funding for tutoring, after-school programs, and other student services. Reykdal argues the state would have limited oversight of …
October 14, 2026 News Transcript
Cof& owner announces release from ICE detention, Bellingham winter shelter contract approved, will operate nightly from December to February, Car collision with power pole in Ferndale leaves one hospitalized and hundreds without electricity, Lighthouse Missions appoints interim CEO to permanent role, Ferndale paraeducator honored, Mayor announces official city bird, PeaceHealth announces northwest region chief to step down at end of year, AG’s office joins coalition letter opposing FCC cuts to school and library internet access, Washington’s top schools official urges governor to reject a new federal K-12 tax credit program. F&C 10/17-18, F&C `10/18, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Health department cider pressing safety (weak story – break glass only in emergency) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October, 14. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Cof& owner announces release from ICE detention A Bellingham business owner has been released from ICE custody. Cof& (“Coffee”) owner Oscar Quintero Frias (keen-TARE-o FREE-us) says he’s been released after several difficult weeks, and is now working to return to everyday life. In a social media post, Quintero Frias said he is physically doing well, but is still dealing with fears and uncertainties as he adjusts to his circumstances. He thanked the community for its messages and support, and asked people to continue supporting his coffee shop by visiting, sharing its social media pages, and spreading the word to potential customers. Quintero Frias described the community’s support as an important source of encouragement as he works to keep the café open and move forward. STORY: Bellingham winter shelter contract approved, will operate nightly from December to FebruaryWhatcom County will move to a nightly winter shelter for people experiencing homelessness in Bellingham. County Council members approved a contract with the organization Road2Home to operate the shelter from December through February, with the option to extend into March if funding remains. The shelter will offer beds for 60 people, from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., at Lutheran Community Services Northwest on North Forest Street, the same location used for severe-weather sheltering last winter. An additional 10 beds may be added during extreme weather. The county will reimburse Road2Home up to 585-thousand dollars for the three-month operation. In previous winters, the county opened the emergency shelter only on the coldest nights. Officials say a nightly schedule will give people more reliable access to shelter and allow staff to build relationships with guests. Other winter shelter options include facilities in Ferndale and Bellingham operated by local service organizations. Information about local shelters is available through Whatcom County’s winter shelter website. STORY: Car collision with power pole in Ferndale leaves one hospitalized and hundreds without electricity A crash in Ferndale knocked out power early Tuesday morning. Whatcom News reports first responders were called around 3 a.m. to LaBounty Drive after a vehicle hit a power pole. Crews said the pole was resting on the car with lines draped over the roadway, and the area was briefly shut down. PulsePoint’s EMS log shows at least one patient was taken by ambulance to PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Responders also reported darkened traffic signals on Main Street as the outage spread. Puget Sound Energy said more than 1,000 customers lost power. The utility cited a traffic accident as the cause. STORY: Lighthouse Missions appoints interim CEO to permanent role The Lighthouse Mission has named a new CEO. Interim chief executive Alvin Helms is now the permanent President and CEO of Lighthouse Mission Ministries. Helms brings more than 35 years of ministry and nonprofit leadership experience, including senior roles at Tacoma Rescue Mission and pastoral work in Whatcom County. He holds a Doctor of Ministry in strategic leadership from Corban University and a master’s in social ethics from Yale. Board chair Marty VanDriel (VAN DREEL) says the Mission is grateful for Helms’ leadership and looks forward to continued growth as the organization expands services for people experiencing homelessness. Helms says he hopes to build on the Mission’s century‑long work supporting neighbors in need. STORY: Ferndale paraeducator honored A Ferndale paraeducator has been honored for her exceptional work. Kelly Toner has been named the region’s Classified School Employee of the Year by Northwest Educational Service District 189. She works at Cascadia Elementary with students who have complex support needs. Colleagues say she’s known for helping students build confidence, independence, and meaningful learning moments. Toner says her approach is shaped by her own experience as a student who struggled but was supported by caring adults — support she now works to pass on through collaboration and structured communication tools. Toner now advances to the statewide competition for Washington’s Classified School Employee of the Year. STORY: Mayor announces official city bird Bellingham has picked its official bird. Mayor Kim Lund announced the winner during a Bird Week event Friday night. The public cast votes in a community poll organized by the North Cascades Audubon Society and Audubon Washington. The Great Blue Heron came out on top. The tall shorebirds are a familiar sight along Bellingham Bay, with long‑established nesting at Post Point and a new colony forming near the Little Squalicum Estuary project last year. A heron biologist is helping the city learn more about the colonies and how to protect them. The city says nesting areas are sensitive to disturbance and asks people to give the birds plenty of space. STORY: PeaceHealth announces northwest region chief to step down at end of year PeaceHealth’s top Northwest leader will retire at the end of the year. Chuck Prosper, chief executive of the PeaceHealth Northwest Region, is stepping down after nearly 40 years in healthcare leadership. Prosper joined PeaceHealth in 2019 and led the region through the COVID‑19 pandemic, major operational shifts, and a series of large capital projects at St. Joseph Medical Center. During his tenure, Prosper helped advance the hospital’s master facilities plan, including the 120,000‑square‑foot Peter Paulsen Pavillion. He also oversaw upgrades to existing patient towers, infrastructure improvements along Squalicum Parkway, …
October 12, 2026 News Transcript
Ferndale man arrested in connection with Bellingham mugging last month, RFA Public Hearing Oct 14, WWU releases datamap detailing Whatcom’s decline in Canadian visitation and shopping over last several years, Governor names new justice to Skagit Superior Court in court’s first expansion in twenty years, Flood Preparedness Open House (run 10/9 or 10/12), Crypto company ordered to shut down (run 10/12), WA UTC issues apology following hate speech at PSE rate increase hearing, Head of state DCYF questioned over allegations of racial bias in agency, Orca Recovery Day happens Saturday (Oct 17), BFA public meeting, Bellingham Swimmer, 60, Breaks Pacific Northwest Masters Record at National Championships, Bellingham to hold public hearing over proposed regional fire authority (run 10/9 or 10/12), Bellingham to hold public hearing over proposed regional fire authority (run 10/9 or 10/12), Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Health department cider pressing safety (weak story – break glass only in emergency) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October, 12. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Ferndale man arrested in connection with Bellingham mugging last month A man faces charges after a strong‑arm robbery. Bellingham Police say the victim was walking on East Bakerview Road on September 9th when a man confronted him, claimed to have a knife, and forced him into a wooded area across the street. Officers say the suspect threatened to kill the victim if he didn’t hand over his wallet, then took it and told him not to call 911. The victim ran out of the woods and called police immediately. Officers found a woman nearby with the cart described by the victim, but the suspect wasn’t located that day. An officer spotted the suspect on Meridian on October 8th. He was arrested without incident and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: RFA Public Hearing Oct 14 A public hearing on Bellingham’s proposed Regional Fire Authority is set for Wednesday. City leaders and Whatcom County Fire District 8 commissioners are considering forming a Regional Fire Authority to provide fire and EMS services within their shared service areas. The Bellingham Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee will outline its proposed structure and funding plan, which has been in development since April. Any final decision — including the tax rate — would go to voters. The hearing will also take public comment on a possible Fire Benefit Charge, a fee based on the cost of providing fire protection to buildings on a property. The meeting will be held in City Hall’s Council Chambers at 6pm. Residents can speak in person by signing up outside the chambers between 5:30 and 6pm. There is no virtual option. Written comments can be submitted by email to fire@cob.org or by mail to City Hall. STORY: WWU releases datamap detailing Whatcom’s decline in Canadian visitation and shopping over last several yearsWhatcom County has lost an estimated 64-million-dollar in Canadian spending between the last two years. According to a new analysis by Western Washington University’s Border Policy Research Institute about 510-thousand Canadians visited Whatcom County primarily to shop in 2025, down from 1.8 million in 2019 — a drop of roughly 71 percent. Researchers say the decline accelerated in 2025 amid tensions over tariffs and U.S.-Canada relations. The impact varies across the county. In Bellingham, inflation-adjusted retail sales fell about one percent between 2019 and 2024, with clothing sales down 22 percent and general merchandise down 12 percent. Blaine and Sumas also saw declines in local fuel-tax revenue, which helps pay for transportation projects. Researchers say fewer Canadian shoppers mean less sales-tax revenue for county services, including emergency medical services, criminal justice, the new jail and behavioral health treatment center, and affordable housing. The study also finds that Canadian visitors are increasingly crossing the border for recreation and family visits rather than shopping. Researchers say the changing travel patterns add pressure to local businesses and will be important to monitor as cross-border relations continue to evolve. STORY: Governor names new justice to Skagit Superior Court in court’s first expansion in twenty years Skagit County Superior Court is adding a new judge to the bench. Governor Bob Ferguson has appointed Haley Wolcott Sebens to fill the new position created earlier this year — the first expansion of the court in two decades. Sebens is a longtime Skagit County litigator with more than 16 years of experience. She currently serves as a Superior Court Commissioner, handling calendars in family law, child welfare, guardianship, probate, and juvenile matters. She previously spent over a decade in the Prosecutor’s Office, specializing in felony cases involving women and children, and has tried more than 80 jury trials. Sebens will take the bench on January 1st. STORY: Flood Preparedness Open House (run 10/9 or 10/12) It’s Water Week in Whatcom County. Officials are inviting residents to a Flood Preparedness Open House on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Nooksack Valley Middle School. The event includes a short presentation from Public Works and local leaders on this year’s flood outlook, current mitigation projects, and how flood‑management decisions are made. The open house brings together county flood experts, emergency responders, and community partners and offer practical preparedness tools and information. STORY: Crypto company ordered to shut down (run 10/12)A Seattle cryptocurrency company has been ordered to shut down by the end of this year and pay a two-and-a-half-million-dollar fine. The Washington Department of Financial Institutions says the order against Coinme resolves a multi-state lawsuit launched last year. The lawsuit alleged the company failed to meet state financial requirements, including accounting standards and safeguards against money laundering. The impact will be felt locally. According to Coinme’s website, the company operates 17 cryptocurrency kiosks in Whatcom County and 10 in Skagit (SKA-jit) County. Coinme must also remove its kiosks from six other states: Ohio, Georgia, Alaska, Arkansas, North Carolina and Illinois. STORY: WA UTC issues apology following hate speech at PSE rate increase hearingThe Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission has apologized after a public …
October 9, 2026 News Transcript
Arrest warrant issued for Lynden woman accused of animal cruelty, Blaine inches toward de-annexation, Whatcom sees uptick in DUI arrests across September, Governor nominates 99 low-income areas for state Opportunity Zones program, three in Whatcom and Skagit, Mt. Vernon debating new stadium, Supreme Court order could lead to mass redrawing of WA’s congressional districts, Freap, Crypto company ordered to shut down (run 10/12), Flood Preparedness Open House (run 10/9 or 10/12), Orca Recovery Day happens Saturday (Oct 17), BFA public meeting, Bellingham Swimmer, 60, Wins Three Medals and Sets Pacific Northwest Masters Record, Bellingham to hold public hearing over proposed regional fire authority (run 10/9 or 10/12), Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Health department cider pressing safety (weak story – break glass only in emergency) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 9th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. UPDATE: Arrest warrant issued for Lynden woman accused of animal cruelty An arrest warrant has been issued for the founder of a dog rescue in Lynden. Ashley Georgia who founded Pittie Project PNW faces 30 counts of animal cruelty. The sheriff’s office said they rescued 17 dogs from the center in early October and volunteers had previously removed 13 dogs. Most of the dogs are now in foster care. STORY: Blaine inches toward de-annexation Blaine is one step closer to shrinking its city limits. The County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve an agreement regarding road repairs tied to the city’s de-annexation. Blaine residents voted in 2025 to remove about 570 acres of undeveloped rural land from the city’s eastern boundary. The area includes roughly a mile and a half of H Street Road, which county officials say needs pavement, signage, and drainage work done. Under the agreement, the county will oversee a $1.25M road improvement project, with Blaine covering 20 percent of the cost. The city will also remain responsible for maintaining the road until construction begins or July 2030, whichever comes first. The project could take up to 10 years to complete. Blaine’s de-annexation still requires approval from the Whatcom County Boundary Review Board. STORY: Whatcom sees uptick in DUI arrests across September According to reporting from My Bellingham Now, the number of DUI arrests in Whatcom County is up this September compared with last year. There were 34 arrests, most of them alcohol related, according to Washington State Patrol data. However, Bellingham police said DUI arrests were trending lower, with 28 last month, compared with 45 in September of last year. Bellingham police lieutenant Claudia Murphy attributed last year’s higher arrest numbers to having more patrols. STORY: Governor nominates 99 low-income areas for state Opportunity Zones program, three in Whatcom and Skagit Three local areas have been nominated for a federal program designed to encourage private investment in underserved communities. In Whatcom County, Governor Bob Ferguson selected the Salish Village area in the Lummi Nation and the downtown waterfront redevelopment area in Whatcom County for nomination. In Skagit county, downtown Mount Vernon was selected from among 99 nominations statewide for the Federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. This program offers tax incentives to encourage investors and developers to put money into real estate projects and businesses in economically distressed areas. The state selected the 99 proposed zones from 152 applications, including 36 in rural communities. The updated program offers enhanced tax benefits for rural investments and adds reporting requirements intended to better measure the economic effects. The nominations now go to the U.S. Treasury Department for review. If approved, the new Opportunity Zones are scheduled to take effect on January 1st, next year. STORY: Mt. Vernon debating new stadiumThe Mount Vernon School District is considering millions of dollars in upgrades to its outdoor athletic facilities, including a covered stadium. A district advisory committee has unanimously recommended a six-year, $14.45 million capital levy to pay for covered stadium seating, accessible bleachers, a multipurpose turf field, and stadium lighting. A second option would cost nearly $18M and include a six-lane track at a middle school. The district says its 25-year-old stadium lacks covered seating and cannot currently host graduation ceremonies or regional tournaments. The smaller levy would cost about $140 a year for the owner of a half-million dollar home. The larger option would cost about $184 annually. The committee recommends the smaller levy but wants the district to gather more community input on the larger option. The district held a community meeting Wednesday and says it will determine next steps based on feedback. STORY: Supreme Court order could lead to mass redrawing of WA’s congressional districtsWashington state’s legislative district maps may have to be redrawn… again. A recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court narrowed part of the federal Voting Rights Act, and now a new order from the High Court has returned two cases challenging the state’s political boundaries back to a federal appeals court for another review. The legal fight centers on a Yakima Valley district where a federal judge ruled in 2023 that Latino voting power had been diluted. A court-ordered map was used in the 2024 elections and upheld by the Ninth Circuit last year. The Supreme Court’s latest action revives a separate challenge arguing the district was created through unconstitutional racial gerrymandering. The decision won’t affect this fall’s elections, but it could lead to Washington’s legislative boundaries being redrawn for a third time in a decade. Republican state Representative Jim Walsh welcomed the order, while the Campaign Legal Center, which supports the current map, says it will continue fighting to preserve Latino voting power in Yakima Valley. STORY: Freap If you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. The 2026 Ski Swap starts today in the Bloedel Donovan Gym at 2214 Electric Ave. The swap runs until 9:30pm tonight and continues tomorrow from 8 to 2pm. Ferndale’s Zombie Fun Run goes from 9 to 11:30 tomorrow morning at Pioneer Pavilion. It’s a …
October 7, 2026 News Transcript
Sheriff’s office investigates animal cruelty case, Bellingham man arrested in connection with B.C. school shooting, Bellingham woman arrested in connection with July hit-and-run in Birch Bay, Ranch Quarry EIS scoping phase complete, Lynden man survives hippo attack on honeymoon, writes book about experience, Whatcom County Flood Preparedness Week, WSDOT reports all ferries back in service, WA joins coalition seeking settlement from two drug companies accused of artificial price inflation, Flood Preparedness Open House (run 10/9 or 10/12), Bellingham to hold public hearing over proposed regional fire authority (run 10/9 or 10/12), Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Health department cider pressing safety (weak story – break glass only in emergency), F&C Oct 10 Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October, 7. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Sheriff’s office investigates animal cruelty case A Whatcom County dog rescue has been accused of animal cruelty. Detectives say they found roughly 30 dogs living in severe neglect at a property on Russet Avenue, where the group had been housing animals. The rescue, Pittie Project PNW, is run by 38‑year‑old Ashley Georgia of Bellingham. Deputies reported seeing dogs with open wounds, signs of parasites, matted fur soaked with urine and feces, and animals so underweight their bones were visible. Investigators say many had no access to clean water or adequate food. The property owner cooperated and allowed detectives inside the property. A search warrant was later issued so the dogs could be seized and receive immediate medical care. It was found that volunteers had previously removed 13 dogs from the property after seeing the animals’ condition. Investigators say Georgia had received food donations and thousands of dollars intended for the animals’ care. All remaining dogs are now being treated by the Whatcom Humane Society. The sheriff’s office says criminal charges are pending. STORY: Bellingham man arrested in connection with B.C. school shooting A Bellingham man is facing federal charges for allegedly helping plan a deadly school shooting in British Columbia. Prosecutors say 30‑year‑old James Cody Bryant spent months advising and assisting the shooter, 18-year old Jesse Van Rootselaar (ROT-sell-er), before the attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in February. Court documents allege Bryant provided money, technical help and tactical guidance, and that he agreed to record and broadcast the shooting. Additionally, investigators say Bryant tested livestreaming equipment with the shooter, sent funds for items used in the attack, and even gave advice on how to start a car moments before the shooter left for the school. Canadian authorities say Van Rootselaar killed two people at home, then drove to the school and killed five students — as well as an educational assistant — before committing suicide. U.S. prosecutors say Bryant faces a conspiracy‑to‑murder persons in a foreign country, a crime that can carry a life sentence. STORY: Bellingham woman arrested in connection with July hit-and-run in Birch Bay A Bellingham woman has been arrested months after a hit‑and‑run in Birch Bay. Deputies say the crash happened on Birch Bay Drive on July 27th. The driver made a sudden U‑turn, braked hard, and swerved toward the shoulder. A passing cyclist hit the back of the vehicle, suffering a small laceration on the knee and soreness in their head, neck and leg. Investigators say the driver — 56‑year‑old Michelle Jarrell‑Orr — briefly got out of the car, but left after a male passenger told her to get back in. Three witnesses backed up the victim’s account, and the victim managed to photograph the vehicle. Deputies identified Jarrell‑Orr as the owner, and the victim picked her out of a photo lineup. Sedro‑Woolley Police arrested Jarrell-Orr on Monday; she was booked into the Whatcom County Jail without incident. STORY: Ranch Quarry EIS scoping phase complete The proposed Ranch Quarry project in Whatcom County continues to advance. County staff and consultants say they have reviewed all public comments and finished the scoping phase of the project’s Environmental Impact Statement. The EIS will study two options: the Proposed Action, allowing the quarry to move ahead, and a No Action alternative. The project would create a long‑term surface mine on a 108‑acre site near Sumas (SOO-mass), supplying rock and gravel for regional construction and infrastructure. It’s planned to operate in phases over several decades, with on‑site crushing and hauling. The EIS will look at potential impacts to the land, water, air, wildlife, cultural resources, and transportation. The public will have a chance to comment on the draft EIS later this year. STORY: Lynden man survives hippo attack on honeymoon, writes book about experience A Lynden man is sharing his story of being attacked by a hippo on his honeymoon. As reported by the Cascadia Daily News and Newsweek, Samuel and Anna McKee were canoeing in Botswana in September 2025 when a hippo charged their boat and dragged Samuel under. Anna ran towards the hippo and managed to scare the animal off, helping her husband to safety. Samuel endured the night without rescue after the attack before a helicopter flew him to a hospital in South Africa. He spent weeks recovering overseas and months in therapy back home. The couple, both raised in Whatcom County, say the ordeal reshaped their first year of marriage and deepened their gratitude. The McKees have written a book about the attack and their relationship, and plan to seek a publisher soon. STORY: Whatcom County Flood Preparedness Week Flood Preparedness Week starts next Monday in Whatcom County. County Executive Satpal Sidhu issued the Flood Preparedness Week proclamation, saying early action can save lives and reduce damage when high water arrives. The county will share simple steps like how to assemble a grab‑and‑go kit, sign up for emergency alerts, and protect your home from flood damage, along with updates from its annual storm briefing and flood newsletter. Officials say the goal is to give residents practical tools before the winter storms return. UPDATE: WSDOT reports all ferries back in service Ferry service is back to normal today after …
October 6, 2026 News Transcript
Large-scale “sickout” throws Puget Sound ferry service into chaos, Bellingham PD to rollout new “Drone as First Responder,” program following state grant, Misconduct lawsuit against deceased Bellingham therapist to move to trial, U.S. Supreme Court will not hear Bellingham vaccine mandate case, Gatorade recall due to undeclared food dyes, U.S. Supreme Court will not hear Bellingham vaccine mandate case, Gas prices in Whatcom and greater WA fall slightly, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Health department cider pressing safety (weak story – break glass only in emergency), F&C Oct 10 Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October, 6. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Large-scale “sickout” throws Puget Sound ferry service into chaos Ferry services across Puget Sound were at a standstill yesterday. 23 engine room employees called in sick; at one point, only five out of the system’s 18 ferries were running. State law prohibits strike by ferry workers. The ferry workers’ union, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, said they had not coordinated the sickout, and instead described it as a, quote, “frantic cry for help from an abused and frustrated group of highly-skilled and committed workers,” unquote. Their collective bargaining agreement is such that they will not be getting any pay rises, and the next round of bargaining will not happen until next July. Governor Bob Ferguson said he expected the ferries to be running today, but it is unclear whether the stoppage will continue. STORY: Bellingham PD to rollout new “Drone as First Responder,” program following state grant Police in Bellingham will be using more aerial drones. A half-a-million dollar state grant will be used to start a Drone as First Responder program. Police and firefighters may survey locations before responders arrive. Chief of Police Rebecca Mertzig told the City Council yesterday that a drone could be sent to a scene of a 9-1-1 call within minutes. This, she said, will help to gather critical information so that the right kind of help is provided. STORY: Misconduct lawsuit against deceased Bellingham therapist to move to trial A misconduct lawsuit against a deceased Bellingham therapist will proceed to trial. Court documents show that Whatcom resident Damian Cordova Jr. started receiving mental health therapy from Reverie Shunny at Sunrise Services Inc in November 2020. Cordova alleged that Shunny “crossed professional and personal boundaries,” and that the two had an intimate relationship. Before her death last year, Shunny denied there was any personal relationship with Cordova, and petitioned for a restraining order against him. The Department of Health found that evidence did not support a violation by Shunny. A Whatcom Superior Court judge, however, decided the case should go to trial. STORY: U.S. Supreme Court will not hear Bellingham vaccine mandate case The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to revive a 2024 lawsuit over Bellingham’s COVID‑19 vaccine mandate. According to the records, the court declined to take up the case, leaving in place earlier rulings that upheld former Mayor Seth Fleetwood’s 2021 order requiring city workers to be vaccinated. A group of employees — including EMTs, police officers, firefighters, and other staff — had argued the mandate violated their constitutional rights and amounted to wrongful termination. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit last year — a decision upheld by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in May. With the Supreme Court declining to review the case, those decisions now stand, and the lawsuit is officially over. As the case was dismissed with prejudice, the former employees cannot file the same claims again. STORY: Gatorade recall due to undeclared food dyes If you’ve got Gatorade in the fridge, you may want to check the label. ABC News reports more than 122,000 cases of Gatorade are being recalled because the drinks contain undeclared food dyes. The FDA says the recall covers 28‑ounce bottles of Lemon Lime, Lemon Lime Zero, Orange, and Orange Zero distributed across over two dozen states, including Washington. The affected lots — which run through April, May and June of 2027 — failed to disclose the presence of Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6. Federal officials classify this as a Class II recall, meaning the drinks could cause temporary or medically reversible reactions — including mild rashes or asthma‑like symptoms — mainly in people who already have sensitivities, such as those with aspirin allergies. A full list of lot codes and distribution states is available on the agency’s website. STORY: Gas prices in Whatcom and greater WA fall slightly Gas prices in Bellingham slipped this week, giving drivers a bit of relief. Regular now averages $5.32, down 4 cents from a week ago but nearly a dollar higher than a year ago. Statewide, regular gas averages $5.48, also slightly below last week’s level. Patrick De Haan with GasBuddy says average gasoline prices fell in 48 states over the last week, with diesel dropping in 48 states as well. In a blog post, De Haan called it a “broad‑based retreat” that’s bringing relief to drivers. He says the biggest declines were in Georgia and Ohio, where fuel‑tax cuts amplified the drop, and that most states may continue to see lower prices — though some Midwest markets could swing back up. De Haan also notes that while oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are rising, the refineries behind the strait are yet unable to move products freely, keeping gas and diesel prices higher than crude oil levels alone would suggest. STORY: Judge’s ruling blocks new state law establishing standards for county sheriffs A Thurston County judge has permanently blocked Washington’s new sheriff‑standards law. The Washington State Standard reports Judge Christine Schaller struck down the most controversial parts of Senate Bill 5974 — the measure that would have required elected sheriffs to meet the same eligibility standards as appointed police chiefs. Critics, including a dozen sheriffs who sued the state, argued the law amounted to state overreach, and that it would allow for an administrative commission to remove sheriffs elected by …
