Port of Bellingham votes to end contract with ABC Recycling, Arson suspect arrested in connection with trash fires, Bellingham seafood processing company announces closure, Blaine School District anticipates $2.5M in budget cuts, Fire training downtown Bellingham, Judge orders Providence debt collector Optimum Outcomes to pay $827,000 penalty for violating patients’ medical debt collection rights, New Covid Guidelines ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 26. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Port of Bellingham votes to end contract with ABC Recycling Yesterday, the Port of Bellingham and Canada-based ABC recycling announced a mutually-agreed upon termination of their bulk-shipping lease. The Port says the decision was made due to ongoing concerns about ABC’s ability to comply with lease terms, particularly regarding environmental standards. Port Executive Director Rob Fix expressed regret over losing an employer supporting Union labor and family-wage jobs, but emphasized the importance of prioritizing environmental protection. In a recent release, Andy Anthony, Vice President of US Operations for ABC Recycling, said ABC is working to reassess its approach to export bulk shipping strategy now that they will not have a facility in Bellingham, but says he thinks the lease termination is the right decision for the company as well. ABC has plans to build a metal shredder facility in collaboration with Whatcom County, but the termination of port operations leaves the future of that project uncertain. Both the metal handling at the waterfront and a proposed metal shredder facility have faced significant citizen complaints due to noise concerns. ABC Recycling has until June 30th to remove all scrap metal from the waterfront, which will be loaded onto cargo vessels under enhanced environmental measures. STORY: Arson suspect arrested in connection with trash fires A man was arrested yesterday in connection with a series of trash fires in Bellingham. The first fire was started next to a dumpster at an apartment complex on Woodstock Way. As Bellingham fire crews responded to the emergency, a second fire was lit not far away – in a dumpster behind the Goodwill store on Sunset. Finally, a third fire was started in a recycling can on Grant Street, which was extinguished by a witness. Bellingham Police arrested the suspect in a vacant lot along Alabama Street at around 7:30pm. Fire Chief Bill Hewitt stated that the fires are still under investigation, and the suspect remains in custody. STORY: Bellingham seafood processing company announces closure Seafood processing plant Bornstein (born-STEEN) Seafoods is closing its Bellingham headquarters. The company filed its intentions with Washington State officials on March 22nd. About 70 local workers will be laid off and the last day for Bellingham operations will be near the end of June. The Bornstein plant in Newport, Oregon will also be shuttered. A company news release announced operations from the Bellingham and Newport facilities will be consolidated in Astoria, Oregon. Vice President Andrew Bornstein said the company remains committed to its employees and will provide job fair opportunities as well as access to other resources to help them find alternative employment. STORY: Blaine School District anticipates $2.5M in budget cuts The Blaine school board has directed the superintendent to reduce its educational plan as the district faces two-and-a-half million dollars in budget cuts. Superintendent Christopher Granger says a notice will be sent this Thursday to staff whose jobs may be impacted as a result of the cuts. The final plan will come during the April school board meeting. According to recent reporting by the Cascadia Daily, board member Ben Lazarus introduced a resolution that would have the school district negotiate with the two existing staff unions in order to avoid pay raises for the upcoming year. Lazarus argued this move would curb the budget loss, as pay raises this year would cost the school $1.6 million. He also claimed that hiring more staff should get priority over pay raises for current staff. Board members tabled the motion until a future meeting. STORY: Fire training downtown Bellingham The Bellingham Fire Department is holding training exercises downtown throughout the week. From today till Friday, the Railroad Parking Garage will be the scene of emergency practice scenarios. Expect to see fire engines around the area and hoses laying on the sidewalks, with an occasional fog machine for added realism. The garage will be open for business as usual. STORY: Judge orders Providence debt collector Optimum Outcomes to pay $827,000 penalty for violating patients’ medical debt collection rights Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced another legal victory against a debt collection agency in a trial related to an ongoing charity care lawsuit. King County Superior Court judge Sean O’Donnell ruled that Illinois-based Optimum Outcomes violated the Consumer Protection Act when it failed to provide information about financial assistance, and inform patients of their rights. Court documents say internal practices included pressuring patients for payment and sending Medicaid patients to collection despite their eligibility for assistance. The court ordered Optimum to pay over $820,000 in penalties and also mandated reforms to comply with state law. Optimum is the debt collector for Providence Health and Services, one of the nation’s largest healthcare systems. As part of a previous resolution with Providence last month, nearly 100,000 patients will receive refunds or debt forgiveness totaling nearly $158 million. The lawsuit highlighted over 100,000 violations of the state Consumer Protection Act due to Providence’s unfair practices. The legal action is part of Attorney General Ferguson’s Health Care Initiative, which has led to over $205 million in debt forgiveness and refunds for Washington residents. Other resolved cases include similar agreements with PeaceHealth, CHI (C-H-I) Franciscan, and Capital Medical Center. Ferguson encourages individuals who believe they are not receiving entitled financial assistance to file complaints with the Attorney General’s Office. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – today will be mostly cloudy, with a high of 53 degrees and moderate winds. The clouds will give way to the sun later today, while tonight will bring more rain and a low of 43. Showers and …
March 25, 2024 News Transcript
Swimmer dies poolside at Western Washington University’s student recreation center, Multi-agency sweep leads to 5 arrests in major drug bust; other suspects at large, WSDOT crews ready to begin annual spring clearing of North Cascades Highway, Local credit union partners with Lighthouse Mission for new building, Van Zandt Community Hall plots major renovation to mark 100 years, Legislature adopts proposal to launch Artificial Intelligence Task Force, The CDC and Washington State Department of Health announced an update to their guidance on COVID-19. ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 25th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Swimmer dies poolside at Western Washington University’s student recreation center A swimmer died poolside at the WWU Wade King Student Rec Center on Friday. After a swimmer appeared to be in distress on the side of the pool, lifeguards and staff began CPR. EMTs responded, but could not revive them. The identity of this person was not released, pending notification of family. According to University Communications Assistant Director John Thompson, the swimmer was not a WWU student. STORY: Multi-agency sweep leads to 5 arrests in major drug bust; other suspects at large Law enforcement officers have arrested 5 Whatcom county locals in a major drug bust – with other suspects still at large. An investigation was led by the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force, which concluded when police served warrants to the 6000 block of Neevel Road east of Ferndale and the 5300 block of Guide Meridian in Bellingham. According to a news release from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office, deputies found over 3 pounds of fentanyl powder, a sawed off shotgun, and cell phones when they searched the homes. Law enforcement arrested Victor Alcala Arellanes (al-CA-la ar-ee-YAH-ness) , aged 35, Jesus Garcia Covarrubias (hay-SOOS) (co-vah-ROO-bi-as), aged 24, Carlos Ramos Navarrette (nav-ah-RET-eh), aged 23, and Carlos Monreal Ceballos (suh-BAI-os) aged 29. Bellingham man Theron Chin, aged 48, was also arrested while the warrants were being served. All 5 men face counts of possession with intent to deliver. Officers are still searching for three additional suspects in connection with Friday’s investigation. STORY: WSDOT crews ready to begin annual spring clearing of North Cascades Highway Highway crews will start spring cleaning today along State Route 20. During the cleaning period, the North Cascades Highway will be closed during work hours starting at milepost 171, from Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. This annual clearing effort typically spans six to eight weeks, although weather conditions may affect the timeline. WSDOT (WASH-dot) reminds snowmobile owners to relocate their vehicles parked behind the closure point before the work begins. STORY: Local credit union partners with Lighthouse Mission for new building WECU has announced that they are providing Lighthouse Mission with a $1 million grant to help build their new facility. The credit union announced the partnership earlier this month, providing the grant as a loan that can be paid down without penalty. According to Lighthouse Mission CEO Hans Erchinger-Davis (UR-chin-ger), WECU is also helping them sell the Willows Inn, which was donated last year to help fund the new building. However, even with the new grant, Erchinger-Davis says they’re still facing a $4 million shortfall. Lighthouse Mission’s former building was demolished in early 2023 to make way for the new five story building on West Holly St. The new 300 to 400-bed building is projected to open in October of 2024. STORY: Van Zandt Community Hall plots major renovation to mark 100 years Nearly 100 years after being built, the Van Zandt Community Hall is getting a major renovation. The hall, originally a two-room schoolhouse, has been managed by community members since the 1950s. It is owned by Whatcom County, but the South Fork Valley Community Association is the building’s steward. According to the association, the hall is a center of life in the South Fork Valley, from putting on events and youth programming, to hosting government meetings and election forums. Now, after years of the association doing its own upgrades, the state has pitched in $500,000 toward a major renovation. The community raised $100,000 of the necessary money and is hoping to see additional funding from the county. The funding comes with support primarily from State Senator Sharon Shewmake, as well as Whatcom County Parks Director Bennett Knox and County Executive Satpal Sidhu. The money will add many needed changes: a new entrance, expanded storage, more space for the community radio station KAVZ 102.5 FM — which is currently broadcasting out of an old broom closet — as well as replacing the heating system, and re-insulating the walls. According to the association, the community hopes to break ground in fall 2024 and be done in time for a centennial celebration in summer 2025. STORY: Legislature adopts proposal to launch Artificial Intelligence Task Force Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s bipartisan proposal for an Artificial Intelligence Task Force has successfully passed the Legislature. The task force aims to address concerns regarding AI technology, particularly focusing on generative AI’s rapid growth in popularity. The legislation directs the task force to investigate concerns such as public policy issues, high-risk uses, racial equity, and civil liberty issues and then provide recommendations for potential regularion. The task force will meet biannually, with a final report due to the Governor and Legislature by July 1, 2026. Colorado, Illinois, Texas, Vermont, and Virginia have also established AI task forces or commissions. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – rain will be likely today, with a high of 51 degrees and moderate winds. Expect more precipitation late tonight with a low of 43. Rain is projected all week long. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. If …
March 22, 2024 News Transcript
Lummi Nation couple barely escapes house fire, Concrete man arrested Thursday in connection to murder of Marblemount man, Pike Place style-market planned for downtown waterfront in Bellingham, National Parks Service outlines options for Grizzly reintroduction, New WA law will allow some property crimes to be classified as hate crimes, Free and Cheap ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 22nd. Good afternoon, I’m __David Korb____. STORY: Lummi Nation couple barely escapes house fire A family in Lummi Nation narrowly escaped a fire that burned down their home Tuesday morning. According to the Whatcom County fire marshal, the fire began at 2:30 am, when a heat lamp accidentally ignited clothing. It quickly spread and burned down the home, car, and surrounding structures. Both Willie Lane, 62, and Aline Soundy, 67, fled, saving their dog and seven kittens. They survived with second degree burns, but the mother of the kittens did not make it. A GoFundMe page had raised $31,000 so far — money that will help them rebuild. According to their niece, the couple are recovering at a relative’s home. STORY: Concrete man arrested Thursday in connection to murder of Marblemount man A man from Concrete was arrested on Thursday for suspected murder. Justin Spaeth (SPAY-th), aged 44, was declared missing from his Marblemount home on February 28th. He was reportedly going to a friend’s house just two miles away. During the investigation, authorities found evidence that James Kelly, aged 33, knew Speath and may have been involved in the disappearance. Kelly is in custody following a two-day search of his home. STORY: Pike Place style-market planned for downtown waterfront in Bellingham The Port of Bellingham is introducing a Pike Place-style market to the Portal Container Village. According to an announcement by the Port of Bellingham, the market will operate as a cooperative, allowing locals to sell goods with less time and staffing commitments. The market will showcase products from local farms and fishermen, including a proposed nursery and farm stand. The Port plans to establish more year-round operations as part of their ongoing development efforts at the former Georgia-Pacific site. Zeeks Pizza and Bin 13 Wine Bar will join the village this spring, operating throughout the year. Interested local fishermen and farmers are encouraged to contact market manager Carey Hansen. The new fish market is scheduled to debut next Spring. STORY: National Parks Service outlines options for Grizzly reintroduction A plan to reintroduce grizzly bears in the north cascades is now moving forward. The parks service released its final environmental impact statement yesterday that outlines three ways to restore grizzly bear populations in Washington’s remote northern Cascades. The plan recommended by federal officials provides more flexible management tools by designating the bears as a nonessential experimental population. This plan would calm local concerns about this population of grizzlies harming livestock by providing options to deal with threatening bears. The issue has caused significant debate between ranchers and environmentalists, which resulted in over 12,000 responses during a 45 day public comment period last fall. The National Park Service began its first step in grizzly reintegration in 2020, which was shut down by the Trump administration. A change in the presidency may affect the execution of the new plan. If adopted, officials would build a population of 200 grizzlies, releasing several bears in the cascades annually for up to 10 years. The plan calls for an initial introductory population of 25. STORY: New WA law will allow some property crimes to be classified as hate crimes Washington state has expanded the definition of hate crime. State Senator Andy Billig was spurred to action after vandals targeted LGBTQ+ pride sidewalks in Spokane. Billig says his bill broadens hate crime statutes to encompass malicious acts based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and other identities. Advocates, recalling incidents like the defacement of a Black Lives Matter mural and vandalism at the Wing Luke Museum, support the bill, citing increased incidents of Islamophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Asian attacks. Miri Cypers, from the Anti-Defamation League PNW, emphasized the urgency of combating hate after her synagogue was targeted with graffiti. Despite FBI data showing fluctuation in hate crimes, testimonies suggest a perceived increase since last fall. The bill was signed into law last week and is set to take effect in June. STORY: Free and Cheap Looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend? Here are a few events happening across the county. On Saturday, the Bellingham Makerspace at Bellis Fair is holding a free craft time. From 2 to 5 pm, the event will feature a project demonstration, with all materials provided. All ages are invited and registration is available at BellinghamMakerspace.org. For those looking to do something outdoors, there will be a community work party at Cornwall Park Saturday from 9 am to noon. Volunteers will help plant trees and shrubs while removing invasive Himalayan Blackberry at one of Bellingham’s oldest parks. All ages and abilities are welcome and tools, gloves, and instructions are provided. Registration is available at COB.org. Finally, the Mount Baker Rock and Gem Club is hosting its 62nd annual Gem and Mineral Show this weekend. The event is free and will have rocks, minerals, fossils, and gems on display. There will also be vendors, food, and an auction. The event runs from 10 to 6 on Saturday, and 10 to 5 on Sunday at the Pioneer Pavilion Community Center. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather today – there’s a chance of showers in the evening, with a high of 60 degrees and moderate winds. Later tonight, expect more precipitation with a low of 45. Rain is likely this weekend, otherwise, expect clouds. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit …
March 21, 2024 News Transcript
Authorities say suspected car thief raced from Bellingham to Skagit County before crashing, City of Blaine names new police chief, Lummi Island Ferry fares to increase after decline in revenue, ridership, Whatcom educators: State money still short of what’s needed to fund public schools, WSDA local food system infrastructure grant applications open, Inslee signs fentanyl bill sending money to WA tribes hit by opioids ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, March 21st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Authorities say suspected car thief raced from Bellingham to Skagit County before crashing A Bellingham suspect of grand theft auto attempted to flee from police before crashing into a barrier in Skagit County. Authorities say Lukes Robert Skinner, aged 33, stole car keys from the owner of a 2003 Honda Accord in a Mcdonald’s parking lot in Bellingham on the morning of February 22. Dispatch then heard reports of a vehicle traveling at high speeds and making dangerous passes on the shoulder southbound on I-5. After driving 25 miles, the driver crashed into a barrier on the Skagit County bridge. Skinner was arrested by officers after being found attempting to flee the scene on foot, and was taken to the Hospital after complaining of back pain. Skinner was booked into Whatcom County jail on March 18th. STORY: City of Blaine names new police chief The city of Blaine has hired a new police chief. Recent reporting by the Northern Light says Rodger Funk, currently the chief inspector at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, is now set to become its next chief. Funk has 28 years of law enforcement experience, including various leadership roles, and expressed excitement about the opportunity. Blaine received 16 applicants from a nation-wide search and selected Funk after a thorough evaluation process involving three interview panels. Michael Munden, interim police chief, has been asked to remain with the department under the new leadership. Funk’s employment contract now awaits city council approval. STORY: Lummi Island Ferry fares to increase after decline in revenue, ridership Lummi Island Ferry fares will increase soon amid a two year decline in revenue. The Whatcom County Council unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday that requests Executive Satpal Sidhu to increase fares. The resolution also allocates $358,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds to the Ferry Fund. A proposal was shared by Sidhu on Monday that would see a 54% increase of the pedestrian multi-ride fare, and a 37% increase of the vehicle with driver multi-ride fare. Nearly 80 Lummi Island residents attended the Monday meeting to voice concerns about the increases and the financial impact on those living on the island. Ferry Advisory Committee members proposed an alternative fare increase that would be half that of Sidhu’s proposal. Ridership of the ferry last year decreased by around 10% in single-rides, and about 5% in multi-rides. Public works staff attributed the drop in ridership to COVID-19 changing riding patterns and behaviors in general. That year, the ferry brought nearly half a million less revenue than expected. Exact fare increases won’t be finalized until next week. STORY: Whatcom educators: State money still short of what’s needed to fund public schools Superintendents from Whatcom County are expressing mixed feelings about the additional education funding passed by the state Legislature. In recent reporting by the Cascadia Daily, Whatcom school leadership acknowledged some relief from the $333 million increase in the operating budget for education and $306 million in the capital budget for school construction. However, Meridian School District Superintendent James Everett, Bellingham Public Schools Superintendent Greg Baker and Nooksack Valley School District Superintendent Matt Galley said the state still falls short of adequately funding public schools. Despite increases in staffing allocations and materials costs, they say the funding fails to match inflation, leaving essential school costs unfunded. Special education funding received a small bump, which is seen as helpful but insufficient. Capital budget increases are noted, yet still deemed insufficient to meet the demands of real construction costs. The superintendents express gratitude for the extra funding but highlight ongoing challenges with the state’s funding model and remain concerned about the dependence on local levies to fill funding gaps. STORY: WSDA local food system infrastructure grant applications open Over $2 million in grants are available for farms, ranches, food processors, and food distributors that support local food systems. Offered by the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the grants are designed to strengthen the connections between Washington’s regional food supply chains. The funding will help local farms, processors, and distributors that are critical in maintaining the local food system statewide. Grant amounts range from 10 to 75 thousand dollars and can be used for planning, equipment, and facilities. More information is available on the WSDA website and applications are due by April 17th. STORY: Inslee signs fentanyl bill sending money to WA tribes hit by opioids On Tuesday, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed seven bills aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis in the state. Native American communities in Washington experience opioid overdose rates five times the state average. The legislation aims to support initiatives such as treatment facilities and education programs. Additionally, a bill called the Lucas Petty Act, named after a teenager who died from fentanyl-laced marijuana, will incorporate fentanyl education into public school curriculum. Another bill focuses on improving opioid education, overdose prevention, treatment access, and first-responder resources statewide. One measure is expected to provide nearly $8 million annually to federally recognized tribes until at least 2031, sourced partly from a settlement with opioid distributors. Lummi Nation declared a state of emergency last year over fentanyl, adding drug-sniffing dogs and checkpoints, as well as revoking bail for drug-related charges. The tribe also opened a seven-bed facility to help members with withdrawal and get them on medication for opioid use disorder. According to Dr. Jesse Davis, medical director of the Lummi Healing Spirit Opioid Treatment program, in its first five months the facility treated 63 people. WX: Sun Your …
March 20, 2024 News Transcript
Deputy-involved crash closes section of Hannegan during morning commute, Bellingham School District plots Roosevelt Elementary rebuild, Southbound I-5 at Portal Way fully blocked after collision, SNAP Recipients’ Funds Go Farther This Season with Unlimited Cost Matching, Child care grants adding nearly 30 spaces in Bellingham preschools, WA cherry growers get federal help after extreme heat hurt crops, WSDA local food system infrastructure grant applications open ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Deputy-involved crash closes section of Hannegan during morning commute First responders were dispatched yesterday at 6:40 a.m. to a crash involving a Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputy. In foggy conditions, a minivan ran a stop sign at the intersection of E Haxton and Hannegan roads, and crashed into the officer’s vehicle. Both of the drivers were treated for minor injuries after being transported to the hospital by ambulance. The roads approaching the intersection were closed for about three hours. The minivan driver was cited for a failure to yield, and driving without a license. STORY: Bellingham School District plots Roosevelt Elementary rebuild Parents and community members assembled at Roosevelt Elementary School yesterday to discuss plans to remodel the 52-year-old building. Requests for the new school building range from an air-conditioning system to improved bike, bus and pedestrian access, as well as keeping the school’s, quote, “neighborhood feel.” Director of Capital Projects for Bellingham Public Schools, Curtis Lawyer, says the new school will be a two-story, 64,000-square-foot building, and serve 450 students. The rebuild, which would be covered with money from a 2022 bond, will cost around $50 million and open by 2027 or ‘28, pending the approval of an additional bond for construction funds. The rebuild comes after a legislative report by the School Seismic Safety Project found that, in the event of an earthquake, the current Roosevelt Elementary building would be severely damaged, which would pose a threat to the lives of those inside the old building. STORY: Southbound I-5 at Portal Way fully blocked after collision Another crash happened later yesterday, when an accident blocked all lanes of southbound I-5 near Portal Way. First responders were dispatched about 2:55 pm due to reports of a vehicle hauler rolled over at the Portal Way southbound on-ramp. Officials reported that 2 additional vehicles were also involved in the crash and 2 people were injured. I-5 traffic was backed up for several miles north of Ferndale. Around 4 pm, WSDOT reported on Twitter that drivers on I-5 were using the on-ramp at Grandview as an off-ramp to circumvent the traffic, and warning of potential additional collisions. Traffic got back to normal around 5:15 p.m. after the scene had been cleared. Washington State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding says their investigation determined that the vehicle hauler was traveling too fast while attempting to enter southbound I-5 from Portal Way causing it to tip over and slide across lanes. A van traveling southbound then struck the hauler. The driver of the van suffered non-life-threatening injuries, and the driver of the vehicle hauler was uninjured. STORY: SNAP Recipients’ Funds Go Farther This Season with Unlimited Cost Matching All three Whatcom County farmers markets have announced they will now accept SNAP Market Match with unlimited matches on local produce. According to an announcement by the county health department, $50,000 dollars in American Rescue Plan Act funds have been allocated by Whatcom County toward the initiative designed to support local farmers, enhance food security, and promote healthy eating habits among SNAP users. Previously, pandemic-era programs provided limited matching funds, but with the infusion of county funds, the markets can now offer a dollar-for-dollar match with no transaction limit. The new initiative builds on the success of a previous pilot program funded by a PeaceHealth Community Benefit Grant, which demonstrated significant increases in SNAP Market Match usage and improved food access for low-income residents. The initiative also aligns with Whatcom County’s Food System Plan and its goals of building a resilient local food economy and ensuring access to healthy food for all. STORY: Child care grants adding nearly 30 spaces in Bellingham preschools Two Bellingham preschool programs have secured grants from the Washington State Dept of Commerce to improve child care access. Gabriel’s Art Kids, located in the Lettered Streets neighborhood, will receive $600,000 to add 19 spaces, while A Child’s Life Learning Center will get almost $60,000 dollars to accommodate 10 more children. Access to quality child care is recognized as crucial for working families in Whatcom County. Recent initiatives such as integrating child-care centers into housing projects and the passing of a 10-year tax in Whatcom County for children’s education have also tried to address some of those needs. STORY: WA cherry growers get federal help after extreme heat hurt crops Federal disaster relief loans are now available to Washington’s cherry growers. Last summer, Washington’s sweet cherry growers suffered nearly $100 million dollars in losses due to extreme heat, which caused all the trees to bloom at once. This sudden surge in production flooded the market, leading to a sharp decline in cherry prices and resulting in financial setbacks for the growers. Lobbying efforts by congressional officials, including Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray as well as Representative Kim Schrier (SCHRY-er), have encouraged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to offer relief loans of up to $500,000 to help mitigate losses. The disaster declaration aims to assist growers in continuing operations during the upcoming season. Eligible areas for the loans include various counties in Washington and Oregon. The loans can be used for equipment, livestock, restructuring farming operations, or debt refinancing. Applications will be accepted until November. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – today will be cloudy, with a high of 55 degrees and moderate winds. Tonight, expect rain with a low of 45. Tomorrow will bring more rain and similar temperatures. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. …
March 19, 2024 News Transcript
Suspect charged in apparent overdose death of Whatcom County Jail inmate, Single-bin recycling poised to spread beyond Bellingham after Whatcom County Council vote, Woman pleads guilty to 2nd-degree murder and receives 10-year sentence, PeaceHealth to open Lynden clinic in April, NW Washington Fair adds acclaimed rapper, actor to entertainment lineup, WA students soon may not have to take the bar exam to become attorneys, Alaska Airlines blames Boeing for blowout, wants out of passenger lawsuit ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Suspect charged in apparent overdose death of Whatcom County Jail inmate A 38-year-old Everett man already incarcerated in the Whatcom County Jail is suspected of providing drugs to two other prisoners, leading to their overdoses. Last Monday, 28-year-old Andre Haas (ON-dray HOSS) was found dead in his cell and attempts to revive him with Narcan failed. Haas’s cellmate also overdosed but was still alive and taken to St. Joe’s for treatment. Yesterday, the Bellingham Police Department arrested Angel Lewis Leffingwell on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance by a prisoner and controlled substance homicide. Leffingwell had been incarcerated in the downtown Whatcom County Jail since February 25th and it is unclear how he got access to the drugs. The Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team is currently investigating. STORY: Single-bin recycling poised to spread beyond Bellingham after Whatcom County Council vote Whatcom County residents may soon follow Bellingham’s lead and adopt single-bin recycling for curbside pickups. County Council members unanimously voted to proceed with a public hearing today to implement this practice under the Sanitary Service Company waste contract. The move aims to simplify recycling for customers, save on fuel costs, reduce street litter, and minimize driver injuries. Although single-stream recycling may decrease the actual amount recycled due to increased spoilage, officials highlight its overall benefits. Currently, Bellingham residents and SSC customers must sort recyclables into separate crates, but the new method consolidates all recycling into a single 96-gallon container. The program, previously trialed in 2022, is now being rolled out in Bellingham, accompanied by a switch from weekly to bi-weekly recycling pickup. Supporters acknowledge the potential decrease in recycling but emphasize the benefits, advocating for additional measures like bottle and can deposits and the WRAP Act to reduce landfill waste. The County Council hearing is scheduled for tonight’s meeting, starting at 6pm. Those interested can attend in person, or online. STORY: Woman pleads guilty to 2nd-degree murder and receives 10-year sentence A Whatcom woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in relation to a fatal hit-and-run incident almost two years ago. 27-year-old Rayven Butler-Washington pleaded guilty to a count of second-degree murder following a hit-and-run incident which resulted in the death of a 38-year-old man from Deming. The man had gotten into an argument with Butler-Washington just before the incident. The County Sheriff’s Office arrested Butler-Washington a few weeks later, and she remained in custody at Whatcom County Jail with a million-dollar bond requirement until her sentencing on March 11th. In addition to jail time, Butler-Washington will serve 3 years of community custody. Court documents reveal that charges of vehicular homicide and hit-and-run resulting in death were dropped. STORY: PeaceHealth to open Lynden clinic in April PeaceHealth announced they will open a new clinic in Lynden. The over 22,000-square-foot facility on Benson Road will open on April 15th and offer primary care as well as specialties such as OB/GYN services, cardiology, and orthopedics. Mount Baker Imaging and Quest Diagnostics will provide on-site imaging and lab services. A community open house is scheduled for May 16th. STORY: NW Washington Fair adds acclaimed rapper, actor to entertainment lineup Ludacris is coming to the NW Washington Fair this summer. The Grammy-award winning rapper and star of the Fast and Furious series will appear on the last day of the fair, which runs from August 8th to the 17th. The fair program has yet to be finalized, and announcements for performances are ongoing. Tickets for his show go on sale on March 22. STORY: WA students soon may not have to take the bar exam to become attorneys On Friday the state supreme court ruled that Washington students no longer need to take the bar exam to become attorneys. A bar licensure task force seated in 2020 discovered that the test was minimally effective and provided unnecessary barriers for marginalized law students. State Supreme Court Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis, who chaired the task force, said that creating alternative requirements would allow for more diversity in the field without decreasing competency. In place of the exam, law students would submit a portfolio based on their 500 hours of experience as an intern. The specifics and materials are yet to be developed in full. Washington is the second state to implement this change following Oregon, which started the process at the beginning of the year. STORY: Alaska Airlines blames Boeing for blowout, wants out of passenger lawsuit Alaska Airlines is redirecting the blame of the flight 1282 fuselage panel blowout to Boeing. The accident, which occurred in January, caused the fuselage panel to fall off the plane – leaving a gaping hole on its side. No one was hurt but many claim to have experienced headaches and sensitivity to loud noises following the flight. In court filings this week, Alaska asked U.S. District Judge Ricardo Martinez to dismiss claims regarding the incident against their company. Alaska’s attorney argues that the alleged damages were caused by, quote, “entities out of the company’s control.” They direct the responsibility toward Boeing as well as its supplier, Spirit Aerosystems, the company who made the malfunctioning fuselage panel. Lawyer Mark Linquist, who is representing passengers in one lawsuit, argues that both companies are to blame. He says Alaska Airlines allowed the plane to fly despite there being a restriction on the plane, while Boeing failed to properly test the plane for safety. Both companies claim they are not responsible, and say they are …
March 18, 2024 News Transcript
Whatcom County jury clears on all charges man who fatally shot his father in 2022, Police say Sehome HS “threat” was misunderstanding, Two drug dealers sentenced after arrest in Bellingham, Ski to Sea selling out months early, plans to modify race in the works, Whatcom Chief ferry dry dock schedule pending shipyard bids, From Bellingham to Hoquiam, temps hit record highs this weekend, WSP pays $1.4M to settle lawsuit alleging trooper targeted drivers of color, Alaska Airlines blames Boeing for blowout, wants out of passenger lawsuit ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 18th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom County jury clears on all charges man who fatally shot his father in 2022 An Everson man who was accused of the 2022 murder of his father has been cleared of all charges. A jury acquitted 23-year-old Ethan Michael Knight following 2 days of deliberation. The jury ruled that Ethan Knight acted in self-defense, protecting both himself and his mother, when he pulled the trigger, killing his 46-year-old father. The verdict was read aloud to a packed courtroom late Friday afternoon. After Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Rob Olson excused the jury and released members of the public from keeping decorum in the courtroom, numerous people cheered and broke into tears. His 3-week jury trial was successfully argued by the Whatcom County Public Defender’s Office. STORY: Police say Sehome HS “threat” was misunderstanding After a lockdown last week at Sehome High School, police are now saying that it was all a misunderstanding. The High School was locked down on Friday at 1:15pm due to reports of an active shooter. The lockdown was then downgraded to a Hold, and students were kept in classrooms while the school was swept. The Bellingham Police Department and Western’s university police found no threat and the hold was lifted. The next day, BPD reported that the threat was all a misunderstanding when a situation elsewhere got mistaken for Sehome. Social media users say the miscommunication happened when the Sehome Drama department was competing at Central Washington University, where an active shooter situation was happening. One of the students called their parents and during the exchange, a misunderstanding happened and the parent called 911, assuming the shooter was at Sehome. One person was killed in the shooting near Central Washington University. STORY: Two drug dealers sentenced after arrest in Bellingham Two Mexican citizens, Juan Manuel Lugo Enriquez and Guillermo Vieyra (VEE-era) Salas, were sentenced to federal prison on Friday for selling over 75,000 fentanyl pills in Bellingham. Lugo Enriquez received a 38-month sentence while Vieyra Salas was sentenced to 48 months. The investigation, aided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office as well as Homeland Security, involved undercover officers arranging a deal at Bellingham International Airport in September of 2022. Vieyra Salas had previous charges including a drive-by shooting and cocaine trafficking. A third defendant who delivered the fentanyl, Jaime (HIGH-may) Alonso Hernandez-Hernandez, is awaiting sentencing on June 7. STORY: Ski to Sea selling out months early, plans to modify race in the works Ski to Sea participation tickets are selling out quickly. The event, scheduled for May, is a 7 leg multi-sport relay race. Out of the 500 slots in total, 416 have already been claimed. To address concerns of low snowpack levels, organizers are developing contingency plans and will make a final determination during the first week of April. If necessary, the ski portion will likely be replaced by an alpine run and a coastal mountain bike ride. Registration is open until May 24th, with the fee for high school teams being waived. STORY: Whatcom Chief ferry dry dock schedule pending shipyard bids Whatcom County Public Works Ferry Division scheduled dry dock for the Lummi Island ferry has been pushed back. Officials now say they expect the Whatcom Chief to be in a four-week dry dock sometime from April 18th to May 17th. This adjustment may result in pedestrian-only service during Memorial Day weekend. Bids for the upcoming ferry maintenance project will open on March 26th— officials expect to announce finalized dates after the bid is awarded. STORY: From Bellingham to Hoquiam, temps hit record highs this weekend This St. Paddy’s day weekend showed summer-like record high temperatures for Western Washington. According to the National Weather Service, Seattle, Olympia, and Bellingham broke temperature records. On Saturday, SeaTac airport reached 74 degrees, beating the last record high of 72 degrees set back in 1947. Sunday was slightly colder, but was still warm enough to beat the Bellingham record set in 2019. According to meteorologist Steve Reedey, the unexpected warmth was caused by a high pressure ridge arriving a month earlier than normal. Typically, our first 70-degree day is April 15th on average, and last weekend was one of 15 instances in the past 78 years in which this has occurred. However, temperatures are expected to return to the mid 50s with rain by midweek, according to the weather service. STORY: WSP pays $1.4M to settle lawsuit alleging trooper targeted drivers of color The Washington State Patrol has settled a federal lawsuit alleging one of their officers targeted people of color and immigrants with pretextual stops. The plaintiffs are all Black immigrants, and were arrested for impaired driving, though subsequent blood tests showed no intoxication. Internal documents revealed Trooper Cameron Osmer had a high number of arrests without intoxicants, with the majority being people of color. Osmer faced previous disciplinary actions for misconduct, including falsifying overtime. The lawsuit points out that despite other troopers’ concerns over the number of negative toxicology reports and arrests by Osmer without charges, he was recognized and given a commemorative plaque by patrol leadership for having the most DUI arrests in 2021. WSP spokesperson Chris Loftis reiterated the agency’s commitment to unbiased police work, pointing out Osmer’s arrests identified “deficiencies” but revealed no violation of WSP policy. Lawyers for the plaintiffs say the $1.4 million dollar settlement reflects a systemic issue within the State Patrol, …
March 15, 2024 News Transcript
Port of Bellingham sues waterfront developer after contract defaults, extension requests, Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Awards Grants for Interpretation Projects, including KMRE’s Love Your Waterfront, Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Awards Grants for Interpretation Projects, including KMRE’s Love Your Waterfront, Interview with Mayor Lund, Survey shows youth health better than expected, Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law, Free and Cheap, Alaska Airlines blames Boeing for blowout, wants out of passenger lawsuit ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 15th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Port of Bellingham sues waterfront developer after contract defaults, extension requests The Port of Bellingham filed a lawsuit against Harcourt Developments, the company responsible for constructing three unfinished multi-million-dollar residential condo buildings along Bellingham’s waterfront. According to port officials, the company defaulted on its development contract last year and their request for an extension was denied. Repeated failures to meet contractual obligations and environmental violations marked the company’s time on the waterfront. The lawsuit is now seeking declaratory judgment, attorney’s fees, and further relief from the court. Harcourt was originally selected in 2015 as the lead developer for about 19 acres of the Waterfront District but had it reduced to 8. The company was expected to complete its three residential buildings by the end of 2023, but now has no timeline for completion. STORY: Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Awards Grants for Interpretation Projects, including KMRE’s Love Your Waterfront KMRE has been awarded a Maritime Washington National Heritage Area grant for the local radio show Love Your Waterfront. The $5,000 dollar grant is part of a series designed to support storytelling around the people and resources who live along the waters of Washington. Show producer, Susan Lindsey, says the money will help increase the reporting of sound stories and news from the maritime community in Whatcom County. LINDSEY AUDIO Love Your Waterfront is a collaboration between KMRE Community Radio, Bellingham SeaFeast, Whatcom Working Waterfront Coalition, and Bellingham Tourism. STORY: Interview with Mayor Lund In an interview with KMRE Wednesday, Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund talked about her first 72 days in office and touched on her top priorities. Mayor Lund talked about a recently announced collaboration between the City and the Bellingham School District. LUND EXCITING AUDIO When asked if the move fundamentally changes the Bellingham parks system, the Mayor had this to say– LUND PARKS NOT FOR SALE AUDIO To find out more about some of Mayor Lund’s top priorities, listen to the complete interview today after the 5pm news right here on KMRE 88.3FM. STORY: Survey shows youth health better than expected The Washington State Department of Health released the results of its 2023 Healthy Youth Survey, showing that youth health is better than expected. The project covered 217,000 students in grades 6 through 12. The survey showed improved health behaviors and mental health, along with increased social support. Substance use by Washington 10th graders has remained stable, with about 8% of students currently vaping, drinking, or using cannabis. There has been an uptrend in the use of prescription and other drugs, but this represents less than 3% of 10th graders. The Department acknowledges that more work needs to be done. Mental health outcomes among 10th graders are improving, but remain concerning, especially for youth who already face more barriers to mental health support. According to the new data, depression significantly decreased from 2021. Even so, 30% of 10th graders reported persistent depressive feelings, and nearly 15% reported suicide ideation. While these numbers are fairly high, it is also the lowest rate for Washington in 20 years. Still, officials are encouraged by the increase of students that feel that they have access to support and information if they need it. STORY: Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law A federal judge dismissed a challenge to Washington’s new gun law, which requires gun manufacturers and dealers to take reasonable steps to prevent their products from reaching the wrong hands. The law, known as the Firearm Industry Responsibility & Gun Violence Victims’ Access to Justice Act, aims to address loopholes in Federal gun law which shield the industry from liability. The law was challenged by the National Shooting Sports Foundation in federal court last year immediately after it was signed into law. U.S. District Judge Mary K. Dimke (DIM-kee) rejected the lawsuit in a decision Friday, saying the organization had not established legal standing to challenge the measure. She noted that its members were neither being sued under the law nor had they expressed intent to violate its terms. This is the eighth challenge to SB 5078 that Attorney General Ferguson has successfully defeated. Similar laws in other states, including New York, have also withstood legal challenges. STORY: Free and Cheap Looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend? Here are two festivals happening this weekend. The Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival is taking place in Blaine this weekend. It began this morning, but the main event is the birding-expo at Blain Pavilion on Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The birding expo will have a live raptor presentation from Sardis Raptor Center, youth activities, arts and crafts, wildlife exhibits and other activities. A full schedule of events for the weekend is available at WingsOverWaterBirdingFestival.com. No registration is necessary for the free events. The second festival taking place is the Whatcom Cultural Art Festival, hosted at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. Also running from Friday to Sunday, the event is open each day from 11am to 6pm. The festival features musical performances, food, art vendors, and more. A full program is available at AlliedArts.org. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – today will be mostly sunny, with a high of 64 degrees and calm winds. Tonight will be clear and have a low of 44. It will be sunny and warmer all weekend, with temperatures nearly reaching 70 degrees. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, …
March 14, 2024 News Transcript
Presidential Primary Results for Whatcom, Inmate dies in Whatcom County jail of apparent drug overdose, Interview with Mayor Lund, Salvation Army food pantry celebrates expansion in Bellingham’s Birchwood neighborhood, Gov. Signs Bill to Recognize Lunar New Year, Kreidler fines Molina Healthcare $100,000 for enrollment and billing errors, Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Awards Grants for Interpretation Projects, including KMRE’s Love Your Waterfront, Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 14th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Presidential Primary Results for Whatcom Presidential primary results have been released for Whatcom County. Both Biden and Trump won their respective primaries, by wide margins. Biden won 81% of the vote, with 11% voting uncommitted delegates. Trump won 75% of the vote, and Nikki Haley got 20%. Whatcom’s results mirror the statewide results very closely. The 2024 Presidential Election will take place on November 5th. STORY: Inmate dies in Whatcom County jail of apparent drug overdose A Whatcom County Jail inmate was found dead and a cellmate hospitalized after apparent overdoses. According to a Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office announcement yesterday, an attempt was made to resuscitate the inmates but was only successful with one of them. The resuscitated inmate was taken to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. It is unclear how the cellmates obtained the drugs. In the release, Sheriff Donnell (duh-NELL) Tanksley said that his office is reviewing the jail’s drug screening procedures. The exact circumstances of the death are under investigation by the Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team and will be made public. STORY: Interview with Mayor Lund In an interview with KMRE yesterday, Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund talked about her first 72 days in office and touched on her top priorities. Key among them is resolving a more than 4 million dollar deficit. Pointing to a combination of declining tax revenue and overhiring, Lund says solving the shortfall will require a new approach. Lund Deficit Audio Lund says the City increased staffing by more than 30% in the last five years– a level the new income prediction does not support. However, when asked about the possibility of layoffs, she had this to say: Lund Layoffs Audio Lund says Federal funding has been able to backfill around declining tax dollars, however, she plans to address the deficit head-on and with transparency across the entire organization. She sees the situation as an opportunity to reevaluate how things are done in municipal government, and says, although it’s unfortunate, Bellingham is not the only city facing this kind of financial strain. Lund Many Munis Audio To find out more about some of Mayor Lund’s top priorities, listen to the complete interview tomorrow after the 5pm news right here on KMRE 88.3FM. STORY: Salvation Army food pantry celebrates expansion in Bellingham’s Birchwood neighborhood The Salvation Army food pantry celebrated its expansion this week in Bellingham’s Birchwood neighborhood. Birchwood was classified as a food desert after it lost its grocery store in 2016. The new pantry, at 1515 Birchwood Ave., served as a Salvation Army thrift store in recent years before being converted into a traditional food bank and now transitioning to a grocery store model. The self-serve style of the pantry allows food bank users to shop around the space like a grocery store, picking up items for themselves and their families. All food is free to pick up. In the last several years, the need for food banks has increased. The Birchwood food bank has historically fed about 3,000 families each month, distributing about 1.5 million pounds of food in the last 12 months. The food bank is open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Donations are welcome. STORY: Gov. Signs Bill to Recognize Lunar New Year In an historic move, Governor Inslee signed the bill establishing Lunar New Year as a recognized holiday in Washington. Sponsored by Representative My-Linh Thai, the bill celebrates the cultural contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Innslee had this to say about it: LUNAR AUDIO Washington is now the fourth state to officially recognize the holiday, after California, New Jersey, and Colorado. STORY: Kreidler fines Molina Healthcare $100,000 for enrollment and billing errors Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler announced Tuesday that Molina Healthcare will be fined $100,000 due to errors in enrollment and billing systems. Kreidler said the problems at Molina are long standing. The Commission review began in 2021, and issues persisted even after a third-party platform was set in place in April of that year. Molina was found to have wrongly terminated customers for non-payment, denied coverage for people with pre-authorizations, and sent out incorrect invoices. Kreidler says the $100,000 fine is intended to encourage Molina to address these issues. Molina has been operating as an HMO in Washington since 1985. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – today will be mostly sunny, with a high of 56 degrees and calm winds. Clouds will roll in tonight, as temperatures drop to a low of 39. Tomorrow will be sunny and warmer, with temperatures in the high 60s. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. If you would like to help keep local news accessible, check out our new Patreon page at patreon.com/kmrenews or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ________________, and thanks for listening. ## STORY: Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Awards Grants for Interpretation Projects, including KMRE’s Love Your Waterfront STORY: Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law A federal judge dismissed a challenge to Washington’s new gun law, which requires gun manufacturers and dealers to take reasonable steps to prevent their products from reaching the wrong …
March 13, 2024 News Transcript
Court postpones hearing for Bellingham police sergeant accused of domestic violence, Deputies use spike strip, PIT maneuver to make fentanyl arrest after early-morning chase, Homeless, service providers protest impending clearing of Bellingham Walmart encampment, Campus-wide test of Western Alert Emergency Communications on Thursday, Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law, WA expanding health care options for undocumented immigrants, $500K will fund genetic genealogy testing for all unidentified remains in Washington ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 13th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Court postpones hearing for Bellingham police sergeant accused of domestic violence A Bellingham police sergeant accused of domestic violence is having his hearing postponed. Bellingham Police Department Sgt. Joshua Richard McKissick (muh-KIZ-ick), aged 44, is being accused of domestic violence and sexual abuse. On February 26th, McKissick was ordered to surrender multiple firearms and had an emergency domestic violence protection order was issued against him. According to court documents, the protection order was issued in relation to a woman known to McKissick and her two children. A full hearing on the victim’s petition for a permanent two-year-long domestic violence protection order was scheduled for Monday, but has been rescheduled for April 11th. According to court commissioner Lisa Keeler, the hearing was rescheduled in order to give McKissick’s attorney time to get acquainted with the case, and based on the availability of the attorneys and the court. McKissick was originally put on desk duty in December, after BPD became aware of the domestic abuse and sexual violence allegations. Following the court orders in February, McKissick was placed on paid administrative leave. STORY: Deputies use spike strip, PIT maneuver to make fentanyl arrest after early-morning chase A Bellingham man is facing drug charges after being stopped by police in a high speed car chase. Lance David Perrine (per-RINE), aged 45, was found by deputies passed out in his car at around 5 a.m. on March 8th. They reportedly discovered drug paraphernalia in his lap and 30 grams of fentanyl in his vehicle. Before waking him, they placed a spike strip behind his car in an attempt to halt his escape. He was able to flee the scene, as officers followed close behind. They subsequently performed a PIT maneuver, forcing Perrine into a ditch. He was subsequently detained by authorities and brought to Peacehealth St. Joseph Medical Center, in case of injuries. Perrine was booked at Whatcom County Jail yesterday, for a DUI, driving without a valid license, possession of a controlled substance, and suspicion of eluding an officer. STORY: Homeless, service providers protest impending clearing of Bellingham Walmart encampment People experiencing homelessness and their advocates gathered on Saturday to protest the impending clearing of the encampment near Walmart. Around 15 people were seen demonstrating on the corner of Meridian and East Stuart road near the camp entrance. They carried signs expressing their concern with removing people from a camp spot when there is no alternative housing to support them. The proposed clearing of the encampment is the result of a lawsuit filed by the city of Bellingham against the property owner after complaints and safety concerns from local residents and business owners. Many of the Walmart encampment residents moved there after a similar camp behind the Bellingham Winco was cleared out last May – also due to a lawsuit against the landowner. Current camp Residents say many of them have no living options if the encampment gets shut down. STORY: Campus-wide test of Western Alert Emergency Communications on Thursday Western Washington University will conduct a campus-wide test of its emergency alert system tomorrow at 10:50 in the morning. The comprehensive test will include digital notifications, including text, email, webpage, desktop, social media, and campus information boards. Audible announcements will be transmitted both inside and outside, and fire alarms are expected to strobe. The university says text messages are one of the most reliable ways to quickly provide emergency information, and urges Western users to update their personal information via the Web4U application. STORY: Judge rejects challenge to Washington gun control law A federal judge dismissed a challenge to Washington’s new gun law, which requires gun manufacturers and dealers to take reasonable steps to prevent their products from reaching the wrong hands. The law, known as the Firearm Industry Responsibility & Gun Violence Victims’ Access to Justice Act, aims to address loopholes in Federal gun law which shield the gun industry from liability. The law was challenged by the National Shooting Sports Foundation in federal court last year immediately after it was signed into law. U.S. District Judge Mary K. Dimke (DIM-kee) rejected the lawsuit in a decision Friday, saying the organization had not established legal standing to challenge the measure. She noted that its members were neither being sued under the law nor had expressed an intent to violate its terms. This is the eighth challenge to SB 5078 that Attorney General Ferguson has successfully defeated. Similar laws in other states, including New York, have also withstood legal challenges. STORY: WA expanding health care options for undocumented immigrants Washington is expanding healthcare options for undocumented immigrants. This term the Legislature agreed to allocate an additional $28 million to accommodate 16,000 undocumented immigrants who applied for Apple Health coverage during the latest enrollment period. Starting in July, Apple Health will expand to cover undocumented immigrants whose incomes are 138% below the federal poverty level. Undocumented workers have been able to buy private health insurance since last year, after the state’s waiver application was approved by both the Health and Human Services Department and the Department of the Treasury. The waiver also allows for immigrants to apply for Medicaid, and assistance through the federal government’s Premium Tax Credit program. STORY: $500K will fund genetic genealogy testing for all unidentified remains in Washington The Washington Legislature has approved funds for genetic genealogy and DNA testing to decrease the backlog of unidentified remains in the state. $500,000 dollars be used to supplement existing state and …
March 12, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham to have equal footing with Whatcom County on metal-shredder review, Two waterfront cleanups on Cornwall Avenue to begin next year ahead of future park, Two waterfront cleanups on Cornwall Avenue to begin next year ahead of future park, WA ferry crew, Coast Guard rescue 6 people, 2 dogs in Rosario Strait, Larsen Secures $19.3 Million for Fifteen Local Projects in Fiscal Year 2024 Spending Package, WA approves more funds for tenant attorneys as evictions remain high, WA expanding health care options for undocumented immigrants ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 12th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham to have equal footing with Whatcom County on metal-shredder review The Bellingham City Council will now jointly investigate with Whatcom County the environmental impact of the proposed mental shredder. The city council voted unanimously yesterday to co-lead the environmental investigation of ABC Recycling’s controversial proposed project on Marine Drive, even though the facility would be outside city limits. In an email from county Planning Director Mark Personius, Whatcom County has jurisdiction but would welcome the help. The timeline for completing the review isn’t clear but likely is several months away. County planners are preparing to request a consultant to review the potentially significant impacts to air quality, stormwater, and noise and traffic levels in the Alderwood area. The changes also would be felt all the way to the Bellingham Shipping Terminal, as the processed metal would be trucked from Marine Drive to the waterfront for export. According to city council member Dan Hammill, these wide-ranging effects were a good reason for the city to help in the environmental review. In an interview with Cascadia Daily News, ABC Community Relations Manager Riley Sweeney said that ABC takes no issue with the decision, and are confident that they are building a state-of-the-art facility. Only county officials will have a role in deciding final approval of the project. STORY: Two waterfront cleanups on Cornwall Avenue to begin next year ahead of future park A new 17-acre waterfront park is scheduled to open by 2027 at the former RG Haley and Cornwall Avenue Landfill sites along Bellingham Bay. The project, aimed at enhancing waterfront areas, includes cleanup efforts alongside construction of the new Salish Landing Park. The Cornwall Landfill operated from the late 1800s to 2005, while the RG Haley site was used from the mid-1800s to 1985 for various industrial purposes. Cleanup plans for the sites were finalized in 2014 and 2018, respectively. Cleanup costs are estimated at around $28 million for RG Haley and $17 million for Cornwall Landfill, with anticipated state funding covering 50%. Phase one of construction, costing $2 and half million, will provide beach access, trails, plants, and parking. Phase two, estimated at $13 million, is in development. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with phase one opening in 2027. Concerns about parking space were raised during a public comment period, but plans are based on a 2014 master plan, with opportunities for refinement in the future. STORY: WA ferry crew, Coast Guard rescue 6 people, 2 dogs in Rosario Strait On Saturday, a Washington State Ferries crew helped the Coast Guard rescue six people and two dogs from a boat in Rosario Strait. According to the Coast Guard station in Bellingham, a 37-foot cabin cruiser called for assistance during bad weather near Decatur (duh-KEI-tur) Island around noon. A wave over the bow shattered the boat’s front windshield, injuring some of the boaters and causing the vessel to take on water. The boaters shared their GPS position before their radio lost communications. The Coast Guard issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast — a radio message for all boaters in the area — and dispatched vessels and a helicopter. Before the Coast Guard arrived, the ferry Samish responded and launched its rescue boat. Four boaters were taken on board the ferry, and the ferry used its size to shield the damaged boat from wind and waves. A Coast Guard boat responded soon after and took the two other passengers and their dogs on board. The Coast Guard drove the cabin cruiser safely to Anacortes while the Samish shielded it from the wind. Once on shore, the Anacortes Fire Department took the boaters to EMS to be checked for any injuries. STORY: Larsen Secures $19.3 Million for Fifteen Local Projects in Fiscal Year 2024 Spending Package Representative Rick Larsen has announced more than $19 million in funding for 15 local projects. The Fiscal Year 2024 spending package will go to critical projects across the state. The funding will benefit Bellingham, Lummi Nation, and Whatcom County as well as Mount Vernon, Skagit County, and other areas in our region. Some projects include the Lummi Indian Nation’s Slater Road Elevation Project, Mount Vernon’s Library Commons Project, Lynden’s Bradley Road Safety Improvements, and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office’s Rapid DNA System. The package now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. STORY: WA approves more funds for tenant attorneys as evictions remain high Amid a surge in eviction cases in Washington, the state is allocating additional funds to provide legal representation for low-income tenants facing eviction. Lawmakers have approved $3 million for the Office of Civil Legal Aid’s right-to-counsel program, who will hire 10 more attorneys to reach a total of 80 statewide. The move aims to address the imbalance in legal representation between landlords and tenants, particularly in areas with high eviction rates. However, some landlords advocate that funds be allocated to financial assistance for tenants who are behind on rent instead. The spike in eviction filings follows the expiration of pandemic-era tenant protections, leading to concerns about housing instability and homelessness. Since its inception, the program has represented tenants in about 15,000 cases, primarily related to unpaid rent. Although challenges such as attorney shortages and burnout exist, legal representation has proven effective in preventing evictions and mitigating harmful outcomes for tenants. The program’s budget for the upcoming year stands at approximately $18 million …
March 11, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham Police sergeant accused of physical, sexual abuse of a woman; placed on leave, Deep cleaning downtown, ew Blaine substance use recovery center provides personalized, long-term care, Man pleads guilty to human smuggling over border in Blaine, Mount Baker School District to sell historic Hopewell Grange building, WA libraries will get Dungeons & Dragons kits for patrons to use, Bills to bolster Whatcom Co. courts ahead of water-rights proceedings sent to Inslee ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 11th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham Police sergeant accused of physical, sexual abuse of a woman; placed on leave A domestic violence protection order has been issued against a Bellingham Police Department sergeant after a woman came forward alleging he physically and sexually abused her. Bellingham Police Department Sgt. Joshua Richard McKissick (muh-KIZ-ick), aged 44, was ordered to surrender all weapons and an emergency domestic violence protection order was issued against him on February 26th. According to recent reporting by the Bellingham Herald, the protection order was issued in relation to a woman known to McKissick and her two children. Court documents state the orders were issued without notice or hearing to avoid immediate harm or injury to the victims. The documents also state that his possession of weapons presented a, quote, “serious and imminent threat to public health and safety or the health or safety of any individual”. McKissick was originally put on desk duty in December, after BPD became aware of the domestic abuse and sexual violence allegations. Following the court orders in February, McKissick was placed on paid administrative leave. Everett police are handling the administrative investigation on Bellingham police’s behalf to avoid any appearance of bias. The Lynden Police Department is currently conducting a criminal investigation into the allegations against McKissick. A full hearing on the victim’s petition for a permanent two-year-long domestic violence protection order is scheduled for today. STORY: Deep cleaning downtown In cooperation with the Downtown Bellingham Partnership, Bellingham has announced extra cleaning efforts for downtown. In line with Mayor Kim Lund’s Executive Order signed in February, according to a recent announcement from the City, the cleaning aims to improve the safety and well-being of the downtown area. Crews are conducting monthly deep cleanings, focusing on alleyways and hard-to-reach areas. The efforts utilize pressure washers and vacuum trucks– specialized vehicles designed to prevent debris and pollutants from flowing into Whatcom Creek and Bellingham Bay. The executive order also plans for an increased police presence, expanded social services, and improved public education regarding public health and safety. The deep cleanings supplement the ongoing program of weekly street sweeping and litter removal performed by the City. STORY: New Blaine substance use recovery center provides personalized, long-term care In a bid to combat substance abuse and provide support to those battling addiction, Catholic Community Services will now offer intensive recovery support in Blaine. In recent reporting by the Cascadia Daily, Director Donna Wells says CCC plans to transition their offerings beyond telehealth sessions for youth treatment groups to in-person sessions. The new location in Blaine enhances accessibility for locals, particularly youth affected by the fentanyl crisis, who previously faced challenges getting to the Bellingham location. The center not only provides treatment but also links clients with community resources and aids in essential tasks like making phone calls. STORY: Man pleads guilty to human smuggling over border in Blaine A Romanian man pleaded guilty in US District Court to human smuggling near Blaine. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol officials arrested 27-year old Daniel Andronache (an-dro-NAH-kay) on Nov. 9, 2023, near Blaine at the border crossing. Andronache and a colleague were transporting 12 Romanian citizens in a car designed to fit 8– with two children hidden in the trunk. In his court appearance, Andronache admitted to helping the group so they could stay in the US illegally. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lauren King on June 12, 2024, where he will face up to 10 years in prison. STORY: Mount Baker School District to sell historic Hopewell Grange building The historic Hopewell Grange building in Everson is up for sale. First built in 1912, the building originally housed a school, before going on to serve as a community center for members of the Hopewell Grange organization. The building has stood vacant for the last seven years, and the Mount Baker School District announced it will be selling the property in order to fund maintenance and repairs for other buildings in the school district. The assessed market value of the property is almost $400,000. Cascadia Daily News reports Interim Superintendent Phil Brockman says the district doesn’t have use for the property nor the funds to restore it, and came in response to inquiries from interested buyers. STORY: WA libraries will get Dungeons & Dragons kits for patrons to use Library systems across Washington state will receive Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) kits for patrons. The Office of the Secretary of State announced that Renton-based Wizards of the Coast will donate 75 kits containing character sheets, organizer instructions, a demo adventure, and a learn-to-play guide. The Washington State Library will distribute these kits at no cost to public, tribal, and community college libraries. In the announcement, Secretary of State Steve Hobbs emphasized the value of libraries as places of learning and community enrichment, stating that D&D provides an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, strategize, and build relationships in a role-playing setting. STORY: Bills to bolster Whatcom Co. courts ahead of water-rights proceedings sent to Inslee The Whatcom County Superior Court is poised to add additional judges following the passing of two bills by the Washington State Legislature. House Bill 1992 and Senate Bill 5828 aim to bolster the number of Superior Court judges and commissioners in Whatcom County. HB 1992 passed with a unanimous vote in both houses and looks set for the governor’s approval. Meanwhile, SB 5828 grants …
