The Wandering ‘Hamster

4th of July, Owner of Schweinhaus Brewery accused of trafficking in stolen alcohol by former business partner, YWCA receives grant, Perpetrator of string of home invasions across western WA sentenced, Let’s Go Washington submits signatures for ballot measure repealing imposition of Millionaires tax, AG’s office spearheads effort to have federal efforts to undermine mail-in voting formally withdrawn, State officials remind residents to exercise caution with fireworks amid ongoing drought conditions, FREEEEEEEEEEE and cheap, F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post: ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, July 3rd. Good afternoon, I’m  _David Korb_____. STORY: 4th of JulyHappy 250th birthday, America.  Here’s a look at what’s closed this 4th of July holiday weekend. Most Bellingham city services and the Whatcom County District Court are officially closed today and tomorrow. All branches of the Bellingham Public Library and the Bellingham Food Bank are closed through the weekend.  Post offices and local bank branches remain open today, but will close tomorrow. Also on Saturday, there will be no WTA buses or paratransit. For holiday shoppers, Costco will be closed, and Trader Joe’s will wrap up early, closing their doors at 5:00 p.m. Saturday evening. Sanitary Service Company says all curbside residential trash pickup routes are running on schedule today. However, their Bellwether Way office and the Bellingham transfer station are closed today, and the Cedarville transfer station will be closed tomorrow. STORY: Owner of Schweinhaus Brewery accused of trafficking in stolen alcohol by former business partnerMore details are emerging in the felony case against the owner of Schweinhaus Biergarten in Bellingham.  Prosecutors say 48-year-old Brandon Bates made unauthorized alcohol purchases during an ownership dispute at Formula Brewing in Issaquah, a brewery he co-founded with former business partner Daniel Bohm. Court documents allege Bates purchased and removed large quantities of alcohol, including premium liquor that was never sold through the brewery, resulting in losses estimated at up to $125,000. Bates reportedly acknowledged under oath, during a civil case, that he purchased about $50,000 worth of alcohol. Bates now faces charges including theft, identity theft, possession and trafficking of stolen property in King County Superior Court. His arraignment is scheduled for July 13th.  STORY: YWCA receives grant  The Whatcom Family YMCA has received funding to expand its Youth Institute program. The Y is one of ten organizations chosen for the Allen Family Philanthropies’ Creative Youth Development grant. Over the next three years, it will receive over $500,000 to expand the Youth Institute from a summer program into a year-round institution. It will add mentorship, creative learning activities, and more support as teens work toward graduation and following career paths. The Y says the funding will double the number of youth served, upgrade creative technology, and build a youth-run digital media enterprise that gives participants real-world job experience. CEO Courtney Whitaker says the investment will help more teens discover their strengths, build relationships, and gain confidence. STORY: Perpetrator of string of home invasions across western WA sentenced The perpetrator of a series of home invasions in Western Washington was just sentenced.  Christopher Johnson was involved in multiple home invasions in 2022. He just received a 25 year sentence for racketeering and conspiracy. He also pled guilty to second degree murder of an Everett woman, earlier this year, and is facing 25 years in prison for that offense. Johnson worked with many other co-conspirators including Kevin Thissel who is also being tried for his crimes — which included kidnapping a boy during a Mount Vernon robbery in May of 2022.  Johnson will serve his sentence in the Washington State Prison System and will have five years of court supervision after completing his sentence.  STORY: Let’s Go Washington submits signatures for ballot measure repealing imposition of Millionaires tax Let’s Go Washington has filed a ballot initiative to repeal the Millionaire’s Tax. The Conservative political action committee submitted a petition with about half a million signatures.  The tax, passed during the last legislative session, imposes a 9.9% percent income tax on those making over one million dollars. It’s the first income tax in Washington state.  Let’s Go Washington argues the law would eventually change to include lower income households. It also said that the tax targets individuals by leaving corporations and large businesses untouched.  Before the initiative reaches the ballot, the Secretary of State has to validate at least 308,000 valid signatures to meet the threshold. The Washington Supreme Court has consistently ruled income tax unconstitutional. STORY: AG’s office spearheads effort to have federal efforts to undermine mail-in voting formally withdrawn Washington Attorney General Nick Brown co-led a multi-state effort to encourage the U.S. Postal Service to rescind a proposed rule restricting mail-in voting. President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this year to create a national list of eligible voters. He instructed the USPS to only deliver mail-in ballots to those on the list.  A federal judge struck down the order last week, saying it interfered with the states’ constitutional right to run their own elections. The USPS has not withdrawn its proposed rule that would only deliver mail-in ballots to voters on the list.  Brown and 24 other attorneys general filed a formal comment asking the USPS to withdraw the rule. STORY: State officials remind residents to exercise caution with fireworks amid ongoing drought conditions State fire officials are reminding residents to exercise caution when lighting fireworks this weekend amid drought conditions.  The Department of Natural Resources says that 80 to 90 percent of wildfires are human caused. Last year, 79 fires on Washington state lands were firework caused. The July 2025 Bear Gulch fire was started by a firework – that blazed over 20-thousand acres and took months to contain.  If you plan to light fireworks, the State Fire Marshal recommends keeping a water bucket or hose nearby and avoid areas with dry vegetation.  Purchasing or lighting fireworks is not permitted on any day within Bellingham city limits. Violating this could result in fines from $100 to …

July 3, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Technology firm announces layoff of 75 workers at Bellingham location, Schweinhaus owner charged with felonies, WCSO seeking information on whereabouts of missing hiker, Earthquake detected in Oak Harbor, Average hourly wage in Bellingham tops national average, One more chance to weigh in on City Comp Plan, Rep. Larsen announces Port of Bellingham to receive over $23 million in federal funding as part of BUILD grant program, Whatcom and Skagit offered nearly $6 million in state Dept. of Ecology grants for water quality projects, Twenty-one arrests made in multi-agency investigation into child sexual abuse in Snohomish County, Governor, AG, and state legislators all receive seven percent pay raises this year, F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post: ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, July, 2. Good afternoon, I’m  ______—- happy Canada Day to our neighbors across the line. STORY: Technology firm announces layoff of 75 workers at Bellingham location 75 workers at Alpha Technologies Services in Bellingham will lose their jobs at the end of August. The Washington State Employment Security Department received notification yesterday that the company will close its Bellingham facility. Open since 1975 with locations around the world, Alpha Technologies also laid off 77 workers at its Spokane branch two years ago. The other locations will remain open.  STORY: Schweinhaus owner charged with feloniesThe owner of Schweinhaus Biergarten in Bellingham is facing multiple felony charges related to selling alcohol from a brewery he previously owned. Brandon Bates set up Formula Brewing in Issaquah in partnership with Danial Bohm in 2018, but the brewery eventually went into receivership due to disagreement between the two. Prosecutors allege Bates used brewery funds to buy expensive spirits that were never delivered to the business, which resulted in losses estimated at about $125,000.  Bates was charged June 25 with theft, identity theft, possession of stolen property, and trafficking in stolen property. He is scheduled to be arraigned in King County Superior Court on July 13. Bates has not publicly commented on the allegations. STORY: WCSO seeking information on whereabouts of missing hiker A Canadian hiker has been reported missing in the South Twin area of the Twin Sisters. 34-year-old Gursimran Singh, also known as Randawa, was expected home four days ago. His white Toyota Tacoma was found on the Middle Fork Road. Bellingham Mountain Rescue is looking for him and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office has asked anyone who might have seen him to call 911. STORY: Earthquake detected in Oak HarborA small earthquake rattled parts of northwest Washington overnight. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded 3-point-8 magnitude tremors just after 11:30 p.m. The epicenter was near Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, about 30 miles south of Whatcom County. The quake was reportedly felt from Everett to Bellingham.  There were no reports of damage, according to the state Emergency Management Division. STORY: Average hourly wage in Bellingham tops national average Workers in Bellingham receive a higher hourly wage than the national average. Bellingham’s average hourly wage in May 2025 was thirty-four dollars and twenty-nine cents, compared to the national average of thirty-three dollars and fifty-four cents.  Higher paying occupational groups in Bellingham include management, healthcare practitioners and technical, and computer and mathematical. Lower paying groups are building and grounds cleaning and maintenance, food preparation and serving related, and healthcare support. STORY: One more chance to weigh in on City Comp PlanResidents will have one more chance to weigh in on the future growth of Whatcom County next week.  Whatcom County Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday, July 14th on major updates to the county’s Comprehensive Plan, development regulations and zoning maps. State law requires counties to update those plans every ten years to prepare for the next two decades of growth. The changes help guide decisions on housing, transportation, jobs, agriculture, natural resources and climate policy.  The hearing begins at six p.m. in Council Chambers and will also be available online through Zoom. Written comments can be submitted directly to the County Council ahead of the meeting. STORY: Rep. Larsen announces Port of Bellingham to receive over $23 million in federal funding as part of BUILD grant program The Port of Bellingham will receive a sizeable grant from the US Department of Transportation.  Representative Rick Larsen said the 23-and-a-half-million dollar grant is designed to help rebuild infrastructure and create jobs. The Port will use the funding to continue restoring its aging shipping terminal by strengthening deck loading capacity and upgrading a mooring system as part of the Bellingham Shipping Terminal North Pier rehabilitation project.  The project’s completion will move the Port closer to its goal of operating at significantly increased volume, improving both movement of goods and worker safety, which should lead in turn to more local jobs. STORY: Whatcom and Skagit offered nearly $6 million in state Dept. of Ecology grants for water quality projects Millions of dollars in state funding are headed to Whatcom County for clean water and wastewater projects next year. The Washington State Department of Ecology announced its list of 2027 grants and low-interest loans, which include funding for several projects across the county.  Among the largest local projects is a $2.4 million loan to the Lummi Nation Water and Sewer District for long-term improvements to its wastewater collection and treatment system.  Whatcom County Water District 13 will also receive a $1.5 million loan to help design a new wastewater treatment facility in Maple Falls.  Other local grants will support stream restoration, fish habitat improvements and efforts to reduce pollution in local waterways. STORY: Twenty-one arrests made in multi-agency investigation into child sexual abuse in Snohomish County A child sex abuse sting operation in Snohomish County has led to the arrest of twenty-one individuals. Of those detained, eighteen are from Washington. The three others are from Texas, Mississippi, and Mexico. Individuals are between the ages of twenty-two and sixty-five, and all are accused of sexual abuse and exploitation of children. “Operation Guardian” was led by the Washington State Patrol’s Missing …

July 2, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

U.S. Supreme Court rejects executive order, upholds birthright citizenship,  WSDOT speed camera fines to increase today, Thousands lose internet service after RV fire in Lynden, Data breach at DSHS may have jeopardized records of thousands of WA residents, State Water Supply Availability Committee reports likely worsening drought conditions in near future, Ferguson joins group of eleven western state governors endorsing unified approach to revamping power grids, F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post: ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, July, 1. Good afternoon, I’m  ______—- happy Canada Day to our neighbors across the line. STORY: U.S. Supreme Court rejects executive order, upholds birthright citizenship The Supreme Court of the United States struck down President Donald Trump’s executive order denying birthright citizenship to children born to parents without permanent legal status. In a 6-3 decision, the Court decided it violated the 14th Amendment, which has long been interpreted to grant citizenship to all children born on American soil. The Court said a constitutional amendment would be needed to enact Trump’s order.  On Truth Social, Trump called on Congress to start working on legislation ending birthright citizenship. STORY: WSDOT speed camera fines to increase today Speed camera fines in work zones will increase today.  First-time violations will now cost offenders 125 dollars, and all subsequent violations will cost 248 dollars.  The increase comes after 85-thousand infractions were issued last year across the state – 77-thousand of which were first-time offenders.  The speed cameras will rotate through different work sites, and are meant to change driver behavior and improve safety for work crews and others on the road. The cameras only record speeding vehicles when work crews are present on site. Since 2020, Washington has averaged over 13-hundred work zone accidents per year. Research from the state shows the cameras to be effective in reducing drivers’ speed.  Work zones can be active during the day or at night—- WSHDOT (WASH-dot) says drivers should be cautious and always consider them active.  STORY: Thousands lose internet service after RV fire in Lynden Thousands of Xfinity customers in Lynden lost internet service Monday night after a fire damaged a utility pole. Cascadia Daily News reports North Whatcom Fire and Rescue responded just after 10 p.m. to an abandoned fifth-wheel trailer near Enterprise Road. The RV was aflame, and it took about 45 minutes to put the fire out. Fire officials say a nearby utility pole was damaged after a fiber-optic cable caught fire.  Internet service was restored to the area around noon Tuesday. Puget Sound Energy confirmed there were no power outages in the area, but said communication lines were damaged. STORY: Data breach at DSHS may have jeopardized records of thousands of WA residents Thousands of Washington residents may have had their personal records exposed during a state agency’s data breach.  The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services says it discovered in March that an employee had accessed personal information of its clients for non-work related reasons.  KOMO News reports that the employee accessed over 85-hundred records during the breach. The compromised information included names, dates of birth, social security numbers and the types of services people received.  DSHS says no specific information such as diagnosis, chart notes or treatments were retrieved. The employee was terminated from the agency.  DSHS is reaching out to anyone whose information may have been viewed, and recommended all clients monitor their financial accounts for suspicious activity. The department is cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies during the ongoing investigation. STORY: State Water Supply Availability Committee reports likely worsening drought conditions in near future El Niño is here, and the state warns that it could cause a warmer, drier winter in Washington. Although El Niño doesn’t usually affect summer temperatures in the Pacific Northwest, the Department of Ecology says it usually creates warmer winters and poor snowpack. Add in  an early melt-off in the spring, as well as a predicted hotter-than-normal summer and you have lower streamflows through September.  The department says there’s a 63% chance El Niño will be classified as very strong by winter, which means sea surface temperatures in parts of the Pacific will rise by at least two degrees Celsius.  However, there’s still some uncertainty about what all of this will mean for the coming winter. Generally, a very strong El Niño can result in extremely low snowfall, but Washington’s past three very strong El Niño events had normal to above normal snowpack levels.  STORY: Ferguson joins group of eleven western state governors endorsing unified approach to revamping power grids Governor Bob Ferguson has joined a bipartisan coalition of Western governors to modernize the region’s energy grid. 11 governors signed an agreement Tuesday that establishes a multi-state task force to speed up permitting for new transmission lines and improve coordination across the West.  The effort is intended to expand the aging grid to meet growing electricity demand and improve reliability during extreme weather events.  According to the coalition, much of the power system was built 60 years ago, and the current permitting process for new transmission lines can take up to 15 years.  They say the new partnership will speed up this process and get transmission projects built more quickly.  WX: A Magic: The Gathering Tournament And now for the weather: Expect high amounts of cloud cover throughout the remainder of today, with the possibility of the odd rain shower here and there.  Temperatures should remain steadily in the mid to high 60s during daytime hours, dropping down into the mid-50s by nightfall. Tomorrow, look for some light morning showers, before breaking into some partial sunshine later in the afternoon. OUTRO:  Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRAH-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Glen Hirshberg (HERSH-berg), Kathi O’Shea (o-SHAY), Kai Blais-Schmolke (KAI BLAZE-SHMOLE-kee), Bella Farris, Jenny Lam, Natalie Jones, Noelle Reger (REE-ger), and Sean Lynch. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p.m. For news tips and feedback, send …

July 1, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Bellingham man arrested on suspicion of deliberately setting fire to own apartment, Bellingham woman arrested after allegedly pepper-spraying acquaintance and stealing their car, Initiative banning algorithmic rental price fixing reportedly receives more than enough support to proceed to ballot, Officials report minimal fire behavior on four ongoing blazes in North Cascades National Park,  State fire mobilization authorized for Lambdin fire, Dept. of Ecology issues postcards reminding visitors to beware of asbestos hazards near Sumas Mountain, U.S. Supreme Court to revisit challenge to WA runaway youth law previously dismissed in 2023, F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post Independent, nonprofit community radio.  KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, June, 30. Good afternoon, I’m ______.  STORY: Bellingham man arrested on suspicion of deliberately setting fire to own apartment  A man was arrested on suspicion of setting his Barkley Village apartment on fire.  Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy says officers responded to reports of smoke coming out of the Sunset Drive apartment Friday afternoon. Several items on fire were found inside.  Surveillance cameras showed the tenant, a 53-year-old man, leaving the apartment just before the smoke was noticed. He looked around and then hid behind a nearby garage before running away. He has several outstanding DUI warrants, and has been booked into the Whatcom County Jail for first-degree arson and malicious mischief.  STORY: Bellingham woman arrested after allegedly pepper-spraying acquaintance and stealing their car  In more crime news, a Bellingham woman is in custody after pepper-spraying a man and stealing his car. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy says officers were called to Northwest Avenue Friday morning. The victim was allegedly sprayed in the face by a female acquaintance, who then took off in his hatchback.  State Patrol troopers later found the stolen car on Marine Drive. They also learned that the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Grace Cooper, had an active warrant from the Department of Corrections. Law enforcement surrounded a nearby home and took Cooper into custody without incident.  Probable cause was established for first‑degree robbery, second‑degree assault, and motor‑vehicle theft. Cooper was booked into the Whatcom County Jail.  STORY: Initiative banning algorithmic rental price fixing reportedly receives more than enough support to proceed to ballot  A ban on using algorithms to determine rent may proceed to November’s general election ballot.  Whatcom County Auditor Stacy Henthorn said her office received nearly 57-hundred signatures — over 2-thousand more than needed for the item to be included.  Organizers say they want to stop landlords from using paid-for algorithms that use data to determine rent and the terms of leases.  The county auditor’s office will start verifying the signatures today. They hope to have that process completed by Thursday. STORY: Officials report minimal fire behavior on four ongoing blazes in North Cascades National Park  Cool temperatures and traces of airborne moisture have helped keep four active fires in check.  All four broke out in the steep and forested areas north of Little Beaver Creek and west of Ross Lake.  Warmer and drier weather should arrive by the weekend, along with the fire dangers that always come with the July 4th holiday.  Presently, campfires, fire pits and barbecues remain banned throughout the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Campers may use lanterns, grills or stoves fueled by gas or propane, as long as no flammable material is within three feet of the device.  The forest service asks everyone to use common sense, follow the rules, and help the firefighters who are risking their lives to keep us all safe.  STORY: State fire mobilization authorized for Lambdin fire  State fire assistance is supporting local firefighters in their containment of the Lambdin fire in Walla Walla County.  It’s unknown what caused the fire that broke out yesterday morning. The blaze is estimated at 15-hundred acres, and is burning agricultural crops and parts of the Mid-Columbia Wildlife Refuge. The fire is threatening homes, power infrastructure and standing wheat.  Level 3 evacuations are currently in place for the area.  STORY: Dept. of Ecology issues postcards reminding visitors to beware of asbestos hazards near Sumas Mountain  If you are going to Swift Creek or Sumas River, be aware of asbestos in the sediment.  The state Department of Ecology says material from the Sumas Mountain landslide is washing downstream. In dry weather, the asbestos may become airborne, posing risks of cancer and lung disease.  Ecology advises people to avoid the area entirely.  STORY: Weeklong closure of SR 9 planned for early August Drivers on State Route 9 in Skagit County should prepare for delays this summer.  Work is scheduled along the roadway to replace two culverts blocking salmon migration. Construction begins today on sites east of Mount Vernon and north of Sedro-Woolley, with lane reductions and alternating traffic expected through much of the summer. A full seven-day closure of Highway 9 near Mount Vernon is currently planned for early August, with drivers detoured via State Route 534, Interstate 5, and College Way.  The nearly 6-million-dollar project will open up about two miles of upstream habitat for salmon and other fish. Work is expected to be completed by mid-October.  STORY: U.S. Supreme Court to revisit challenge to WA runaway youth law previously dismissed in 2023  The U.S. Supreme Court announced it will revisit the legality of a Washington law that protects runaway transgender youth.  A 2023 state senate bill expanded the list of compelling reasons a child could use to justify running away without legal repercussions. Under the law, emergency shelters are not required to notify parents when children run away to seek gender-affirming care or reproductive services.  Conservative group America First Legal challenged the bill; lower courts dismissed their argument. The Supreme Court will revisit the law’s constitutionality and review related runaway laws in the state.  Opponents of the law say it violates their parental constitutional rights, while advocates argue it protects children from abuse or neglect while they pursue gender-affirming care. Attorney General Nick Brown’s office pointed to lower court rulings upholding the law, and said they are …

June 30, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

 Three arrests made in Maple Falls, two in connection with fatal Mount Vernon shooting, Barbecue fire displaces residents of Bellingham duplex,  PSE reports nearly 6,000 addresses affected by power outage in south Bellingham,  Partial closure of James Street extended through early July, JULY 4th – Port of Bellingham, WA still expecting budgetary difficulties next year despite windfalls from capital gains tax, WA Cares Fund benefits start in July, Weeklong closure of SR 9 planned for early August, F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post:   ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, June, 29. Good afternoon, I’m  ______. STORY: Three arrests made in Maple Falls, two in connection with fatal Mount Vernon shootingThree more arrests have been made in connection with a deadly June shooting in Mount Vernon.  Mount Vernon Police served a search warrant at a home on Lacey Lane in Maple Falls on Thursday. A 17-year-old Mount Vernon boy and a 20-year-old Burlington woman were arrested on charges related to the homicide investigation.  Police also arrested a 26-year-old Mount Vernon man after finding him in possession of a firearm with its serial number removed. Investigators say that weapon was not used in the June 11 shooting that killed 23-year-old Arturo Ortiz Lopez.  STORY: Barbecue fire displaces residents of Bellingham duplexA backyard barbecue grill is being blamed for a duplex fire in Bellingham last week.  Firefighters responded to the blaze on West Indiana Street Tuesday evening after flames spread from the grill up the back wall of the building and into the attic. Crews were able to quickly contain the fire, and no injuries were reported. However, several residents were displaced from their homes for at least one night as a result of the damage. STORY: PSE reports nearly 6,000 addresses affected by power outage in south BellinghamNearly six thousand homes and businesses in south Bellingham lost power Saturday morning. Puget Sound Energy reported that more than 59-hundred customers were affected. The cause of the outage remained under investigation.  Around the same time, Bellingham firefighters responded to an electrical emergency at a PSE substation near McKenzie Avenue and 13th Street. Officials have not confirmed whether the incidents were connected. STORY: Partial closure of James Street extended through early July The closure of James Street between Bakerview and Kellogg in north Bellingham has been extended through July 10.  The City of Bellingham says unforeseen challenges have delayed the reopening, including repaving delays, utility and tree-related complications and additional retaining wall construction.  The closure is part of a project to improve safety along the James Street corridor with a new shared multi-use path, sidewalks and bike lanes. The city expects to reopen at least one lane of James Street by July 11. Construction is expected to continue through the fall. JULY 4th – Port of Bellingham  A section of the ASB Waterfront Trail in Bellingham will be closed July 2 through July 6 ahead of the Port of Bellingham’s annual Fourth of July event. The event will begin at 4 p.m. at Zuanich Point Park and Squalicum Boathouse, featuring live music, games and food vendors. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at 10:30 p.m. The closure will allow for event preparations and is expected to reopen after the holiday.  STORY: 4th of July fireworks info  (use this as follow to July 4th – Port of Bellingham) If you’re planning to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, make sure you know the rules before you light the fuse. Fire officials remind residents to celebrate safely and know your local fireworks laws. In unincorporated Whatcom County, consumer fireworks may only be discharged July 3rd and 5th from 6 to 11 p.m., and July 4th from 6 p.m. to midnight. They cannot be used on public property, roads, school grounds or parks, and must be kept clear of people, buildings and dry vegetation.  In Bellingham, all consumer fireworks are illegal.  Officials urge residents to check local regulations, use fireworks responsibly, and consider attending a professional fireworks display instead. STORY: Federal judge rules against executive order demanding states provide voter registries A federal judge has ruled in favor of Washington state’s push back on vote-by-mail. On Thursday, a federal judge in Boston blocked the Trump administration’s effort to tighten mail-in voting rules ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The ruling halts a March executive order that would have required states to provide voter registration lists to the federal government or face penalties. The administration also warned that the Postal Service may stop delivery of mail ballots in states that refused to comply.  Washington joined a multi-state lawsuit that challenged the order, and argued that vote-by-mail systems are safe, secure, and under the purview of the states. The judge’s ruling declared that the federal government, including the USPS, does not have constitutional authority to require states to turn over voter registries. It also barred the federal government from investigating state election systems for not complying.  Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs praised the decision, and called it a victory for free and fair elections. STORY: WA still expecting budgetary difficulties next year despite windfalls from capital gains taxWashington state will get an unexpected budget boost after capital gains tax collections came in far above expectations.  The state collected about one-and-a-half billion dollars from the tax this year — roughly double what economists predicted and enough to erase a projected budget deficit in 2028.  Washington has a 7% tax on the sale or exchange of long-term capital assets such as stocks and bonds. This funding goes into a state account that pays for schools, early learning and child care programs. Funds exceeding $500 million go to a separate account that pays for school construction and renovations.  But lawmakers say the windfall is only temporary. Other tax collections are down, and state officials still expect a difficult budget cycle next biennium as the cost of programs and services continues to rise faster than revenues. Governor Bob Ferguson has already signaled that …

June, 29, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Blaine and Bellingham School Districts named in lawsuit alleging deaf student was repeatedly sexually assaulted over year, Details released in Wednesday I-5 rollover crash, Burn ban set to take effect for North Cascades next week, One entrance to popular Bellingham park to close for repaving next week, In more road construction news…, Blaine PD seeking owner(s) of stolen tools, Gov. Ferguson signs executive order establishing new Economic Development Council, WA, CA, and Quebec sign historic carbon market agreement, FREE or Cheap, 4th of July fireworks info  (use this as follow to July 4th – Port of Bellingham), F&C – JULY 25 (not June) from FB post: ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, June 26th. Good afternoon, I’m  _David Korb_____. STORY: Blaine and Bellingham School Districts named in lawsuit alleging deaf student was repeatedly sexually assaulted over years The parents of a disabled, Blaine elementary student are suing both the Blaine and Bellingham school districts over repeated sexual assaults. A lawsuit filed in Whatcom County Superior Court on June 18th says the student was assaulted multiple times on school buses over several years. The suit says the first assault happened six years ago, when an older boy attacked her on a Blaine bus. Another student reported it and the boy was removed, but the lawsuit says the district never investigated. Court documents say she was assaulted again last fall on a Bellingham-operated bus to the Salish Sea Deaf School. The alleged assailant had previously attacked other students and was supposed to have a safety plan, but it was not implemented. The lawsuit accuses both districts of negligence and disability, and gender-based discrimination. Her parents say she no longer feels safe riding the bus and now refuses to attend school. STORY: Details released in Wednesday I-5 rollover crash Details have been released about a rollover crash that closed northbound I-5 for about 4 hours Wednesday evening. The Washington State Patrol says the crash happened around 7:45pm near North Lake Samish Drive. An SUV failed to merge in a construction zone, struck a barrier and rolled onto its roof.  An 83-year-old man and a 57-year-old woman, both from Elma, were injured in the crash. The man was taken to Harborview in Seattle, while the woman was taken to St. Joseph’s in Bellingham. Both were wearing seatbelts; no drugs or alcohol were involved in the crash.  All northbound lanes reopened around 11:30 Wednesday night.  STORY: Burn ban set to take effect for North Cascades next week A burn ban is set to take effect in the North Cascades. The ban is active over the entire North Cascades National Park Service Complex, as well as Ross Lake and Lake Chelan. Prohibited items include campfire pits, barbeque grills, and propane-powered fires.  Visitors are allowed to use gas and propane stoves for cooking if there is no flammable material within 3 feet. All stoves must have an off-switch capable of extinguishing flames quickly.  The North Cascades National Park Service says the burn ban will lower the chances of human-caused fires during a dry summer.  STORY: One entrance to popular Bellingham park to close for repaving next week One Lake Padden Park entrance will be closed next week for repaving.  The Wilkin Street entrance and parking lot will be temporarily closed from Monday to Wednesday. The Whatcom Parks and Recreation Department asks visitors to use the Samish Way entrances and parking lots during the construction.  The dog park, golf course, tennis courts, playground, restrooms, boat launch, and trails will remain open.  STORY: In more road construction news… Work is underway on the second phase of the stormwater project in Bellingham’s Birchwood neighborhood which will reduce pollution flowing into Little Squalicum Creek. The project includes new treatment facilities along the Pinewood corridor and West Illinois Street, as well as replacement of a century-old water main beneath West Illinois. Drivers should expect temporary lane closures and detours. Meanwhile, the full closure of James Street between Bakerview and Kellogg is extended through July 10th due to paving delays, utility conflicts, and additional retaining wall work. That project will add a new shared pedestrian/bicycle path to the road. STORY: Blaine PD seeking owner(s) of stolen tools Blaine Police are searching for the owners of some stolen tools.  Officers recovered a large number of tools after the search of a storage unit. Most have been returned to their owners, but several Dewalt handheld tools are still unclaimed. Blaine PD says they were stolen before April 23.  If you think they might belong to you, reach out to the Blaine Police Department. Any tools not claimed in 60 days will be disposed of according to Washington law. STORY: Gov. Ferguson signs executive order establishing new Economic Development Council Governor Bob Ferguson has created a new Economic Development Council.  A group of 26 major employers will advise the governor on economic policies to help accomplish the goals outlined in his first budget. The Council will also weigh in on marketing Washington to outside business, and review regulations to reduce barriers to economic growth. Members of the Council include representatives from Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, T-Mobile, the University of Washington, the Suquamish Tribe, and the Puyallup Tribe.  STORY: WA, CA, and Quebec sign historic carbon market agreement Washington, California, and Quebec have signed an historic agreement to merge their carbon pollution markets.  When the agreement takes effect next year, it will establish the world’s largest sub-national carbon market. Separately, each government has been issuing what are called “carbon allowances”, paid by the largest corporate polluters for their part in damaging the climate. Now, the polluters will be able to buy and sell carbon allowances from anywhere in the three jurisdictions by 2027.  The revenue from the carbon allowances is used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve public health. The agreement is intended to make the market more stable and reduce fuel costs for residents.  When it goes into effect, the joint prices of carbon allowances will be lower than Washington’s …

June 26, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Three Whatcom farms apply for preservation easement funding from state RCO, Coast Guard rescues injured hiker from Mount Larrabee over weekend, Recent crashes in and around Ferndale claim lives of two motorists, Rep. Larsen co-sponsors bill requiring consultation of U.S. exclave residents before altering border crossing policies, Incidental fire on Mount Baker destroys baler and roughly a half-acre of hay, Election center tours scheduled, Inbound rainstorm moves Ferndale’s Jam on the River festival indoors, Get a piece of the rock!, Child welfare deaths in WA down significantly from record year, though plenty of work remains to be done, FREE or Cheap for next weekend ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, June, 25. Good afternoon, I’m  ______. STORY: Three Whatcom farms apply for preservation easement funding from state RCO Three Whatcom farms are applying for preservation funding to protect their land from development. The Whatcom County Council Planning and Development Committee passed a resolution authorizing grant applications for Steensma Farm, Jensen Farm and Cloud Mountain Farm Center. Whatcom County’s Planning Development Services Conservation Easement Program will apply on behalf of the three farms. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office compensates landowners for limiting development opportunities to protect the livelihoods of working farms, preserve water quality and wildlife. The grant is a matching fund of up to 10 thousand dollars that provides 50% of the funds needed to place preservation easements on the land and set up farm stewardship plans. Cloud Mountain Farm Center has already been placed under a permanent easement through interim ownership from the Whatcom Land Trust. Steensma Farm and Jensen Farm do not currently have any preservation easements. STORY: Coast Guard rescues injured hiker from Mount Larrabee over weekend A Coast Guard helicopter crew helped local search and rescue efforts in the evacuation of an injured hiker from Mount Larrabee. The hiker fell 120 feet down a ravine on the mountain east of Glacier on Saturday. The fall left her seriously injured and unable to descend as sunset was approaching. Knowing that nightfall would hamper rescue efforts, the Washington Emergency Management Division requested assistance from the Coast Guard. After a 40-minute search, the Coast Guard spotted a reflection from hikers, leading them to the injured woman. She was safely transported to emergency medical services at the Bellingham airport.  STORY: Recent crashes in and around Ferndale claim lives of two motoristsThe Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has released new details about two fatal crashes this week in west Whatcom County. A driver involved in a two-vehicle collision on West Laurel Road near Ferndale on Sunday, later died after being airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Investigators say no criminal activity was involved in the crash. In a separate incident Tuesday evening, a motorcyclist was killed in a collision with a pickup truck at the intersection of Slater and Elder roads. According to deputies, the motorcycle was traveling westbound on Slater Road at a high rate of speed when it struck a truck turning into a gas station. No citations or charges were issued to the truck driver. STORY: Rep. Larsen co-sponsors bill requiring consultation of U.S. exclave residents before altering border crossing policies U.S. Representative Rick Larsen wants the government to discuss changes to border policies with exclave residents before making changes.  An exclave is a place that can only be accessed by crossing through another country. Point Roberts, Washington is one of the only towns in the U.S. that can only be entered through Canada. Point Roberts residents have a unique stake in border policies, as they must cross the Canadian border to go to work, school, get groceries, and receive health care.  Because there are so few exclaves, they’re often overlooked. Larsen said the new bill would require federal agencies to consult with communities like Point Roberts before finalizing laws that would impact their regular border crossings. STORY: Incidental fire on Mount Baker destroys baler and roughly a half-acre of hay A fire near Mount Baker destroyed a baler and burned about half an acre of hay Monday evening. According to Whatcom County Fire District 14 Chief Jerry DeBruin, the fire was caused by a machinery failure while hay was being baled. The fire caused an estimated $30,000 in damages. Wind helped spread it through about half an acre of hay before firefighters arrived. Crews used off-road brush trucks to access the field and had the fire under control within about 15 minutes. Firefighters stayed an additional 30 to 45 minutes to put out hot spots.  No injuries were reported. STORY: Election center tours scheduledWhatcom County residents can get a behind-the-scenes look at how local elections are run.  The Auditor’s Office will host public tours of the county Election Center July 28th through the 30th. The tour gives visitors a chance to see how ballots are processed, learn about election security measures, and ask questions about voting procedures.  The Auditor’s office says the tour takes less than an hour and advance reservations are encouraged through the Whatcom County Elections Division. STORY: Inbound rainstorm moves Ferndale’s Jam on the River festival indoors Incoming rainstorms have moved the Ferndale’s Jam on the River festival indoors.  The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce announced the first day of the Jam on the River festival will be held in the Pioneer Pavilion tomorrow due to forecasted rain and thunderstorms.  Jam on the River is an annual celebration put on by the Chamber of Commerce, created as a larger and more accessible version of the Ferndale Street Festival. It’s an all-ages event that features local vendors, kids activities and musical guests.  Saturday’s event is still scheduled to take place at the Centennial River Walk Park, but could be moved to the Pioneer Pavilion if the rain continues. The festivities will take place from 4:30 to 9pm Friday and noon to 9 pm Saturday.  STORY: Get a piece of the rock! If you’ve ever wanted a piece of Bellingham history, you’ll get your chance next month. WSDOT is …

June 25, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Three Whatcom farms apply for preservation easement funding from state RCO, Two Whatcom men charged in unrelated cases of child sexual assault, Small Bellingham business owner seeking support as storefront nears closure, Case potentially informing WA’s future policy concerning transgender prisoners lands before State Supreme Court, AG’s office spearheads brief opposing federal advancement of oil and gas development in Alaska, Sen. Maria Cantwell decries vote-by-mail changes, Team of UW researchers develop system for condensing scientific research papers into short-form video content, Small Bellingham business owner seeking support as storefront nears closure, FREE or Cheap for next weekend, Election center tours scheduled ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, June, 24. Good afternoon, I’m  ______. STORY: Three Whatcom farms apply for preservation easement funding from state RCO Three Whatcom farms are applying for preservation funding to protect their land from development.  Steensma Farm, Jensen Farm and Cloud Mountain Farm Center are seeking grant funding from the state. Whatcom County’s Planning Development Services Conservation Easement Program is applying on behalf of the three farms.  The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office compensates landowners for limiting development opportunities to protect the livelihoods of working farms or preserve water quality and wildlife.  The RCO grant matches 50% of the funds needed to place preservation easements on the land, and set up farm stewardship plans that fall under 10-thousand dollars.  Cloud Mountain Farm Center has already been placed under a permanent easement through interim ownership from the Whatcom Land Trust. Steensma Farm and Jensen Farm are not currently under any preservation easements.  STORY: Two Whatcom men charged in unrelated cases of child sexual assault Two men are facing child‑sex charges in separate cases in Whatcom County. The Bellingham Herald reports Shaun Gordon Conley pleaded not guilty after being extradited from Oregon. A teen in Chelan County told police last fall that Conley sexually assaulted them multiple times about six years ago, when they both lived in Whatcom County. Conley was arrested May 29th and booked into the Whatcom County Jail last week. In a separate case, 68‑year‑old Antonio Carlos Segar of Bellingham pleaded not guilty to first‑degree child molestation. Deputies interviewed him Sunday and found probable cause to arrest him. A commissioner set his bail at 100-thousand dollars and issued a no‑contact order. Segar remains in custody. STORY: Small Bellingham business owner seeking support as storefront nears closure The owner of EverLocal has asked for community support while he closes his store. According to their website, the store– which sells local products, gifts, and secondhand clothes— has to close before the end of the lease. That leaves the owner responsible for 90-thousand dollars worth of rent and fees. He says he’s worked out an agreement that would allow him to exit the lease and avoid additional penalties if he can pay his rent through July. He’s asking Bellingham residents to shop, donate, and spread the word about his situation. EverLocal will close at the end of July. STORY: Case potentially informing WA’s future policy concerning transgender prisoners lands before State Supreme Court The Washington state Supreme Court will soon decide whether it’s unconstitutional to hold incarcerated transgender women in a men’s facility.  The Court heard oral arguments yesterday for the case of Amber Kim, a transgender woman confined at Monroe Correctional Facility, a men’s prison. She is being represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington.  From 2021 to 2024, Kim was located at the Washington Corrections Center for Women. In March 2024, Kim and her cellmate were found engaging in sexual contact and were both issued an infraction. They were transferred to a heightened security level in the women’s correctional facility. In June, although she hadn’t received any more infractions according to the ACLU, the Department of Corrections decided Kim was a safety risk, and she was transferred to Monroe Correctional Facility. Her cellmate was allowed to stay in the women’s prison.  Kim is the first transgender woman in Washington state to be transferred from a women’s prison to a men’s.  The ACLU argued that transferring Kim to a men’s facility was cruel and unusual punishment, which exposed her to potential violence, sexual assault, and harassment.  The Department of Corrections argued that keeping Kim in the women’s prison was a safety risk, and the transfer was necessary to carry out a reasonable punishment.  It may take months for the Court to release their official ruling on the case.  STORY: AG’s office spearheads brief opposing federal advancement of oil and gas development in Alaska Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is leading a 13‑state challenge to new oil and gas drilling in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.  Most of the new development in the Refuge would take place on the Refuge’s Coastal Plain. The 1.6 million acre area is described by the National Wildlife Federation as the region’s most diverse wildlife habitat, home to polar bears, musk oxen, porcupine caribou and millions of migratory birds. Brown argues the scale of industrial activity will intensify climate impacts and severely harm Washington’s migratory birds, many of which are considered internationally vulnerable. He says they are essential to coalition-state ecosystems and support  local economies through birdwatching and hunting.  Brown also claims the Administration broke the law by rushing through incomplete environmental impact studies and disregarding mandatory standards for transparency and public participation. STORY: Sen. Maria Cantwell decries vote-by-mail changesU.S. Senator Maria Cantwell is criticizing what she called the Trump administration’s latest effort to restrict voting access. Cantwell said the new U.S. Postal Service policy, implemented in December, shifts where ballots receive postmarks from local post offices to regional processing centers– which can delay postmarks by several days. Cantwell pointed to testing conducted during February’s special election in Snohomish County. Election officials mailed sample ballots on several dates and found many were not postmarked until one or more days after they were dropped in the mail. In one test on Election Day, less than half of ballots mailed that morning received same-day postmarks, meaning …

June 24, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Public hearings scheduled today, City of Blaine seeking developer proposals for envisioned multi-use facility on city ground, Drop Your Nets recycling event tomorrow,  Drop Your Nets recycling event tomorrow, Campground closed due to black bears, Transportation funding projected to fall, WA joins multi-state lawsuit against federal government’s addition of contract terms targeting DEI, Postal Service representatives abruptly cancel meeting with WA legislators regarding proposed rule changes to mail-in ballots, FBI arrests Belfair man on suspicion of planning to attack White House UFC event, Small Bellingham business owner seeking support as storefront nears closure, 4th of July fireworks info  Independent, nonprofit community radio.  KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, June, 23. Good afternoon, I’m ______.  STORY: Public hearings scheduled today  Whatcom County residents will have a chance to weigh in on two proposed ordinances during public hearings tonight.  One proposal would temporarily stop new or expanded civil detention centers in Whatcom County for one year. The ordinance says that one-year period would give the county time to review the land use and impact of these facilities before starting any new projects. The proposal would not affect the existing county jail, the planned new jail, or any behavioral health facilities.  Another proposal would add restrictions on when fireworks may be used in the county. Under the ordinance, fireworks would only be allowed on the evening of July Fourth, and no longer on July third or fifth. Fireworks could also be prohibited during Stage Two Burn Bans or other emergency conditions.  Both hearings are scheduled for 6 p.m. tonight in the Whatcom County Council Chambers. STORY: City of Blaine seeking developer proposals for envisioned multi-use facility on city ground  The City of Blaine is planning a major redevelopment that could bring new housing, childcare, and a public library to its downtown core.  The city is looking for developers to submit plans to redevelop city-owned property downtown. City Manager Michael Harmon said the project reflects a vision for a more vibrant downtown space that will also support long-term economic growth.  Along with these new facilities, the city plans to improve parking and transportation, and make downtown more walkable. The city is accepting developer proposals through July 8th.  STORY: Drop Your Nets recycling event tomorrow  Looking for a volunteer opportunity tomorrow?  The Drop Your Nets recycling event is an effort aimed at keeping plastic waste and microplastics out of local waterways. It’s happening from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m.  The event is organized by Bellingham SeaFest, Net Your Problem, and Samson Rope; it’s also partially funded by the Washington Department of Ecology. Volunteers will work with fishermen — under the shade — to sort nets so they can be recycled into new products.  Those interested in attending may sign up at Seafest.com. STORY: Campground closed due to black bears  The Goodell Creek Campground has been closed due to increased black bear activity.  Officials with the National Park Service say bears have repeatedly entered camping areas and ignored standard deterrents while searching for food. This has prompted an emergency closure of the campground.  The nearby Newhalem Creek Campground remains open. Visitors, however, are being urged to strictly follow food storage rules and use bear boxes or hard-sided vehicles.  STORY: Transportation funding projected to fall  Washington’s transportation funding is projected to fall due to a decrease in revenue.  The Office of Financial Management released a report this week detailing an expected $36 million decrease in transportation revenue compared to the forecasted funds for the 2025-2027 time frame.  The decrease is due to loss in revenue from vehicle registration fees, gas taxes, and rental car taxes.  OFM says they anticipate a drop in overall transportation revenue by over 2.6% by 2031 if the trend continues.  State officials are concerned the decrease will put pressure on an already tight budget amid rising costs and shifts in demand for gas. STORY: WA joins multi-state lawsuit against federal government’s addition of contract terms targeting DEI  Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is suing the Trump administration over new contract requirements tied to DEI programs.  The lawsuit challenges a March executive order directing federal agencies to prohibit what it calls “racially discriminatory DEI activities” in federally funded contracts. Brown says the new rules are vague, confusing, and could jeopardize billions of dollars in federal contracts, including agreements with Washington state agencies.  The coalition argues federal agencies failed to follow required public notice and comment procedures. They are asking a federal court to block enforcement of the new contract terms.  STORY: Postal Service representatives abruptly cancel meeting with WA legislators regarding proposed rule changes to mail-in ballots  Officials with the U.S. Postal Service cancelled a meeting with Washington legislators Monday regarding proposed changes to mail-in-ballots.  The Washington State Standard reports these USPS representatives cancelled just a few hours before they were scheduled to appear in front of a public panel at the House of Representatives.  The meeting would have addressed the potential upcoming changes to mail-in ballots across the country. The changes would require election officials to provide a list of mail-in voters to the USPS. Washington Democrats have been fighting changes to the voting process since last year, when the federal government sued 30 states for refusing to turn over voter rolls. These voter rolls include sensitive information such as social security and driver’s license numbers.  Supporters of the move say they would increase trust in elections. Critics say it would cause confusion too close to the November election and disproportionately impact Democratic voters, who vote by mail more often.  STORY: FBI arrests Belfair man on suspicion of planning to attack White House UFC event  A Belfair resident was arrested Friday in connection with a plot to attack the UFC event at the White House.  21-year-old William Falkner (FAWLK-ner) was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. The arrest came as part of an FBI investigation into a multistate plan to attack the White House.  According to communications uncovered by the FBI, Falkner (FAWLK-ner) planned …

June 23, 2026 News TranscriptRead More