Missing at-risk adult, Bellingham Fire Department searching for source of “sulphur-like odor,” across southside and downtown, City of Bellingham hiring for two full-time positions that will “support renters and property managers.” City of Bellingham hiring for two full-time positions that will “support renters and property managers.”, Former state auditor Troy Kelley disbarred by state Supreme Court, Hand recount in progress for WA Public Lands Commissioner, Local governments statewide collaborating to restore salmon habitats Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, August 28th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Missing at-risk adult The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in finding 35 year old Daniel Dahlquist, a missing vulnerable adult. Daniel was last seen around midnight yesterday near the 4300 block of Northwest Drive. He was wearing only underwear and a blanket, without shoes or a shirt. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff’s office. STORY: Bellingham Fire Department searching for source of “sulphur-like odor,” across southside and downtown According to a Bellingham Fire Department social media post, many Bellingham residents reported a sulfur-like odor last night. The smell was reported from the southside of Bellingham and throughout downtown, but it seems to have dissipated this morning. The Fire Department says they are actively investigating the incident in collaboration with Cascade Natural Gas. Updates will be posted on the Bellingham Fire Department Facebook page. STORY: City of Bellingham hiring for two full-time positions that will “support renters and property managers.” The City of Bellingham is hiring two full-time rental specialists, to enforce the Rental Registration and Safety Inspection Program. The City says the effort is designed to support both renters and property managers. The first position––a rental protection program specialist – will monitor compliance with inspections, as well as help tenants, property management companies, and landlords understand Bellingham’s rental rules. The position is salaried and advertises an annual pay range of between about 85-and-$103,000 dollars. The second position––the rental inspector – will inspect and monitor market rate and subsidized residential rental units to ensure compliance with safety inspections. The position will also evaluate structural, plumbing, mechanical, and other building systems according to city code. The position is paid hourly and advertises a starting rate of almost $33.00 an hour. The positions are funded by fee structure revisions made to the rental registration and safety inspection program in 2023. The additional inspector position will increase the number of city rental inspectors to 3. STORY: Former state auditor Troy Kelley disbarred by state Supreme Court Washington state’s highest court has disbarred former state auditor Troy Kelley. Last Thursday, in a unanimous decision, the state Supreme Court agreed with a recommendation from the state bar’s disciplinary board to disbar Kelley. The action follows a string of legal trouble for Kelley stemming from his real estate business dealings that date back to 2003. During Kelley’s successful campaign for auditor, his opponent brought attention to a 2009 lawsuit that alleged that Kelley failed to refund real estate fees to homebuyers while operating his escrow business named Post Closing Department. The publicity resulted in an investigation by the IRS and the FBI. According to testimony at his trial, the company collected between $120 and $140 from tens of thousands of escrow customers between 2003 and 2006. Kelley promised these services could be done for just $10 to $20. The remaining money was intended to cover county recording fees, and any money leftover at the end was supposed to be refunded. Prosecutors alleged that Kelly amassed more than $3 million in unrefunded fees, and that almost half of it was fraudulently retained by Kelley. Kelley was convicted of eight total felonies in 2018 and was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison, followed by a year of supervised release. According to Bureau of Prison records, began his sentence in July 2021, and was released in February of 2022. Kelley can no longer practice law in Washington state. STORY: Hand recount in progress for WA Public Lands Commissioner Election officials in Washington are conducting a hand recount of ballots in a closely contested race for public lands commissioner. Right now it is uncertain whether Dave Upthegrove or Sue Kuehl (CUE-ull) Pederson will face Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler (JAY-mee her-RARE-uh BUT-ler) in the November general election. The recount was triggered by a narrow 51-vote lead, and requires a hand count of ballots which are then compared to machine tallies. It’s the first primary election recount since 1960 and highlights the importance of voter participation in primary races. The recount will continue throughout the week, with general election ballots scheduled to be sent out starting October 18. STORY: Local governments statewide collaborating to restore salmon habitats Last week in an article on Medium, Governor Jay Inslee reviewed the latest steps that Washington state is taking to protect and restore salmon populations. Climate change poses a major threat, and rising water temperatures and diminishing snowpacks endanger salmon habitats. Inslee says the state’s aggressive emissions-reduction policies aim to mitigate these effects, and federal regulations are being implemented to reduce water temperatures in major rivers. Additionally, the extensive riparian restoration projects and pollution controls that Washington is enacting improve water quality, help address toxins, and create healthier habitats. According to the article, since a 2013 federal injunction, Washington has corrected 219 culverts, and opened hundreds of miles of habitat. The state’s Salmon Recovery Strategy, updated in 2021, outlines ongoing work across a wide coalition of stakeholders. In addition, the recently signed Columbia Basin Agreement, unites Tribes, northwestern states, the federal government and Canada in a 10-year partnership to improve salmon recovery and reduce reliance on dams. The Yakima (YAK-uh-ma) Basin Integrated Plan (YBIP) has also been successful at fish passage and habitat enhancement, and shows that collaboration can overcome resource disputes. Innslee says, while challenges remain, ongoing collaboration and substantial funding–– including federal dollars–– are helping Washington make significant strides toward salmon recovery. WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom County …
The Wandering ‘Hamster
August 27, 2024 News Transcript
First responders rescue driver after 50-foot fall of Mount Baker Highway, Search for missing climber in North Cascades National Park suspended after discovery of human remains next to tent, Newly christened Little Squalicum Pier could open by spring 2025, Whatcom County adding 1,600 acres to Stewart Mountain Community Forest, Whatcom homeless rate stays steady Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, August 27th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: First responders rescue driver after 50-foot fall of Mount Baker Highway First responders rescued an unconscious woman from a vehicle that had driven off the road and plummeted 50 feet off Mount Baker Highway, near milepost 51. According to Fire District 14 Chief Jerry DeBruin, rescuers were able to free the woman from her car and help her back up to the road using rope gear. District 19 also responded to the incident, according to DeBruin. The driver was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center but only suffered minor injuries. STORY: Search for missing climber in North Cascades National Park suspended after discovery of human remains next to tent The search for a climber who was reported missing on August 22nd has been suspended, after human remains were found next to his tent on Sunday. According to a missing person report from the National Park Service, 42-year-old Daniel Gabriel was climbing Mount Shuksan via the Fisher Chimneys route and was expected to return by August 23rd. He was reported missing to rangers last Thursday, the 22nd. While park officials continue to work to identify and recover the remains, incident commander for the search, James Page, said he is unable to say anything about the cause of death. Another missing hiker, 39-year-old Robert Shock, is still the subject of an ongoing search after being reported missing on August 5th. He was last seen at the 5-mile mark of the Chilliwack River Trail with his dog Freddy. Freddy was found on August 4th around the 8-mile mark by a forest ranger who brought the dog to Whatcom County Humane Society. Shock is 5-foot-10 with a muscular build. He has dark brown hair, a beard, and usually wears a baseball cap. He has blue eyes and olive skin. If you’ve seen Shock or have any information on his potential whereabouts, please call the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. STORY: Newly christened Little Squalicum Pier could open by spring 2025 The pier at Little Squalicum Park in north Bellingham Bay has finally been named. The City of Bellingham received more than 900 submissions from the public for the potential name of the pier. Submissions ranged from “Piery McPierface” to the “Pier of Subdued Excitement”. In the end, the city council opted for a more simple approach. The newly-named “Little Squalicum Pier” has been a top priority for the city for many years and is part of the Little Squalicum Park Master Plan adopted in 2010, the Shoreline Master Program, as well as the Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan. In a 2023 update to the plans, the city said that more access to the waterfront, in every form, has always been a desire of Bellingham residents. The pier could open as a pedestrian walkway by next Spring. STORY: Whatcom County adding 1,600 acres to Stewart Mountain Community Forest Whatcom County announced they will expand the Stewart Mountain Community Forest by 1,600 acres, thanks to a $3 million state grant. The County Council, acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of Supervisors, approved the funding in a close 4-3 vote, along party lines. The expansion is part of a larger plan to increase the forest to 5,550 acres, with a total of 2,600 acres to be acquired in the second phase. The goal of the forest, established in 2022, is to protect the area while still allowing limited commercial logging. Home to diverse wildlife, the additional land will support long-term forest health, local jobs, and the production of high-quality wood products. At the County Council meeting last night, Councilmember Jon Scanlon, who voted in favor of the purchase, highlighted the environmental benefits, which includes improved water quality in Lake Whatcom and the Nooksack River. Speaking against the purchase, Councilmember Mark Stremler said that the County has much more pressing issues than maintaining logging roads, thinning forests, and keeping culverts open. Tyler Byrd, Ben Elenbaas and Mark Stremler voted against the acquisition. The land will be managed by Whatcom County in partnership with organizations like the Whatcom Land Trust, the Evergreen Land Trust, and the Nooksack Indian Tribe. STORY: Whatcom homeless rate stays steady A new ‘snapshot in time’ report by Whatcom County Health and Community Services says that the rate of homelessness in Whatcom County seems steady. The report, produced in collaboration with the Opportunity Council, says that between 2023-24, the rate of people becoming homeless kept pace with the rate of people finding housing. The report says lack of affordable housing and low wages-compared-to-cost-of-living are the primary factors. According to the report, over half of the county’s renters are cost-burdened, putting them at higher risk of homelessness in case of financial emergencies. In addition, a record number of households sought housing services in 2023, but only about 20% received referrals due to a shortage of affordable housing due to the lack of available resources, leading to many eligible households being denied assistance. Although the Point-in-Time-Count is traditionally used to track trends, it has limitations in accurately counting unsheltered homelessness. This year’s report also utilizes Housing Pool data to estimate and describe unsheltered homelessness, which is considered more reliable. The report also emphasizes the need for increased investment in homelessness prevention services, affordable housing, and service-enriched shelter beds. WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom County weather: Today’s weather will see sunny skies in the afternoon. Daytime highs will be in the mid-60s, with calm southwestern winds, and a nighttime low right around 50. Tomorrow– expect to see a return to warm sunshine, with highs getting back up to around 70. …
August 26, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham Mayor unveils plans for 2025, including return of downtown police bike patrols, Electric Ave bridge to be closed for repairs for two weeks in September, Bellingham to add 14 bike lockers across two locations downtown, State releases Whatcom County’s unemployment numbers for July, State releases Whatcom County’s unemployment numbers for July, Commonwealth Fund report finds stark disparity in healthcare outcomes for indigenous peoples across WA Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August 26th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham Mayor unveils plans for 2025, including return of downtown police bike patrols Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund has announced the return of downtown bike patrols as part of a comprehensive city plan for next year. In February, Lund issued an executive order made up of 11 actions – including the establishment of a downtown safety response office, an expansion of the community paramedic clinic, and increased access to methadone and opioid treatments. According to a report published by the city last Thursday, the city has made significant headway toward the completion of all eleven action items. As a result, the downtown core has seen a sharp decline in overdose calls since the completion of several cleanup projects, an increase in drug citations, as well as more police “emphasis patrols”. The city received an average of just over 1 call a day in March, declining to 0.4 calls in July following an increase of police presence. The report also outlines more efforts for increasing public safety with a new project called Downtown Forward. Included is the re-establishment of police bike patrols, the installment of murals, and the renovation of aging buildings. Lund says the last downtown plan was established 10 years ago, long before the many challenges resulting from the pandemic as well as the recurring opioid crisis. Mayor Lund says the goal is to respond to today’s problems while making downtown a more safe and inviting place for business and community members. STORY: Electric Ave bridge to be closed for repairs for two weeks in September. The City of Bellingham has announced the Electric Avenue bridge in Bellingham will be closed in September for temporary repairs to reinforce its structure and reopen both travel lanes. Starting September 9th, a signed detour will be in place, and bike and pedestrian access will be limited during construction hours. The city is also seeking funding for a long-term solution after critical structural issues were found in a June inspection. The City expects the work to be completed and both lanes to be re-opened by September 20th. STORY: Bellingham to add 14 bike lockers across two locations downtown. The City of Bellingham says it plans to install bike lockers downtown. A proposal brought forward to the City Council last Monday would see the addition of 14 bike lockers–– six near the Commercial Street parking lot and eight near the WTA station on Magnolia Street. The lockers themselves are expected to cost the City $44,000, as well as an additional $5,000 in installation costs. Those using the lockers would pay 5 cents per hour for up to 10 days, and 12 cents per hour after time expires. According to Natalie Monro from the Public Works Department, funds collected by the lockers would go to the parking fund, which pays for downtown cleaning and decorations. Demand for secure bike storage downtown has come on the heels of last year’s bike theft spree, when nearly 200 bicycles were reported stolen in the area. STORY: State releases Whatcom County’s unemployment numbers for July. Whatcom County’s unemployment numbers for July have been released by the state Employment Security Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The county’s unemployment rate last month stood at 5.1% – an increase of 0.7% from June, and a marked increase compared to July 2023, when the unemployment rate stood at 3.9%. In Bellingham, the unemployment rate also increased month to month, with a 5.1% unemployment rate in July compared to 4.5% in June. According to Employment Security, the Whatcom County unemployment numbers are about average. State-wide, Ferry County had the highest unemployment rate last month, at 8.4%, while San Juan County had the lowest at 3.6%. STORY: Commonwealth Fund report finds stark disparity in healthcare outcomes for indigenous peoples across WA. A new report by the Commonwealth Fund highlights severe disparities in health care access and outcomes for Native Americans and Alaska Natives in Washington state. According to the The Commonwealth Fund 2024 State Health Disparities Report, non-dominant populations experience significantly shorter life expectancies and higher rates of preventable and treatable diseases, compounded by poor access to quality health care. The report ranks Native Americans’ health system performance at just 8 out of 100, compared to 87 for white Washingtonians, a number that reflects long-standing and worsening health inequities. The Indian Health Service— the primary health care provider for these groups— is chronically underfunded, which leads to inadequate care, long travel distances to providers, and delayed treatments. According to the report, underfunding increases health disparities, and makes it difficult for the Health Service to recruit staff and maintain facilities. The IHS’s unstable budget, which requires annual congressional approval, further undermines its ability to serve its population effectively. The report also notes issues such as racial misclassification, incomplete data, and a lack of trust in the health care system due to intergenerational trauma. Despite legislative efforts to address these problems, such as the creation of the Governor’s Indian Health Advisory Council, the new report underscores the need for better data collection, support for tribal health systems, and the elimination of institutional barriers to improve health outcomes for Native Americans and Alaska Natives in Washington. WX: Clouds ‘n showers And now for your Whatcom County weather: Today is expected to be largely overcast and rainy, with a chance of the sun returning later in the afternoon. Daytime highs will be in the upper 60s, with calm south-southwestern winds, and a nighttime low in the mid-low 50s. Tomorrow’s weather is expected …
August 23, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham man pleads guilty on multiple rape charges, including those of his younger sisters, Authorities identify cyclist killed in Saturday’s train collision, Ferndale mother sentenced to four years in prison in daughter’s manslaughter trial, North Cascades Highway reopens after mudslide, Easy Fire still growing, Easy Fire still growing, Updated COVID-19 vaccine approved by FDA Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bellingham man pleads guilty on multiple rape charges, including those of his younger sisters A Bellingham man pled guilty yesterday to three child assault charges in Whatcom County Superior Court. 32-year-old Brian Drake is accused of raping his younger sisters over a seven-year period. He pled guilty to one count of first-degree rape of a child, one count of first-degree incest, and one count of second-degree child molestation during the seven-minute hearing. According to the amended information document showing the charges, the crimes took place between 2004 and 2009 when the victims were between the ages of 4 and 11. Court documents show that Drake was arrested almost a year ago and during an interview with law enforcement he admitted to the abuse of his sisters. Following the completion of a pre-sentencing evaluation, Drake is expected back in court for sentencing in 60 days. His brother, Aaron Drake, is facing similar charges for a child sex crime case in Billings, Montana where he is accused of sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl who was known to him. Aaron Drake is expected to have a change in plea hearing next Wednesday. STORY: Authorities identify cyclist killed in Saturday’s train collision A bicyclist who died last Saturday after being struck by a train has been identified. According to a city of Ferndale news release, 54-year-old Rodney Redfern died after he rode into a railroad crossing bar on Hovander Road and was thrown into the path of the moving train. Redfern’s cause of death has been ruled an accident by the Medical Examiner’s Office. STORY: Ferndale mother sentenced to four years in prison in daughter’s manslaughter trial A mother from Ferndale, was sentenced to four years in prison for the manslaughter of her 5-year-old daughter, Olivia Doane, who died from a fentanyl overdose in March of last year. Melissa Welch, who expressed deep remorse during the emotional court hearing, is the third person sentenced in connection with Olivia’s death. Olivia’s father, Michael Doane, was also sentenced to four years in July for second-degree manslaughter. The girl was found dead with a lethal amount of fentanyl in her system, and drugs were discovered throughout the home, including near children’s toys. Welch admitted to failing to protect her daughter and was sentenced to a longer term than the state recommended, as the judge emphasized accountability for her actions. STORY: North Cascades Highway reopens after mudslide, Easy Fire still growing State Route 20/North Cascades Highway reopened yesterday, nearly 20 days after being closed due to wildfire and a subsequent mudslide. The highway was initially closed between Granite Creek and Easy Pass trailhead on August 4th due to the Easy Fire. The subsequent mudslide on August 11th required crews to remove around 7,000 tons of debris before the road could reopen. Although the road is now passable, firefighters remain in the area and drivers should be cautious of fire and maintenance vehicles. The Easy Fire, sparked by lightning on July 17th, has burned over 2100 acres and is 36% contained. The U.S. Forest Service expects the Easy fire– and others in the Pacific Northwest—to continue to burn until significant rain or snow begins in the fall. STORY: Updated COVID-19 vaccine approved by FDA U.S. regulators have approved updated COVID-19 vaccines that are designed to better target recent virus strains and potential variants this winter. The FDA cleared vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, with doses expected to ship soon, while the Novavax’s version will be available a bit later. The CDC recommends the new vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older, with availability expected within days. The new vaccines are tailored to the KP2 subtype of omicron, and the CDC data show they offer improved protection against multiple virus subtypes. Health experts, including Dr. Peter Marks from the FDA and Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr. from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, emphasize the importance of getting the updated vaccine to maintain protection – especially for high-risk groups such as older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. With the ongoing summer wave of COVID-19, and the likely winter surge, they also recommend people get the flu shot simultaneously with the COVID-19 vaccine. STORY: Free and Cheap Here are some free and cheap activities to enjoy over the weekend: Ferndale’s Summer of Fun Flicks in the Park finishes up its season tonight with an early showing of the animated comedy, Migration. The movie will be shown inside Pioneer Pavillion starting at 6pm. As always, the event is free. The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema is also finishing up its 2024 season this weekend, with a showing of The Princess Bride on the Village Green tomorrow night. Entertainment starts 90 minutes before sunset with performances by Keith Carpenter and Lynne Givier (give-ee-AY). Tickets are $7. Calling all dogs, and their people! The annual Whatcom Humane Society Dog Days of Summer Festival is back this Sunday. The festival will start at 11am and run until 3pm with pet-themed vendors, canine contests, games, an animal caricaturist, food trucks, and much much more. The event will be held at the 9-acre field behind the Whatcom Humane Society Division Street Shelter and admission is free. The Society asks that attendees not bring reactive or aggressive dogs, or dogs who have not had all of their vaccinations. Other restrictions can be found at the WHS website. All dogs must remain on leash. WX: Clouds ‘n showers And now weather: Today is expected to be overcast and rainy once again, with highs in the mid-60s. Winds are projected to be higher today, gusting up to …
August 22, 2024 News Transcript
Blaine man arrested for attempted murder after driving apparent victim to the hospital, Man arrested on Lake Whatcom after boat chase, 49-unit residential project proposed for Bellingham’s King Mountain neighborhood, Low-income housing project opens on Bellingham’s waterfront, 49-unit residential project proposed for Bellingham’s King Mountain neighborhood, WWU to petition state legislature for $21 million grant to increase per-student funding, Bob Ferguson and Dave Reichert prepare to face off in gubernatorial debate, Skagit County breaks ground on crisis center expansion Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, August 22nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Blaine man arrested for attempted murder after driving apparent victim to the hospital A Blaine man was arrested early Tuesday morning after attacking someone and then driving the critically injured victim to the hospital. 43-year-old Clayton DuBois (doo-BWAH) had a “change of heart” after attempting to kill the victim, said Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Spokeswoman Deb Slater in a statement. DuBois was arrested at St. Joseph Medical Center after dropping off the victim, who was then flown by helicopter to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. No information has been shared regarding the victim’s identity or condition. DuBois is being held without bail on suspicion of attempted murder and driving under the influence and, according to online records, is scheduled for a court hearing today. In addition to the attempted murder and DUI charges, he is being charged with two counts of second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, after police found illegally-owned weapons while searching DuBois’s residence for evidence of the assault. STORY: Man arrested on Lake Whatcom after boat chase A man who allegedly flashed a group of six hikers from a boat on Lake Whatcom was arrested Monday. According to Whatcom County Undersheriff Steve Harris, one of the hikers reported the suspect, later identified as 60-year-old Kevin Abbott. Deputies arrived at the scene in a patrol boat and made attempts to confront Abbott before he piloted away in a brief chase, Harris said. Deputies described Abbott as clearly impaired. Abbott was arrested on suspicion of boating under the influence, indecent exposure and failure to comply with stop requirements. Abbott denied any wrongdoing at the scene. STORY: 49-unit residential project proposed for Bellingham’s King Mountain neighborhood A new 49-unit, four-story residential building has been proposed in Bellingham’s King Mountain Neighborhood. Developed by Alliance Properties, the proposed building would sit on a 1.3-acre site at the southeast corner of James Street and Dewberry Lane. According to application documents, the facility is expected to feature 38 one-bedroom and 11 two-bedroom units, secure bike storage, a community room, and 79 parking spaces. The project will also include private yards, patios, decks, and communal green spaces. Bellingham faces a growing demand for housing, needing 860 new units annually, including affordable housing. However, the project’s affordability status is not yet specified. The company is also developing the Village at King Mountain, a community of residential homes in north Bellingham. Public comments on the proposal are open until August 27. STORY: Low-income housing project opens on Bellingham’s waterfront In more affordable housing news– the Mercy Millworks Family Housing facility in Bellingham’s waterfront district opens today. Mercy Housing Northwest says the facility will add 83 new affordable, energy-efficient apartments to the community. Half of these units are two or three bedrooms, designed for families earning under 50-60% of the area’s median income. Rent for the units varies based on income, with a two-bedroom apartment available for families making less than $46,000 annually. The complex also includes a six-classroom early learning center operated by the YMCA, which will serve up to 100 children. While the facility is fully occupied, a waiting list is open for applicants. STORY: WWU to petition state legislature for $21 million grant to increase per-student funding Western Washington University is requesting $21.4 million dollars from the state Legislature to improve its per-student funding, which they say is currently the lowest of all public four-year colleges in the state. The money would bring per-student funding at Western from $8,949 up to parity with Central Washington University at $9,847— the second lowest in the state. According to WWU Director of Government Relations Nora Selander (SEE-lan-dur) who spoke at last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, Western has mostly been at the bottom of per-student funding levels among Washington public universities for decades. Selander also stated reception from most legislators has been positive regarding the additional funding, but noted that strong advocacy will be needed to receive the requested budget increase. The Legislature’s next session starts in mid January. STORY: Bob Ferguson and Dave Reichert prepare to face off in gubernatorial debate Washington’s gubernatorial candidates are set to face-off in a September 10th debate. Bob Ferguson, Washington’s attorney general, secured 45% of the primary votes compared to former Washington congressional representative Dave Recheirt’s 28%. The hour-long debate will air at 8pm on KING 5 TV, with longtime news anchor and WWU alumnus Joyce Taylor as moderator. The event will also be live streamed on the Seattle Times website. The debate will immediately follow the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. STORY: Skagit County breaks ground on crisis center expansion The Skagit Stabilization, Treatment, and Recovery Center – or STAR – expanded its campus earlier this month. The STAR facility plans to serve as a cost-effective alternative to jail or the emergency room. The North Star leadership team says it broke ground on the expansion on August 12th, using $22.8 million dollars allocated by state funding. The new expansion will provide 48 voluntary beds for crisis stabilization patients joining the 16 involuntary beds that already exist on the campus in the North Sound Evaluation and Treatment Center. County commission chair Peter Browning said in a news release that it’s essential to have a safe and compassionate place, like the STAR Center, for people to go when they are experiencing a mental health crisis or need help with withdrawal management services. The new expansion is expected …
August 21, 2024 News Transcript
Hit-and-run on Mt. Baker Highway hospitalizes two; police searching for fleeing driver, Bellingham man arrested for DUI with child in car, assault of police officer, Restraining order lawsuit against Tulip Valley Farms dismissed, WWU to petition state legislature for $21 million grant to increase per-student funding, Cherry Point Refinery awarded nearly $27 million to produce sustainable aviation fuel, Post-Dobbs worst case scenarios hit WA Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, August 21st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Hit-and-run on Mt. Baker Highway hospitalizes two; police searching for fleeing driver Here’s an update on that hit-and-run crash on Mt. Baker Highway that sent two people to the hospital last Saturday. The collision occurred shortly before 4pm, when a white Nissan Murano crossed the centerline while heading east between Kendall and Maple Falls and struck an oncoming motorcycle, injuring both the rider and passenger. The victims, 52-year-old Baldev Mann and 51-year-old Hardip Kaur (COW-er) — both from Surrey, British Columbia — were wearing helmets at the time of the crash. Both were transported to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. Mann was treated and released, while Kaur’s current condition is unknown. The driver left the scene without providing any information. Witnesses to the crash are encouraged to email State Patrol Detective Dan Comnick. STORY: Bellingham man arrested for DUI with child in car, assault of police officer A man suspected of driving under the influence with a child in his vehicle Saturday night is now also accused of assaulting a police officer. 22-year-old Adrian Valentino Quinn was pulled over by the Washington State Patrol, but after stopping his vehicle, Quinn fled on foot. According to Megan Peters with the Bellingham Police Department, a child was found inside the vehicle, unharmed. After a search, officers found Quinn hiding in an electrical closet at the Cordata Community Food Co-op, and then reportedly body-slammed an officer while being taken into custody. Quinn was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, reckless endangerment, third-degree assault, and driving with a suspended license. STORY: Restraining order lawsuit against Tulip Valley Farms dismissed A lawsuit against Tulip Valley Farms and its founder Andrew Miller was dismissed earlier this month. The lawsuit was originally filed in March 2023 by Tulip Town, a company run by Miller’s former friends and business colleagues. Tulip Town had sought a temporary restraining order against Miller in an attempt to prevent his new business from opening in time for last year’s Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – an effort that ultimately proved unsuccessful. Court documents and interviews showed that both parties wanted compensation for quote-unquote “alleged damages.” Tulip Town accused Miller of, amongst many claims, failing to act in good faith. Miller accused Tulip Town of using Tulip Valley Farms-related URLs to redirect internet traffic away from his website and to their own – a practice known as cybersquatting. On August 12th, the Skagit County Superior Court granted Tulip Town’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit. However, the lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice, meaning it could be refiled. STORY: WWU to petition state legislature for $21 million grant to increase per-student funding Western Washington University is requesting $21.4 million dollars from the state Legislature to improve its per-student funding, which they say is currently the lowest of all public four-year colleges in the state. The money would bring per-student funding at Western from $8,949 up to parity with Central Washington University at $9,847— the second lowest in the state. According to WWU Director of Government Relations Nora Selander (SEE-lan-dur) who spoke at last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, Western has mostly been at the bottom of per-student funding levels among Washington public universities for decades. Selander also stated reception from most legislators has been positive regarding the additional funding, but noted that strong advocacy will be needed to receive the requested budget increase. The Legislature’s next session starts in mid January. STORY: Cherry Point Refinery awarded nearly $27 million to produce sustainable aviation fuel BP’s Cherry Point Refinery announced they have received nearly $27 million dollars to produce sustainable aviation fuel from renewable biomass. According to the announcement, the project is expected to create 96 jobs and produce 10 million gallons of fuel annually, which they say will reduce aviation carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. The fuel will be supplied to regional airports via the Olympic Pipeline. The funding is part of over $36 million dollars allocated for sustainable aviation projects in Washington, under a program authored by Senator Maria Cantwell. In addition to BP, Everett-based ZeroAvia received over $4 million to advance hydrogen-electric engines, which are part of the future of aviation propulsion. ZeroAvia successfully tested a hydrogen-electric engine on a 19-seat aircraft in 2023 and is working towards FAA approval. Seattle-based APiJET (APP-ee-jet) and Boeing also received grants for related sustainable aviation projects. STORY: Post-Dobbs worst case scenarios hit WA According to a new report, the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade has caused significant strain on healthcare systems, particularly in states like Washington, Oregon, and California, where abortion remains legal. The report, “Two Years Post-Dobbs: The Nationwide Impacts of Abortion Bans,” released July 11th, helps provide a clearer picture of the ongoing effects of the bans. The report draws on 80 interviews with abortion providers and advocates across the country, and details the many ways the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health ruling has impacted patients and created legally complex situations for providers. According to the report, the disparity between states with and without abortion bans is deepening existing health inequities, with far-reaching consequences for the entire healthcare landscape in the Northwest. Patients are traveling from states with bans to Washington and Oregon for abortion services, which overwhelms local providers and delays care for in-state residents. Increased wait times for abortions leads to more complex and dangerous procedures, and overall worsened health outcomes. In addition, healthcare workers are opting to leave states with restrictive abortion laws …
August 20, 2024 News Transcript
Man accused in connection with June hate crime declared incompetent to stand trial, King County man pleads guilty to 2017 rape at Bellingham home, WSP searching for hit and run driver, Search continues for missing hiker in North Cascades, Bellingham’s upcoming Texas Roadhouse location announces October opening; currently hiring, Initiative on the ballot could slash state’s budget for childcare Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, August 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Man accused in connection with June hate crime declared incompetent to stand trial The man accused of assaulting a sixth-grade student in June has been declared incompetent to stand trial. 42-year-old Paul Bittner was originally charged with one count of a hate crime, and one count of second-degree assault of a child. Court records indicate that Bittner punched the 11-year-old Whatcom Middle School student as he and his class returned to school from a field trip. The boy suffered quote-unquote “immense pain” and a chipped tooth. Bittner pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment hearing June 21st, and subsequently was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation by a qualified expert designated by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. Bellingham neuropsychologist Dr. John Neer later diagnosed him with schizoaffective disorder. Bittner, who also allegedly exposed himself to female deputies during his incarceration, was, according to Neer, manic and psychotic during the evaluation. Judge Lee Grochmal, from Whatcom County Superior Court, determined the man was incompetent to stand trial. Bittner is currently receiving treatment at Western State Hospital. STORY: King County man pleads guilty to 2017 rape at Bellingham home A SeaTac man pleaded guilty in Whatcom County Superior Court last Tuesday to the third-degree rape of an intoxicated Bellingham woman. In 2017, 30-year-old Van Robert Wolfe attacked a woman he knew while in her Bellingham home. Court records show Wolfe was originally charged on January 5th, 2022 with one count of second-degree rape, before his charge was lowered in exchange for a guilty plea. According to reporting by The Bellingham Herald, The Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is expected to recommend Wolfe serve six months in jail, with one year of probation. Additionally, Wolfe will also be required to register as a sex offender, participate in sexual deviancy treatment, and any other programs the Washington State Department of Corrections recommends. A five-year no-contact order between Wolfe and the woman is also expected to be recommended, court documents state. According to court records, Wolfe’s standard range sentence is between six and 12 months in jail, with 12 months of probation. Wolfe was taken into custody following his guilty plea last Tuesday, and will remain incarcerated in the Whatcom County Work Center until his sentencing hearing on October 3rd. STORY: WSP searching for hit and run driver The Washington State Patrol is investigating a serious hit-and-run collision that occurred on Mt. Baker Highway over the weekend. On Saturday at around 4 p.m. near milepost 24, an unknown vehicle crossed the centerline and struck an orange 2024 Harley-Davidson motorcycle, causing it to crash on the eastbound shoulder and sending two people to the hospital. The vehicle then fled the scene heading eastbound. State patrol detectives are asking for help in locating a 2015-2021 white Nissan Murano. Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to contact the State Patrol. STORY: Search continues for missing hiker in North Cascades The search continues for a hiker who is missing in the North Cascades. 39-year-old Robert Schock went hiking on July 31st and was last seen at the 5-mile mark of the Chilliwack River Trail with his dog, Freddy. Schock’s mother, Jan Thompson, says she was contacted on August 4th by the Whatcom County Humane Society, because the dog had been found around the 8-mile mark by a forest ranger. Thompson reported her son missing the next day, after which Schock’s car was found at the trailhead, with his wallet on the dashboard. According to a news release by the Sheriff’s office, deputies as well as North Cascades National Park Rangers searched the area on August 7th, August 15th and August 16th. Last Friday, US Border Patrol conducted both an air search and a ground search near where the dog was found. According to the Sheriff’s Office public information officer Deb Slater, no clues were found in any of the searches. Schock is described as being 5’10” with a muscular build. He has dark blue eyes, brown hair, a beard and usually wears a baseball cap. If you’ve seen Schock or have any information on his potential whereabouts, please call the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. STORY: Bellingham’s upcoming Texas Roadhouse location announces October opening; currently hiring The long-awaited Texas Roadhouse is set to open in early October at the former site of Billy McHale’s Restaurant on Meridian Street. The restaurant recently announced it is looking to hire over 200 positions– both part and full time positions are available. Those who are interested should apply online. STORY: Initiative on the ballot could slash state’s budget for childcare Childcare costs are high in Washington state. An initiative on the ballot in November could slash the state’s budget for childcare and early learning. Reporter Eric Tegethoff has more. CHILDCARE AUDIO 2:00 WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom County weather: Today, expect showers on and off throughout the day, with highs around 70 and a chance of thunderstorms starting in the afternoon. The rain and storms will continue into the evening as temperatures drop to a low of 60. Tomorrow’s weather is expected to follow a similar pattern, however, no thunderstorms are projected until the evening. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Carlee Schram (CAR-lee SHRAM), Tristan Trudell, Kyler Cantrell, Anna Vickers, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduno (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). 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 …
August 19, 2024 News Transcript
Cyclist fatally struck by train in Ferndale, Motorcycle t-bones car in Ferndale, killing one and hospitalizing three, Bellingham PD investigating road rage incident that led to shooting, Bellingham to add 90 electric vehicle charging ports across 26 new stations, Mount Vernon Police identify victims in last week’s house fire; suspect still at large, WA ferry workers demanding 20% raise Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Cyclist fatally struck by train in Ferndale A cyclist was fatally struck by a train last Saturday in Ferndale. According to a news release by the Ferndale Police Department, the cyclist was riding south through a railroad crossing on Hovander Road in Ferndale when they hit a railroad crossing bar, sending them into the path of a train which struck and killed them around 2 pm. The victim’s identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin. STORY: Motorcycle t-bones car in Ferndale, killing one and hospitalizing three First responders were dispatched to the South Bound Lanes of I-5 last Friday when a motorcycle t-boned a vehicle. According to the initial investigation – the vehicle, a 2005 Pontiac GTO coupe, had reportedly lost control while entering southbound I-5 at the Portal Way Interchange where it struck the left barrier. This is when the motorcycle – a 2006 Yamaha FJR1300 – was unable to stop and struck the vehicle, sending the cyclist about 100 feet from the crash. The vehicle’s occupants, two 20-year-old men and an 18-year-old woman, survived the crash and were transported to the hospital by ambulance.The motorcyclist – a 47-year-old Blaine man – was transported to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition, where he later succumbed to injuries. According to recent reporting by Whatcom news, drugs and – or alcohol were determined to be involved as a cause for the Pontiac’s initial crash into the barrier. The driver – 20-year-old Collin Rene Cayo of Bellingham – has been booked into Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of vehicular assault. The charge is likely to be upgraded to vehicular Homicide. STORY: Bellingham PD investigating road rage incident that led to shooting A road rage incident over the weekend resulted in a man being shot. According to the Bellingham Police Department, the incident took place around 9 a.m. yesterday. The victim of the shooting drove himself to the hospital where he is currently undergoing treatment. A social media post by the BPD stated that the incident involved a green Ford Explorer and a silver Honda sedan, and took place at the intersection of Iowa St. and Moore St. in the eastbound lanes. Police took a suspect into custody on a first-degree assault charge and a reckless endangerment charge. The Bellingham Investigations Division is still seeking information from anyone who witnessed the assault, and asks to be contacted through their tipline. STORY: Bellingham to add 90 electric vehicle charging ports across 26 new stations The city of Bellingham plans to install 26 new electric vehicle charging stations by the end of December. The city says the installations are a response to an increase in electric vehicles. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, there are almost 3,2000 electric vehicles registered in Bellingham as of July of this year. That’s more than double the number of electric vehicles registered in the beginning of 2022. The new charging stations are also part of an effort to meet Bellingham’s climate action goals with a push on expanding electric vehicle infrastructure. The future locations of all 26 charging stations can be found on the city of Bellingham website; fourteen of which are already open for use. STORY: Mount Vernon Police identify victims in last week’s house fire; suspect still at large Mount Vernon Police have identified the three victims of a residential fire in Rockport, and say that gunshots contributed to their deaths. A news release issued by Skagit Valley Coroner on Saturday indicates that Erin Birman, 52; her son Taylor Dawson, 19; and Dawson’s girlfriend, Jillian Whitney Van Boven, 18 died either before or during the house fire on August 9th. A warrant has been issued for Birman’s husband, Jason M. Birman, 49, who is missing and wanted for three counts of second-degree murder. Law enforcement agencies, including the Mount Vernon Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are investigating the incident. Authorities are seeking public help in locating Jason Birman. Two GoFundMe fundraisers have been established to support Van Boven’s parents. STORY: WA ferry workers demanding 20% raise Washington State Ferry workers say they are overworked, underpaid, and burning out due to staffing shortages, and they’re tired of it. The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, which represents 400 ferry workers, says it is preparing for contentious contract negotiations, and seeking pay parity with their better-paid deck counterparts. In a recent interview Union Secretary-Treasurer Roland Rexha (REX-uh) highlighted the significant pay gap, with deck workers earning 19%-25% more, and stated that current compensation lags behind private sector opportunities. The union also reports severe understaffing, with 81,000 hours of overtime worked in 2023, contributing to widespread burnout. Staffing shortages have led to more than 3,500 canceled sailings in 2023, with almost half of the cancellations due to crew shortages. The union says it is pushing for better wages to address these issues, and cites similar successful negotiations with Staten Island Ferry. WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom County weather: Mostly sunny skies are projected for today, with a chance of rain in the afternoon. Daytime highs are expected to be in the mid-70s, with variable morning winds solidifying as south-southwest later in the day. Nighttime lows are expected to be around 60. Tomorrow is expected to be consistently rainy, with chances of another thunderstorm. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Carlee Schram (CAR-lee SHRAM), Tristan Trudell, Kyler Cantrell, Anna Vickers, and Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduno (MEE-gel …
August 16, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham pipeline safety oversight group awarded $1 million federal grant, Bellingham and state gas prices on the decline, Whatcom food banks request $2 million in additional funding, Medicare slashes costs for ten key drugs, estimated to affect over 140,000 Washington enrollees, Free and cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 16th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham pipeline safety oversight group awarded $1 million federal grant A Bellingham nonprofit that monitors pipeline safety nationwide was awarded a $1 million federal grant this week. Representative Rick Larsen announced the award to the Pipeline Safety Trust last Thursday, stating that the funding is an investment in the trust’s work to, quote “educate and engage Northwest Washington and communities nationwide about pipeline safety” unquote. The grant is part of a $41 million program administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Pipeline Safety Trust started with $4 million dollars levied in fines in the wake of the Olympic pipeline explosion in 1999, which killed three people, burned a mile-and-a-half along Whatcom Creek, and caused over $58 million in property damage. STORY: Bellingham and state gas prices on the decline Gas prices in Whatcom County and Washington have decreased again this month. As of August 14th, the average price of a gallon of gas in the U.S. is $3.44, down 8 cents from last month. In Washington, the average price is $4.22— a 5-cent drop from July and significantly lower than last August’s $5.02. Whatcom County‘s average gas price is $4.06, a 4-cent decrease from last month. According to GasBuddy. the cheapest gas in Whatcom County as of Wednesday was $3.59 a gallon at Meridian Super Mart in Bellingham. STORY: Whatcom food banks request $2 million in additional funding The Whatcom County Food Bank Network’s two-million-dollar request for emergency funding is still under consideration by the County. With previous funding drying up quickly, the food banks say they are approaching a dire situation. Need has exponentially grown in the past few years, with 9,000 households relying on local food banks. To find out how the funds would help, KMRE News sat down with two Whatcom County Food Bank directors to better understand the issue. Bellingham Food Bank Director Mike Cohen explained why current resources aren’t enough to meet the growing need. PLAY GROWING NEED AUDIO Tune in today after the 5pm News to hear the complete interview. STORY: Medicare slashes costs for ten key drugs, estimated to affect over 140,000 Washington enrollees A provision in the Inflation Reduction Act has enabled Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time– a move that is expected to significantly reduce costs for 10 key drugs. This change is expected to save seniors a billion-and-a-half dollars next year, and affect over 144,000 Medicare enrollees in Washington, who collectively spent nearly $68 million on those medications. The price cuts will range from 38 to 79%, and include drugs used to treat conditions like diabetes, heart failure, and cancer. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell highlighted the significance of this move, noting that the federal government is now able to negotiate directly with pharmaceutical companies. She also emphasized the ongoing nature of the process, with 15 more drugs selected for negotiation in February. Cantwell is also advocating for the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency Act, which aims to increase transparency and hold pharmacy benefit managers accountable for practices that drive up drug costs. The overall impact of these measures is expected to save Medicare $6 billion in 2024 and reduce the federal deficit by $237 billion over the next decade. STORY: Free and cheap Here are some free and cheap activities to enjoy this weekend: Bellingham Public Library Children’s Craft Fair is this evening. The fair runs from 5-7pm and showcases 50 booths of crafts all handmade by kids. All items sold at the booths will be priced $5 or less. Cash sales only. Later tonight, the Pickford Film Center’s rooftop cinema series will show the film The World’s End with food vendors and entertainment starting at 7pm. The rooftop cinema is always free, and the movie begins at dusk. Ferndale’s Summer of Fun continues this weekend with Music in the Park featuring Lemon Creek. The show begins at 6pm tonight in Pioneer Park and is entirely free. Fairhaven’s Outdoor Cinema is showing the movie Pitch Perfect tomorrow night with a performance by The Brie Mueller Band (BREE MEW-ler). Entertainment begins 90 minutes before sunset on the Village Green. Tickets are $7. WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom County weather: Today will see cloudy skies in the morning giving way to sunshine as the day wears on, with a high right around 70. The clouds will re-emerge come nighttime, along with a low in the mid-50s. Tomorrow and Sunday will see high chances of precipitation, with chances of thunderstorms from Saturday night through Sunday. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Carlee Schram (CAR-lee SHRAM), Tristan Trudell, Kyler Cantrell, Anna Vickers, and Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduno (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). 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. Check out our Patreon page or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ________________, and thank you for listening. ##
August 15, 2024 News Transcript
Easy Fire continues to grow despite rain, new Ruby Fire sparks in southeastern Whatcom County, Mount Vernon police searching for person of interest in last week’s fatal Concrete house fire, Bellingham airport deputy director resigns one month after director’s firing, New Ferndale Civic Campus is reportedly almost fully designed and financed, WA falling short on childcare provider subsidies, Rep. Jayapal and Sen. Cantwell among lawmakers opposing Albertsons-Kroger merger Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, August 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Easy Fire continues to grow despite rain, new Ruby Fire sparks in southeastern Whatcom County Despite the best efforts of firefighters and nearly two inches of rain, the Easy Fire has grown to over two-thousand acres. According to an update this morning from InciWeb, 300 firefighters have been assigned to help contain it. And surprisingly, the rain may have actually made the situation worse. Recent rainfall caused a mudslide in the fire burn scar, sending mud, rocks, trees and other debris across Highway 20. Another large fire, known as the Ruby Fire, which was caused by lightning last Friday, has quickly become another major problem for firefighters. An update from Inciweb this morning indicates that in less than a week the fire has grown to 820 acres with 0% containment, and has 50 personnel assigned to fight it. Experts expect the Ruby Fire to spread in all directions, growing by up to 500 more acres in the next three days. According to InciWeb, the Easy Fire is expected to be contained in early September, but the estimate for containment of the Ruby Fire is Halloween. STORY: Mount Vernon police searching for person of interest in last week’s fatal Concrete house fire A person of interest has been identified in connection to last Friday’s fatal residential fire. According to a news release from the Mount Vernon Police Department, a two-story residence south of Rockport was destroyed in the fire with surrounding buildings and vehicles sustaining extensive damage. Three victims recovered from the scene of the house fire are undergoing forensic examination and are expected to be identified later this week. Along with the three victims, the Mount Vernon Police Department now believes there was a fourth person at the residence in the time leading up to the fire. 49-year-old Jason Birman was identified by a vehicle that investigators say is missing from the scene of the fire. Birman is the owner of a blue 1994 Chevrolet pickup truck with Washington plates. He is described as an avid four-wheeler who frequents Skagit and Whatcom counties. Anyone with information on Birman’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Mount Vernon Police Department through their tipline. STORY: Bellingham airport deputy director resigns one month after director’s firing Staff turnover at the Bellingham Airport continues. Emily Philippe (fill-EE-pay), the airport’s deputy director of aviation, has resigned from her position after 15 years working for the Port of Bellingham. Her last day at BLI was Tuesday, just weeks after Kip Turner, the airport’s former aviation director, was dismissed by the Port supposedly due to financial reasons. According to the Port’s Executive Director, Rob Fix, Philippe initially put in her three-week’s notice after accepting another job, but the port decided to let her go immediately quote “out of an abundance of caution” unquote. Philippe’s departure came just days after Southwest Airlines ended flights at Bellingham Airport. According to Port data, the airport lost nearly 40% of its business after Southwest’s departure. STORY: New Ferndale Civic Campus is reportedly almost fully designed and financed The new Ferndale Civic Campus is reportedly almost fully designed and financed. City documents indicate that the nearly 19,000-square foot facility will be designed to accommodate a variety of municipal functions. The building, which will house Ferndale’s City Hall, Municipal Court and City Council, will include conference rooms; screens in all three lobbies, as well as a self-help kiosk that will allow residents to access information and pay their utility bills. The building would also have a secure entryway, also known as a sallyport, in the garage, and a secure elevator to transport prisoners to court. According to the Ferndale Mayor Greg Hansen, 85% of the design phase has been completed, and is also close to being fully financed. The city of Ferndale has set aside nearly $4 million for the project, and extra money will be provided through state and federal grants. STORY: WA falling short on childcare provider subsidies A recent report from Washington’s Department of Children, Youth, and Families reveals that despite state subsidies, many families in Washington still cannot afford child care. The report, titled the Cost of Quality Child Care and Market Rate Study, outlines key issues regarding childcare, such as inadequate subsidy rates, higher costs for younger children, staffing shortages, and legislative challenges. State law mandates that child care providers be reimbursed at 85% of the market rate, but the report finds that current subsidy rates are far below this benchmark. In some cases, the difference is as much as $900 per month. Additionally, caring for younger children is more expensive due to higher staff-to-child ratios and more stringent licensing requirements. The report also states that many child care centers are not operating at full capacity, with significant vacancies due to staffing shortages. Child care advocates are urging the Legislature to increase subsidy reimbursement rates to allow providers to pay living wages and offer benefits like sick leave, retirement contributions, and professional development. While the report does not include specific recommendations it recognizes the importance of future policy discussions that include input from providers, and warns that making changes to meet state mandates could be costly for the state. STORY: Rep. Jayapal and Sen. Cantwell among lawmakers opposing Albertsons-Kroger merger Opposition to the proposed $25 billion merger between Kroger and Albertsons has intensified. Over two dozen U.S. lawmakers, led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Senators Maria Cantwell and Ron Wyden, filed a legal brief supporting the Federal Trade Commission’s request to temporarily …
August 14, 2024 News Transcript
Community tips lead to rescue of two human trafficking victims from Bellingham massage spa, WWU draws ire for decision to sell two properties amid budget deficit, Bellingham Business Beat, Bellingham rental properties will require locking mailboxes beginning in 2025, Whatcom County sheriff requests fentanyl-sniffing dog, County installs naloxone dispenser boxers throughout Whatcom County, Popular Fairhaven boutique announces closure Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, August 14th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Community tips lead to rescue of two human trafficking victims from Bellingham massage spa Two human trafficking victims were rescued by law enforcement yesterday at a Bellingham massage spa. According to a news release issued by Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, police received tips about the location months ago from concerned community members who thought women were being trafficked there. 33 Mansion Mental Massage Spa, located on Lincoln Street across from Carl Cozier Elementary School, also reportedly ran online ads that suggested women at the location were available for commercial sex acts. The location was searched by the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force (WGDTF), Bellingham Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, as well as Customs and Border Protection and two trafficking victims were rescued. During the search, the Bellingham Police Department’s code enforcement and planning department building official found several code violations but did not find a business or massage license linked to the property. No arrest details were immediately available. The property owner, registered as Chun-Hsu Chen (CHUN SU CHEN) according to the Whatcom County Tax Parcel Viewer, will receive non-compliance notices for the code violations found in the building. The investigation is ongoing. STORY: WWU draws ire for decision to sell two properties amid budget deficit WWU is under criticism for selling two of its properties amid a budget deficit. An agreement unveiled by the Cascadia Daily News reveals that one of the properties, located on San Juan Island, was donated to Western in 1996 by Dr. Patricia Swenson. Under the conditions of the donation agreement, Western was obligated to convey the property to the San Juan Preservation Trust if the university no longer wanted to use it. Friends of Swenson, who died in 2010, have expressed that selling the property would not respect their late friend’s wishes. The sale of the second property, the ViQueen Lodge on Sinclair Island, has attracted criticism from locals due to concerns regarding not only the environmental impact of the sale, but also the potential loss of a space that locals have been using for outdoor recreation for decades. According to documents from Western’s Board of Trustees, proceeds from the two properties would go toward the Shannon Point Marine Center, as well as student clubs and activities. STORY: Bellingham Business Beat This week, KMRE is proud to present another installment of Bellingham Business Beat– a limited series where we find out more about the small businesses who are the heartbeat of our downtown. Every Wednesday we explore their origins, impact on our community, and what drives their passion for Bellingham. Here’s a preview of our interview with Stones Throw Brewery. PLAY “BBB e3 PREVIEW” AUDIO CLIP To hear the entire interview, tune in today after the 5pm news. STORY: Bellingham rental properties will require locking mailboxes beginning in 2025 Starting next year, landlords in Bellingham will be required to provide locking mailboxes for their rental units. City staff said the new rule will reduce the risk of mail and identity theft. The original ordinance was drafted in 2021 by Happy Valley resident Todd Lagestee (lag-uh-STEE), after he noticed an increase in mail theft. Lagestee, who’s now an interim commissioner for the Whatcom Public Utility District, said that mail theft is quote “a social and economic justice issue” unquote, since a majority of people without locking mailboxes are lower income. All registered residential properties will have to comply with the new ordinance. Case-by-case extensions will be granted in the event of unique hardships. STORY: Whatcom County sheriff requests fentanyl-sniffing dog Sheriff Donnell Tanksley (duh-NELL) has requested a fentanyl-sniffing dog from the federal government to detect the synthetic opioid. At a County Council meeting in July, Tanksley told the council that the request was prompted by the spiking number of fentanyl-related issues within the Whatcom County Jail. The problem gained urgency after inmate Angel Lewis Leffingwell was charged in June with supplying drugs that led to another inmate’s fatal overdose. The jail has experienced at least 13 overdoses in 2023. The Sheriff’s Office is also hoping to get new body scanners to improve contraband detection, as the current ones are no longer serviced by the manufacturer. Tanksley told the council that– due to high demand–the new drug dog might not arrive until 2026. STORY: County installs naloxone dispenser boxers throughout Whatcom County In more fentanyl-related news–– as part of a new initiative to combat the opioid crisis, Whatcom County Health and Community Services has announced it will install naloxone dispenser boxes at select locations throughout Whatcom County. Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.The dispenser boxes will provide 24/7 access to naloxone for individuals who may have no other means to obtain it or prefer privacy. The Health Department says the first box will be located at Ferndale Community Services, and plans to strategically place additional boxes in locations that are easily accessible to vulnerable populations. The program aims to reduce opioid-related deaths by making naloxone more readily available in public spaces. For more information and access to free naloxone kits go to whatcomoverdoseprevention.org. STORY: Popular Fairhaven boutique announces closure And finally, a boutique in historic Fairhaven Village has announced its closure. Bella Rose Boutique, a bath and beauty shop located next to the Fairhaven Village Inn, cited rising operational expenses and a desire to spend time with family as the reasons for closing. A social media post thanked the community for being the heartbeat of the boutique. Bella Rose Boutique is set to close on September 15th. WX: Partly sunny And now for your Whatcom …
August 13, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham man arrested in connection with assault, One escaped cow still at large within Bellingham, Swimming advisory issued for Taylor Dock after high levels of bacteria detected in water, Mudslide buries part of State Route 20, WTA seeking feedback on two new proposed bus routes, Swinomish among first tribal nations to be awarded DHS cybersecurity grant, Initiative to repeal cap-and-trade bill could lower WA gas prices, but also jeopardize climate investments Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, August 13th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man arrested in connection with assault A man accused of assaulting someone with a chain in Downtown Bellingham last week has been located. 37-year-old Jacob Sparks was found at the Lakeway Fred Meyer and arrested Saturday after he admitted to assaulting a man early Friday morning. Bellingham Police say the victim exchanged words with the suspect before being assaulted and sustaining a head wound. A witness to the assault was able to capture a clear photograph of the suspect before he fled. When confronted by BPD officers Sparks confirmed that he was the person in the witness photo. Sparks remains at the Whatcom County Jail and is being held without bail. STORY: One escaped cow still at large within Bellingham Two cows escaped their trailer in Bellingham over the weekend – and one is still on the loose. It all started Saturday morning around 8AM, when both cows were spotted near the intersection of East Sunset Drive and Hannegan Road. The police gave chase, but the cows were having none of it—completely ignoring the sirens and acting like they were above the law. The cows later split up. One of them was discovered several hours later and was eventually secured in a trailer, but the other is still missing. Bellingham Police are asking anyone who encounters the missing cow to contact the Whatcom Humane Society, or to call 911 in case the cow is posing a threat to traffic. STORY: Swimming advisory issued for Taylor Dock after high levels of bacteria detected in water The Whatcom County Health Department has issued a swimming advisory for Boulevard Park after high levels of fecal bacteria were detected in the water. The contamination was traced to an outfall pipe but has spread to other areas of the park, particularly near Taylor Dock. The Health Department advises humans and their pets to avoid the water until the advisory is lifted. Health and Human Services says swimming in contaminated water can cause skin rashes, gastroenteritis, and respiratory infections. Those who insist on swimming should avoid the water after heavy rainfall, keep their heads above water, avoid swallowing it, and shower afterward. If illness occurs, contact a doctor and report it to health authorities. STORY: Mudslide buries part of State Route 20 Part of State Route 20 has been buried by a mudslide. The mudslide happened on Sunday evening at milepost 152, southeast of Diablo Lake, after nearly two inches of rainfall. State Route 20 has been closed intermittently between Granite Creek and Rainy Pass due to dangers presented by the Easy Fire, which currently covers a little over 2,000 acres and is 0% contained due to the area’s steep terrain. The state Department of Transportation estimates it will take at least two days for the slide to be cleaned up, and says road conditions will be reevaluated tomorrow. STORY: Swinomish among first tribal nations to be awarded DHS cybersecurity grant The Swinomish (SWIN-uh-mish) Indian Tribal Community will be one of the first tribal nations in the country to receive a cybersecurity grant. The grant, awarded by the Department of Homeland Security, will provide the tribe with almost $550,000. This comes months after a cybersecurity incident shut down the Swinomish Casino & Lodge for weeks. In an interview with the Cascadia Daily News, Vinnie Singh, the director of Information Technology for the tribe, said that tribal communities are seen as attractive targets by cybercriminals due to quote “perceived weaker cybersecurity defenses” unquote, and that tribal governments are currently facing digital threats ranging from phishing attacks to cyber fraud. The Suquamish (soo-KWA-mish) Tribe, near Seattle, are the only other indigenous group in Washington to receive a grant–– which totals about $460,000. In total, 32 tribes will split just over $18 million dollars in cybersecurity grants from Homeland Security. STORY: WTA seeking feedback on two new proposed bus routes The Whatcom Transportation Authority is seeking feedback on an interim waterfront transport service for Bellingham. Two new routes proposed to begin this fall–– route ‘46 Granary’, would run from Bellingham Station to the Millworks Building at Cornwall Avenue six times a day. The other would be route ‘47 Harbour/Downtown’, which would run seven times a day from Bellingham Station to Millworks to Squalicum Harbour. The proposed routes will be temporary until permanent routes are put in place. According to the WTA, the organization aims to address the need for bus routes to the waterfront, especially after the opening of the Millworks building – which sports 83 affordable housing units and a child care center. The WTA board of directors will hold a public meeting on the proposals this Thursday at 8am. The public can attend in person at 4011 Bakerview Spur or on Zoom by visiting ridewta.org. STORY: Initiative to repeal cap-and-trade bill could lower WA gas prices, but also jeopardize climate investments This November voters will decide on Initiative 2117, which aims to prohibit any state agency from implementing a cap-and-trade tax program as well as repeal the 2021 Washington Climate Commitment Act. The Climate Commitment Act is a cap-and-invest program that has generated $2.2 billion since January 2023, funding a wide array of climate-related projects. These projects include forest conservation, micro-hydroelectric plants, and solar power initiatives. According to supporters of the new repeal Initiative, the CCA is making Washington’s cost of living one the highest in the nation. Initiative sponsor Republican State Rep. Jim Walsh links the cap-and-trade program with higher gas prices, and says the …
