Second atmospheric river hits northwest WA, Fallen tree blocks section of Mount Baker Highway, causes power outage to nearly 50 home, Cleanup begins in parts of the county, False ‘swatting’ call in Whatcom Gulf between home prices and availability in Whatcom continues to widen, Food insecurity rampant among WWU students, Whatcom County to hold virtual session on incorporation of Birch Bay Owner of several local Little Caesars franchises sued in federal court over racial discrimination, Whatcom County to hold virtual session on incorporation of Birch Bay Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, December, 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Second atmospheric river hits northwest WA After days of historic flooding, things are beginning to return to normal in Whatcom County, but residents are warned to stay alert as new weather fronts move in. Officials in Sumas lifted the evacuation order Saturday, which allowed residents to return home, though non-residents are still asked to stay away. While some roads remain covered by water across eastern Whatcom County and the Ferndale area, several previously closed roads have reopened, including Slater Road. However, Mt. Baker Highway east of the intersection of Silver Lake Road and Mount Baker Highway has been closed. According to WSDOT (WASH DOT) multiple slides and a large tree fall have impacted the roadway there and brought power lines down. There is no estimate yet for when the road will reopen or power will be restored. Officials warn residents that any private wells affected by recent flooding should be considered unsafe for drinking. Well owners are urged to have their water systems professionally serviced and disinfected before you drink the water. Until then, residents should rely on bottled or properly purified water to prevent contamination-related illnesses. In the meantime, another round of rain and gusty winds is expected today as another atmospheric river moves into the region. NOAA (NO-ah) forecasts one to three inches of rain in Whatcom and Skagit counties through tomorrow. Rivers that receded over the weekend — including the Nooksack and Skagit — are expected to rise again today, with moderate flooding likely in several locations. In Whatcom County, the Nooksack River is forecast to reach action stage tonight near Cedarville and Ferndale, cresting tomorrow morning. In Skagit County, the Skagit River at Concrete is expected to hit moderate to major flood stage late Monday into early Tuesday, with Mount Vernon forecast to crest around 33 feet — below last week’s record, but still serious. Officials warn this storm also brings high landslide risk, with soils already saturated, and strong winds — gusts up to 45 miles per hour — which will increase the chance of falling trees and power outages. Emergency officials urge residents to stay alert and be ready to act as conditions change through midweek. STORY: Fallen tree blocks section of Mount Baker Highway, causes power outage to nearly 50 homes Power outages are being reported across Whatcom County after strong overnight winds, according to Puget Sound Energy. As of 8 a.m. this morning, more than 3,600 homes were without power. The largest outage affected the Lummi Peninsula and Lummi Island, accounting for more than 2,500 of those impacted. Wind gusts over 45 miles per hour were reported in some areas. Puget Sound Energy says downed trees and vegetation are the primary cause of many of the outages. STORY: Cleanup begins in parts of the county County officials are encouraging residents to clear out flood debris as soon as possible, before mold sets in. Three debris management sites are open: Debris must be pre-sorted, with appliances and hazardous materials separated. Certain items like tires, vehicles, asbestos, machinery, woody debris, and regular trash cannot be accepted. STORY: False ‘swatting’ call in Whatcom A false 911 call — known as “swatting” — triggered a large law enforcement response Sunday afternoon in Whatcom County. First responders were dispatched yesterday afternoon to a residence on Fazon Road after someone reported an active shooter. Multiple agencies responded and later determined the call was unfounded. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says it will lead the investigation into the origin of the call. Agencies assisting included Lynden, Bellingham, Everson, and Sumas police, along with the Washington State Patrol. In Washington, swatting can carry serious criminal penalties, including a class B felony charge if it results in death. STORY: WTA board approves fare increase amid significant public pushback Bus fares across Whatcom County will rise next fall. The Whatcom Transportation Authority Board voted 6–2 last night to approve the agency’s first fixed-route fare increase since 2008. Beginning September 1st of next year, fixed-route fares will double from $1 to $2, and paratransit fares will triple from $1 to $3. WTA will also roll out a fare-capping system — no more than $6 per day or $60 per month — which would limit costs for frequent riders. The board voted to eliminate the Gold Card, a program that provided free rides to seniors 75 and older, but expanded reduced fares to include seniors 65+, veterans, income-qualified riders, students, and people with disabilities. Those riders will now pay half-price. The meeting drew more than 900 public comments, mostly from seniors, disabled riders, and low-income passengers worried about affordability. WTA leaders say the agency faces a widening budget gap. General Manager Les Reardanz (LESS REAR-duns) told the packed meeting WTA has already cut discretionary spending by 20% but needs new revenue to avoid major service reductions. A last-minute amendment from Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund to lower the daily fare cap to $3 failed. Staff warned it would force unsustainable costs on paratransit, which already operates at capacity and costs $96 a ride. Board member Jen Lautenbach, who represents Everson, Nooksack, and Sumas, argued against a countywide sales-tax measure, saying rural cities get minimal service and shouldn’t be asked to pay more. STORY: Food insecurity rampant among WWU students A recent study conducted by Western Washington University and the Washington Student Achievement Council says that more than half of the …
December 12, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom County flood update, Over 3000 Skagit residents seek shelter amid the worst of the floods, Organizers sound alarm after Skagit farmworkers seen returning to work amid high risk of flooding, ood insecurity rampant among WWU students, Over 3000 Skagit residents seek shelter amid the worst of the floods, Gulf between home prices and availability in Whatcom continues to widen, Owner of several local Little Caesars franchises sued in federal court over racial discrimination, Gov. Ferguson Approves 1,300-Acre Solar Farm in Klickitat County, Arctic National Refuge under threat…again, More lightrail opens up down south,Community Forum on South Fork Nooksack River Scheduled for January 27, Santa 5k – Saturday, Dec. 20 Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, December 12th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Whatcom County flood update Whatcom County remains in crisis as historic flooding from the Nooksack River swamped low-lying towns this morning. Water levels in Sumas and surrounding communities rose above previous flood records, which forced widespread evacuations of Sumas, Nooksack, Everson, Marietta, and parts of Ferndale after streets and businesses were inundated. U.S. Coast Guard helicopters airlifted residents trapped by rising waters yesterday, as flooding reached up to 15 feet in some neighborhoods. Roads in and out of Sumas were blocked, leaving many homes isolated until crews arrived. Water has closed multiple key roadways across the county. Hannegan Road has been closed between Bakerview and Van Wyck roads due to a culvert failure; the portion between Van Dyk Road and Lynden city limits is closed as well. Other major closures include Slater Road near Ferndale, segments of Marine Drive, and portions of Highway 9 to the Canadian border. Officials are urging residents to obey all road closures and avoid flooded areas. KMRE News spoke with Deb Slater, a public information officer for the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. SLATER 1 Public works crews report river levels remain high in many areas. While some upstream gauges have started to recede, downstream flows near Everson and other lowlands are rising, which means conditions remain dangerous. Emergency shelters are open for flood-displaced residents, and county resources are being shared for assistance with sheltering and displacement reporting. County crews are actively assessing levees, bridges, and roads, with emergency management coordinating resources. Residents should stay alert for evolving conditions and follow guidance from local officials. Community members are encouraged to monitor updates from Whatcom County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service for updates. STORY: Over 3000 Skagit residents seek shelter amid the worst of the floods A new evacuation order has been issued for Burlington — all residents have been ordered to evacuate immediately after Gages Slough (GAJ-ez SLEW) began flooding homes this morning. Officials say the National Guard is going door-to-door to notify residents and assist with evacuations as conditions deteriorate. Shelters, including Bayview Elementary, have opened to accommodate displaced families. This comes after more than 75,000 Skagit County residents in the 100-year floodplain were ordered to evacuate Wednesday night. KMRE spoke with Jen Rodgers, Communications Manager for Skagit County and lead PIO for the Emergency Operations Center. RODGERS 1 In addition, the National Weather Service has warned of increased landslide risk as the rain lessens and rivers recede. KMRE spoke with Elijah Reyes, Incident Coordinator with the Royal Order of Christian Knights who is partnering with Bethany Covenant Church in Skagit Valley to provide shelter to flood victims. Reyes says they are currently housing 30 people, providing three hot meals a day, and support. ELIJAH 1 When asked about the outlook for the next few days, Reyes had this to say. ELIJAH 2 Emergency officials continue to urge people to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and avoid floodwaters, as conditions remain dangerous. STORY: Organizers sound alarm after Skagit farmworkers seen returning to work amid high risk of flooding Despite an active evacuation order, farmworkers were still on the job in high-risk flood zones. Edgar Franks, an organizer with Community to Community Development, said organizers spotted 30 to 40 workers harvesting Brussels sprouts near Burlington Wednesday night, and again on Thursday morning. AUDIO EDGAR 1 KMRE was able to speak with Don McMoran, a Skagit valley farmer and Director of the WSU Agriculture Extension office. We asked McMoran for his thoughts on what’s happening in the fields. AUDIO DON 1a didn’t evacuate AUDIO DON 1 millions invested Franks says, while farm workers understand the business perspective they are also concerned about the human equation. AUDIO EDGAR 2 McMoran says every case is unique, and at the end of the day, there is pressure on farmers and workers. AUDIO DON 2 employment at will Farmworker advocates say the core issue is economic pressure. Familias Unidas por la Justicia has pushed for paid hazard leave since the pandemic. EDGAR 3 The challenges don’t end there. For many farmers, like Don McMoran, the issues are complex. DON 3 workers backbone WX: Big Rain Going And now weather: As we close out the week, it looks as if the worst of the flooding is behind us. Today’s forecast here in Whatcom calls for grey skies and mild, infrequent showers, with daytime highs again reaching into the low 50s. Much the same is predicted through the evening and night, with temperatures sliding from the low 50s to the high 40s. A consistent pattern of overcast skies with mild showers looks to dominate the weekend as well, hopefully allowing everyone to recover from the floods. Stay safe out there, folks. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Glen Hirshberg, Kathi O’Shea, and Kai Blais-Schmolke. 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 your donations. To help support what we do, check out our Patreon, Substack, or visit kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m _David Korb________… thanks for listening! ## STORY: Food insecurity rampant among …
December 11, 2025 News Transcript
Ferguson declares state of emergency, deploys National Guard to areas of western Washington flooding, Sumas and Everson under voluntary evacuation, Updated road closures in Whatcom County, Little Squalicum Pier closed following development of sinkholes, Amtrak pauses service to Canada Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, December, 11th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. It’s a wild day in Whatcom County. Here’s your 2025 Flood Update. STORY: Ferguson declares state of emergency, deploys National Guard to areas of western Washington flooding Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency following major flooding across Washington. Ferguson also requested an expedited federal emergency declaration to access additional life-safety and recovery resources. The National Guard has been activated, and the state is coordinating with local, tribal, and federal partners, including FEMA and the National Weather Service. Washington state’s entire Congressional delegation—12 Representatives and Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell— have urged President Donald Trump to approve Governor Bob Ferguson’s request for an expedited federal Emergency Declaration as catastrophic flooding sweeps the state. The National Weather Service warns of “catastrophic” river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington and widespread flooding from Bellingham to south of Olympia. State officials have ordered “GO NOW” evacuations for the Skagit River valley’s entire 100-year floodplain. Ferguson estimates up to 100,000 residents could face evacuation. Governor Ferguson also urges residents to follow county and emergency management alerts and evacuate if ordered. STORY: Sumas and Everson under voluntary evacuation Sumas (SOO-mass), Everson, and surrounding communities remain in an active flood emergency as the Nooksack River crested at record levels early this morning and is expected to remain dangerously high through the day. Officials with Whatcom Ready, a community initiative partnered with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, say waters exceed levels seen during the devastating mid-November 2021 floods. They have now activated its emergency operations center to coordinate response efforts county-wide. Overnight, the National Weather Service upgraded the flood forecast from “moderate” to “major,” with reports of a mudslide on Silver Lake Road, a landslide in Kendall damaging one home, several bridge closures, levee overtopping, and potential damage to the Twin View dike. In Sumas, the Sumas river was still rising as of 8:50 this morning, with all routes in and out closed, including E Badger, Halverstick, Garrison, and Clearbrook Roads. The border crossing is closed and personnel were evacuated after floodwaters covered Badger Road at Van Buren. The Nooksack River at North Cedarville peaked above 150 feet early Thursday, breaking previous records and flooding levees near Everson and Sumas. Multiple streets in Nooksack are closed and a sewer system outage has been reported—residents are advised not to use showers or flush toilets. Everson remains under a voluntary evacuation advisory for areas north of the Nooksack River bridge as floodwaters continue to rise. Roads north of the bridge and key local routes remain closed due to overtopping and flood impacts. Officials continue to urge residents in flood-threatened areas to move to higher ground. KMRE reporter Suzanne Blais talked with local residents via phone. Joy Monjure (mon-JURY) lives in Everson on Everson Road, just south of the Nooksack River Bridge. MONJURE 1 Upriver at Glacier, resident Tyler Warne (WORN) checked in as well. TYLER AUDIO 1 Downriver at Ferndale, levees are currently holding and the river is expected to crest between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. today. The County says crews are monitoring the situation 24/7. Residents in low-lying areas urged to take action now. Public sandbag distribution is available at the south end of Second Avenue. Whatcom County crews are actively monitoring river gauges and flood-prone zones, as saturated soils increase the risk of landslides and debris flows. Voluntary evacuations remain in place and shelters are open countywide. If your home has been displaced by flooding, contact the Whatcom County Flood Response Call Center for shelter coordination. The county has activated emergency shelter placement assistance — contact emergency management for referrals. Community-supported shelters in Lynden and other towns are open as flood impacts grow. Lighthouse Mission Ministries in Bellingham is open to those who need overnight shelter. The Ferndale Severe Weather Shelter, the United Church of Ferndale on Washington Street and Good News Fellowship on Axton Rd. also offer shelter and support. Free sand and sandbags are available at the County Northwest Annex on Northwest Drive. For those who need sandbags in Skagit County, please reach out to the county’s division of emergency management. Residents who cannot leave on their own may call emergency services for assistance with evacuation. Everyone is urged to stay alert as conditions are expected to get worse in some locations and things can shift rapidly. STORY: Updated road closures in Whatcom County Local and county agencies report dozens of road closures across the county due to high water levels, overtopping creeks, and runoff from the Nooksack River and tributaries. Local reporting notes more than 30 road segments impacted or closed, including rural roads near Everson, Lynden, Bellingham, and surrounding areas. According to the County, the following roads are closed due to water over the roadway and unsafe travel conditions: There are many other closures scattered across county connectors. Many more may not be officially closed but have standing water over the roadway and are hazardous. These include: Some city streets in Bellingham have water on or over them, which include low points and underpasses. Residents are urged to avoid driving through water. There are no widely confirmed closures of major state highways in Whatcom County solely due to flooding at this moment. However, conditions remain hazardous and subject to rapid change, and isolated segments have seen water over the roadway or are being monitored. Public works crews emphasize that road conditions can change rapidly as river levels rise. Never drive through standing water — turn around, don’t drown. STORY: In more flood-related news, school closures have been announced for: Ferndale Nooksack Mt. Baker Concrete La Conner Mt. Vernon And Sedro Woolley. All campuses of the Skagit Valley College are …
December 10, 2025 News Transcript
Flooding expected in Skagit, Flood watch issued for Whatcom, Bellingham man sentenced to five years for possession of child sexual abuse material, Three weekend assaults result in three arrests by WCSO, Jobs plummet, State bill proposed that would prohibit law enforcement from obscuring face while on the job Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, December, 10th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Flooding expected in Skagit Major flooding is expected in Skagit County today through Friday. The Skagit River is expected to crest at over 40 feet in Concrete around 10 a.m. tomorrow, and will reach about 37 feet in Mount Vernon early Friday. Both levels are near record flood levels. The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning until further notice. Residents in low-lying areas, including Marblemount, Rockport, Concrete, Hamilton, Lyman, and Birdsview, are urged to prepare for possible evacuation and make plans for pets and livestock. The Skagit County Emergency Operations Center is coordinating with the Red Cross to open a shelter in East County. Drivers should expect water over flood-prone roads and are warned: “Turn around, don’t drown.” Follow all closures and caution signs. Updated river forecasts are available at www.skagitcounty.net/flood STORY: Flood watch issued for Whatcom The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch in Whatcom County today, near rivers and in low-lying areas. Forecasts call for up to three inches of rain today. The Nooksack River is expected to reach moderate flood stage at Saxon Road Bridge and Cedarville, which raises the risk of flooding in low-lying areas, streams, and overbank flows. Here are the road closures as of 8:30 this morning. More updates on closures and conditions are available through Whatcom County Public Works. STORY: Bellingham man sentenced to five years for possession of child sexual abuse material A Bellingham man has been sentenced to just over five years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material. 33-year-old Joshua Luke Reppert (REP-urt) was arrested in May after a nearly yearlong investigation that began with cyber tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Police say Reppert accessed and stored illegal images and videos on social media and cloud platforms between late 2024 and May of this year. Judge Evan Jones imposed the agreed sentence of 61 months in prison and three years of community custody, saying the crimes are “not victimless.” Reports of child sexual abuse material can be made to the CyberTipline. STORY: Three weekend assaults result in three arrests by WCSO The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says three Bellingham men were arrested over the weekend in separate second-degree assault cases. Late Friday night, deputies responded to a home outside Bellingham and found a victim with a swollen forehead who said a 45-year-old man they knew shoved and kicked them. Around 11:30 p.m. Saturday, a second incident unfolded after an argument. Deputies say a 29-year-old man put his arms around the victim’s neck and began strangling them before a witness intervened. Investigators say that case is not being treated as domestic violence. And Sunday afternoon in Sudden Valley, a 33-year-old man was arrested after allegedly attempting to strangle someone known to him. All three suspects were booked into the Whatcom County Jail, where they remained as of Monday. STORY: Whatcom deputy executive named director of Seattle’s city budget office A top Whatcom County official is returning to Seattle. According to a recent press release, Deputy Executive Aly Pennucci (ALLIE pu-NOO-chee) has now been hired as Seattle’s new budget director. Pennucci spent the last 18 months improving transparency and financial planning in Whatcom County. County Executive Satpal Sidhu (SAT-paul si-DOO) praised Pennucci’s impact, saying she modernized the county budget and brought “invaluable” professionalism. Sidhu says the county will set up an interim leadership plan rather than immediately hiring a replacement. STORY: Skagit County Superior Court judge announces retirement A longtime Northwest judge has announced he will retire after more than 20 years on the bench. Skagit County Superior Court Judge Thomas L. Verge will step down in December. Verge had a wide-ranging legal career in private practice and as a prosecutor, and has served in both district and superior courts in Skagit and Whatcom counties. Governor Bob Ferguson announced the appointment of Superior Court Commissioner Mary Crandall to fill the seat. She’ll begin December 31st. STORY: Amazon settles COVID-era claims Amazon will pay more than $3.7 million to settle claims in Seattle that it violated protections for gig and app-based workers during the pandemic. The City of Seattle’s Office of Labor Standards says Amazon Flex drivers received premium pay and sick time only for food and grocery deliveries — not for package deliveries from Amazon warehouses. The settlement covers nearly 11,000 workers and includes $20,000 in city fines. Payments to affected workers are expected to begin around January 1st. In an announcement, the company denied wrongdoing— and says it is pleased to have settled the matter so it can focus on supporting drivers and customers. STORY: Jobs plummet New numbers say the Seattle job market is dropping, while employment in Whatcom remains relatively stable. According to Indeed.com, the Seattle metro area has seen a 35% drop in online job postings since February 2020— the second-largest decline in the nation behind San Francisco. The slowdown has hit white-collar and tech-heavy sectors, as companies restructure amid artificial intelligence developments and broader economic uncertainty. Labor experts say rising interest rates, budget shortfalls, and other economic pressures have shifted the market from a situation where “jobs were chasing people” to one where “people are chasing jobs.” By contrast, Whatcom County’s job market has remained more stable, with unemployment moderately low and job losses modest, according to data from Employment Security. Some local sectors, like manufacturing, have even seen growth, though service and “white-collar adjacent” jobs have weakened — which mirrors the broader economic pressures seen in larger metro areas. New employment data and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts later this month may indicate how quickly recovery could come. …
December 9, 2025 News Transcript
Flood warning in Skagit, Water over roadway closures, Three crashes up and down I-5 stall traffic, but no serious injuries, Student employees at WWU file to form union for third time in as many years, Port of Bellingham commissioner announces run for state senate, WCHA disagrees with CDC about hepatitis B, Maternal deaths on the rise in Washington, WA AG proposes immigrant protection act Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, December 9th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Flood warning in Skagit The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for Skagit County until further notice. The Skagit River near Concrete is expected to crest at around 32 feet this afternoon, with a second peak of almost 37 feet on Thursday. In Mount Vernon, the river is forecast to crest above major flood levels on Wednesday and Friday. Officials urge residents to avoid flooded roads, follow barricades, and take precautions to protect homes and livestock. Road closures are being monitored at Skagit County Road Closures. STORY: Water over roadway closures As heavy rains continue, several roads in Whatcom County are closed or have water over the roadway. Closures include Barrett Road at Paradise Road, Ferndale Road south of Slater Road, Bylsma (BILL-smuh) Road north of E Wiser Lake Road, and Hannegan Road between Lynden and Polinder (PAUL-in-dur) Road. Marine Drive is closed between Rural Avenue and Lummi (LUH-mee) Shore Drive. Drivers should use caution on Ferndale Road north of Slater, Bylsma north of Polinder, and Hampton Road south of Lynden. Officials warn there could be more closures this week as heavy lowland rains follow recent mountain downpours. STORY: Three crashes up and down I-5 stall traffic, but no serious injuries It was a rough commute yesterday on I-5 near Slater Road after three separate crashes brought traffic to a halt. A semi-truck and passenger van collision in the southbound lanes snarled traffic just before 9 a.m. No one was hurt, and lanes reopened quickly. Minutes later, two jackknifed semis crashed under the Slater Road overpass, which blocked all northbound lanes. A third minor crash was reported nearby. One of the semis leaked fuel, which forced an extended closure of the highway. All lanes are now open. STORY: Student employees at WWU file to form union for third time in as many years For the third time in three years, student workers at Western Washington University are moving to unionize. A majority of Western’s Operational Student Employees (OSE) filed paperwork Friday with the state Public Employment Relations Commission, signaling their intent to form a union. Supporters of the effort say Operational students want the same protections that Educational Student Employees have. Educational student staff are represented by the Western Academic Workers Union – U.A.W. 4929. The filing comes months after roughly 1100 OSEs went on strike last summer during a contract dispute with the university. Western’s president has said the school supports efforts to secure formal bargaining rights. A bill in Olympia — HB 1570 — would allow OSEs to officially join the same union as their peers if it becomes law. The primary sponsor of that bill is local Representative Joe Timmons, and many other legislators are co-sponsors. STORY: Ferndale woman arrested on suspicion of assaulting St. Joe’s employee A Ferndale woman faces assault charges after police say she attacked a hospital staff member Friday night. Bellingham Police responded to St. Joseph Medical Center just before 8:30 p.m. after a 27-year-old woman was found in a room where she did not belong. When a hospital employee tried to guide her back to her own room, officers say she punched him in the face. The employee attempted to restrain her, but police say she continued hitting him, including in the back of the head. He suffered a minor injury. Officers took the woman into custody and she was still in Whatcom County Jail yesterday morning on a $1,000 bond. STORY: Port of Bellingham commissioner announces run for state senate There’s a new contender for a State Senate seat in Whatcom County. Yesterday, Port of Bellingham Commissioner Michael Shepard announced that he intends to run for the 42nd District Senate seat in 2026. The move comes after Senator Sharon Shewmake revealed she will not seek re-election and will step down at the end of her term. Shepard, an anthropology instructor at Western, says he’s running as a Democrat to tackle the rising cost of living, support public schools, strengthen local jobs, expand affordable housing, and protect the environment. State Representative Alicia Rule — another potential Democratic candidate — says she has decided not to enter the race, opting to remain in the House. No Republicans have formally announced a campaign yet, though former appointed Senator Simon Sefzik (SEFF-zik) says he has not ruled one out. STORY: WCHA disagrees with CDC about hepatitis B The West Coast Health Alliance says it disagrees with the CDC Advisory Committee on the hepatitis B vaccine. The Alliance says there is no credible evidence for delaying the vaccine, and all newborns should receive the shot within 24 hours after birth. Leading medical organizations support this practice. The Alliance warns that postponing the vaccine can increase the risk of infection, liver disease, and liver cancer in infants. The Alliance was formed earlier this year and represents California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii. It works to ensure public health policies are science-based, transparent, and equitable. STORY: Maternal deaths on the rise in Washington Maternal deaths in Washington state rose between 2021 and 2022, and most were preventable. According to a new report from the Department of Health’s Maternal Mortality Review Panel, nearly half of all pregnancy-related deaths were linked to behavioral health issues, including suicide, homicide, and accidental overdose, with COVID-19 as the second leading cause. The report also highlights stark disparities: American Indian and Alaska Native communities faced the highest maternal mortality rates at over 7 times that of white residents. Rural residents and those on Medicaid also experienced higher risk. Overall, …
December 8, 2025 News Transcript
Multiple inclement weather warnings currently active for western WA, Man dies after jumping from tour bus on I-5, Whatcom Public Works announces scaling back of winter operations amid lack of funding, Man arrested in connection with break-in at downtown Bellingham restaurant, Washington State applies for traditional health care waiver, Whatcom detective under investigation for violating 2024 law criminalizing distribution of AI-generated sexual content, Washington State applies for traditional health care waiver, State rep pushes for action as WA leads nation in retail theft, FTC warns of work-from-home scams Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, December, 8th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Multiple inclement weather warnings currently active for western WA A Flood Watch remains in effect across much of northwest and west-central Washington through Friday afternoon. An atmospheric river is set to bring periods of moderate to heavy rain. Forecasters warn that excessive runoff could lead to flooding on rivers and streams, especially those draining the Cascades and Olympics. Urban flooding is possible where storm drains clog, and saturated soils mean an increased risk of landslides and debris flows, particularly near steep slopes and recent burn scars. A Wind Advisory is also in place from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. today, with south winds 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts up to 40. The gusty conditions could knock down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Rainfall totals of 2 to 6 inches in the lowlands and up to 10 inches in the mountains are expected through Wednesday, which will keep rivers high and soils unstable. Stay alert for changing conditions and use caution around flood-prone areas. STORY: Man dies after jumping from tour bus on I-5 A tragic incident shut down part of Interstate 5 in Bellingham on Sunday afternoon after a 34-year-old man died after he jumped from a moving tour bus. The Washington State Patrol says the man opened the door of the northbound bus and jumped into traffic, where he was struck by the same vehicle. Troopers first reported the incident around 3:30 p.m., and confirmed the fatality shortly after 4. The right lane of northbound I-5 remained blocked for more than three hours while emergency crews responded and investigators examined the scene. The man, who was from Hawaii, died at the scene. His name is being withheld until family can be notified. State Patrol says it’s still unknown whether drugs or alcohol were factors, and the investigation is ongoing. STORY: Whatcom Public Works announces scaling back of winter operations amid lack of funding Whatcom County drivers can expect reduced road maintenance service this winter as Public Works scales back operations to match limited funding. In an announcement last week, the department says it will focus on emergency response and keeping key routes open during flooding, snow, and ice events. Public Works Director Elizabeth Kosa is asking residents to help by reporting hazards. She says with fewer staff on the roads, the community’s “eyes and ears” are essential to keeping travel safe. The County Council recently approved a levy increase to prevent deeper cuts and layoffs, but officials warn that more noticeable impacts may begin next year. That could mean longer wait times for routine maintenance, slower pothole and shoulder repairs, and delays to some capital projects as funding shifts toward critical safety needs. Anyone who sees dangerous road conditions is encouraged to contact Public Works. STORY: Man arrested in connection with break-in at downtown Bellingham restaurant A 36-year-old Bellingham man is behind bars after police say he broke into AB Crepes downtown early Friday morning. Employees discovered the man asleep in a back room when they arrived to open the restaurant around 7 a.m. and immediately called police. Bellingham Police say the shop had been ransacked — with batter, cups, and straws scattered across the floor, some food eaten, and even ashes and burned papers found near flammable items. Investigators say the suspect climbed over two fences to get inside. He was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of second-degree burglary, reckless burning, and malicious mischief. STORY: Whatcom detective under investigation for violating 2024 law criminalizing distribution of AI-generated sexual content A Whatcom County Sheriff’s detective is under investigation for allegedly creating and sharing an AI-generated sex video of a female colleague. This action could potentially violate Washington’s new law against disclosing deepfake intimate images without consent. The law, signed in March 2024, makes such images a gross misdemeanor for first offenses and a felony for repeat offenders, and allows victims to pursue civil remedies. The legislation, sponsored by then-Representative Tina Orwall, was designed to protect anyone harmed by nonconsensual fabricated sexual images or videos. Experts warn that the technology disproportionately targets women. Nearly 96% of deepfake pornography is nonconsensual and 99% involves female subjects. The investigation is being handled by the Mount Vernon Police Department, and the Sheriff’s Office says it will not comment further to ensure impartiality. STORY: Washington State applies for traditional health care waiver Washington State is pursuing a Medicaid waiver to allow American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people to access Traditional Indian Medicine through Apple Health (Medicaid) and CHIP. If approved, qualifying facilities—including Indian Health Service centers, Tribal facilities, and some Urban Indian Health Organizations—could be reimbursed for culturally relevant services. The program aims to improve access to holistic care, address health disparities, and preserve cultural practices such as drumming, talking circles, sweats, and traditional plant and food preparation. Public input is being accepted during an extended comment period, including a virtual forum on Tuesday, December 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon via Zoom. STORY: State rep pushes for action as WA leads nation in retail theft Washington leads the nation in retail theft, and lawmakers are calling for action. State Rep. Mari Leavitt is targeting organized retail crime, where groups steal and resell goods, saying it’s harming small businesses, employees, and communities. She’s reworking a bill to increase penalties for repeat offenders, but warns prosecutors need funding to …
December 5, 2025 News Transcript
Coastal storms and high tides look to raise flooding risk this weekend, Nearly 150 people attend WTA board meeting to protest rising bus fares, Highly frugal Skagit County budget nears approval, State patrol busts human trafficking ring, Civic Athletic Complex input wanted, other advisory positions open, Canadian company buys 110 year old Bellingham business, Canadian company buys 110 year old Bellingham business, Swinomish boat launch closes, Free and cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday December 5th. Good afternoon, I’m David Korb______. STORY: Coastal storms and high tides look to raise flooding risk this weekend The big news today is the weather. A series of warm, wet storm systems is hovering over Western Washington. Forecasters say a foot of rain could fall in addition to snow, with 4 to 5 inches possible in the lowlands — that’s more than Bellingham sees on average in December. Meteorologists say the period between today and Tuesday presents the greatest concern, as subtropical moisture pushes the snow level above 6,000 feet. This could rapidly melt snowpack and raise the Nooksack and Skagit rivers. The Nooksack is expected to crest just above “action” stage early next week at Nugents Corner and in Ferndale. The Skagit River could be in “major flood” stage midweek in Concrete and Mount Vernon. The weather service also warns that landslide risk is approaching seasonal thresholds. Along the coast, minor flooding is likely, as strong winds coincide with seasonal “king tides”, with tides over 10 feet expected through Wednesday. Water levels at Birch Bay and other exposed areas could see moderate flooding. Throughout the region, moderate flood risk is expected for the Snoqualmie, Skykomish, Snohomish and Skagit rivers. Drivers should allow extra time in case of road closures and are warned not to drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. STORY: Nearly 150 people attend WTA board meeting to protest rising bus fares A normally quiet Whatcom Transportation Authority board meeting drew an overflow crowd yesterday morning. Nearly 150 people, including students and seniors, packed the meeting room as well as two overflow spaces. They urged the WTA to reconsider the bus fare increases. More than 40 speakers told the board that doubling fares from $1 to $2, as well as tripling paratransit fares from $1 to $3, would affect riders negatively. The plan also ends the free Gold Card for people 75 and older. WTA says it will replace the program with expanded reduced-fare eligibility. Students came out in force after learning WTA does not plan to renew its $600,000-a-year contract with Western Washington University. That agreement provided unlimited bus service to students and staff and is set to expire next year. The WTA says it cannot afford to continue the contract as written; its leaders say rising costs are forcing the price hikes. The WTA board is expected to vote on the fare increases next Thursday at 8 a.m. STORY: Highly frugal Skagit County budget nears approval Skagit County’s proposed 2026 budget would result in the elimination of 51 staff positions, an indefinite hiring freeze, and the handing off of the Meals on Wheels program to a new provider. According to the proposed budget of roughly $85 million, the Meals on Wheels program will continue unchanged through June, with a new provider selected by March. Additionally, some county offices will close for 10 days next year; however, law enforcement, the courts, the Guemes Island Ferry, and other essential services will remain open. The budget also includes a new 0.1% public safety sales tax, expected to generate $3 million next year to fund sheriff deputies, a park ranger, and mental health professionals. This tax would take effect on April 1st. The county says that, without cuts, it will face a $19 million deficit next year. Commissioners will vote on the proposed budget on Monday. STORY: State patrol busts human trafficking ring The Washington State Patrol arrested nearly a dozen people during an overnight human trafficking operation called Operation Human Freight. According to the State Patrol, the effort focused on truck stops in Pierce, King, and Snohomish Counties, and identified eleven women as victims of trafficking and prostitution. A 41-year-old Tacoma man with 19 prior felony convictions was booked; officers say they also made additional prostitution-related arrests. The operation involved multiple agencies, including local police departments, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office. Advocates were on hand to connect victims with support services. STORY: Civic Athletic Complex input wanted, other advisory positions open The City of Bellingham says it’s time to talk about indoor recreation — and they want the public’s input. The city invites residents to attend a community meeting next Wednesday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bloedel Donovan Community Building. Staff will unveil early plans for a future rec center at the Civic Athletic Complex. Ideas for the new center include expanded pool space, basketball and volleyball courts, and community meeting rooms. The City says residents can weigh in at the meeting, and an opportunity to provide feedback online through the Engage Bellingham website will also go up soon. The City is also looking for volunteers to serve on several advisory groups. Open positions include the Tourism Commission, the Water Resources Advisory Board, and the Arts Commission. These groups help advise both the Mayor and the City Council on key issues. Most positions require applicants to live within city limits, though some are open to Whatcom County residents. Applications are accepted year-round, and details on how to apply are available on the city’s website. STORY: Canadian company buys 110 year old Bellingham business Bellingham’s Brooks Manufacturing — a 110-year-old family-owned wood crossarm company — has been acquired by the Canadian firm Stella-Jones for $140 million. The Quebec-based corporation, which makes pressure-treated wood products for utilities and railways, says production and employment at the Bellingham plant will remain unchanged. Brooks Manufacturing, founded in 1914, produces over a million crossarms every year. STORY: Swinomish boat launch closes …
December 4, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham man pleads not guilty to shooting National Guard members in D.C., Afghan migrants in Whatcom County fearful over federal response to National Guard shooting, Employee at Bellingham bar halts off-hour burglary, December’s “King Tides,” expected this weekend, New state payroll tax plan proposed ahead of 2026 legislative session, FTC warns of work-from-home scams Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, December 4th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man pleads not guilty to shooting National Guard members in D.C. A Bellingham man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. — killing one of them — has pleaded not guilty. Twenty-nine-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal (rah-mah-NOO-luh LAK-un-wahl) faces first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, and multiple firearms charges. A D.C. judge denied him bond, calling the government’s case “exceedingly strong.” Court documents say Lakanwal carried out an ambush-style attack on Nov. 26, shooting Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe just blocks from the White House. Beckstrom died the next day; Wolfe remains hospitalized in critical condition. Lakanwal appeared virtually from a D.C. hospital for his hearing. His attorney argued pretrial fairness was jeopardized after U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro publicly questioned the immigration vetting that allowed Lakanwal to resettle in the U.S. following his 2021 evacuation from Afghanistan. Lakanwal is due back in court January 14. STORY: Afghan migrants in Whatcom County fearful over federal response to National Guard shooting New details are emerging about Lakanwal. Northwest Health Care Linen confirms he worked there for six months in 2022 and 2023. Because he didn’t speak English, most communication involved showing him tasks. Local organizations say Lakanwal was not active in community life. The Islamic Society of Whatcom County says he visited only a few times and that interactions were “very sparse.” The group says it’s fully cooperating with federal investigators and condemns the attack. In a release, World Relief Western Washington, which helps resettle refugees, says it’s “shocked and devastated,” urging the public not to judge entire communities by the actions of one person. Congressman Rick Larsen echoed that message, saying refugees and the nonprofits that support them should not be punished. The political fallout has escalated. President Trump posted that he would “permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries,” and the Department of Homeland Security called for “remigration now,” language critics say echoes calls for mass deportation. Local advocates warn that refugees already face major barriers — from finding work and housing to accessing mental health care in their own language. They say recent comments and policy shifts are deepening fear among people who have already fled violence, with one advocate calling the idea of returning Afghans to Taliban rule “a death sentence.” STORY: Employee at Bellingham bar halts off-hour burglary A Bellingham bar owner’s quick reaction helped stop an early-morning break-in this week. Police say 43-year-old Gregory Keefe smashed windows and broke in to L&L Libations, the bar connected to Leaf & Ladle on North State Street. Owner Rustin Rafert tackled him, and held him until officers arrived. Keefe was booked into Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of burglary, theft, assault, drug possession and other charges. The break-in is the second at the bar this year. Staff believe Keefe may also be connected to an August robbery that targeted the same door, though police have not confirmed that. STORY: December’s “King Tides,” expected this weekend Whatcom County is bracing for a weekend of “King Tides”. The exceptionally high winter tides are expected on the mornings of Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, along with south-southeasterly winds. These tides will be higher than November’s by about half a foot, though still lower than some past years. King Tides occur when the sun and moon align, and amplify the gravitational pull on the oceans. On their own, officials say they don’t typically cause major damage — but when paired with strong winds or waves, coastal flooding becomes a concern. Communities most at risk include the Lummi Peninsula, Lummi Island, Sandy Point, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts. The county’s Division of Emergency Management says impacts are likely if sustained winds hit 20 knots or more, or if waves reach at least two feet. STORY: Impact fee collection approved for Lynden School District following city council reconsideration The Lynden School District will now be able to collect impact fees from new construction to help pay for long-needed school expansions. The Lynden City Council reversed course Monday night, and approved the district’s request after rejecting it back in August by a single vote. This time, the measure passed 4–3, after council member Kyle Strengholt (STRENG-halt) switched his previous vote to “yes”. Impact fees are charged to developers or new home builders to help public institutions absorb the growth that new housing brings. Affordability concerns remained central for council members who opposed the change. Beginning in January, new single-family homes with three or more bedrooms will be assessed a fee of $4,622, while larger multifamily units will be charged $7,037. District leaders say the additional revenue is crucial as enrollment continues to rise. Lynden currently uses 25 portable classrooms across three campuses, and a recent bond to build a new high school failed for a third time in November. STORY: New state payroll tax plan proposed ahead of 2026 legislative session Washington lawmakers have proposed a new payroll tax that would target the state’s largest employers to help fund social programs. Seattle Democrats Rep. Shaun Scott and Sen. Rebecca Saldaña unveiled a plan Tuesday to levy a 5% tax on wages above $125,000, which would affect roughly 3,500 companies statewide. The proposal could generate about $3 billion a year, with some revenue dedicated to higher education, housing, health care, and SNAP benefits. Lawmakers say the measure is aimed at addressing budget shortfalls while funding essential services. Business groups, including the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, strongly oppose the plan, and warn it could increase costs for working families and drive employers out …
December 3, 2025 News Transcript
National Guard shooter formally charged with murder, Too many tipsy turkeys, Custer Sportsmen receives notice of violation, District Brewing reopens in Ferndale, North Cascades Highway closes for the winter, DOJ sues WA Secretary of State over refusal to turn over state’s voter database, New bipartisan bill set to help World Cup cities Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, December 3rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: National Guard shooter formally charged with murder A Bellingham man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. has been charged with first-degree murder. Prosecutors say 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal (rah-mah-NOO-lah LAK-un-wahl) opened fire Wednesday while Guard members from West Virginia were on patrol protecting federal property. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, were hit. Beckstrom later died from a gunshot wound to the head. A major in the National Guard returned fire and subdued Lakanwal until officers arrived. Lakanwal pleaded not guilty during his first court appearance and faces additional charges including assault with intent to kill. Once released from the hospital, he will be held without bond. His next court date is January 14th. STORY: Sedro-Woolley woman sentenced for embezzling A Sedro-Woolley woman has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for embezzling more than $1.4 million from Hardware Sales. Forty-six-year-old Amy Danielle Siniscarco (sin-i-SKAR-co) pleaded guilty to wire fraud and filing a false tax return. She’ll also serve three years of supervised release. Siniscarco is currently in federal custody, but she still faces multiple felony charges in Whatcom County — including 13 counts of forgery, first-degree theft, and identity theft. A Whatcom County judge will decide on December 10th whether her case will move to trial in early January. The defense says they expect prosecutors to dismiss the remaining charges once her federal conviction is finalized. STORY: Too many tipsy turkeys The Washington State Patrol says its “No Tipsy Turkey” emphasis patrol around Western Washington University last week resulted in eight DUI arrests. According to a recent release, the multi-agency effort also cited 48 speeding drivers, six seatbelt violations, two distracted drivers, and five other arrests — with 118 total traffic stops. As the holiday season continues, the State Patrol urges drivers to stay sober, alert, and courteous to help keep Washington roads safe. STORY: Custer Sportsmen receives notice of violation Whatcom County Health and Community Services has issued a Notice of Violation to the Custer Sportsman’s Club. According to an announcement made yesterday, investigators documented more than a hundred pieces of lead debris that had landed on a neighbor’s property. Gun ranges are required by law to keep solid waste contained on-site. An administrative hearing was held in October, and the Health Department has now given the club until December 30th to fully comply and submit a plan to prevent stray bullets. If lead continues to escape the property after that date, the club could face fines of up to $125 per day. Environmental Health Manager Sue Sullivan says the goal is to ensure lead is properly managed so the range can continue to operate safely. Members of the sportsman’s club have stated that the club is working closely with whatcom county to resolve this issue. Public documents on the case are available on the county’s website. STORY: District Brewing reopens in Ferndale After being closed for 3 months, locally owned District Brewing will reopen its downtown Ferndale taproom today. Owner Mark Schintaffer (SHIN-toff-ur) says a new kitchen upgrade now means specialty craft pizzas, wings, appetizers, and salads are on the menu. AUDIO DISTRICT 1 The taproom also features new booth seating and a theater room with a weekly kids’ movie night. Visitors can expect to find Mount Vernon–crafted beers alongside guest taps, cider, seltzers, kombucha, and non-alcoholic favorites. Schintaffer says, although they’re a brew pup, the vibe is not all about beer. AUDIO DISTRICT 2 District Brewing hours are noon to nine Sunday through Thursday, and until ten on Fridays and Saturdays. STORY: North Cascades Highway closes for the winter The North Cascades Highway is closing for the winter. The Washington State Department of Transportation says State Route 20 will shut down at 6 p.m. tomorrow, due to heavy snow and rising avalanche danger. The closure affects the stretch of highway between Ross Dam trailhead at milepost 134 and Silver Star gate at milepost 171. This includes Rainy Pass and Washington Pass. As conditions change, closure points may move to lower elevations near Newhalem (new-HALE-um) and Early Winters. WSDOT (WASH-dot) says current snow loads— and more snow in the forecast— make the shutdown necessary for public and crew safety. Historically, the highway has closed as early as October 17th and as late as January 3rd. STORY: DOJ sues WA Secretary of State over refusal to turn over state’s voter database The United States Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Washington Secretary of State over his refusal to turn over extensive personal information about all of the state’s registered voters. Earlier this fall, the DOJ requested all Washington voters’ full names, dates of birth, and partial Social Security and drivers’ license numbers. In a letter dated September 23rd, Secretary Steve Hobbs declined—arguing that state law shields much of the requested information. Instead, he instructed his office to provide only data that is publicly disclosable, such as birth years, voting history, and addresses. Five other states, including Rhode Island, Vermont, and Delaware, were also sued this week for declining to cooperate with similar federal demands. At least eight more, including California, Minnesota, and Oregon, have already been sued. In a statement announcing the lawsuits, Attorney General Pam Bondi asserted that the Federal government needs to ensure that states are complying with what she calls, quote, “basic voter roll maintenance”, end quote. Meanwhile, the DOJ continues to hunt for evidence for the President’s never-substantiated claims of massive election fraud, which have been repeatedly rejected by the courts. STORY: New bipartisan bill set to help World …
Wednesday 2, 2025 News Transcript
State Sen. Shewmake announces she will not seek re-election in 2026, Winter storm systems set to hit western WA later this week, : Anacortes High School teacher killed in four-vehicle crash on SR20, : Bellingham’s Granary Building listed for sale, Two local news publications announce strategic partnership, WA lawmakers to convene in Olympia for committee days, Starbucks workers union calls ongoing strike longest in company history, WA state releases AI policy recommendations Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, December 2nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: State Sen. Shewmake announces she will not seek re-election in 2026 State Senator Sharon Shewmake says she won’t seek reelection in 2026. Shewmake, a Democrat from Bellingham, won the 42nd District Senate seat in 2022 by just 905 votes, becoming the first Democrat to represent the district in 20 years. She says she’s choosing to focus on her two sons, but will serve through the end of her term in January 2027. Possible successors are already lining up. Democratic State Rep. Alicia Rule says she’s seriously considering a run, while fellow Democrat Joe Timmons says he’s staying in the House. According to reporting by the Cascadia Daily, Whatcom County Council member Ben Elenbaas and former senator Simon Sefzik(seth-sic), both conservatives, say they’re evaluating another bid. Shewmake, who chairs the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, points to accomplishments including the Climate Commitment Act, missing-middle housing reforms, and funding for local projects from solar panels at the Deming Library to Ferndale’s Metalworks skate park. She says she’ll continue working for the community even after leaving Olympia. STORY: Winter storm systems set to hit western WA later this week The National Weather Service in Seattle reports that a series of storm systems will move into the region late Thursday. The incoming front is expected to bring steady rain, gusty winds, and significant snowfall at higher elevations. Forecasters say the risk of river flooding north of the Skagit Valley remains low for now, though that could change as the weekend approaches. In the mountains, the Mount Baker Ski Area says it’s keeping a close eye on the forecast, with more than 40 inches of new snow possible in the coming days. Sorry skiers, despite the promising outlook, there’s still no official opening date. STORY: Anacortes High School teacher killed in four-vehicle crash on SR20 An Anacortes High School teacher was killed in a four-vehicle crash Monday morning on State Route 20. The Washington State Patrol says 36-year-old Edmundo Corrales, a Spanish teacher at the high school, died at the scene after another driver crossed the center line near North Dewey Beach Road just after 7 a.m. His car and another northbound vehicle were hit, and a fourth vehicle was struck by a flying tire. A 27-year-old man driving the car that crossed the center line was taken to Island Hospital. The other drivers were not injured. Troopers say drugs and alcohol were not factors, and the cause remains under investigation. The Anacortes School District called Corrales a dedicated educator whose warmth, humor, and passion for teaching touched countless students. Grief counselors are available at the high school as the community processes the loss. STORY: Bellingham’s Granary Building listed for sale A landmark on the Bellingham waterfront is on the market. The historic, 100-year-old Granary (GRAN-uh-ry) Building is now for sale. The 38,000-square-foot retail and office space is listed by international real-estate firm CBRE. Senior Vice President of the Seattle branch, Steve Brunette, says the property is being offered to qualified investors without an asking price, and notes that buyers of large investment properties typically determine value based on potential revenue. Whatcom County assessed the building at just over eleven million dollars for 2025. Built in 1928 to serve Whatcom County’s early chicken and egg cooperative, the Granary later became part of Georgia-Pacific. It sat vacant for years after the decline of the paper industry, until the Port of Bellingham partnered with Ireland-based Harcourt in 2015 to renovate the six-story structure. County records show Harcourt purchased the Granary for two-hundred thousand dollars. But after years of missed deadlines and environmental violations, most of its planned waterfront development unraveled. A settlement reached earlier this year ended Harcourt’s future development rights, though the company retained ownership of the Granary and nearby condominium buildings. Current tenants include; Honey Salon & The Hive, Mercato delle Bonta, Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress, and Infios. STORY: Two local news publications announce strategic partnership Salish Current and La Conner Community News say they will partner to help strengthen local journalism across the North Sound. According to a recent release, the two nonprofits announced they’ll co-publish stories, work together on community events, and collaborate on grants — while keeping separate newsrooms and boards. Leaders say it’s a partnership, not a merger. Starting in January, La Conner publisher Kari Mar will also serve as executive director of Salish Current, focusing on sustainability efforts. STORY: WA lawmakers to convene in Olympia for committee days State lawmakers return to Olympia next week, and the focus will be squarely on Washington’s finances. Legislators say they are prepared for a significant budget shortfall that’s expected to dominate the 2026 session when it begins January 12th. Both the House and Senate will be in town at the same time, which offers an early look at the debates likely to shape next year’s 60-day session. According to legislative documents, over three days of “committee days,” which start tomorrow, lawmakers will dig into issues that range from data centers and vaccine safety to rising legal payouts and the growing number of bridges hit by trucks. A joint committee will review recommendations from the governor’s data-center work group. Lawmakers will also take up health insurance costs and vaccine safety. Budget talks intensify Thursday, as committees examine billions in new and increased taxes approved this year to help close a projected $16 billion gap. A major new sales tax on services — tied to Senate Bill 5814 — will be a key …
December 1, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham officials issue statement regarding alleged perpetrator of D.C. shooting, Bellingham to operate daytime warming center alongside Whatcom severe weather shelter, both set to open in coming days, Port under investigation, Sehome High School students stage walkout in protest of education funding reductions, Give to good causes, not to scammers, Invasive European green crabs found in Skagit Bay, Bellingham Farmer’s Market asking for community donations to alleviate lack of federal funding for SNAP Market Match Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, December, 1st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham officials issue statement regarding alleged perpetrator of D.C. shooting Officials in Bellingham have responded after a local man was arrested in Washington, D.C., for the shooting of two National Guard members on Wednesday. Authorities say 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal (rah-muh-NULL-uh LOCK-un-wal), an Afghan national living in Bellingham, drove across the country before the attack. One of the victims, 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, died Thursday. The second, Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition. The FBI searched Lakanwal’s Bellingham apartment Thursday, seizing phones and other devices. Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig and Mayor Kim Lund issued statements expressing sympathy for the victims and reaffirming the city’s cooperation with federal investigators, emphasizing that the suspect’s actions do not represent the values of Bellingham or Washington state. STORY: Bellingham to operate daytime warming center alongside Whatcom severe weather shelter, both set to open in coming days With colder weather on the way, the City of Bellingham has announced a new daytime warming center. The center is meant to be an addition to Whatcom County’s overnight severe-weather shelter and will open for the first time today. The warming center, located at the former Lighthouse Mission Drop-in Center on West Holly Street, can host up to 60 people from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. after any overnight shelter activation. City spokeswoman Kelsey Thomas says this early opening is a test run to make sure everything works smoothly before severe conditions hit. Mayor Kim Lund says the move underscores the city’s commitment to protecting residents’ health and dignity during winter weather. The center will be staffed by city representatives and nonprofit partners, with costs largely covered by existing budgets. STORY: Port under investigation The Port of Bellingham is under scrutiny after a year-long investigation revealed troubling patterns in its contract practices and governance. According to recent reporting by The Northern Light, two consultant contracts, each just under the $100,000 threshold that requires formal bids, triggered the probe. A review of 40 similar contracts showed proper competitive documentation for only one. Some contracts grew far beyond their original amounts through amendments, while others were split into smaller pieces—a practice state law prohibits. A 2025 audit by the State of Washington also flagged an original $906,000 federal contract awarded without proper competition, now grown to more than $3.2 million. Meanwhile, according to the reporting, commissioners holds executive sessions at far higher rates than comparable Washington ports, with nearly half of meeting time this year conducted behind closed doors. The investigation raises questions about transparency, sole-source contracting, and oversight of public funds. In January, two new commissioners will take office and the board will expand from three to five seats. Many residents say they hope for stronger accountability and a shift toward more open governance at the Port of Bellingham. STORY: Sehome High School students stage walkout in protest of education funding reductions About 150 students at Sehome High School walked out of class last Wednesday afternoon, calling for better state funding for K–12 schools. The district is currently considering changes to the high school schedule to save money. Bellingham Public Schools has faced an $11 million budget gap due to declining enrollment and rising costs. While voters passed two levies in September, district leaders say challenges remain. Students shared stories of how budget cuts have affected them — from larger class sizes to reduced electives. State Rep. Alex Ramel also joined the walkout, and said lawmakers need to find sustainable ways to fully fund education. The district says it is reviewing alternative schedules, including seven-period days or a trimester system, though leaders say elective options and AP classes would remain. Students organized the walkout to urge the state to increase funding — and to protect the range of classes they say define their education. For more on the proposed school schedule changes, KMRE will air an interview between a Sehome High School Student and Superintendent Dr. Greg Baker and produced by the Bellingham School District. Listen tonight, after the 5pm news. STORY: Give to good causes, not to scammers Giving Tuesday is tomorrow, and Washington officials want to remind donors to protect themselves from charity scams. Attorney General Nick Brown says giving back is important, but donors shouldn’t have to worry their money will be stolen. Common scams include impostor charities, phishing emails or texts, pop-up organizations after natural disasters, and risky payment methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. Give safely by donating directly through verified charity websites, avoid links in unsolicited messages, verify the charity’s tax-exempt status, and use secure payment methods. Just a reminder that KMRE is an IRS certified 501(c)3, so if you plan on giving tomorrow, please consider donating to KMRE news efforts. STORY: Invasive European green crabs found in Skagit Bay Researchers have confirmed that the highly invasive European green crab has reached Skagit Bay — and evidence suggests it’s been there for at least a couple of years undetected. The species is known to destroy eelgrass, outcompete native crabs, and disrupt shellfish and fisheries worldwide. According to an announcement from Washington Sea Grant, recent trapping efforts captured a dozen green crabs across three sites after a community member discovered a green crab shell during a routine Molt Search. Scientists say the find shows the community monitoring program is working exactly as intended. The molt was found near Similk Beach on the Swinomish (SWIN-uh-mish) Reservation. Tribal fisheries staff say they knew the crabs would eventually arrive …
November 27, 2025 News Transcript
Avian flu hits Whatcom, What’s closed today, Winter shelters open in Skagit today, Coyote season is back, Mark your calendars, Get that FAFSA in, WA wins battle for libraries, Pumpkin is king of pies in the PNW Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Saturday, November, 27th. Happy Thanksgiving, I’m ______. STORY: Avian flu hits Whatcom A small backyard flock of chickens and ducks in Whatcom County has tested positive for avian influenza, also known as bird flu. In a release yesterday, Whatcom County Co-Health Officer Dr. Meg Lelonek (luh-LAWN-ek) offered condolences to the flock’s owner, noting that these situations are stressful and mental health resources are available. Bird flu spreads primarily through contact with wild birds, which carry the virus during seasonal migration. Last year, a Whatcom backyard flock also tested positive in November. While the risk to the public is low, those who work closely with birds face a higher risk. Officials are contacting anyone exposed to the infected birds. There are no confirmed human cases in Whatcom County, but there was a recent avian flu death in Grays Harbor County. Health experts say seasonal flu vaccination helps reduce the risk. Backyard bird owners are urged to: cover coops, keep wild birds away, wash hands, clean equipment, and report any sick or dead birds to state authorities. STORY: What’s closed today Some Bellingham city facilities and businesses will be closed today. City Hall and public libraries will be closed, as well as The Whatcom Museum and Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. Emergency services through Public Works and Parks are available at with a phone call. Police, fire, and medical help are always reachable by calling 911. In addition, all U.S. Postal Service post offices in Whatcom County, banks, The Bellingham Food Bank, and the Washington State Department of Licensing offices are closed. For those with last minute shopping needs today, all Costco locations will be closed, as well as all Walgreens and CVS pharmacy locations. However, most grocery stores, restaurants and other retailers will remain open, but may have shorter operating hours. STORY: Winter shelters open in Skagit today Skagit County will open seasonal shelters today for those in need. Three shelters will operate nightly through mid-March, with an additional shelter in Concrete activated during severe weather. Adults can check in daily at 2:30 p.m. at the Welcome Home Skagit Resource Center at Salem Lutheran Church in Mount Vernon. Beds are first-come, first-served. Pregnant and parenting families should contact Family Promise of Skagit Valley for intake. Officials urge anyone in need of a warm, safe place to stay to take advantage of these services. STORY: Historic fish passage project complete An historic partnership was celebrated with the completion of the Kenney Creek Fish Passage Restoration Project. The project replaced a blocked culvert with a bridge, reopening more than four miles of salmon habitat and improving road safety. According to a recent release, the effort involved the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Tribe, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Whatcom Land Trust, and the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association. 115 volunteers planted over 700 native trees to support wildlife and stream health. Officials say the project demonstrates the power of collaboration in restoring fish habitat, protecting ecosystems, and supporting endangered orcas. STORY: Coyote season is back Coyotes are becoming more visible across Whatcom County as sightings rise in the cities and suburbs. Wildlife officials say this is a seasonal trend. Bare trees make the animals easier to spot, and they roam farther when prey is scarce. Coyotes play an important role in controlling rodents and rabbits in urban parks and greenbelts. Most coyotes avoid people, but a few can grow more aggressive, especially after being fed. Officials urge residents to keep pets leashed, secure trash, and never feed wildlife. STORY: Mark your calendars Mark your calendar and get outside with Washington State Parks’ First Day Hikes which start on January 1st. More than 30 parks will host guided and self-guided hikes, which include snowshoe treks, interpretive activities, and family-friendly walks to scenic forest and lake trails. Participants also receive a collectible 2026 First Day Hikes button. Space is limited and advanced registration is recommended for most hikes. All hikes are free, and no Discover Pass is needed on New Year’s Day. Visit the Washington State Parks website for full details. STORY: Get that FAFSA in The long holiday weekend is also a good time for students to fill out financial aid forms to help pay for college, trade school, technical programs, or approved apprenticeships. Most students apply through the FAFSA (FAFF-suh), but Washington also offers the WASFA (WAHS-fuh) for those who don’t qualify for federal aid, including undocumented students. Forms are available in English and Spanish, and officials say it’s easier than ever to get financial assistance. To find out more, go to your school or training program’s website. STORY: WA wins battle for libraries Washington State has won a major legal victory to protect libraries, museums, and other federal programs. Last Friday, the U.S. District Court in Rhode Island ruled against the Trump administration’s effort to dismantle four agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Attorney General Nick Brown said the ruling ensures Washingtonians will continue to benefit from programs that support libraries, minority-owned businesses, and workers’ rights. The decision also affirms that the President cannot unilaterally eliminate agencies created and funded by Congress. STORY: Pumpkin is king of pies in the PNW According to recent data from Instacart, pumpkin is the King of Pies in the Pacific Northwest but that’s not true everywhere in the U.S.. Apparently, Americans have very different tastes across the country: strawberry rhubarb and French silk pies are popular in the Midwest, cream pies in New England, and peanut butter pies top the list in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, and New York. The data comes from Instacart orders placed during Thanksgiving week …
