Two hospitalized following rollover crash on I-5 near Slater Road, City of Bellingham begins annual water main flushing, Lake Whatcom annual meeting tonight, Bellingham Public Library seeking donations for proposed upgrade to children’s section, Results are in from 38th Whatcom Business Awards, State lawmakers reveal bipartisan “basic needs,” budget proposal, Trump administration guts health care programs, Former State Supreme Court Justice passes away Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, April 2nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Two hospitalized following rollover crash on I-5 near Slater Road First responders were dispatched late Saturday night to a rollover crash on northbound I-5, north of the Slater Road interchange. According to State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding, the incident occurred when an SUV, which was stopped on the shoulder for a tire change, was struck by another car that veered off the road. The impact pushed the SUV and its driver into a ditch. Both drivers were transported to St. Joseph Medical Center for treatment. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and no information on citations or charges is available. STORY: City of Bellingham begins annual water main flushing Residents may notice changes in their tap water as the City of Bellingham begins its annual water main flushing. According to Public Works officials, the flushing may cause temporary discoloration or reduced water pressure, but the water is still safe to drink. The maintenance helps remove natural mineral deposits from pipes. If tap water appears cloudy, residents are advised to run cold water for a few minutes to clear it. The process will continue across the City through May. STORY: Lake Whatcom annual meeting tonight In other water-related news– the annual Lake Whatcom Joint Councils and Commissioners Meeting will be held tonight at 6:30 p.m. Local leaders from the Lake Whatcom Management Program will gather to share presentations and discuss our area’s primary drinking water source. Residents can attend in person at City Council Chambers or join online via Zoom to listen and provide comments. STORY: Bellingham Public Library seeking donations for proposed upgrade to children’s section The next phase of a major renovation at the Bellingham Central Library is set to begin this year, and community partners are fundraising to help. The 75-year-old library, which saw nearly half a million visits in 2024, is undergoing a multi-phase remodel. The first phase, completed in 2021, updated the main floor, restrooms, and study rooms. The second phase will focus on an upgrade of youth spaces, meeting rooms, and staff areas, with an estimated total cost of $7 million. The library has requested $2 million from the state’s Library Capital Improvement Program; however, even with grant funding, additional private donations are needed. The fundraising campaign, launched yesterday on National Library Giving Day, aims to raise three-and-a-half million dollars, with $1.4 million already committed. A donor has pledged to match up to $100,000 in new gifts this year. Pending full funding, construction is expected to start next year. For more information or to donate, visit bellinghampubliclibrary.org. STORY: Unfinished WWU research points to means of protecting salmon from road-borne pollutants Researchers at Western Washington University may have discovered a way to protect salmon from a deadly pollutant found in tire dust. A 2020 study identified a toxic chemical in tire debris that washes into urban streams, proving lethal to migrating coho (COE-hoe) salmon. Scientists have since been working to prevent this pollution from reaching waterways, and early results are promising. WWU researchers tested water collected from under Seattle’s I-5 Ship Canal Bridge, filtering it through four soil mixes before introducing juvenile salmon. While fish exposed to the untreated water died, those in filtered water survived. The most effective filtration materials included coconut fiber, sand, and a charcoal-like fertilizer. One mix is currently being tested near Bellingham, with hopes for broader implementation if it proves safe and effective. STORY: Results are in from 38th Whatcom Business Awards The 38th annual Whatcom Business Awards took place on Saturday, celebrating outstanding local businesses and entrepreneurs. Each year, the awards are presented at the Whatcom Business Awards Black & Gold Gala, and recognize 15 individuals whose contributions to the business community might otherwise go unnoticed. This year’s winners include: STORY: State lawmakers reveal bipartisan “basic needs,” budget proposal Washington lawmakers unveiled their proposed capital budgets on Monday. Both proposals emphasize bipartisan cooperation to bridge the state’s essential needs. The House and Senate proposals allocate $7.6 billion and $7.3 billion respectively for construction projects over the next two years. Key investments include: The Senate plan includes $391 million from Climate Commitment Act funds, while the House plan incorporates $299 million. Lawmakers must finalize the capital budget before the legislative session ends on April 27th, alongside negotiations for the state’s operating budget. STORY: Trump administration guts health care programs The Trump administration has shut down the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services regional office in Seattle, which affects public health services across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska. The closure is part of a broader effort to downsize HHS, including thousands of layoffs and billions in budget cuts. The Region 10 office, located in Columbia Center, was among five regional HHS offices closed nationwide. According to U.S. Senator Patty Murray, approximately 200 Seattle employees were fired, along with 90 at a Spokane research lab. Murray criticized the move, calling it dangerous, thoughtless, and callous. U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene (SOO-san del-BEN-ay) also criticized the move, calling it quote “an irresponsible decision that will harm public health” unquote. The closures leave the region without key federal support for public health programs, including disease prevention, affordable health coverage, and civil rights protections. Nationwide, up to 10,000 HHS employees, including researchers and health experts, are expected to be laid off. WX: We booked the part. And now for the weather: It’s mostly sunny skies today, with temperatures hovering around the mid-50s. Skies are expected to stay fairly clear throughout the afternoon and into the evening, when temperatures will drop to lows …
KMRE NEWS Transcripts
April 1, 2025 News Transcript
Military transport plane in Bellingham NOT an ICE flight, Amtrak hopes to partially restore rail service today, Whatcom County man accused of videotaping minors while changing sentenced to four years in prison, Unfinished WWU research points to means of protecting salmon from road-borne pollutants, Bellingham projected to bear majority of precipitous population growth in Whatcom over coming decades, Affordable mobile dental clinic set to visit Whatcom three times over six weeks, WA State Parks set to expand same-day reservations in parks with bookable campgrounds Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, April 1st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Military transport plane in Bellingham NOT an ICE flight Last week, a C-130 military plane that landed at Bellingham International Airport caused a stir on social media when rumors linked it to ICE activity in our area. Yesterday in an interview with KMRE News officials confirmed the plane was not associated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. According to Rob Fix, Executive Director of the Port of Bellingham, there has been no ICE activity on Port property, nor discussions about using the facilities for immigration enforcement. Fix clarified that the aircraft merely landed, refueled, and departed. Fix also said that, as a federally funded, public airport, Bellingham International cannot deny federal use of the airport. Any attempt to block such activity could result in the suspension of federal funding and licensing. A recent ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals last November, also determined that King County could not block ICE flights from Boeing Field, which makes attempts at similar restrictions in Whatcom County unlikely. STORY: Amtrak hopes to partially restore rail service today Amtrak says it plans to resume some roundtrip train service between Seattle and Vancouver today. Last week, the company removed 26 Horizon rail cars from service between Eugene and Vancouver due to corrosion concerns. Since then, Amtrak has relied on bus connections to cover parts of its Cascade route, and ordered temporary replacement cars from across the country. The first cars to arrive will be placed on the 516 and 519 routes between Seattle and Vancouver. Amtrak spokesperson Kelly Just told the Seattle Times that additional replacement cars will allow for the restoration of the entire Cascades route, but with reduced capacity while the Horizon cars undergo repairs. It is not yet clear how many fewer seats will be available, and Amtrak has not announced a timeline for the return of the Horizon cars. STORY: Whatcom County man accused of videotaping minors while changing sentenced to four years in prison A Whatcom County man was sentenced to 50 months in prison yesterday for secretly recording minors. 37-year-old Donald Eddy Feliciano (fuh-lee-cee-AHN-no) was arrested in March 2021 and charged with multiple counts of voyeurism (VOY-ur-i-zm) and explicit depictions of minors. Court records show that one of the victims discovered a hidden camera disguised as a cellphone charger in a shared bathroom, which led to the recovery of 38 videos. Footage dating back to November 2020 included a clip showing Feliciano installing the camera. At sentencing, two victims spoke about the emotional toll of the crime. Feliciano entered an Alford (AL-fuhrd) plea in October. An Alford plea allows a defendant to acknowledge the evidence against them while still maintaining their innocence. Judge Lee Grochmal (GROCK-mall) sentenced Feliciano to 50 months in prison, followed by three years of community custody. He must also register as a sex offender and comply with a two-year protection order for the victims. STORY: Unfinished WWU research points to means of protecting salmon from road-borne pollutants Researchers at Western Washington University may have discovered a way to protect salmon from a deadly pollutant found in tire dust. A 2020 study identified a toxic chemical in tire debris that washes into urban streams, proving lethal to migrating coho (COE-hoe) salmon. Scientists have since been working to prevent this pollution from reaching waterways, and early results are promising. WWU researchers tested water collected from under Seattle’s I-5 Ship Canal Bridge, filtering it through four soil mixes before introducing juvenile salmon. While fish exposed to untreated water died, those in filtered water survived. The most effective filtration materials included coconut fiber, sand, and a charcoal-like fertilizer. One mix is currently being tested near Bellingham, with hopes for broader implementation if it proves safe and effective. STORY: Bellingham projected to bear majority of precipitous population growth in Whatcom over coming decades Whatcom County is expected to grow by nearly 70,000 residents by 2045—a 30% rise from its current population of nearly 235,000. According to the most recent data being discussed by officials, the city of Bellingham will absorb nearly half of that growth, adding more than 30,000 residents and which will require an estimated 18,390 new housing units. Mayor Kim Lund emphasized the challenge of balancing sustainable development with affordability. Other cities, including Ferndale, Blaine, and Lynden, are also preparing for substantial increases in population, jobs, and housing needs. Smaller communities like Everson, Nooksack, and Sumas (soo-MUHZ) say they will manage growth while addressing infrastructure and environmental concerns. County officials plan to focus development within urban areas to prevent suburban sprawl. The county’s comprehensive plan, updated every 10 years, outlines strategies to accommodate new residents while maintaining Whatcom County’s quality of life and economic opportunities. STORY: Affordable mobile dental clinic set to visit Whatcom three times over six weeks A mobile dental clinic is working to provide essential dental care to individuals who lack easy access to services. Founded by former Lummi Tribal Health Center dental director Dr. Jessica Dubek (DOO-beck), DentALL initially provided portable services before it became a mobile clinic in January. The bright blue van now brings dental care directly to patients, which reduces barriers such as transportation and insurance complexities. Washington faces a severe shortage of dental providers, with 38 out of 39 counties designated as Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas. In 2021, only 23% of Medicaid-eligible residents received dental care. DentALL currently serves Maple Falls, Recovery Café Skagit, the Whatcom …
March 28, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom County activist detained by ICE transferred to Tacoma facility, Trial begins surrounding handling of Bellingham police officer’s domestic abuse, Blaine School District seeking new superintendent, New data shows wages in Whatcom County among fastest-growing in state, Whatcom Museum hosts Lego contest, Free and Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 28th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom County activist detained by ICE transferred to Tacoma facility Hundreds of union members and community supporters gathered outside the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma on Thursday evening to protest the detainment of Alfredo “Lelo” Juarez and Lewelyn Dixon. Juarez, a 25-year-old union farmworker and activist, was arrested Tuesday in Sedro-Woolley— supporters allege he was targeted for his advocacy. Dixon, a 64-year-old lab technician and SEIU Local 925 member, has been detained since February after returning from the Philippines. ICE officials state that Zeferino, who has lived in the U.S. since the age of 13, had a deportation order from 2018, though supporters argue he may not have been aware of it. Witnesses claim ICE agents forcibly removed him from his vehicle. Community leaders, including Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund and U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, condemned the arrest, highlighting Zeferino’s role in advocating for immigrant and farmworker rights. Protesters framed the detentions as attacks on both immigrants and union workers, with signs calling Juarez a “political prisoner.” Union leaders and lawmakers, including Sen. Patty Murray and Gov. Bob Ferguson, expressed concern over their arrests. The Tacoma detention center, which is near capacity, has seen a rise in detainees, and activists warn of poor living conditions. A class-action lawsuit has also been filed, which challenges prolonged detentions without bond hearings. Activists warn that his detention is part of a broader crackdown that they say is designed to inspire fear among local immigrant communities. Organizers say they will continue to fight for the release of Juarez, Dixon, and other detained immigrants. STORY: Trial begins surrounding handling of Bellingham police officer’s domestic abuse A trial is underway in Whatcom County Superior Court to determine whether the City of Bellingham is liable for failing to prevent domestic abuse. The lawsuit, filed by Amanda DeBruin and others in 2020, alleges that Bellingham police ignored warnings about former Bellingham Police Department Cpl. Brooks Owen Laughlin’s abuse, and allowed it to continue. Laughlin was arrested in 2018 on domestic violence-related charges and sentenced to eight years in prison, which was later reduced in 2021. DeBruin’s attorney argued that police failed to act on a 2017 memo from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office as well as other warnings, which is a violation of domestic violence protocols. The city’s attorney countered that police lacked firsthand evidence and were limited in their ability to intervene. Opening statements were heard Wednesday. The trial is expected to include expert testimony on trauma and abuse, as well as statements from DeBruin, Laughlin’s ex-wife, and other witnesses. The plaintiffs are seeking millions in damages from the city. STORY: Blaine School District seeking new superintendent The Blaine School District has scheduled a special Board of Directors meeting for next Monday, March 31st, to develop a plan to recruit and hire a new Superintendent. The current Superintendent, Dr. Christopher Granger, has held his position since the fall of 2019, but will become the Superintendent of Snohomish County’s Sultan School District on July 1st. His departure comes amid challenging times for the District. On Wednesday, for the third consecutive year, the Board approved significant budget cuts that will eliminate as many as 46 positions, merge Blaine Primary School’s first and second grade classes into Blaine Elementary School, reshuffle the administration, and discontinue all third-level C-team high school sports. Granger told the Northern Light that the cuts reflect the quote “unfortunate reality”, unquote, of public education in the region. Washington state has decreased the percentage of the state budget devoted to education in each of the past five years, and ranks below the national average for percentage of K through 12 funding. STORY: New data shows wages in Whatcom County among fastest-growing in state New data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that Whatcom County’s average wage grew nearly 6% last year, making it the second-fastest growing in Washington and 26th among large U.S. counties. The county’s average weekly wage reached $1,233 in the third quarter of 2024. Statewide, wages grew just over 5.5%, ranking Washington fourth among states. Employment in Whatcom County also saw a modest increase of just over 1%, placing it in the top third of large counties nationwide for job growth. STORY: Whatcom Museum hosts Lego contest The Whatcom Museum has announced it will bring back their LEGO® competition for a second year. Entries must be original creations (no kits) and will be displayed at the museum from April 23 to May 4. Visitors can vote for a People’s Choice Award, while judges—including LEGO® Master TV contestants Brad Bergman and Mike Tarrant—will announce winners on May 2nd during Free First Friday. In addition to the contest, Free First Friday will feature LEGO® building challenges, children’s art activities, face painting, and performances. Visitors can also support Bergman’s LEGO® model of Old City Hall, currently up for votes on the LEGO® Ideas website. The deadline to register is April 18th, and there are three age-group categories: families with children 5 – 10; teens 11 – 17; and adults 18 and over. More details and registration are available on the Whatcom Museum website. STORY: Free and cheap It’s Friday, and here are some free or cheap thing to do around Whatcom County: Tonight, from 9-930pm, it’s Laughs at Larrabee– with a talented lineup of some of the hottest comedians in the PNW. The event is hosted at the Larrabee Lager Company 4151 Guide Meridian Rd – tickets are $10. On Saturday and Sunday, the Mt. Baker Rock & Gem Show will be held at Pioneer Pavillion Community Center in Ferndale. The event is free and doors open at 10:00AM. On Sunday, …
March 27, 2025 News Transcript
Many PNW train riders to be shuttled by bus instead as Amtrak takes cars out of service, Whatcom County moves forward with temporary director of health and community services, City moves forward with Post Point upgrades, Annual meeting on Lake Whatcom announced, New ownership set to revive shuttered Bellingham restaurant, Nationwide protests scheduled for April 5th, Two Skagit school boards approve staff reductions Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, March 27th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Many PNW train riders to be shuttled by bus instead as Amtrak takes cars out of service Amtrak passengers in Bellingham will be riding the bus this week. Amtrak removed all of its Horizon cars from service yesterday due to concerns about corrosion in the equipment; the cars are all around 35 years old. In total, 70 cars are affected, including 26 on the Cascades route. Only one non-Horizon car remains in service on the route. According to Amtrak, buses will cover all trips through Sunday. Service will be provided at the same stations where the trains stop, bicycle reservations will be honored, and business-class riders downgraded to coach will be refunded for the price difference. Amtrak says it plans to eventually replace the Horizon cars with other trainsets from the national fleet. STORY: Whatcom County moves forward with temporary director of health and community services Whatcom County has unanimously appointed Charlene Ramont (ruh-MAWNT) as the interim administrative director of health and community services. Her appointment follows the recent firing of former director Erika Lautenbach (lot-n-BOCK), who called the dismissal a surprise and plans to contest what she describes as a wrongful termination. Meanwhile, the county says it is working to hire a recruitment consultant and gather stakeholder input before launching the search for a permanent director. Ramont, who has been the department’s assistant director since last September, says she has not yet decided whether she will apply for the permanent role. STORY: City moves forward with Post Point upgradesThe City of Bellingham says it will move forward with a 40 million dollar investment to upgrade the sewage sludge incinerators at the Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. According to a recent announcement, the project is needed to meet air quality regulations and fulfill the City’s commitment to maintain the incinerators’ long-term operation. The City says it will equip the plant’s two incinerators with upgraded emission control equipment. The investment will specifically address carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, dioxins-slash-furans (FUR-uhns) and cadmium (KAD-mee-uhm) to ensure compliance into the future. Back in 2022, the City explored completely replacing the aging wastewater treatment plant, which was originally built in the 1970s. However, the decision was made to shift focus to the repair and upgrade of the existing facility due to concerns about project costs and the introduction of ‘forever chemicals’ like PFAS (PEE-fass) into the environment. While the upgrade will improve air quality, the City says it recognizes that quote “incineration, like all solids handling processes, has its own risks and tradeoffs” unquote. A website has been created for the public to learn more about the project and track its progress. STORY: Annual meeting on Lake Whatcom announced The public is invited to attend the annual Lake Whatcom Joint Councils and Commissioners meeting on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in person at the Bellingham City Council Chambers, and will also be available online via Zoom and livestreamed on BTV. Officials from the Bellingham City and Whatcom County councils, as well as the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District Board of Commissioners, will review the progress in protecting Lake Whatcom and discuss future initiatives. Topics will include water quality monitoring, phosphorus (FAA-sfr-uhs) reduction, stormwater management, and aquatic (uh-KWAA-tuhk) invasive species prevention. Community members can participate during the public comment period at the start of the meeting. Those who wish to speak must register in advance via an online form or in person before 6:30 p.m. Written comments can also be submitted via email or by mail. More information and meeting details is available at the Lake Whatcom Management Program website. STORY: New ownership set to revive shuttered Bellingham restaurant Bayou (BYE-you) on Bay has found new ownership. The popular Creole (KREE-ol), Cajun (KAY-jn) and Southern restaurant in downtown Bellingham originally announced its closure through a social media post in January. The post listed the end of the restaurant’s lease, the rising costs of sustaining the business and its owner’s wish to retire as the reasons for Bayou’s closure; their last day of business was on Mardi Gras (MAAR-dee GRAA). However, a Facebook post from yesterday stated that the Painter family had quote “stepped forward to carry the Bayou torch and keep this beloved restaurant alive” unquote, and that they will give the restaurant a refresh before reopening its doors. No reopening date has been announced. STORY: Nationwide protests scheduled for April 5th The progressive group Indivisible and a coalition of liberal organizations have announced nationwide protests on April 5th. The flagship march is taking place at the Washington Monument in D.C. at noon (Eastern time). Organizers say in social media posts that they aim to build on previous demonstrations opposing federal cuts linked to the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s DOGE (DOWZH) project. Additional protests will take place across the country and Washington state, including noontime gatherings at the State Capitol building in Olympia and at the Seattle Center. Here in Bellingham, demonstrators will meet at noon at the Federal Building on Magnolia Street. Organizers say they hope for broad participation. STORY: Two Skagit school boards approve staff reductions Ongoing budget shortfalls and challenges have driven two more regional school districts to cut teachers. According to a recent release, the Burlington-Edison School Board approved the elimination of as many as thirteen certified staff members on Monday. The cuts come on the heels of a plan enacted this past December, through which the Board closed one elementary school and consolidated others. Instead of four kindergarten-through-eighth-grade schools, the District will …
March 26, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom County man arrested on charges of assault and no-contact order violation, State patrol seeking location of driver linked to Skagit hit-and-run, Protest emerges at ICE facility in Ferndale after Whatcom County activist is arrested, Family of Options HS student targeted by sexual harassment file federal lawsuit, Construction to begin on Bakerview-James roundabout next week, WCSO warns residents of scam calls, WA AG joins lawsuit to block dismantling of Dept of Ed, City moves forward with Post Point upgrades, Two Skagit school boards approve staff reductions Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 26th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom County man arrested on charges of assault and no-contact order violation A Whatcom County man was arrested after allegedly entering a Lynden home in violation of a no-contact order and assaulting a woman inside. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on March 15th along Abbot Road. According to court records, 27-year-old Leodegario (lay-oh-de-GAR-ee-o) Medina Sanchez allegedly prevented the woman from calling authorities, dragged her outside into his truck, and injured her when she tried to escape. She managed to get back inside and called 9-1-1, but Sanchez fled before officers arrived. Sanchez faces charges of first-degree burglary, unlawful imprisonment, and interfering with domestic violence reporting. He has since bonded out of custody. STORY: State patrol seeking location of driver linked to Skagit hit-and-run The Washington State Patrol would also like public assistance in identifying the driver involved in a hit-and-run incident near the Skagit River bridge. At around 9:20 a.m. on Monday, a Toyota Avalon struck a tow truck driver assisting a semi truck on the right shoulder of I-5 near milepost 228. After the collision, the Avalon continued northbound and exited at George Hopper Road. The Avalon is described as a 2000s gold-colored model with black front wheels and silver wheel covers on the rear wheels. Anyone with information is urged to contact the State Patrol. STORY: Protest emerges at ICE facility in Ferndale after Whatcom County activist is arrested About 150 people gathered at an ICE holding facility in Ferndale yesterday to support the Lelo (LAY-lo) Juarez and several farmworkers who were taken into custody on their way to work. Liz Darrow, Participatory Democracy Coordinator at Community to Community Development and a friend of Lelo, spoke with us about the raid and the confusion surrounding immigration activity in our county. LIZ DARROW AUDIO Listen to the entire interview today, after the 5pm news. STORY: Family of Options HS student targeted by sexual harassment file federal lawsuit The family of a former Options High School student filed a federal lawsuit against Bellingham Public Schools on Monday, alleging Title IX violations and negligence in handling a sexual harassment complaint. According to records, the lawsuit stems from a 2022 incident when the student, then 15, reported she had been repeatedly sexually harassed by a peer, both in person and via text messages. The harassment escalated to physical assault in a classroom after she told the student to stop. The accused student allegedly then violated a no-contact order multiple times, including following her off-campus. According to reporting by the Cascadia Daily, the family claims district administrators, including Principal Katie Jones and former Assistant Principal Kevin Terpstra (turps-TRA), mishandled the complaint, which led to further distress for the student. Within two months of reporting the harassment, she dropped out, citing the district’s failure to protect her. The lawsuit also highlights systemic issues within Bellingham Public Schools, alleging the district had been out of compliance with state and federal sexual harassment policies for years. The district acknowledged procedural errors, but denied violating the student’s rights. The family’s complaint also alleges a broader pattern of misclassifying sexual harassment complaints as bullying, bypassing mandatory state oversight. Their concerns were further reinforced by past allegations of mishandling sexual assault cases within the district. District officials say they have since implemented training and policy revisions as part of a state-mandated resolution agreement. They declined to comment on the pending litigation, but reiterated their commitment to student safety and compliance with Title IX regulations. STORY: Construction to begin on Bakerview-James roundabout next week Construction on a new roundabout at the intersection of James Street and Bakerview Road will begin next Monday. According to the City of Bellingham, the 4.25 million dollar project is contracted to Faber (fay-BURR) Construction, and will replace the traffic signal with a roundabout and add sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, streetlights, and stormwater facilities. During construction, James Street will experience temporary single-lane closures and a detour onto Deemer Road, while Bakerview Road will remain open. The Bellingham City Council granted a noise variance to allow 24/7 work in April and May. This project is expected to be done in 50 days and is part of the broader James and Bakerview multimodal (muhl-tie-MOW-dl) corridor plan. STORY: WCSO warns residents of scam calls The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of a surge in scam calls where individuals impersonate law enforcement officers to extort money. In an incident last December, a resident was defrauded of $14,000 by a caller who claimed to be a deputy. The scammer falsely informed the victim of a missed jury duty summons and an active arrest warrant, and coerced them to make the payment. Authorities say that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never solicit payments over the phone for warrants or missed jury duties. Residents are advised to hang up immediately if they receive such calls and to contact the agency directly using official contact information. To verify jury duty obligations, individuals can reach out to the Whatcom County Courthouse by phone. STORY: WA AG joins lawsuit to block dismantling of Dept of Ed Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has joined 20 other state attorneys general in an effort to stop the dismantling of the Department of Education. According to a recent announcement from the AG’s office, the coalition filed a lawsuit on March 13th after the Trump administration announced it would cut half of the Department’s …
March 25, 2025 News Transcript
First week of Baker Lake murder retrial wraps up, Part of I-5 closed today and tomorrow, Mt. Baker Ski Area expected to reopen tomorrow following avalanche advisory, Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood anticipates heavy financial headwinds, Projects aimed at reducing carbon footprint of commercial fishing in Bellingham stall as EPA grants freeze, WA AG joins lawsuit to block dismantling of Dept of Ed, Construction to begin on Bakerview-James roundabout next week, WCSO warns residents of continuing scam calls, WSDOT removes eight-foot stuffed sloth from stretch of I-5 North, City celebrates salmon this week Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 25th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: First week of Baker Lake murder retrial wraps up The first week of a homicide trial in Whatcom County has wrapped up. The trial in question concerns 35-year-old Alexander Vanags (vuh-NAGS) of Arlington, who is accused of murdering his friend, 28-year-old Mark Stebakov (stuh-buh-KOV), while the two were camping at Baker Lake in 2019. Prosecutors say Vanags murdered Stebakov with a machete while the two were under the effect of LSD, while defense attorneys say Vanags acted in self-defense after Stebakov attacked him. Seven witnesses were called during the first week of the trial. These included Peter Knowlton, a policeman with the Stillaguamish (still-a-GUAM-ish) Tribe who responded to a 9-1-1 call placed by Vanags hours after the incident; Dr. Everett De Leon (deh-leh-YON) from the Cascade Valley Hospital, where Vanags was taken for an examination before his booking in jail; the two officers who first responded to the scene, including Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stanley Streubel (STROO-bow); and former Whatcom County medical examiner Dr. Gary Goldfogel (gold-FOE-go), who performed Stebakov’s autopsy. Photos of Stebakov’s bloodied body were projected to the court. According to Dr. Goldfogel, Stebakov died after bleeding out from at least 14 “sharp force” injuries made with the machete. Dr. Goldfogel’s testimony was scheduled to continue this morning. STORY: Part of I-5 closed today and tomorrow The right lane of northbound I-5 between Iowa Street and Sunset Drive will be closed today and tomorrow from 4 a.m. to 2 p.m. Crews from the state Department of Transportation will work on a slope that eroded during heavy rains last October. The on- and off-ramps at Iowa and Sunset will remain open. Drivers should plan for delays. STORY: Mt. Baker Ski Area expected to reopen tomorrow following avalanche advisory Officials at Mt. Baker Ski Area announced they will be closed today due to possible avalanche conditions. The ski area plans to reopen tomorrow, with more snow in the forecast. However, officials warn that facilities will not be maintained during closure, and access is at visitors’ own risk. Warming temperatures and rain are expected to create hazardous avalanche conditions. Skiers and snowboarders are urged to avoid steep slopes, gullies, and runout zones. STORY: Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood anticipates heavy financial headwinds Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood says they are bracing for potential funding challenges amid nationwide uncertainty over federal support for reproductive health care. According to recent reporting by the Bellingham Herald, services remain unaffected for now; however, Director of Public Affairs and Strategic Initiatives Eowyn Savela (AY-uh-win SAH-vuh-lah) warns that the nonprofit’s funding streams are at risk. One of those includes the possible loss of Title X funding, which previously affected Planned Parenthood under the Trump administration. With Washington now facing a 12 billion dollar budget shortfall, Savela says they are preparing contingency plans should federal funding be reduced. Additionally, looming Medicaid cuts could significantly impact the organization, as about 30% of its patients rely on Medicaid for health care services. In 2023, Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood provided 33,500 clinical services, including STI testing, family planning, cancer screenings, and abortions. STORY: Projects aimed at reducing carbon footprint of commercial fishing in Bellingham stall as EPA grants freeze Several projects in Bellingham aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of commercial fishing have stalled after federal grants were frozen. The Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County reports that five engine replacement projects for three companies are now on hold due to the Environmental Protection Agency grant freeze. According to Dan Tucker, the coalition’s executive director, the uncertainty has left fishers unable to move forward with planned upgrades. Many rely on grant reimbursements to afford engine replacements, and without guaranteed funding, they risk financial hardship. Some vessels still operate with engines that date back to the 1960s, and the planned upgrades would improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance profitability. Bellingham’s fishing industry is among many affected nationwide, as fishers and processors face uncertainty over previously promised funding. While there is some hope that diesel-to-diesel engine conversions might still receive support, the future of the projects remains unclear. STORY: Dems explore tax options to address shortfall Washington Democrats say they are exploring a range of tax proposals that target wealthy residents and businesses to help close a multibillion-dollar budget gap. Proposals include a wealth tax on individuals with more than 50 million dollars in financial assets, expected to impact about 4,300 residents and generate up to 4 billion dollars annually for public schools. Lawmakers say they may also lift the property tax cap, which would allow for annual increases tied to inflation and population growth. Business tax changes are also on the table, with a proposed payroll tax on companies with over 7 million dollars in payroll from Senate Democrats, while House Democrats suggest a tax increase on businesses with taxable income above 250 million dollars. Governor Bob Ferguson’s stance on the wealth tax remains uncertain, as he previously expressed skepticism about the idea. STORY: WA AG joins lawsuit to block dismantling of Dept of Ed Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has joined 20 other state attorneys general in an effort to stop the dismantling of the Department of Education. According to a recent announcement from the AG’s office, the coalition filed a lawsuit on March 13th after the Trump administration announced it would cut half of the Department’s workforce. The attorneys general …
March 24, 2024 News Transcript
Former longtime WA House Speaker passes away, Skagit County judge declares mistrial in 2021 Big Lake murder case, Birch Bay-Lynden Road closure scheduled for tomorrow, Point Roberts businesses struggling amid U.S.-Canadian trade war, Property owners lead clean-up efforts, Public comment period opening ahead of Treoil site cleanup, WSDOT removes eight-foot stuffed sloth from stretch of I-5 North, City celebrates salmon this week, Projects aimed at reducing carbon footprint of commercial fishing in Bellingham stall as EPA grants freeze Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 24th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Former longtime WA House Speaker passes away Frank Chopp (CHOP), Washington’s longest-serving House Speaker, is dead at the age of 71. First elected to represent the 43rd Legislative District in 1994, Chopp, a Seattle Democrat, assumed co-Speaker duties in an equally divided House in 1999. He became sole Speaker when Democrats gained majority control of the chamber in 2002, and held that post until 2019. In a post on X, former Governor Jay Inslee called Chopp quote “one of the most effective and consequential legislative leaders in the whole nation” unquote. During his long tenure in public life, Chopp co-founded the Low Income Housing Institute and the Seattle Tenants Union. He initiated Apple Health for All Kids, which provides cost-free, single-payer health care to half of all children in Washington state. Chopp also created the first LGBTQ state commission, and oversaw the passage of many other acts devoted to slowing climate change, the support of organized labor, and strengthening the state’s commitment to racial justice and social services. Republican State Representative Travis Couture (co-TOUR), wrote on X that quote “I’m not sure I ever agreed with him politically, however, he was a towering (and sometimes intimidating) figure in Olympia and I very much respected the man” unquote. STORY: Skagit County judge declares mistrial in 2021 Big Lake murder case A Skagit County judge has declared a mistrial in the case of a Big Lake woman accused of second-degree murder in the 2021 shooting death of Kamran Cohee (CAMERON coe-HEE). Judge Laura Riquelme (ree-KWELM) ruled a mistrial on March 20th when the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict after nearly two weeks of trial. Accused assailant Angela Conijn’s (COE-nine’s) husband, John Conijn, confronted the driver of a vehicle, who he believed was trying to steal a political sign from their house’s front yard. The driver claims that he had intended to let some air out of his tires before John confronted him. Cohee was a passenger in the vehicle. After Angela exited the house with a firearm, she shot Cohee in the head, who later died of her injury. Prosecutors argued the shooting was not justified, while Conijn’s defense maintained she acted in self-defense; John claimed that Cohee and the driver chased the Conijns (coe-NINES) back into the house and beat on the door with a wheelbarrow. The Skagit County Prosecutor’s Office will now decide whether to pursue a plea deal or retry the case. STORY: Birch Bay-Lynden Road closure scheduled for tomorrow A lane of the Birch Bay-Lynden Road near Ham Road will be closed tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. According to the Whatcom County Public Works, the work is part of ongoing efforts to make permanent repairs after the 2021 floods washed out a 40-foot section of the road. Emergency repairs were completed in 2022; this project will also support the upcoming California Creek Culvert Replacement. The timeline for full construction is yet to be determined. STORY: Point Roberts businesses struggling amid U.S.-Canadian trade war Businesses in Point Roberts and throughout Whatcom County say they now face economic hardship due to escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. Recent tariffs imposed by President Trump and retaliatory measures from Canada have led to rising prices, fewer Canadian customers, and a decline in sales. According to recent reporting by the Cascadia Daily, local store owners report significant revenue drops – some say as much as a 55% decline. Many businesses already struggling to recover from the COVID-19 border closure are now uncertain about their future. Business owners say they are frustrated by the situation, but hopeful that relations between the two countries will stabilize. With the peak tourist season approaching, they fear prolonged tensions could bring lasting economic damage to the community. STORY: Property owners lead clean-up efforts Property owners on West Maplewood and West Bakerview are funding efforts to clean up unauthorized encampments on their land. Work is already underway, and more is planned for the coming weeks. In a recent announcement, the City of Bellingham says it has provided technical assistance to facilitate waste and vegetation removal to improve site visibility. Outreach providers have also worked to connect displaced individuals with shelter and services. City officials emphasize that while the cleanup addresses immediate health and safety concerns, it is part of a broader effort to find long-term solutions to homelessness. More information is available on the City’s ‘Resolving Encampments’ webpage. STORY: Public comment period opening ahead of Treoil site cleanup A public comment period on a planned cleanup near Ferndale was opened today. The state Department of Ecology is making documents regarding the Treoil Industries site cleanup available to the public through April 22nd. The site, located on Aldergrove Road, is a three-and-a-half-acre section of property used for the production of paper for decades; records dating back to the late 1980s indicate that numerous spills and other hazards prompted Ecology to label the site as one of its Contaminated Sites. Two cleanup efforts have already taken place at the site – one in 2017, and the other in 2022. Both cleanups resulted in the removal of nearly 200,000 gallons of oil and cost over $4.3 million combined. The property’s owners were fined $900,000 by Ecology in 2023 due to their failure to comply with Washington’s dangerous waste laws. WX: Blue Monday And now for your Whatcom County weather: We got an inch of rain yesterday, and forecasters say …
March 21, 2025 News Transcript
Inmate dies in Whatcom County jail following medical episode, WSDOT announces new spring ferry schedule, Bellingham Public Schools seeking public comment on proposed changes, WA lawmakers seek to relieve strained youth justice system, Free and cheap, Birch Bay-Lynden Road closure scheduled for next Tuesday, WSDOT removes eight-foot stuffed sloth from stretch of I-5 North Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 21st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Inmate dies in Whatcom County jail following medical episode An inmate at the Whatcom County Jail is dead after being found in medical distress during a routine security check early yesterday morning. According to Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater, corrections deputies discovered the man — 28-year-old Austin Lawrence — around 2:40 a.m., and immediately provided aid before calling 9-1-1. Personnel from the Bellingham Fire Department arrived and took over medical assistance, but Lawrence was pronounced dead at the jail. Sheriff Donnell Tanksley expressed sorrow over the incident. The Sheriff’s Office has requested that Bellingham Police investigate the death. The Whatcom County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause. STORY: WSDOT announces new spring ferry schedule A new spring sailing schedule for the Anacortes-to-San Juan ferry route will take effect this Sunday. The state Department of Transportation implemented seasonal schedule updates last year, the first in over a decade, to address frequent delays and other reliability issues. The recent winter schedule showed an improvement in on-time arrivals with a jump from 68-to-91%. The updated spring schedule will remain in effect through June 14th. Travelers can view the new sailing times on the WSDOT (wash-DOT) website. STORY: Bellingham Public Schools seeking public comment on proposed changes Faced with an estimated fifteen million-dollar deficit, Bellingham Public Schools Superintendent Greg Baker has asked for public input on a proposed budget that includes significant cuts. The cost-cutting measures include leaving vacant positions unfilled and an increase in class sizes in grades four through twelve. The proposal would also limit professional development opportunities, as well as reduce the purchase of new materials. Baker added that an optional $100 fee for participation in high school sports and drivers’ education programs is also under consideration, but would only be applied to families who are able to pay. The fee would help support the Project Free Education initiative, launched by Bellingham Public Schools in 2011. The program’s stated goal is to keep participation in some activities – as well as essential supplies – free for low-income students. Another proposed action involves moving the start date for the school year to the Tuesday after Labor Day, rather than the traditional Thursday before the holiday. Additionally, schools would close earlier – on Friday, June 12th, rather than Monday, June 15th – which would reduce the total number of school days to 179. Bellingham Public Schools wants feedback from community members, and comments will be accepted through next Friday at 4 p.m. Detailed information about the new proposal, as well as a link to the Feedback Form, can be found on the District’s website. STORY: WA lawmakers seek to relieve strained youth justice system With overcrowding reaching crisis levels at Washington’s youth prisons, state lawmakers have proposed two dozen bills to address issues in the system. Key legislative efforts focus on incarceration limits, an expansion of rehabilitation alternatives, and greater oversight. Several proposals aim to adjust the “Juvenile Rehabilitation to 25” law, which has contributed to increased population levels in juvenile rehabilitation – particularly at Green Hill School, a Chehalis (shuh-HAY-luhs)-based facility operating beyond capacity. Included among the bills moving forward are: As legislators navigate a challenging budget year, at least three reform-related bills have not moved forward, and the fate of several measures remains uncertain. However, lawmakers on both sides say continued debate underscores the commitment to address the complex challenges that face Washington’s juvenile justice system. STORY: Free and cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a little of what’s going on around the county. The Bellingham TheatreWorks will begin staging its production of Working at the Options High School on Franklin Street tonight at 7:30. The musical, based on the Studs Terkel (TUR-coal) book from 1974, tells the stories of working people’s lives and their jobs: migrant worker, stonemason, schoolteacher and more. Working is part of Options’ community-based learning mentorship program; nine student actors-slash-singers from the high school will be joined by seventeen adult actors from Bellingham TheatreWorks. The show will run through March 30th; more information on showtimes, as well as tickets starting at $10, can be found on the TheatreWorks website. The Depot Market Square at Railroad Avenue will host the Spring Makers Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. tomorrow. The spring-themed market will have ninety-plus vendors from the Bellingham Makers Market collective in attendance, including Cascadia Jewelry, Northwest Sparks and Mae Botanicals. The public is invited to quote “support local makers as we welcome the season of renewal” unquote; additionally, 10% of the proceeds will go to the Bellingham Food Bank. More information can be found on the Bellingham Makers Market’s website. Finally, the Cloud Mountain Farm Center in Everson will host its Winter Propagation and Winter Grafting event tomorrow from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. A workshop will teach attendees how to quote “propagate fruit trees and other woody plants during the dormant season” unquote; those looking for custom grafted trees can stick around afterwards for a winter grafting event, where professionals will be available to graft apples and pears. Pre-registration is required; tickets are going for $10, and can be purchased on Cloud Mountain’s website. WX: You guys ever seen Weathering with You? Love that movie. And now for your Whatcom County weather: Our streak of mildly stormy weather will stay with us through the weekend— expect today’s highs in the upper-40s, a slight chance of thunderstorms, and wind gusts of up to 25 miles per hour. Be prepared for precipitation of up to a quarter inch during the …
March 20, 2025 News Transcript
Mount Vernon man killed in shooting late Monday night, Water main break in Everson delays traffic along Nooksack River Bridge,Tourist detained by ICE near Blaine released and repatriated to UK, Anacortes seafood company issues recall of chowder products following potential bacterial contamination, WA lawmakers seek to relieve strained youth justice system, Groups combat Christian Nationalism in Washington, Unemployment rates rise in Bellingham and Whatcom, decline statewide, WSDOT removes eight-foot stuffed sloth Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, March 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Mount Vernon man killed in shooting late Monday night An 18-year-old man from Mount Vernon has died in an apparent homicide. According to Lieutenant Dave Shackleton, Mount Vernon Police responded to reports of multiple gunshots at East College Way around midnight on Monday. Officers arrived to find the victim with a gunshot wound, and provided aid until medics arrived. The victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he later died. Authorities believe this was an isolated incident, but no suspect has been publicly identified. The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information is urged to call Mount Vernon Police. STORY: Water main break in Everson delays traffic along Nooksack River Bridge City of Everson officials are warning residents of possible water impacts following a water main break on Tuesday night. The break occurred around 9:15 p.m. during drilling work near the Nooksack River bridge on Everson Road. Officials confirmed the break has been fully isolated, has positive pressure, and water samples were taken as line flushing began. Residents north of the bridge are receiving water from an alternate source and may experience lower pressure. Some discoloration is expected, and residents are advised to flush outdoor faucets if needed. No water restrictions or advisories are currently in place. Repairs are scheduled for today. Single-lane travel on the bridge is expected until 5 p.m. STORY: Tourist detained by ICE near Blaine released and repatriated to UK A Welsh backpacker has returned home after spending 19 days in an ICE detention center in Tacoma. 28-year-old Becky Burke was detained on February 26th when she attempted to enter Canada with an incorrect visa and was then denied re-entry into the U.S. After being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center, she was repatriated to the U.K. on Tuesday, and reunited with her family at London’s Heathrow Airport. Burke’s story gained international attention after her father’s viral Facebook post highlighted concerns about conditions at the Tacoma facility. Reports have documented poor hygiene, inadequate food, and limited medical care, with state health inspectors previously denied access. The facility’s conditions contributed to the passage of Washington’s House Bill 1470 in 2023, which increased state oversight. During her detention, Burke described the facility as cold and prison-like, with overcrowded dormitories and insufficient rest. Friends raised over $11,000 to assist in her return, with leftover funds donated to support Seattle-based immigration aid groups. STORY: Anacortes seafood company issues recall of chowder products following potential bacterial contamination A seafood company from Anacortes has issued a recall for two of its products. SeaBear Smokehouse’s Smoked Salmon and Alehouse Clam chowders may have been contaminated with the bacteria that causes botulism. A company announcement released on Saturday says that the chowders were distributed to stores in Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado and Alaska. Botulism is a form of food poisoning that is potentially fatal, with symptoms including muscle weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble speaking or swallowing. No illnesses had been reported as of Saturday. According to SeaBear, a mechanical issue with several pouches prevented them from being fully sealed; some of them subsequently leaked. The recall is being voluntarily made by SeaBear; full refunds can be provided to customers who bought either of the products between last October and Friday, March 14th if they contact the company’s service team by phone or email. STORY: WA lawmakers seek to relieve strained youth justice system With overcrowding reaching crisis levels at Washington’s youth prisons, state lawmakers have proposed two dozen bills to address issues in the system. Key legislative efforts focus on incarceration limits, an expansion of rehabilitation alternatives, and greater oversight. Several proposals aim to adjust the “Juvenile Rehabilitation to 25” law, which has contributed to increased population levels—-particularly at Green Hill School, a Chehalis (shuh-HAY-luhs)-based facility operating beyond capacity. Included among the bills moving forward are: As legislators navigate a challenging budget year, at least three reform-related bills have not moved forward, and the fate of several measures remains uncertain. However, lawmakers on both sides say continued debate underscores the commitment to address the complex challenges that face Washington’s juvenile justice system. STORY: Groups combat Christian Nationalism in Washington Groups organizing for social justice are warning about the rise of white Christian nationalism across the country. Among the states, research shows Washington has one of the lowest rates of this ideology, but those voicing concerns say that isn’t a reason to ignore it. Isobel Charle (shar-LAY) reports. CX NATIONALISM AUDIO WX: Burton Guster And now for your Whatcom County weather: Another blustery day is in store for us today, with gusts topping out at around 30 miles per hour. Expect consistently overcast skies, with an occasional burst of rain, all of which should persist into the evening. Forecasts are calling for very similar weather tomorrow, with the only major change being… heavier rain. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Paloma Ortiz, Stevie Sjogren (SHOW-gren) and Glen Hirshberg (HERSH-berg). 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. ## STORY: Unemployment rates rise in Bellingham and Whatcom, decline statewide STORY: WSDOT removes eight-foot stuffed sloth
March 18, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham infant rescued from attempted kidnapping, Ferndale PD searching for Metal Works Skate Park vandal, Nooksack watershed adjudication claim forms to be mailed out this week, Whatcom severe weather shelter closes for season after over 2,000 guest stays, YWCA opens new shelter for women and children, Federal budget and educational funding take center stage at Ferndale town hall, Whatcom County aids Habitat for Humanity in purchasing land for future low-income housing site, Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 18th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham infant rescued from attempted kidnapping Bellingham Police prevented the kidnapping of an 8-month-old baby by the child’s father yesterday. Officers responded to a 9-1-1 call about a burglary in progress just before 6 a.m. The suspect, who does not have custody rights, forcibly entered the mother’s home, took the sleeping infant, and fled in a vehicle with Nevada plates. According to police reports, officers from the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office and the State Patrol tracked the suspect down on Interstate 90 near Bellevue. He was taken into custody without incident, and the baby was safely reunited with the mother. Bellingham Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig praised the swift response. STORY: Ferndale PD searching for Metal Works Skate Park vandal Ferndale Police are asking for the public’s help in locating some suspected vandals. CCTV footage shows the suspects tagging the Metal Works Skate Park with racist and antisemitic graffiti in the early hours of March 6th. Police believe several people may have been involved in the incident. The suspected vandals’ vehicle is an early-to-mid 2000s Ford Super Duty with an extended cab and at least five cab-style lights. Anyone with information on the vandals is asked to contact Ferndale Police Officer Foeung (FONG) by email, or the dispatch center by phone. STORY: Nooksack watershed adjudication claim forms to be mailed out this week Residents in the Nooksack watershed should be on the lookout for important water adjudication (uh-joo-duh-KAY-shuhn) documents from the state Department of Ecology. Claim forms have been mailed to approximately thirty-thousand landowners as part of the legal process to determine water rights in the area. The forms are being sent via Certified Mail, and require an adult signature upon delivery. Ecology’s adjudication manager Robin McPherson says that, if no one is home, a sticky note will be left with instructions for pickup. Recipients will have 15 days to collect their documents from the post office if the initial delivery attempt is unsuccessful. McPherson urges property owners to take the process seriously, and notes that ignoring the forms will not exempt them from participation. An informational webinar on completing the forms is scheduled for April 16th at 5:30 p.m., with in-person seminars slated to take place in Ferndale and Lynden in May. STORY: Whatcom severe weather shelter closes for season after over 2,000 guest stays Whatcom County’s Severe Weather Shelter has officially closed for the season. The shelter was operated by the County Health and Community Services – or WCHCS – in partnership with Lutheran Community Services Northwest. According to a season recap provided by WCHCS, it provided emergency shelter to 315 individuals over 27 nights – for a total of 2,287 guest stays – and operated at full capacity for 24 nights. In addition, the shelter’s temperature threshold was raised from 28-to-32 degrees, which allowed it to open more frequently. This season also saw an increase in shelter support services, which included 4,570 meals served, medical care for 85 guests, and 126 transportation rides provided. The county plans to transition shelter management to an agency partner for the next winter season, with a request for proposals set to open in the coming months. A full report on the program is expected to be presented to the County Council by May. STORY: YWCA opens new shelter for women and children The YWCA in Bellingham celebrated the opening of a new shelter on Monday, which will provide safe housing for local women and children experiencing homelessness. The facility, located at 315 Lakeway Drive, features 19 secure, soundproof rooms, a shared kitchen, bathrooms, and event space. It will also support pregnant women before and after childbirth, offering intensive case management. At the ribbon cutting, YWCA CEO Alle Schene (SHEEN-ee) emphasized the shelter’s long-term support approach, which allows residents to stay as long as they need while they work toward stable housing. The shelter is already welcoming its first residents, including three women who recently gave birth. Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham contributed a combined $2.39 million to purchase the building. During the ceremony, Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund highlighted the project’s role in addressing generational poverty, and expressed hope for more such initiatives in the future. STORY: Federal budget and educational funding take center stage at Ferndale town hall Concerns over Washington state’s twelve billion dollar budget shortfall took center stage at a packed legislative town hall in Ferndale last Saturday. State Senator Sharon Shewmake and Representative Joe Timmons – both Democrats from Bellingham – and Representative Alicia Rule – a Democrat from Blaine – addressed the fiscal crisis and its potential impact on education and public services. The Mount Baker School District has been hit hard. The district has lost a little over seventeen million dollars in state funding since 2020, which has led to shortages in supplies, larger class sizes, and potential reductions in advanced coursework. The crisis extends to higher education, with Governor Bob Ferguson proposing a three-percent cut to public universities, including a nearly seven-and-a-half million-dollar reduction at Western Washington University. The university has already announced job cuts in response. Lawmakers are pushing for increased per-student funding for Western to make it align with other state universities, while Shewmake is advocating for an additional 10-to-15 million dollars in the budget. Shewmake emphasized that tough decisions would lead to budget cuts and delayed program expansions, but lawmakers stressed their commitment to the preservation of funding for K-12 schools and WWU, both of which face financial difficulties. Finding …
March 17, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom health dept head abruptly placed on leave, WWU addresses recent antisemitic graffiti and threats to free speech, Reduced USDA funding deals blow to Whatcom food banks, Mount Baker School District selects former Othello administrator as incumbent superintendent, Special election announced for Meridian SD’s bond measure, Whatcom County aids Habitat for Humanity in purchasing land for future low-income housing site, Ferndale PD searching for Metal Works Skate Park vandal, Federal budget and educational funding take center stage at Ferndale town hall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 17th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom health dept head abruptly placed on leave Whatcom County Health Department Director Erika Lautenbach (laht-n-BACH) was placed on leave last Wednesday without official explanation. Her office has reportedly been cleared out, and county officials have remained tight-lipped about the situation. Senior Deputy Prosecutor George Roche (ROA-sh) informed county council members via email last Tuesday that Lautenbach was “on leave,” but provided no further details on her status or potential return. County Executive Satpal Sidhu (saht-POW see-DO) has yet to publicly address the matter, leaving some council members frustrated over the lack of transparency. Lautenbach, who was appointed in 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has led one of the county’s most complex departments. Assistant Director Charlene Lamont (luh-MAWNT) is currently serving as acting director. STORY: WWU addresses recent antisemitic graffiti and threats to free speech WWU is responding to recent incidents of antisemitic vandalism on campus and broader concerns about free speech following the arrest of a pro-Palestine activist at Columbia University. In an email to students and staff, Chief Diversity Officer Jacqueline Hughes acknowledged reports of swastikas and Nazi slogans found in public areas on campus, and emphasized that quote “Western unequivocally condemns these expressions of antisemitism and all forms of hate” unquote. University police recorded three such incidents in February and March. Hughes also addressed concerns about free speech after the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil (muh-MOOD cuh-LEEL), a Columbia University graduate, Gaza war protester and U.S. permanent resident who now faces deportation. According to Hughes, campus police and state law enforcement agencies do not participate in immigration enforcement unless legally required. 60 universities are under federal investigation for alleged past incidents of antisemitism, with four of these being Washington schools; WWU, however, is not one of them. In her letter, Hughes called for unity, and urged students to engage thoughtfully and uphold the university’s commitment to safety and inclusion. STORY: Reduced USDA funding deals blow to Whatcom food banks Recent cuts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture are expected to significantly impact food banks in Whatcom County. The USDA has canceled this year’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement, which helped food banks buy from local growers. Whatcom County food banks were anticipating $180,000 from the program this year, but that funding will no longer materialize. Additionally, instability in the Emergency Food Assistance Program could lead to a loss of another $650,000 worth of food annually for local food banks. In a recent interview, the executive director of the Bellingham Food Bank, Mike Cohen, warned that the timing of these cuts is especially harmful, as food insecurity remains high. Local food banks recently requested $2 million in annual funding to meet rising demand, and were given just $750,000. Local advocates say that the loss of federal funding is a blow, and food banks will now need more assistance from state and local governments to prevent severe shortages. STORY: Mount Baker School District selects former Othello administrator as incumbent superintendent In a unanimous vote on Friday, the Mount Baker School Board selected Jessica Schenck (SHANK) to be the new superintendent of the district. Schenck currently serves as the Othello School District’s assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, and brings two decades of experience as a math and science teacher, director of STEM education and principal to the post. The Mount Baker School District faces significant challenges with financing and enrollment, and since the summer of 2023 has been in binding conditions with the state. As reported by the Cascadia Daily, Schenck expressed confidence that she and the leadership team will find the right creative solutions to existing challenges, and said that she had fallen quote “in love with…the staff and students” unquote. Schenk will assume her new role on July 1st, pending contract negotiations and a successful background check. STORY: Special election announced for Meridian SD’s bond measure A date has been set for a special election on the Meridian School District’s bond measure. According to the county Auditor, the election will take place on April 22nd. Voters in the Meridian School District area will once again try to pass a $71 million bond measure that would fund a rebuilt Meridian Middle School; a similar bond failed to reach the necessary 60% threshold in the November election. Ballots will be sent out to a little over 8,000 registered voters on April 2nd. STORY: Reykdal Warns of Federal Education Cuts Impacting Washington Schools State Superintendent Chris Reykdal (RIKE-doll) has raised concerns that recent cuts to the U.S. Department of Education pose an immediate risk to Washington students. In a wide-ranging call with reporters on Thursday afternoon, Reykdal also addressed a series of other recent actions the federal government has taken on education. The federal Education Department is responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws in education, distributing student financial aid, and providing funding for low-income students and those with disabilities, among other responsibilities. On Tuesday, the department reduced its workforce by nearly 50% — a move the Trump administration argues increases efficiency, but that critics say will weaken oversight. Earlier on Thursday, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joined 20 states and the District of Columbia in a lawsuit against the Trump administration to challenge the department’s plans to dismiss half of its workforce. The lawsuit claims that the department has reduced its workforce so much that it will not be able to perform critical functions. It also argues that …
March 14, 2025 News Transcript
Judge orders rehiring of thousands of probationary federal employees, WWU disputes wrongful termination lawsuit after former employee awarded over $3 million, Bellingham Cold Storage to be acquired by international corporation, 42nd District Lawmakers to Hold Town Hall in Ferndale, WSDOT to begin clearing snow from North Cascades Highway next week, Free and cheap and only 11.8% Irish but I’m gonna make it everybody’s problem, Reduced USDA funding deals blow to Whatcom food banks, New census report indicates steady population growth in Whatcom County, Reykdal Warns of Federal Education Cuts Impacting Washington Schools Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 14th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Judge orders rehiring of thousands of probationary federal employees A federal judge in California has ordered the Trump administration to immediately reinstate tens of thousands of probationary employees who were fired as part of Elon Musk’s push to reduce the federal workforce. Judge William Alsup ruled Thursday that the terminations—which affect workers in multiple agencies—were unlawful. The ruling expands a previous emergency order and prohibits the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) from advising agencies on employee dismissals. Agencies must now provide compliance documentation to the court. The Trump administration swiftly appealed, with the White House calling this ruling an unconstitutional overreach. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration would “immediately fight back”. Unions — including the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) — sued in February, arguing that OPM lacked the authority to carry out mass firings. AFGE President Everett Kelley praised the ruling, vowing to continue the fight for affected workers. STORY: WWU disputes wrongful termination lawsuit after former employee awarded over $3 million Western Washington University says it has contested a jury’s decision that awarded $3 million to a former internal auditor for wrongful termination. Antonia Allen was fired in 2019 after reporting that faculty in the university’s Woodring College of Education had granted false academic credentials to students. A jury ruled in her favor last year, awarding her nearly $3 million in damages and legal fees, concluding that she was a whistleblower subjected to retaliation. The state, representing Western, appealed the verdict, and claimed Allen was merely performing her official duties and did not meet the legal definition of a whistleblower. Her attorneys countered that the state’s interpretation of the law could allow agencies to suppress investigations. The state has until April 14th to file a reply brief. STORY: Bellingham Cold Storage to be acquired by international corporation Bellingham Cold Storage is set to be acquired by Michigan-based cold storage giant Lineage Logistics. According to a letter sent to employees by BCS President and CEO Doug Thomas on March 4th, workers were assured that the acquisition would not alter the core values of BCS, and emphasized Lineage’s alignment with their company culture. Neither Cold Storage nor Lineage has commented on the pending sale. BCS, a key presence on the Bellingham waterfront since 1946, is one of the West Coast’s largest cold storage and frozen food processing facilities. The acquisition is expected to close this June, pending approval from the Port of Bellingham due to BCS’s long-term lease agreement. Lineage, the world’s largest temperature-controlled warehouse operator, recently became a publicly traded company and has expanded aggressively, completing 79 acquisitions since 2020. The company reported over $5 billion in revenue last year. If finalized, this will be Lineage’s second public warehouse in Whatcom County, adding to its existing operations in Lynden and Ferndale. Port commissioners will discuss the deal at a public meeting on Tuesday. STORY: 42nd District Lawmakers to Hold Town Hall in Ferndale State Representatives Joe Timmons, Alicia Rule, and State Senator Sharon Shewmake will host an in-person town hall tomorrow at 11 a.m. at Ferndale High School. Residents from across the 42nd Legislative District—which includes Bellingham, Point Roberts, Lynden, Ferndale, and Blaine—are invited to attend. The event will provide updates from this year’s legislative session, along with an opportunity for community members to ask questions and discuss key issues affecting the district. STORY: WSDOT to begin clearing snow from North Cascades Highway next week The State Department of Transportation will begin clearing the North Cascades Highway on Monday. This marks the start of the annual effort to reopen the scenic mountain pass. Crews will begin at Silver Star Gate near milepost 171, and work west through avalanche-prone areas like Cutthroat and Liberty Bell chutes. On the west side, additional road repairs and maintenance will take place. The process typically takes 4-to-6 weeks but may be delayed due to weather or other hazards. The stretch between Silver Star Gate and Ross Lake will be an active work zone on weekdays but open for recreation on weekends, though the avalanche risk remains high. WSDOT also reminds snowmobilers to remove their vehicles from Silver Star Gate before work begins. STORY: Free and cheap and only 11.8% Irish but I’m gonna make it everybody’s problem It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. The Bellingham Cruise and Ferry Terminal in Fairhaven will host the Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival tomorrow and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The annual event is presented by Allied Arts of Whatcom County and seeks to “celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our beautiful region”. Those performing include flautist Peter Ali, storyteller and performer Megan Markham, and belly dance performer and instructor Rachel Carter. More information is available at Allied Arts’ website. Tomorrow will also see Ferndale’s Pioneer Park host Whatcom Conservation’s annual plant sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to add more natives to their garden, as well as shopping for garden art and mingling with various conservation organizations. Over 40 species will be up for sale; a full species lineup, as well as how best to care for them, can be found on Whatcom Conservation’s website. Finally, the Mount Baker Theatre …
