Today sees 6-cent bump in taxes on gas prices take effect statewide – also included various other new laws, Meador Street bridge reopens fully to traffic, concluding year-long project to update two Bellingham bridges, Whatcom County Council seeking public input on 12 proposed amendments for November election, Fire ban in certain areas of Whatcom to begin this week, CVS to acquire several Rite Aid locations across Whatcom and Skagit counties, Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon, Blood supplies critically low, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, July 1st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Today sees 6-cent bump in taxes on gas prices take effect statewide – also included various other new laws Several new laws take effect across Washington state this month. Starting today, drivers will see a six-cent increase in the state gas tax — bringing the total to 55.4 cents per gallon. Also beginning today, disabled veterans with at least a 40% disability rating will qualify for property tax exemptions. Most new laws, however, go into effect on July 27th. Among them are a $2-per-pack tax on cigarettes, higher business taxes for top earners, and increased fees for licenses, courts, and recreation permits. A new law concerning school safety requires panic buttons and live camera access for police on campuses across the state. According to KING 5 News, the law was inspired by the efforts of Lori Alhadeff, who lost her daughter Alyssa in the Parkland school shooting. Other new education laws include the reduction of state aid for students at private and for-profit colleges, as well as the gradual expansion of mandatory driver’s ed to anyone under 21 starting in 2027. Other updates include unemployment benefits for striking workers, broader hate crime protections, and legal immunity for rescuing a person or pet from a locked car. STORY: Meador Street bridge reopens fully to traffic, concluding year-long project to update two Bellingham bridges It’s back to business as usual on Meador Avenue and James Street in Bellingham. The bridges over Whatcom Creek have officially reopened after a yearlong construction project. The $8.5 million upgrade included brand-new single-span bridges, utility upgrades, and new bike lanes and sidewalks. Crews worked around tight environmental windows due to fish impacts, and carefully coordinated alternating bridge closures. And the City says there’s more to come — once permitting is in place, the old Meador pedestrian bridge will get a second life over Squalicum Creek. STORY: Whatcom County Council seeking public input on 12 proposed amendments for November election Whatcom County is looking for a few good writers. The County Council is seeking volunteers to craft pro and con statements for proposed charter amendments that could appear on the November general election ballot. One amendment would establish an “Office of the Ombuds” to handle public complaints about county government. Another would raise the number of signatures needed to place a referendum on the ballot. The council will appoint up to three people per committee at its July 22nd meeting. Those interested must apply by noon on July 14th. For more information, contact the Whatcom County Council Office at 360-778-5010. STORY: Fire ban in certain areas of Whatcom to begin this week With wildfire risk on the rise, campfires will soon be banned all across the North Cascades. The National Park Service says the ban goes into effect Thursday and covers North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. That means no wood fires, no charcoal, and no barbecues — even in established campgrounds like Stehekin (stuh-HEE-kin), Hozomeen (HO-zuh-meen), and along Highway 20. Only gas or propane stoves with shut-off valves are still allowed for cooking. Officials say the move comes amid worsening drought and extreme summer heat, which raises the threat of human-caused wildfires. The Park Service also reminds visitors that fireworks and incendiary devices are always illegal on federal land, and even smoking should only be done with extreme caution. STORY: CVS to acquire several Rite Aid locations across Whatcom and Skagit counties CVS says it will move ahead with plans to take over several Rite Aid locations in Whatcom and Skagit counties. The drug store chain announced it will acquire five of the nine area Rite Aid stores: one in Sehome Village in Bellingham, and others in Blaine, Ferndale, Lynden, and Sedro-Woolley. Prescriptions from two other Bellingham Rite Aids will be transferred — one to the CVS inside Target at Bellis Fair, the other to the Sehome Village store. The changes will roll out in phases, starting next Tuesday for Bellingham’s Northwest Avenue location. The Sehome Village store will officially convert in late August, while the others will follow through late September. The Anacortes and Mount Vernon locations will be permanently closed. Prescriptions from those stores have been moved to Safeway in Anacortes and Fred Meyer in Burlington. STORY: Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon And in related news, Kroger — the parent company of Fred Meyer and QFC — says it will close around 60 stores across the country over the next 18 months. The grocery giant announced the closures during its first-quarter earnings report Friday. While specific stores have not been named, Kroger says affected employees will be offered jobs at nearby locations. The Cincinnati-based company operates over 2,700 stores across 35 states, including QFC and Fred Meyer locations across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. STORY: Kohberger pleads guilty, avoids death penalty Bryan Kohberger (KO-burg-er) will plead guilty to the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students — that’s according to ABC News. Just weeks before his trial was set to begin, the 30-year-old Kohberger will reportedly accept a deal to avoid the death penalty. In exchange, he will receive four consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole and give up his right to appeal. He will also spend another 10 years in custody on burglary charges. The state also seeks restitution for the victims …
June 30, 2025 News Transcript
One dead after Friday shooting in Sedro-Woolley, First of two free youth vaccination clinics set for tomorrow, New bike and turn lanes on James Street among multiple proposed construction projects weighed by Bellingham, Former CFO of Skagit Transit sues organization and CEO for alleged retaliation after reporting financial misconduct, PNW trains about to get a major upgrade, Federal judge dismisses lawsuit against state housing reparations program, Blood supplies critically low, Ferndale looking for downtown mural proposals, Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, June 30th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: One dead after Friday shooting in Sedro-Woolley One person was killed outside of Sedro-Woolley in a shooting on Friday. Cascadia Daily News reports Sedro-Woolley Police officers and Skagit County Sheriff’s deputies responded to multiple reports of a shooting around 6:30 p.m. at the 26000 block of Panorama Place in Clear Lake. Initial reports show the incident started from a neighborhood dispute between two men. A social media post from the Sedro-Woolley Police department says officers initially responded to reports of multiple shooters and multiple people injured. Firearms were also found at the scene. The investigation is ongoing. STORY: First of two free youth vaccination clinics set for tomorrow Whatcom County Health and Community Services have announced two new opportunities for children to receive free vaccines. The announcement comes after the health department reported the county’s first two confirmed cases of the highly contagious measles disease in eleven years. The clinics will be held at 800 E. Chestnut Street, from noon to six p.m. on Tuesday, July 1st, and from 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8th. Children under 18 can get all standard vaccines there at no cost, including the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Appointments are available on the health department’s website, but patients may also walk in until 5:15. STORY: New bike and turn lanes on James Street among multiple proposed construction projects weighed by Bellingham James Street in Bellingham’s Sunnyland neighborhood could see major changes aimed at improving safety and mobility. City officials are considering a plan to reduce traffic lanes, remove parking on one side, and add bike lanes along the busy north-south corridor. The proposal is part of Bellingham’s six-year Transportation Improvement Program — an annual plan that outlines which projects will be prioritized and prepped for funding and construction. This year’s update includes several projects, but James Street is a standout. Under current plans, the street would be narrowed from four lanes to two with a center turn lane. Bike lanes would be added in both directions, and parking on the west side — where most businesses have off-street lots — would be removed. Public Works Director Joel Pfundt told the City Council earlier this month that the current design is outdated and encourages speeding. A 2023 survey showed James Street carries up to 15,000 vehicles per day, with drivers often exceeding the 25-mile-per-hour limit through the commercial zone between Iowa and Sunset. The proposal aims to make the corridor safer for people walking, biking, crossing the street, or turning in and out of driveways. Other projects in the city’s long-range plan include replacing bridges on Electric Avenue and Eldridge Avenue, and adding roundabouts to several key intersections, including Meridian, Lincoln, and Fraser. There’s no official start date yet for the James Street project. Council’s review of the transportation plan is a first step toward potential changes in the years ahead. STORY: Former CFO of Skagit Transit sues organization and CEO for alleged retaliation after reporting financial misconduct A former top official at Skagit Transit claims he was fired in retaliation for reporting financial misconduct and is suing the agency. Former Chief Financial Officer Christopher Stamey filed a lawsuit this week in Skagit County Superior Court. In the lawsuit, he alleges that CEO Crystle Stidham misused public funds and retaliated against him after he raised concerns — including an accusation that she forged his signature to authorize $500,000 in purchases. Stamey says he was placed on administrative leave after confronting Stidham, and then later fired after being put on what he calls an “impossible” performance plan. He also claims that other employees who supported him faced retaliation, including another finance director who was also terminated. The lawsuit follows a 2024 state audit that found Skagit Transit had significant deficiencies in its financial controls — though those issues were reportedly corrected. Stamey has asked for a jury trial, back pay, removal of disciplinary actions from his record, and whistleblower protection training for management. Skagit Transit and CEO Stidham have not responded to media requests for comment. The agency’s board held an emergency meeting Thursday in executive session to discuss the lawsuit. STORY: PNW trains about to get a major upgrade In more transportation news, train travel in the Pacific Northwest is about to get a major upgrade. Amtrak has unveiled its new Airo (AIR-oh) trains, set to debut nationwide in 2026 — which will include the popular Cascades line that connects Eugene, Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver, B.C. The Airo fleet will feature panoramic windows, redesigned seating, personal lighting, onboard Wi-Fi, digital displays, and a new café car. Amtrak says the new trains will reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour — though real-world speeds can still be affected by freight traffic. The Cascades line has seen record demand, with nearly a million riders in 2024 — a 33% jump from the year before. The line also faced challenges earlier this year when aging train cars pulled for emergency repairs temporarily reduced service to just one working train. Amtrak and state officials say they hope the upgrades will offer a faster, more comfortable, and car-free way to explore the Northwest. STORY: Federal judge dismisses lawsuit against state housing reparations program A federal judge has tossed a lawsuit challenging Washington state’s race-based housing aid. The lawsuit argued the Covenant Homeownership Program …
June 27, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom man arrested for multiple instances of child rape across seven-year period, Blaine PD warns community of phony DMV text scam, Traffic speed cameras removed from test areas, First draft of bill that would have put millions of acres of WA land up for sale stalls in Senate, Free and Cheap, Federal judge dismisses lawsuit against state housing reparations program, Blood Supplies Critically Low, Ferndale looking for downtown mural proposals, New bike and turn lanes on James Street among multiple proposed construction projects weighed by Bellingham, PNW trains about to get a major upgrade, New bike and turn lanes on James Street among multiple proposed construction projects weighed by Bellingham, Former CFO of Skagit Transit sues organization and CEO for alleged retaliation after reporting financial misconduct, Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, June 27th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Whatcom man arrested for multiple instances of child rape across seven-year period A man has been arrested on multiple rape and molestation charges after a months-long investigation. The Bellingham Herald reports that 49-year-old Raymond Wolf Casebeer was arrested last Saturday in Whatcom County. Whatcom Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater said that someone reported that Casebeer had attacked them multiple times over a 7-year period, when they were between 8 and 15 years old. Casebeer has been charged with felony child rape. He was booked into Whatcom County Jail, but released on bond. STORY: Blaine PD warns community of phony DMV text scam Another text scam is hitting phones across Washington, and local law enforcement is warning residents to stay alert. Blaine Police say scammers are sending text messages from spoofed phone numbers, claiming the recipient owes money for a traffic ticket — and threatening penalties if they do not pay up. The messages often claim to be from Washington’s Department of Motor Vehicles. But here’s the catch — Washington does not have a DMV. The correct agency is the Department of Licensing, and officials with the DOL say they never send payment demands via text. Authorities urge anyone who receives these scam messages to report them to the Federal Trade Commission. STORY: Traffic speed cameras removed from test areas A pilot program aimed at getting drivers to slow down will wrap up this week, as speed cameras on two major Washington highways are removed. The cameras — located on I-5 in Skagit County and I-90 near Liberty Lake — were part of a temporary traffic safety effort that began in April. Instead of issuing tickets, the photos were used to send 16,000 courtesy notices to drivers caught speeding, along with information about what an actual citation would cost. The program, which lasted two months, was a partnership between the Washington State Department of Transportation, Washington State Patrol, and the Traffic Safety Commission. Officials say it’s part of a broader push to reduce high speed crashes. According to traffic statistics, 728 people were killed on Washington roads last year — a number well above pre-pandemic levels. Speeding was a factor in more than one third of these crashes. Some of the violations recorded during the pilot were extreme — with over 270 notices sent to drivers exceeding 100 miles per hour. STORY: First draft of bill that would have put millions of acres of WA land up for sale stalls in Senate A controversial proposal that would put millions of acres of public land up for sale has been blocked in the U.S. Senate. However, the plan’s lead sponsor is not backing down. Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah pushed for the sale of up to 3.3 million acres across 11 Western states as part of a sweeping tax and spending bill. That included up to 5.4 million acres in Washington — much of it in national forests and wilderness areas. However, the Senate parliamentarian ruled on Monday that the provision could not be fast-tracked under current budget rules, forcing Lee to scale back. In a revised version, he’s now proposing to exclude Forest Service lands and limit sales to Bureau of Land Management parcels within five miles of population centers. Still, Washington Democrats say even the trimmed-down version could put high-value recreation areas — like the Columbia River Gorge and the Methow Valley (MEH-tao VAL-lee) — at risk. Senator Maria Cantwell has vowed to fight the proposal “to the last minute,” while Senator Patty Murray and Governor Bob Ferguson have also raised strong objections. Conservation groups warn that the plan could harm wildlife habitat and fuel development in fire-prone areas. While this version of the proposal has been blocked, lawmakers and advocates say the fight to protect public lands is far from over. STORY: Free and cheap 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. Bellingham’s 6th Annual Bike Swap is rolling into Boundary Bay Brewery this Sunday. Organized by Shifting Gears, the event invites residents to drop off used bikes and gear from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Sellers name their prices, and 25% of each sale helps fund programs that lower barriers for women in outdoor sports. The public can grab gear starting at 1pm — everything from bikes to parts and apparel. Test rides are allowed, and both cash and cards are accepted. More information is available at letsshiftgears.org. This year’s Skagit Skies Airshow will take place tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hosted by the Port of Skagit, this free event features thrilling aerial performances, classic aircraft displays, kids’ activities, and food vendors. Gates open at 9:30 a.m., and admission and parking are free. Details are available at portofskagit.com. Finally, the Whatcom Horticultural Society will hold its 35th Annual Private Garden Tour in five locations across Bellingham tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Locations range from a cottage-style garden connecting three homes to, “a colorful textured …
June 26, 2025 News Transcript
Jury rules in favor of PeaceHealth physician in medical negligence suit, City of Bellingham reaches $150,000 settlement with owners of destroyed motorhome, PSE apologizes for issuing incorrect information regarding last weekend’s power outage, Road to Artist Point to reopen on Friday, Program that gives books to kids reinstated––temporarily, Ferguson’s appeal for FEMA bomb cyclone relief denied once again, Median home prices drop in Bellingham and Washington, rise overall in Whatcom, Blood supplies critically low, Ferndale looking for downtown mural proposals, Federal judge dismisses lawsuit against state housing reparations program, Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, June 26th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Jury rules in favor of PeaceHealth physician in medical negligence suit A jury has ruled in favor of a PeaceHealth emergency physician and hospital staff in a medical negligence lawsuit brought by a Ferndale couple. Patricia and Carson Parker sued Dr. Ralph Weiche, Northwest Emergency Physicians, and the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation after Patricia suffered permanent vision loss and a major decline in mobility following a 2018 visit to the ER. The Parkers alleged that Weiche misdiagnosed Patricia with a psychiatric condition, instead of recognizing signs of a stroke. They sought $24 million in damages. However, after a multi-week trial and just half a day of deliberation, a Whatcom County Superior Court jury found no medical negligence and awarded no damages. Attorneys for PeaceHealth praised the verdict, saying they stand by the care provided. The Parkers’ legal team says they may appeal, arguing that key evidence wasn’t allowed at trial. Dr. Weiche, who helped develop PeaceHealth’s stroke protocol, testified that his diagnosis was appropriate based on the information available at the time. STORY: City of Bellingham reaches $150,000 settlement with owners of destroyed motorhome The City of Bellingham has agreed to pay $150,000 to settle a lawsuit over the destruction of a motorhome. The City Council approved the settlement unanimously on Monday night, ending a legal dispute brought by Jerry and Terri-Lynn Land. The couple sued the city last year, claiming their motorhome was wrongly declared a “junk vehicle” and destroyed without proper notice or a chance to challenge the decision. As part of the settlement, the lawsuit is dismissed with prejudice — which means the Lands cannot bring the case back to court. STORY: PSE apologizes for issuing incorrect information regarding last weekend’s power outage It wasn’t a glitch — it was a squirrel. Puget Sound Energy now says last Saturday’s power outage in Bellingham’s Sunnyland and Cornwall Park neighborhoods was caused by a squirrel — not a rare equipment failure, as originally reported. In an email to Cascadia Daily News, PSE admitted there was a miscommunication. Crews later found the squirrel had triggered the outage, cutting power to over 4,600 customers for about three hours. Sadly, the squirrel didn’t make it. Industry experts say squirrels are one of the leading causes of power outages nationwide. STORY: Road to Artist Point to reopen on Friday State Route 542 to Artist Point is set to reopen tomorrow morning at 8 a.m., after being closed for the winter season since last October. The Washington State Department of Transportation announced the reopening this week, giving hikers, backpackers, and sightseers access once again to the scenic viewpoint at the end of the Mt. Baker Highway — known for its dramatic views of Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker. The Heather Meadows Visitor Center will also open for the season on Friday, and the Heather Meadows Café is scheduled to reopen July 4th. A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at Artist Point. New this year, most passes must be purchased using QR codes at trailheads, as the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest moves toward cashless transactions. WSDOT reminds travelers that services at Artist Point are limited, snow still covers trails, and crews may be working along the highway. STORY: Program that gives books to kids reinstated––temporarily A popular early learning program that was recently cut from the state budget is getting a temporary lifeline. The Imagination Library — founded by Dolly Parton to give young children free access to books — lost all of its state funding during this year’s legislative session, despite serving over 120,000 kids across Washington. Lawmakers faced a $12 billion budget shortfall and made deep cuts to early learning programs, including the Imagination Library. However, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal announced they will use limited discretionary funds to keep the program going for one more year, while Reykdal pushes lawmakers to restore permanent funding next session. The program mails a free book to children every month from birth to age five, and remains open for enrollment. It offers an English/Spanish bilingual option as well. Reykdal warns that if funding isn’t renewed, the program’s statewide infrastructure could be lost. But for now, Washington’s youngest readers will keep getting books in the mail. STORY: Ferguson’s appeal for FEMA bomb cyclone relief denied once again Federal disaster aid has been denied — again — for last fall’s bomb cyclone in Washington. My Bellingham Now reports FEMA rejected Governor Bob Ferguson’s appeal for emergency assistance, stating that federal help “is not warranted.” The agency gave no explanation for the denial. This comes after FEMA first rejected the state’s request for relief in April. Ferguson appealed, citing widespread damage caused by the November 2024 storm. According to the governor’s office, the bomb cyclone caused an estimated $34 million in damage to public highways, utilities, and electrical grids across Washington. The storm also killed two people in King and Snohomish counties, and damaged over 20 homes in Sudden Valley. With FEMA’s second denial, the state will now have to rely on its own disaster recovery resources — at least for now. STORY: Median home prices drop in Bellingham and Washington, rise overall in Whatcom Home prices are shifting across the region, with Bellingham seeing a drop while Whatcom County as a whole edges …
June 25, 2025 News Transcript
MIPA withdrawn, City of Bellingham reverses decision on replacing bridge into Chuckanut Village, WWU to eliminate student affairs administrators in new round of budget cuts, Whatcom youth suicide prevention program receives national honors, New trail opens above Lake Whatcom, Hormel recalls Beef Stew sold nationwide, Annual Bike Shop, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, June 25th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. UPDATE: MIPA withdrawn A Missing Indigenous Person Alert issued yesterday for a 15-year-old Bellingham girl has been canceled. Authorities say the teen has been found safe, and her name has been removed from public reports. The alert had been issued by the Washington State Patrol. STORY: Bellingham approves new ordinances prohibiting lenders from levying “junk fees” On Monday night, the Bellingham City Council passed new laws aimed at cracking down on so-called “junk fees” charged to renters. In a unanimous vote, councilmembers approved two ordinances — one for traditional rentals, the other for manufactured and mobile home leases. Starting on August 1st, landlords will be banned from charging fees deemed unfair or excessive. This includes fees for using in-unit appliances, accessing common areas, or paying rent by check. Landlords are now legally required to clearly disclose all mandatory and optional fees, as well as utilities associated with the unit, on the first page of the rental agreement. Some limited and clearly disclosed fees will still be allowed, such as applicant screening fees, refundable security deposits, pet damage deposits, utility fees not included in rent, and late fees. Councilmember Jace Cotton, who introduced the measures, says the goal is greater transparency and affordability for the city’s roughly 20,000 cost-burdened renters. According to the City, Bellingham is 54% renter-occupied and 46% owner-occupied. STORY: City of Bellingham reverses decision on replacing bridge into Chuckanut Village Chuckanut Village residents will be able to stay in their homes after all. The City of Bellingham reversed course and announced it will build a new, permanent bridge to replace the one washed out by flooding in 2021. Last year, the city had planned to buy out the affected properties, citing high costs and flood risks. However, updated studies show a new bridge, built to current standards and in a slightly different location, will not significantly impact the floodplain. The $5.1 million project is now part of the city’s 2026-through-2031 Transportation Improvement Program– also called the TIP (TIP). Most of the funding will come from FEMA, and construction is expected to begin in 2027. STORY: Nooksack River bridge traffic delayed for emergency repairs Motorists should expect delays on Hannegan Road today, as Whatcom County crews perform emergency bridge repairs just south of Lynden. Work will take place on the mid-span expansion joint of the Nooksack River bridge, and traffic will be reduced to a single lane for several hours. Minor delays are expected, and drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes. STORY: WWU to eliminate student affairs administrators in new round of budget cuts Western Washington University has announced the elimination of another 20 staff positions as it continues to try to close a $23 million structural budget deficit. The new layoffs include the Vice-President of Student Affairs, Melynda Huskey, and the elimination of her entire department. However, in a letter to the community published yesterday morning, President Sabah Randhawa (suh-BAH run-DAH-wah) emphasized the importance of preserving core student support functions. According to Randhawa, quote, “most student support services and staff will continue under the Office of the Provost, with some functions moving to the Business and Financial Affairs Division,” unquote. The new cuts also include the reduction of the Athletic Director position to part-time status. In addition, at the June meeting of the Board of Trustees, the university committed to a review of the long-term financial viability of its sports offerings. These latest actions constitute the third round of cuts and layoffs at Western in the past year, as the institution continues to grapple with the gap between its recurring expenses and its revenues. Administrators have attributed the deficit to decreased state funding, lingering effects from the pandemic, and increased costs. STORY: Whatcom youth suicide prevention program receives national honors Nearly one in six middle and high school students in Whatcom County considered suicide in 2023, according to the state’s Healthy Youth Survey. While that number is lower than previous years, youth suicide prevention remains a top concern. One local effort gaining national recognition is the MAD HOPE program. Operated by the Whatcom Family and Community Network, the program reached nearly 1,600 students last school year with training tailored specifically to teens. Program Director Amy Dunham says the curriculum focuses on mental health, suicide warning signs, and encouraging young people to speak to trusted adults. She adds the program now faces funding challenges and is seeking support to continue its outreach. Learn more at madhope.org. STORY: New trail opens above Lake Whatcom The Washington Department of Natural Resources has opened the Olsen Creek Trail System east of Bellingham — the first designated trail network on state trust lands in the county. It includes seven miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with scenic views of Lake Whatcom, Bellingham Bay, and the Canadian Cascades. DNR Commissioner Dave Upthegrove (UP THE GROVE) says the project expands much-needed outdoor access, and was made possible through strong community partnerships. Parking is limited at the Y Road trailhead, so visitors are encouraged to carpool. A new trailhead and bridge are in the works. STORY: Hormel recalls Beef Stew sold nationwide Check your pantry — Hormel (hor-MEL) Foods is recalling over a quarter-million pounds of canned beef stew. The USDA says 20-ounce cans of Dinty Moore Beef Stew may contain pieces of wood. The affected products were produced on February 4th, 2025, and have a “Best by February 2028” date. The stew was sold at all local Haggen stores, Safeway, and various other retailers. No injuries have been reported, but the USDA has classified it as a …
June 24, 2025 News Transcript
Second measles case confirmed in Whatcom County; officials say Lynden Urgent Care may have had possible exposure, Bellingham City Council considers expansion to anti-discrimination ordinance specifically protecting trans citizens, MIPA issued for Bellingham, Bellingham driver arrested after allegedly threatening pedestrians with a gun, Whatcom man who sexually assaulted friend at cabin will face no jail time, PSE warns of power shutoffs in parts of Whatcom, Local schools brace for more cuts, New trail opens above Lake Whatcom, Annual Bike Swap, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, June 24th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Second measles case confirmed in Whatcom County; officials say Lynden Urgent Care may have had possible exposure A second measles case has been confirmed in Whatcom County. Health officials say the new case involves a family member of the first case, which was diagnosed last week. Both live in the same household. One of them may have exposed others at Lynden Urgent Care on Wednesday, June 18th, between 5 and 9 p.m. Public health nurses are working to contact anyone potentially exposed. Officials say the overall public risk is still low, but will provide updates if more exposure sites are identified. STORY: Bellingham City Council considers expansion to anti-discrimination ordinance specifically protecting trans citizens The Bellingham City Council says it will continue to work on an ordinance aimed at strengthening protections for LGBTQ+ residents. The legislation would formally add a new chapter to the city code, guaranteeing fair treatment regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It also reinforces access to gender-affirming care, use of preferred names and pronouns, and the city’s commitment to investigating hate crimes. Earlier this month, the council passed a resolution reaffirming Bellingham’s values of equity and inclusion. But many in the community say more is needed — including a formal declaration of Bellingham as a sanctuary city for transgender people. At last night’s city council meeting, Councilmember Hannah Stone, who is leading the ordinance effort, expressed both support for stronger protections and concern about legal limits on what a city can do. Fighting back tears during yesterday’s committee meeting, Stone said, quote, “this is an extremely dark and scary time for a number of our community members… I am daily, if not hourly, struggling with that internal conflict of wanting to do more” unquote. The council voted to continue to refine the ordinance with input from community members who have been calling for more concrete action. STORY: MIPA issued for Bellingham A Missing Indigenous Person Alert has been issued today in Bellingham. Officials are asking for the public’s help in locating 15-year old Abriana Powell, last seen around 7pm last night around Jefferson Street. Abriana is 5 foot 2 inches tall, has brown hair and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and jeans. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. STORY: Bellingham driver arrested after allegedly threatening pedestrians with a gun A Ferndale man is facing charges after allegedly pointing a gun at pedestrians in downtown Bellingham. The Bellingham Herald reports the incident happened late Wednesday morning, when two people gestured to a man speeding through an alley between North State Street and Railroad Avenue to slow down. The man responded by allegedly pointing a gun at them and saying, quote, “this is a real one” unquote. Bellingham Police say officers found the suspect’s truck parked on North Holly Street; the 37-year-old driver was located nearby. A search of the vehicle yielded a pistol, multiple magazines, an optical sight and a rifle bag. The man was arrested on suspicion of felony harassment and unlawful possession of a weapon. He was booked into Whatcom County Jail and later released on bond. STORY: Whatcom man who sexually assaulted friend at cabin will face no jail time An Everett man will face no jail time after pleading guilty in a Whatcom County sex assault case. The Bellingham Herald reports 27-year-old Colton Wesley Braa was sentenced Monday in Whatcom County Superior Court. He pleaded guilty to fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation — a gross misdemeanor — after originally being charged with third-degree rape. The victim, a longtime friend of Braa, told police she was assaulted at his family’s Maple Falls cabin in 2020 after she made it clear she did not consent. Braa was given a two-year no-contact order, but no jail time. His attorney said the order complicates his ability to cross the U.S.-Canada border, where he frequently travels to assist his grandmother with medical care. STORY: PSE warns of power shutoffs in parts of Whatcom As Washington braces for a dry summer and heightened wildfire risk, Puget Sound Energy is warning some customers they may face power shutoffs. PSE, the state’s largest utility, says it may again use Public Safety Power Shutoffs — temporary blackouts designed to prevent wildfires sparked by power lines. Last year, the company shared its plans publicly for the first time, calling the shutoffs a, quote, “tool of last resort” unquote. This year, areas flagged for higher risk in Whatcom County include parts of southeast Bellingham along Lake Whatcom, as well as Glacier, Concrete, and stretches along I-90, Highway 2, Highway 20, and the Mount Baker Highway. PSE says it used enhanced safety settings in some zones that can cause unannounced blackouts when faults are detected, but it will try to give at least 48 hours’ notice before a planned shutoff. However, restoring power could still take hours or even days after inspections. Wildfire risk is expected to climb across the state this summer, expanding from Eastern to Western Washington, according to federal fire officials. Officials urge all customers to update contact information with PSE, and those who rely on life-saving medical equipment at home should ensure they’re registered for “life support” status. More information on how to prepare for outages is available on pse.com. STORY: Local schools brace for more cuts School districts across Washington are bracing …
June 23, 2025 News Transcript
Man extradited from Missouri to face child rape charges in Whatcom County, Cascadia Elementary offering free meals for kids, Developing options prompt WSDOT to delay removal of I-5 graffiti boulder, Public comments open on proposed pair of increases to state ferry rates, Whatcom Health Department confirms measles case, says carrier is “isolating,” and “not a risk”, Public comments open on proposed pair of increases to state ferry rates, Money from Purdue Pharma lawsuit set to arrive, New trail opens above Lake Whatcom, PSE warns of power shutoffs in parts of Whatcom, Kroger set to close stores throughout Washington and Oregon, Annual Bike Swap, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, June 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Man extradited from Missouri to face child rape charges in Whatcom County A Missouri man has been arrested in a long-running child sex abuse case out of Whatcom County. My Bellingham Now reports 32-year-old Aleksandr Meshkov, a former Blaine resident, was taken into custody last week. A warrant was issued for his arrest back in 2011 after a child reported being sexually assaulted by him in their home. Detectives were unable to locate Meshkov at the time and later learned he had left Washington. He was found living in Missouri and taken into custody there on June 11th, pending extradition. Meshkov was booked into the Whatcom County Jail last Wednesday on two counts of child rape. Whatcom News reports he was later released after posting $100,000 bond — or $10,000 in cash bail. STORY: Cascadia Elementary offering free meals for kids (Jun 23) Hungry for summer? Free meals are back for kids at Cascadia Elementary. The Ferndale School District is offering free breakfast and lunch to all kids 18 and under, Mondays through Thursdays through July 10th — no sign-up or ID needed. New meal times are in effect: breakfast runs from 8:30 to 8:50 a.m., and lunch is served from 11:20 to 11:50. There’s no service on Fridays. The district says it’s a great way to keep kids nourished and energized for summer fun. STORY: Developing options prompt WSDOT to delay removal of I-5 graffiti boulder At the last moment, several possible options have emerged that would save Bellingham’s celebrated Graffiti Rock. The 8-foot tall, 100-ton boulder, located near exit 246 on the northbound I-5, has become an ad hoc message board, community art project, and celebrated city landmark since it was first painted in 1969. The Washington State Department of Transportation had announced that the boulder would need to be moved or destroyed to make way for a new construction project, and explored multiple options for relocation to various public and private sites. Significant obstacles emerged, however, including the boulder’s size and weight, the presence of high levels of cadmium and lead in the layers of paint, and the necessity for any new site to provide maintenance, environmental safeguards, and adequate pedestrian access. This spring saw the Bellingham Rock Facebook page post photo collections, as well as pleas for any organizations or individuals who might be able to help. Now, Frank Youngblood, owner of the Timberline Apartments complex on the Bill MacDonald Parkway, and Jeff Holman, who owns Northstar Stone and Landscape Supply near the Slater Road I-5 exit south of Ferndale, have signaled interest in relocating the Rock to their properties. WSDOT has allotted extra time for discussion and full exploration of the possible saving of the Rock. The agency expects to hold a meeting in early July to discuss next steps. STORY: Public comments open on proposed pair of increases to state ferry rates Ferry fares may be going up—and Washington transportation officials want your input. The Washington State Transportation Commission is proposing a 3% fare hike for vehicles and passengers this fall, with another 3% increase next spring. They’re also considering raising the summer peak-season surcharge to 35% and extending multi-ride passes from 90 to 120 days. These changes aim to help meet the state’s two-year ferry revenue target of over $400 million. The commission is taking public comment on the proposed increases through August 5th, with a final hearing set for a day after. Details and a link to submit feedback are available at wstc.wa.gov. STORY: Whatcom Health Department confirms measles case, says carrier is “isolating,” and “not a risk” Whatcom County has reported its first measles case of the year. In a news release Friday, Whatcom County Health and Community Services confirmed one person has contracted measles and is currently isolating at home, but poses no risk to the public at this time. The county says it is working with the state health department, St. Joseph Medical Center, and Family Care Network to trace possible exposure sites and notify anyone who may have come into contact with the virus. Health officials stress that vaccination remains the best protection. Dr. Meghan Lelonek (lay-LUHN-nick), co-health officer for Whatcom County, says the MMR vaccine not only protects individuals but also safeguards vulnerable community members like infants and those with compromised immune systems. Anyone with questions about symptoms or vaccine options should contact their healthcare provider or visit the Washington State Department of Health’s webpage on measles. STORY: Funding secured to repair Sumas housing development destroyed in 2021 flood New support is on the way for senior housing in rural Whatcom County. According to its website, the Bellingham and Whatcom County Housing Authority says it has secured enough funding to begin repairs on the flood-damaged Sumas Square Apartments — a senior housing complex left uninhabitable after the November 2021 floods. Thanks to funds from the state Department of Commerce, FEMA, and insurance, the 11-unit site is now slated for reconstruction. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with residents returning as early as 2027. Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity has received a $15,000 grant from AARP to assist low-income homeowners aged 50 and up in Maple Falls, Sumas, Everson, and Nooksack. The grant will fund critical repairs, including …
June 20, 2025 News Transcript
ICE agents pull man from his car in Bellingham detention, Skeletal remains found near Lakeway I-5 overpass, Chuckanut Drive reopens to traffic, Bellingham residents complaining of damage and disruption as Ziply crews lay fiber optic cables, Port of Bellingham again considering expanding commission membership, OSPI to fund new student platform, Free and Cheap, Money from Purdue Pharma lawsuit set to arrive, Annual Bike Swap, Crab season opens July 17th – YAY! Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, June 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: ICE agents pull man from his car in Bellingham detention Immigration agents smashed a car window and detained a man in Bellingham, drawing sharp criticism from family and immigrant advocates. Ruby Castañeda (kas-tuh-NYAY-duh), co-founder of Raid Relief to Reunite Families, told the Bellingham Herald that 44-year-old Vidal Palomar-Perez (VEE-dul pah-loh-MAHR PAIR-ez) was sitting in his car Tuesday morning near Meridian and Pole Road when masked ICE agents surrounded the vehicle and broke the window to pull him out. Palomar-Perez later told his family by phone from custody that he asked to see a warrant, but agents initially refused. When they did show one, he said it had someone else’s name and photo. He said they slammed him to the ground on the broken glass, then picked him up and slammed him on the hood of their car. ICE has not commented on the use of force or confirmed his immigration status. Their website shows Palomar-Perez has since been transferred to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma. STORY: Skeletal remains found near Lakeway I-5 overpass Human remains were found on I-5 near Lakeway Drive on Tuesday. Kelsey Harding, a trooper and spokesperson for the Washington State Patrol, stated by email that officers responded to a report of the discovery of skeletal remains at 12:30 p.m. on June 17th. The remains were found near the southbound interstate lanes at the Lakeway Drive exit. An investigation by the State Patrol is active and ongoing. STORY: Chuckanut Drive reopens to traffic Chuckanut Drive is open again after a major rockslide shut it down for nearly two months. The Washington State Department of Transportation announced the reopening yesterday. The scenic route — also known as State Route 11 — connects south Bellingham and Skagit County. WSDOT (wash-DOT) posted on X that crews removed over 3,600 tons of debris, including more than 15 SUV-sized boulders, and replaced 125 feet of guardrail after the April 22nd rockslide. According to The Bellingham Herald, most of the rocks were hauled to North Hill Resources, a landscaping supplier in Burlington. A second repair is planned about a mile south of the county line. Flaggers will manage traffic during that work. STORY: Bellingham residents complaining of damage and disruption as Ziply crews lay fiber optic cables Ziply Fiber’s rollout across Bellingham is sparking complaints from residents about damage and disruption. According to the Cascadia Daily News, homeowners in Cordata and other neighborhoods say crews have torn up lawns, cracked driveways, and damaged sprinkler systems — sometimes working late into the night. Ziply is installing fiber to about 4,000 addresses under a 10-year franchise agreement with the city. In areas without utility poles, crews drill underground through public utility easements, which often run beneath private yards. Ziply says it’s following permitting rules and notifying residents in advance. The company also says it responds quickly to complaints and covers repairs — like fixing broken sprinkler lines. Still, some call the work sloppy. In Cordata, a subcontractor damaged several sprinklers, which Ziply later repaired. Construction is about 25% complete, with service expected to launch once the buildout wraps up. STORY: Port of Bellingham again considering expanding commission membership Big changes could be coming to the Port of Bellingham. Commissioners are set to consider expanding the board from three to five members, with voters likely to decide soon. Cascadia Daily News reports the commission directed staff to prepare a resolution for a July meeting that could trigger an election to add two seats. This follows a December public hearing where supporters said a larger board would improve representation and decision-making. But not everyone agrees. Some worry the expansion could invite more political influence and reduce transparency. Commissioner Bobby Briscoe voiced doubts about the need for extra members. The last time this was tried, in 2012, voters narrowly rejected the change. If the resolution passes, a public vote will happen later this year or next. STORY: OSPI to fund new student platform Washington students are one step closer to a more consistent and equitable graduation pathway, thanks to a universal online platform for High School and Beyond Plans. The statewide graduation requirement helps students chart their futures, starting as early as 7th grade. However, until recently, more than a dozen platforms were in use — creating roadblocks for students who changed schools. Now, all districts must transition to a single system — SchooLinks — by fall of 2026. However, the state funding to support that shift was cut this year. State Superintendent Chris Reykdal (RAKE-doll) says his office will use limited discretionary funds to keep the platform running for one more school year, and will push lawmakers for permanent funding in the next legislative session. Reykdal says the platform helps students and families explore college, trades, and military pathways, while giving schools and the state valuable insights into workforce planning. 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. Today marks the beginning of this year’s Lummi Nation Stommish (STOM-mish) Water Festival. The event, which originated in 1946 as a means of celebrating the safe return of World War II veterans, returns for its 79th edition with tons of vendors, activities, artists and food. All community members are invited to the occasion, which also sees great attendance from other tribes and First Nations from across Cascadia. More information is available on the festival’s Facebook page — …
June 19, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham man hospitalized following stabbing, Arrest after Bellingham security guard assaulted, Two new naloxone dispensers added to Bellingham, more coming to Lummi Nation and Blaine, Some Ferndale businesses faced with underbilled utilities, Complaint against Sedro-Woolley mayor for non-disclosure, Bellingham campground one of best in nation, Former USPS employee arrested for attempting to defraud thousands of businesses across WA and CA, Bellingham residents complaining of damage and disruption as Ziply crews lay fiber optic cables, Port of Bellingham again considering expanding commission membership, Money from Purdue Pharma lawsuit set to arrive, OSPI to fund new student platform, Annual Bike Swap, Crab season opens July 17th Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, June 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man hospitalized following stabbing A street fight in downtown Bellingham ended with one man stabbed in the back and two suspects behind bars. According to Cascadia Daily News, Bellingham Police responded to an assault at Dupont Street on Tuesday morning; there, they found a 39-year-old man on the ground with two stab wounds to his back. He was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center with serious injuries, but is expected to recover. Police say two suspects — an 18-year-old from Everett and a 25-year-old from Bellingham — were seen walking away from the scene. One had blood on his hands. According to police, the two men allegedly challenged the victim to a fight. During the struggle, the 25-year-old reportedly stabbed the man in the back while he was on top of the 18-year-old. The teen also allegedly stabbed the victim. Both suspects were booked into Whatcom County Jail for investigation of first-degree assault. The 18-year-old also faces a drug charge after police allegedly found him in possession of cocaine. STORY: Arrest after Bellingham security guard assaulted A man was arrested after assaulting a security guard at Bellingham’s Maritime Heritage Park last Saturday night. The Bellingham Herald reports the 71-year-old male suspect had already been trespassed from the park earlier in the day. Hours later, a security guard approached the man during a disturbance; he attacked her in response. Bellingham Police managed to successfully free the guard from the man’s grip. The suspect now faces assault and disorderly conduct charges. Police say the case is still under investigation. STORY: Two new naloxone dispensers added to Bellingham, more coming to Lummi Nation and Blaine Two new naloxone (nuh-LAAK-sown) dispenser boxes have been added to Bellingham — part of a growing push to fight opioid overdoses across Whatcom County. Whatcom County Health and Community Services says the new boxes are located at the Way Station on North State Street and at their administrative office on Girard Street. Additional boxes will soon be available at the Lummi Nation Fire Station and the Blaine Food Bank. The boxes provide free, 24/7 access to naloxone —also known as Narcan — a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. The program aims to provide access for people who may not be able to get it otherwise or want to do so discreetly. Co-health officer Dr. Amy Harley says it’s safe to give naloxone if you suspect someone is overdosing, even if you don’t know what drug they’ve taken. There are now six naloxone boxes in Whatcom County. A full map is available at whatcomcounty.us. STORY: Some Ferndale businesses faced with underbilled utilities The City of Ferndale has notified 83 commercial utility customers of billing errors related to stormwater charges — some going back an unknown number of years. Whatcom News reports a recent internal audit revealed that 54 customers were underbilled, owing a combined $78,000, while 29 were overbilled and are due refunds totaling nearly $18,000. The city says underbilled businesses have several repayment options, including monthly payments or a property lien, if the balance exceeds $5,000. Customers also have 20 days to formally dispute the charges. Overbilled accounts will receive either a credit or a refund, depending on the amount. The city has not said how long the billing discrepancies went on. STORY: Complaint against Sedro-Woolley mayor for non-disclosure Sedro-Woolley Mayor Julia Johnson is under fire for hiding a city grant to her husband’s business — and a conservative activist is leading the charge. Cascadia Daily News reports anti-corruption advocate Glen Morgan filed the complaint with the Public Disclosure Commission – the latest of six complaints he’s filed this year. The complaint alleges Johnson violated state campaign finance laws by not reporting a 9-thousand-dollar Community Development Grant, awarded to Tight Lies LLC, on her 2024 financial disclosure. Johnson owns 66-percent of that business. The grant was given last August for refurbishing a historic building in downtown Sedro-Woolley. Johnson’s report claimed no government payments to Tight Lies during the year. Morgan says this concealment hides a potential conflict of interest, since Johnson could influence public policy, benefiting her own business. If confirmed, the violation could lead to penalties from the Public Disclosure Commission. STORY: Bellingham campground one of best in nation A Bellingham-area campground has earned national recognition. Rusty Ranch Tree Farm and Forest has been named one of Hipcamp’s 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America Right Now. The list was selected from more than half a million campsites nationwide, based on camper reviews, ratings, and editorial picks. Located just outside Bellingham, Rusty Ranch is part working farm, part outdoor classroom, and part family-friendly retreat. It offers five tent and RV sites, a pet-friendly bunkhouse, trails through quiet woods, and extras like fresh farm breakfasts, salmon filets, and veggie baskets. Campers can also pick berries, watch birds in the orchard, and even take a tree home with them. Rusty Ranch is known for creating a space where families can unplug and reconnect with nature – which, according to Hipcamp, makes it one of the region’s most welcoming spots to camp in 2025. STORY: Former USPS employee arrested for attempting to defraud thousands of businesses across WA and CA A former U.S. Postal Service employee from San Jose, California has been indicted in Washington …
June 18, 2025 News Transcript
City of Bellingham testing home-sharing program to match renters with vacant rooms, Bellingham At Home store to close following chain’s bankruptcy declaration, Skagit County to move forward with battery storage plans following denial of appeal, Recall of ready-to-eat chicken alfredo sold at Kroger, Walmart, PeaceHealth upgrades cancer radiation treatment at Sedro-Woolley hospital, Canada Strong” pass aims to boost Canadian travel, WA beekeepers and researchers tracking diets to combat increasing rates of hive collapse, Bellingham campground one of best in nation, WCSO and Ferndale School District issue joint statement over improperly authorized training exercise, Crab season opens July 17th Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, June 18th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: City of Bellingham testing home-sharing program to match renters with vacant rooms The City of Bellingham has unveiled a new effort to try to address Whatcom County’s worsening affordable housing crunch. Through the new Bellingham Home Sharing Program, the City will match local homeowners with available spare rooms to potential tenants. To help administer the program and host its website, the City has partnered with Nesterly, a tech service with experience developing similar programs in cities like Boston. The 2023 American Community Survey suggested that there are thousands of unoccupied rooms in the Bellingham metropolitan area. Meanwhile, a 2024 report by the Washington Student Achievement Council found that as many as one-third of students at Western Washington University and Northwest Indian College experience housing insecurity. Extra rental income could help homeowners keep and maintain their houses even as the cost of repairs, utilities, and taxes continues to rise. Renters, meanwhile, will see more choices for long-term affordable housing, as well as increased flexibility — including an option in the plan for tenants and landowners to negotiate payment of some rent in chores. Other potential benefits noted on the Bellingham Home Sharing Program website include an increased sense of security for tenants and property owners alike, strengthened community connections, and the opportunity to act now to alleviate some of the region’s housing issues by using existing homes — rather than relying on future construction. STORY: Bellingham At Home store to close following chain’s bankruptcy declaration Another national retailer is closing its doors in Bellingham. The Bellingham Herald reports that home décor chain At Home has filed for bankruptcy and will shut down its store in Sunset Square. According to court filings, At Home plans to close 26 of its 200 stores nationwide, including locations in Bellingham and Yakima. The Texas-based chain says it’s restructuring to reduce debt and stabilize the business, including a $200 million capital boost and plans to wipe out nearly $2 billion in debt through a deal with major lenders. The company has not announced a closing date, but liquidation sales are expected soon at the Bellingham store. STORY: Skagit County to move forward with battery storage plans following denial of appeal A controversial battery storage project near Mount Vernon is moving forward, after Skagit County commissioners denied an appeal yesterday. According to Cascadia Daily News, the board upheld a permit for NextEra Energy Resources to build a large lithium-ion battery facility off Ovenell (OH-vuh-nell) Road. The site, next to Puget Sound Energy’s Fredonia substation, would house up to 368 battery units to store and discharge power during peak demand. Opponents, including the group Stewards of Skagit, argued the project poses fire and safety risks; they also said the application was incomplete. But county staff said the project was thoroughly vetted by emergency and utility agencies, and commissioners found no clear error in the original approval. Commissioners reiterated their opposition to a separate battery project known as Goldeneye, near Sedro-Woolley, on agricultural land next to a salmon-bearing creek. STORY: Recall of ready-to-eat chicken alfredo sold at Kroger, Walmart Some packaged chicken fettuccine alfredo sold at Walmart and Kroger stores nationwide has been recalled due to potential listeria (luh-STEE-ree-uh) contamination. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says all ready-to-eat versions under the Marketside and Home Chef brands made before June 17th are affected. Check for best-by dates of June 27th or earlier on the 32.8-oz and 12.3-oz Marketside trays, and June 19th or earlier on the 12.5-oz Home Chef trays. FSIS is investigating a multistate listeria outbreak that sickened 17 people across 13 states. As of Tuesday, three deaths and one miscarriage have been linked to the same listeria strain found in a March sample at the manufacturer’s facility. Consumers are advised to throw out the recalled products or return them to the store. More info is available at fsis.usda.gov. STORY: PeaceHealth upgrades cancer radiation treatment at Sedro-Woolley hospital PeaceHealth United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley has reached a major milestone in cancer care. After more than three years of planning and fundraising, the hospital’s Cancer Center has installed a new high-precision linear accelerator; they have already treated its first patient with the technology. The new system delivers highly targeted, noninvasive radiation therapy, offering sub-millimeter precision and faster 3D imaging. Without it, patients needing treatment for brain metastases would still have to travel to Bellingham. It also enables better targeting of lung cancer. The installation is part of a broader $12 million upgrade, including construction of a new specialty room. According to Cascadia Daily News, speakers at last Thursday’s ribbon-cutting called the investment a commitment to keeping care close to home. STORY: “Canada Strong” pass aims to boost Canadian travel Canada is sweetening the deal for summer travelers — both locals and international visitors. The Department of Canadian Heritage has launched the Canada Strong Pass, offering free and discounted admission from June 20th to September 2nd across the country’s top destinations. Parks Canada sites — including national parks, historic landmarks, and marine conservation areas — will be free for everyone, with 25% off camping fees. National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum will be free for kids under 18, and half-off for young adults aged 18 to 24. VIA (VEE-uh) Rail is offering free train rides for youth under 18 traveling …
June 17, 2025 News Transcript
Law enforcement training at Ferndale not authorized by district, Construction on Meador Avenue bridge set to commence in coming weeks, Library receives funding for renovation, 2024 saw slight increase in tourism spending in Whatcom, Washington continues to deal with surge in whooping cough cases, Bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest suffering from spike in lead poisonings, Bellingham-based hot sauce company wins big at national and European awards ceremonies Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, June 17th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Law enforcement training at Ferndale not authorized by district A surprise SWAT training at Ferndale High School last Tuesday sparked concern when it took place during school hours — without proper approval from the school district. A video of Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies conducting a tactical drill with a school bus on school grounds began circulating on social media last week. Officials with the Ferndale School District say the request for the training never made it through the proper channels. The sheriff’s office said the training was meant to prepare deputies for potential hostage situations on buses, and emphasized the importance of realistic training environments. Typically, these exercises are not allowed during school hours, and require prior community notification. Superintendent Kristi Dominguez apologized in a message to families, acknowledged the misstep, and promised to improve communication moving forward. Both agencies say they’re working to schedule a meeting to ensure this type of lapse does not happen again. STORY: Construction on Meador Avenue bridge set to commence in coming weeks Work is nearly complete on the James Street bridge over Whatcom Creek in Bellingham. Paving on the James Street bridge is set to begin this week –– a major milestone in an $11 million infrastructure upgrade along the key truck and commuter route just outside downtown. Once that’s done, the bridge will reopen, and the nearby Meador Avenue bridge will close for its own round of paving around June 23rd. According to Public Works spokesperson Torhil Ramsay, both bridges are expected to reopen by the end of June. Sidewalk access will remain open for pedestrians throughout. Construction began in the spring of 2024 to replace the aging spans — both built in 1962, both flagged for structural deficiencies. State and federal grants are covering most of the cost. STORY: Library receives funding for renovation Bellingham’s Central Library is getting a major upgrade. The Bellingham Public Library has secured $3 million in state funding for Phase 2 of its upcoming renovation. The project will transform the aging ground floor into a modern, accessible space for children and teens, along with upgrades to staff areas, the help desk, and the HVAC system. The work is also backed by City funding and private donations. Construction is expected in 2026 or 2027. Originally built in 1950 and last remodeled in the 1980s, the Central Library now serves nearly 100-thousand residents, and sees more than half a million visits each year. In fact, data shows Bellingham ranks in the top 5% of public libraries nationwide for circulation per capita — and in the top 4% among cities its size. It’s also one of the most visited libraries in Washington state. STORY: 2024 saw slight increase in tourism spending in Whatcom A new report from Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism shows nearly three-and-a-half million people visited the region in 2024 — roughly the same as 2023. According to data from Tourism Economics, those tourists spent more money, which prompted a spending rise of just over 3%. Retail saw the biggest boost; while the number of tourism-related jobs saw only a slight increase, it remained above pre-pandemic levels. Tourism CEO Dylan Deane-Boyle says the outlook for 2025 is cautiously optimistic, despite challenges tied to inflation, rising travel costs, and uncertainty around Canadian travel. STORY: Washington continues to deal with surge in whooping cough cases Health officials are sounding the alarm as whooping cough cases surge across Washington state. The Department of Health says there were 25 times as many cases in 2024 than the year before — and the trend may not be slowing. As of the end of May, Washington has already seen over 1,300 confirmed cases, compared to just over 300 this time last year. Whatcom County has reported 77 cases so far — the fifth-highest rate per capita in the state. Officials link the spike to falling vaccination rates, which have dropped eight percent among toddlers over the past five years. Whooping cough, or pertussis, is highly contagious and can lead to pneumonia, seizures, and even death — especially in young children. The state reported its first whooping cough-related death in more than a decade last year. The Department of Health urges families to check their children’s immunization records and talk to their healthcare provider about staying up to date. STORY: Bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest suffering from spike in lead poisonings The Wildlife Center of the North Coast in Astoria, Oregon says they are seeing an unusual surge in bald eagle poisonings. Bald eagles, often seen as majestic symbols, are opportunistic scavengers that feed on carrion (KEH-ree-uhn), including gut piles from hunted animals. The remains often contain lead bullet fragments that can cause fatal neurological damage, even in tiny amounts. A 2022 study published in Science magazine — and backed by the U.S. Geological Survey — covered 1,210 eagles across 38 states, and found nearly half suffer chronic lead poisoning. Nearly one-third experience acute exposure, especially during hunting seasons. Lead poisoning is estimated to reduce bald eagle population growth by nearly 4% annually. The wildlife hospital says two of three eagles recently admitted to the wildlife hospital tested positive for lead exposure. Last March, a juvenile bald eagle in Powell Butte (BYOOT) was also found to be suffering from lead poisoning. In addition to bullet fragments, eagles risk lead exposure from shotgun pellets, lost fishing tackle, contaminated fish, unretrieved waterfowl, and occasionally mining sites. The Wildlife Center says it seeks public support to fund treatment, including chelation …
June 16, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham PD searching for perpetrators of two shootings early Sunday morning that left one injured, Whatcom woman pleads guilty to fatally shooting man in botched drug deal, Morning residential fire on James Street, Thousands protest in ‘No Kings Day’, WWU budget requires $3 M more cuts, WCC to begin laying off staff to assuage budget deficit, No injuries after car ends up inside Ferndale business, Construction on Meador Avenue bridge set to commence in coming weeks, Library receives funding for renovation, 2024 saw slight increase in tourism spending in Whatcom, Bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest suffering from spike in lead poisonings, Law enforcement training at Ferndale not authorized by district, Bellingham-based hot sauce company wins big at national and European awards ceremonies Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, June 16th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham PD searching for perpetrators of two shootings early Sunday morning that left one injured Two early morning shootings in downtown Bellingham yesterday ended with two arrests and one man sent to the hospital. Bellingham Police say the violence began just after 1 a.m., when a group of five men was shot at while walking near East Magnolia and Cornwall Avenue. A 37-year-old was hit in the foot. Minutes later, someone in the group fired back — hitting a rideshare vehicle with an uninvolved driver inside. Officers spotted the suspects fleeing in a Honda and gave chase. A handgun was thrown from the car and later recovered. The 20-year-old driver and a 19-year-old suspected of firing at the rideshare were arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. The man who was shot was treated at St. Joseph Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Bellingham Police are still investigating, and ask anyone with information or video to come forward. STORY: Whatcom woman pleads guilty to fatally shooting man in botched drug deal A Bellingham woman will serve 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to fatally shooting a man during a botched drug deal. 36-year-old Coleen Clark admitted in Whatcom County Superior Court Wednesday to second-degree manslaughter, unlawful imprisonment, and second-degree assault in connection to the April 15th killing of 30-year-old Zachariah Janusiewicz (yawn-uh-SAY-witch). Originally charged with first-degree murder, Clark accepted a plea deal that reduced the charges. Prosecutors say Clark and a second suspect, Gale Jefferson, confronted Janusiewicz at a homeless encampment after arranging a drug deal. When Janusiewicz tried to flee, Clark chased him with a gun and fired, striking him. Janusiewicz later died at the hospital. Clark and Jefferson were arrested two weeks after the shooting. Jefferson remains in custody and is due in court tomorrow. In emotional statements to the court, friends and family of Janusiewicz said his death has left a painful void — especially for his young son. STORY: Morning residential fire on James Street At least two people were sent to the hospital after a fire scorched multiple apartments on James Street in Bellingham on Friday morning. Flames broke out around 11 a.m. near the I-5 Lakeway exit. Crews from Bellingham Fire and Police quickly responded, and had the fire under control within 30 minutes. One person was rescued from a second-story balcony before leaving the scene. Another jumped from a second-floor window and was among those taken to the hospital, according to the Bellingham Fire Department. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. STORY: Thousands protest in ‘No Kings Day’ Thousands of people filled downtown Bellingham Saturday in the peaceful “No Kings Day” protest movement aimed at the Trump administration’s policies. The local demonstration coincided with a $45 million military parade in Washington, D.C., which marked the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. Protesters criticized the spending, saying it comes at the expense of vital programs like Social Security and public education. Speakers in Bellingham called out federal immigration raids and what they described as scapegoating of immigrant communities. Representative Joe Timmons and local activist Liz Darrow were among those urging solidarity and nonviolence. Across the state, protests remained largely peaceful. Over 70,000 people marched in Seattle, while police in Bellingham kept a low profile near City Hall. According to an estimate from data journalist G. Elliot Morris and outside analysts, the “No Kings” events that took place across the U.S. the same day as the Trump administration’s military parade drew between four and six million people. Despite clashes in other cities, including 30 arrests in Spokane earlier this week, Bellingham’s protest ended without incident. STORY: WWU budget requires $3 M more cuts Western Washington University is preparing for another round of layoffs this summer, part of ongoing efforts to close a multi-million dollar budget gap. The university says the cuts will save an additional $2 to $3 million, which will bring the total number of positions eliminated in the past year to more than 70. Officials blame the lingering effects of the pandemic, rising operational costs, and an $8 million drop in state funding. On Friday, Western’s Board of Trustees approved a 2025–2026 budget that includes $3.3 million in shortfalls, to be covered by reserves or further one-time cuts. More reductions in instruction and faculty support are expected by next summer, with the steepest cuts coming in the College of Science and Engineering and the College of Humanities and Social Studies. Administrators say core student services — like enrollment management and academic advising — will be protected, and that students currently enrolled in degree programs will still be able to finish their studies. A new retirement incentive program is also being rolled out, with hopes of saving $2 million by encouraging eligible faculty to retire early. STORY: WCC to begin laying off staff to assuage budget deficit And in related news, Whatcom Community College has begun laying off more staff as they continue to work toward closing a budget deficit of over $3 million. WCC’s Board of Trustees approved their 2025-2026 budget at a meeting last Wednesday. The new plan calls for $1.5 million in staff reductions during the next fiscal …
