Search underway for suspects in assault and vehicle theft near Aldrich Road, Blaine man arrested after allegedly menacing victim with knife, Lynden teachers reach tentative agreement, Bellingham woman sues WCSO after deputy allegedly struck her car, Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts, Construction begins on Fairhaven public kayak dock, Remaining stretch of Mt. Baker Highway to Artist Point formally closes for winter, WA health plan open enrollment, WA police use-of-force dashboard, WA police use-of-force dashboard, Suicide rates increase, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Seattle-based Uwajimaya to expand, WDFW seeking public comment on plan to establish permanent requirement for fishing endorsements Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October, 26. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Search underway for suspects in assault and vehicle theft near Aldrich Road An elderly man was attacked and robbed during a test drive in Whatcom County. The Sheriff’s Office says it happened Thursday on Aldrich Road, where two suspects — a man and a woman — assaulted the 82-year-old victim and stole his vehicle. Deputies are looking for a dark blue or black early‑2000s Honda CR‑V with a white stripe along the sides and a rear‑mounted spare tire. Investigators say the woman was driving that vehicle. The male suspect reportedly fled in the victim’s 2001 Toyota Highlander, which has not been recovered. The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information to contact them — and reminds the public not to approach anyone who may be involved. STORY: Blaine man arrested after allegedly menacing victim with knife A 63-year-old man is in custody after allegedly threatening to kill another person with a knife in Blaine. Police say the victim encountered the attacker outside their apartment building Wednesday afternoon. Investigators say the man was holding a hunting knife and a rock, making death threats and directing slurs at the victim. The victim tried to enter the building through another entrance but was allegedly confronted by the attacker again. A property manager called police, who took the man into custody after obtaining a warrant. He remains in the Whatcom County Jail without bail following his arraignment last Thursday. STORY: Lynden teachers reach tentative agreement Lynden teachers have ratified a tentative contract agreement with the school district, averting a potential strike. The Lynden Education Association says the agreement was reached last Wednesday after months of bargaining. Union members had previously voted to authorize a strike, then returned to negotiations in hopes of securing more time and resources to support students. Union members voted to ratify the agreement, but it still needs school board approval before it becomes final. The union thanked its members and the Lynden community for their support throughout negotiations. STORY: Bellingham woman sues WCSO after deputy allegedly struck her car A Bellingham woman has filed a lawsuit against the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. Court documents say Tracey Wiebe (WEE-bee) was waiting behind a school bus on January 20, preparing to turn left onto Saratoga Place, when she saw Deputy Carson Laughlin (LOF-lin) allegedly cross the center line and pass several vehicles at high speed. Wiebe says she couldn’t move out of the way before the deputy’s vehicle struck her car. Her car spun out, and the deputy’s vehicle rolled over. Both drivers were hospitalized. No one else was injured. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages from the sheriff’s office, Laughlin and other parties. The allegations have not been proven in court. STORY: Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts Local immigration lawyers say they’re bracing for a surge in deportation cases. King 5 News reports the federal government appears to be using Washington’s voter rolls to flag permanent residents as part of a crackdown on illegal voting — a shift attorneys say could overwhelm the few local lawyers who handle removal defense. A Point Roberts woman was detained for hours over questions about her voting history. She later died after avoiding medical care because she feared crossing the border. Lawyers say others now worry they could be detained or unable to re‑enter the U.S. The state bar lists about 40 immigration attorneys in the region, but only a handful specialize in deportation work. Attorneys say removal cases are complex, time‑consuming, and often financially out of reach. They say the new focus on voter rolls marks a major change. In the past, accidental registration or voting could usually be corrected without triggering deportation. Now, lawyers say discretion appears to be gone — and they expect the caseload to grow. STORY: Construction begins on Fairhaven public kayak dock Work has begun on a new waterfront project to expand public access to the water. The Port of Bellingham is building a kayak dock and pocket beach next to the Community Boating Center in Fairhaven. The 140‑foot floating dock is designed as a universally accessible hand‑launch area, created in partnership with paddling professionals at the Community Boating Center. Executive Director Bryan Rust says the new dock will make human‑powered boating safer and more accessible for people of all abilities, including participants in the center’s adaptive sailing and paddling programs. The project is funded in part by a half-million-dollar state grant, with a total estimated cost of $2.4 million. The dock expected to open in early 2027 STORY: Remaining stretch of Mt. Baker Highway to Artist Point formally closes for winter The road to Artist Point on Mount Baker Highway is now closed to vehicle traffic for the winter season. Washington State Department of Transportation crews closed the gate at 3 p.m. Sunday, shutting off the final 2-point-7 miles of State Route 542. The narrow road has sharp curves and steep slopes, making winter driving unsafe. Part of the route also becomes ski terrain at Mount Baker Ski Area. This year’s closure came 10 days later than last year’s. Backcountry recreation is still possible, but visitors should check conditions with the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and the Northwest Avalanche Center before heading out. STORY: WA …
October 23, 2026 News Transcript
Investigation ongoing after body found in Sehome Hill Arboretum, Arrest made in animal-cruelty case, Point Roberts man indicted following altercation and bomb threat at border crossing, County court launches calendar to speed up trials, Allied Arts hires new Executive Director, Judge blocks Homeland Security from conducting election-related sweeps in nine states, including WA, DFI dings Digital Access crypto-kiosk operator, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29), Whatcom County ‘unequivocally’ underprepared for jump in deportation efforts, WA health plan open enrollment, WA police use-of-force dashboard, WDFW seeking public comment on plan to establish permanent requirement for fishing endorsements, Seattle-based Uawajimaya to expand Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Investigation ongoing after body found in Sehome Hill Arboretum A body was found in the Sehome Hill Arboretum. Western Washington University reported last night that hikers discovered a body near personal belongings off of a main trail. University Police and BPD responded and say there were no obvious signs of foul play. Officers closed the immediate area to document the scene and collect evidence. A tent and items nearby suggested the person may have been living in the arboretum, though police have not confirmed that. The university says the person’s identity will be released once next of kin are notified. Officials maintain they don’t believe there’s any danger to students or the public. STORY: Arrest made in animal-cruelty case An arrest has been made in a Whatcom County animal‑cruelty case. Detectives say they were alerted earlier this month to dozens of dogs being kept in poor conditions at a property on Russet Avenue, where the animals were being housed by Pittie Project PNW. Investigators seized the dogs for immediate medical care and learned that 38‑year‑old Ashley Georgia of Bellingham was solely responsible for their care. Detectives established probable cause for 30 counts of first‑degree animal cruelty. Georgia was arrested today and booked into Whatcom County Jail. All of the dogs were treated at the Whatcom Humane Society and are now being transferred to rescue partners. Officials say the animals are recovering well and are expected to be placed in adoptive homes. STORY: Point Roberts man indicted following altercation and bomb threat at border crossing A Point Roberts man has been indicted on federal charges tied to a bomb threat at the border. According to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, court documents were filed this week against 34‑year‑old Brandon Brandreth‑Gibbs in connection with a February incident at the Point Roberts Port of Entry. Deputies say he showed up at the crossing with an axe, smashed windows as well as a government vehicle, and threatened to return with a bomb. Brandreth‑Gibbs was arrested after returning to the port and has been in Whatcom County Jail since February. Federal charges include destruction of government property and threatening federal officers. STORY: County court launches calendar to speed up trials Whatcom County Superior Court will launch a new calendar aimed at moving old criminal cases. Judges can now schedule special discovery hearings for aging cases before they reach trial. At those hearings, the judge asks both sides to explain the delays — whether it’s incomplete discovery, ongoing investigations, witness interviews, cases in other jurisdictions, or plea negotiations. The judge can then issue specific orders and deadlines to resolve those issues more quickly, and the same judge will review the case later to monitor compliance. Court officials say the goal is to identify problems earlier on, so that cases can reach resolution more quickly. STORY: Allied Arts hires new Executive Director Allied Arts of Whatcom County has hired a new executive director. The organization announced that longtime local communications and community‑engagement leader Vanessa Blackburn will step into the role, following the departure of Kelly Hart earlier this year. Blackburn’s experience includes leading the Bellingham Business Journal, helping to launch a downtown business improvement district, and serving eight years in the mayor’s office. The hire comes as Allied Arts continues to reshape its mission and programming. The 47‑year‑old organization recently moved its gallery on Cornwall Avenue and has expanded its workshops, performances, and community gatherings after a year of public input. The organization says it’s looking ahead to its next chapter under Blackburn’s leadership. STORY: Judge blocks Homeland Security from conducting election-related sweeps in nine states, including WA A federal judge has temporarily blocked Homeland Security from carrying out election‑related field operations in nine states, including Washington. The Washington State Standard reports the injunction came after voting‑rights groups said armed agents were showing up at residences to question people about their voter status — raising concern about intimidation in the run-up to Election Day. The ruling is a setback for the Trump administration’s effort to target alleged noncitizen voting, which studies show is extremely rare. The judge found that protecting voters from fear and interference outweighs the government’s interest in pursuing potential violations, and paused the order until today to allow time for appeal. STORY: DFI dings Digital Access crypto-kiosk operator The state has taken action against another crypto kiosk operator. Washington’s Department of Financial Institutions (or DFI) filed charges against Digital Access LLC, alleging the company added markups as high as 31 percent on digital‑asset purchases — fees regulators say were not properly disclosed and totaled more than $1 million over two years. Digital Access operates 50 kiosks statewide, including one on Main Street in Ferndale. DFI says the company also failed to follow anti‑money‑laundering rules, did not verify customer identities or sources of funds, lacked adequate transaction monitoring, and mishandled required reporting & record‑keeping. Regulators are seeking to revoke the company’s license, bar Digital Access and its responsible individual from the industry, order more than $1 million in customer refunds, and impose a fine of over one million dollars. DFI also brought charges in recent months against Coinme, Bitcoin Depot, and CoinFlip — companies with multiple kiosks in Whatcom County. F&C 10/24 Looking for some Halloween fun this weekend? …
October 20, 2026 News Transcript
Mount Baker Middle School student taken into custody after allegedly threatening school shooting, Bellingham man formally charged with child rape, pleads not guilty, Man arrested following assault and standoff with police in Maple Falls, County considers fee for private boat launches, WSDOT allows City to lower road speed, Police investigating missing medications in Sedro-Woolley schools, Whatcom Chief down for several hours Wednesday (MUST RUN ON 10/20), Gas prices dip slightly, Staff at Skagit Valley College file to unionize, WA joins coalition opposing corporate merger, citing potential widespread spiking of costs to operate playgrounds, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October, 20. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Mount Baker Middle School student taken into custody after allegedly threatening school shooting A potential threat ended with the arrest of a middle school student in Mount Vernon yesterday. Staff at Mount Baker Middle School alerted their school resource officer yesterday morning to a social media post. That post suggested a possible school‑shooting threat. The officer and school staff immediately launched an investigation. A 14‑year‑old male student was taken into custody in connection with the post. Police believe he acted alone. Mount Vernon Police say quick reporting and close coordination with the school district helped ensure student and staff safety. UPDATE: Bellingham man formally charged with child rape, pleads not guilty A Bellingham man has pleaded not guilty to child rape charges. The Bellingham Herald reports police arrested 29‑year‑old Andrew James Blessington on October 12th after a multi‑week investigation. Court records say a high school principal contacted Bellingham Police last month after a student disclosed she had been raped. Investigators say the girl met Blessington on Snapchat in March, when she was 13. She told police he provided her and her friends with marijuana and alcohol. She allegedly met Blessington again in May; police say he gave her alcohol and raped her in his car while she was intoxicated. Court documents note the girl’s mother reported her daughter “has not been herself” since the assault. Blessington is charged with two counts of second‑degree child rape, and one count of supplying liquor to a minor. He pleaded not guilty and posted bail of $10,000. His trial is set for November 30th. STORY: Man arrested following assault and standoff with police in Maple Falls An argument over WiFi between two neighbors escalated into a stand-off in Maple Falls Saturday afternoon. Investigators said the suspect, a 42-year-old man, smashed a glass bottle over the victim’s head and threatened to kill him. When police arrived, the suspect was armed with a machete and refused to leave the building. The victim was taken to hospital with life-threatening head injuries. The suspect was held in jail without bail. He was expected to be arraigned yesterday. STORY: County considers fee for private boat launches Officials are considering a yearly 60-dollar fee for private boat launches on Lake Whatcom. The charge is part of an effort to prevent the spread of invasive plants and animals. The city already inspects boats launched from public facilities, including Bloedel-Donovan Park. However, officials say about 60 private launch sites around the lake are not currently regulated. The permit program would require registration and provide education to property owners and their guests. A similar measure is being considered for the portion of the lake under Whatcom County jurisdiction. The Bellingham City Council is scheduled to consider the proposal, which would take effect after final approval. Lake Whatcom provides drinking water to about 100-thousand people. STORY: WSDOT allows City to lower road speed Bellingham drivers will see lower speed limits on Old Fairhaven Parkway starting next summer. The Washington State Department of Transportation has agreed to reduce the limit from 35 to 30 miles per hour between 14th Street and Interstate 5. They will not, however, reduce it to 25. City officials wanted a 25-mile-per-hour limit on a part of the road closer to the Interurban Trail, but the state rejected that request. A state study found most drivers were traveling between about 29 and 40 miles per hour. City officials say they want speed limits to reflect pedestrian safety, bike lanes, and nearby bus stops — not just how fast people are already driving. STORY: Police investigating missing medications in Sedro-Woolley schools Sedro‑Woolley Schools are investigating problems with student medications. A routine audit first flagged missing medication at one campus. When staff expanded the review districtwide, they found more discrepancies — including liquid medications that appeared diluted. The district has turned the matter over to Sedro‑Woolley Police. Families whose medications were impacted have already been contacted, and the district is covering the cost of replacements. No medication from the affected supplies is being administered. The district is now reviewing storage, access, inventory, and accountability procedures. Because the case involves confidential student and personnel information, officials say no further details will be released while police continue their investigation. STORY: Whatcom Chief down for several hours Wednesday (MUST RUN ON 10/20) The Whatcom Chief will be offline for several hours tomorrow for terminal maintenance. Public Works says the ferry will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. to 3 p.m. while crews inspect facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. The last morning run from Gooseberry Point is 9:50 a.m., and the last run from Lummi Island is 10 a.m. No additional morning trips will be made afterwards, in order to allow crews to complete a full inspection. The timing is weather‑dependent, and any changes will be posted on the ferry webpage. STORY: Gas prices dip slightly Washington drivers are seeing lower prices at the pump, continuing a downward trend. Triple-A reports the statewide average for regular gas now sits at $5.37, down 8 cents from a week ago. In Bellingham, the price for a gallon of regular gas has dropped nine cents over the week, averaging $5.18. Triple-A says the national average for regular gas is $4.33, down slightly …
October 16, 2026 News Transcript
MIPA issued for Lummi teenager, Lummi Nation member and registered sex offender arraigned for alleged assault of houseguest, No Kings rallies held this weekend, Bham Mitigation Bank to open in spring 2027, Biotoxin warning lifted for Toad Lake, Fleet of air quality monitoring vans set to be deployed statewide this winter, Settlements reached in cases against three generic drug manufacturers, F&C 10/17-18, F&C 10/24, Public invited to Port of Bellingham open house (Oct 29) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October, 16. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: MIPA issued for Lummi teenager A Missing Indigenous Person Alert has been issued for a Lummi Nation teen. Washington State Patrol activated the alert for 13‑year‑old Victoria Mervine. She was last seen Saturday, October 12th, off South Red River Road in Ferndale. She’s described as 5‑foot‑1, about 115 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, and was wearing a grey hoodie, blue jeans, and a black vest. Anyone who sees Victoria is urged to call 9‑1‑1. STORY: Lummi Nation member and registered sex offender arraigned for alleged assault of houseguest A Lummi Nation man is accused of sexually assaulting a woman on tribal land. The Department of Justics says 35‑year‑old Gideon Bewley pleaded not guilty to a sexual abuse charge yesterday in U.S. District Court in Seattle. Prosecutors say the assault happened April 24th after the victim spent the evening at Bewley’s girlfriend’s home after drinking alcohol and later woke up to Bewley sexually assaulting her. Court records say Bewley is required to register as a Level III sex offender because of a prior federal conviction for sexually abusing a minor. Trial is set for December 21st. If convicted, Bewley faces up to life in prison. STORY: No Kings rallies held this weekendNo Kings rallies to encourage early voting are happening tomorrow. Rallies encouraging early-voting are scheduled for Bellingham, Everson and Blaine. Indivisible Bellingham will host a No Kings Vote Early event from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Bellingham City Hall, featuring songs led by the Singing Resistance. Additional rallies are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. in Everson and 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at G Street Plaza in Blaine. Organizers are encouraging eligible voters to make a plan to vote early and learn about ballot drop-off options. STORY: Bham Mitigation Bank to open in spring 2027 A major environmental restoration project in Bellingham is set to open early next year. City officials say the Bellingham Mitigation Bank should be operating by February or March. The project will improve water quality, reduce flooding, and protect fish and wildlife, while giving developers a more efficient way to meet environmental rules. The City bought the land in 2018 and has been restoring its streams, wetlands and forest habitat to create environmental credits developers can purchase to offset unavoidable impacts. Once open, Bellingham’s bank will streamline permitting and complete ecological improvements before development occurs. STORY: Biotoxin warning lifted for Toad LakeIt’s safe to swim in Toad Lake again. County Health and Community Services says recent water samples found toxin levels below the federal safety limit. The Health department says there are no other lake biotoxin advisories currently in effect in Whatcom County. Officials still urge caution around harmful algae blooms, which can look like green pea soup or spilled paint on the water. Keep children and pets away from affected areas, and watch for changing conditions as wind can move algae around the lake. Toxic algae can make people and animals sick. STORY: Fleet of air quality monitoring vans set to be deployed statewide this winterWashington has announced a year-long study on air pollution across the state. Beginning in December, the Department of Ecology plans to send specially equipped vehicles into more than 20 communities and participating Tribal Nations, including Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and Burlington. The vehicles will measure pollutants as they travel through neighborhoods. The data will help scientists identify pollution hotspots that stationary monitors may miss. The study will focus on communities where residents may face greater health risks from air pollution. Funded by the Climate Commitment Act, the project is expected to collect information for about a year, with findings scheduled for release in 2028. STORY: Settlements reached in cases against three generic drug manufacturers Washington has reached new settlements with three generic drug companies. The Attorney General’s Office says Ascend Laboratories, Citron Pharma and Mayne Pharma settled allegations that they took part in a long‑running conspiracy to inflate prices and limit competition for generic prescription drugs. Ascend will pay $400,000 and Mayne will pay $650,000. Citron has shut down and agreed to non‑monetary terms. The AG’s Office says these agreements build on earlier settlements with eight other drug companies, totaling more than $496 million. Washington has now recovered funds through a series of actions targeting what investigators describe as widespread price‑fixing in the generic drug market. Consumers who bought generic prescription drugs between 2009 and 2019 are encouraged to apply for compensation. More information and a preliminary claim form is available at AGgenericDrugs.com. F&C 10/17-18 If you’re looking for free or low‑cost things to do this weekend, there’s plenty happening across Whatcom and Skagit counties. In Mount Vernon, the Skagit Valley Family YMCA on Hoag Road hosts its free Halloween Spooktacular Saturday at 5 p.m., with carnival games, crafts and costumed community booths. The Bellingham Dockside Market returns Saturday from 10 to 2 at Squalicum Harbor. Local fishermen sell their catch right off the boats, and the market now includes artists, crafters and hot food vendors. Admission is free. Also Saturday, volunteers can take part in Orca Recovery Day at Lower Kenney Creek near Deming. The habitat‑restoration event runs 9 to noon, and prior registration with the Whatcom Land Trust is required. Western Washington University hosts a free Insect Collection Open House Saturday from 1 to 4 at the WWU Biology Building. Parking is free in Lot C. And on Sunday, Northwest Free Repairs meets at the Makerspace in Bellis Fair Mall from 1 to …
September 25, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham City Council to hold public hearings on two proposed ballot measures, Bellingham arts nonprofit to assume tenancy of Public Market building, : Bellingham Cider Company announces acquisition of Lost Giants, WSDOT changes refurbishment plan for Mount Vernon bridge in hopes of full reopening by Thanksgiving, Brown among bipartisan coalition of AGs behind letter urging Congress to reign in unchecked A.I. development, SP reports improving situation in continuing backlog of toxicology reports, Free (and cheap) Bird, Report finds state medication return program broadly successful, though hampered by numerous flaws (undated), Whatcom County announces flood preparedness week (run sometime week of Oct. 5th), Community Conversations District 2 (run again as a reminder at end of Sept29,30), Paint recycling event coming to Bellingham OCT 3, Another Community Conversations series meeting (run 9/28 – 10/2… meeting is 10/7), Recycling Event (run between 9/28 – Oct 1), Ferndale Coffee with a Cop (run between 9/28 and 9/2) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, September 25th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bellingham City Council to hold public hearings on two proposed ballot measuresBellingham residents will have a chance Monday night to weigh in on two proposed city charter amendments. One proposal would eliminate the requirement that the mayor be the highest-paid city employee. Instead, the mayor’s salary would be set by the same commission that determines City Council members’ pay, which takes place every eight years. Mayor Kim Lund currently earns just under $237,000 a year. The second charter amendment would streamline the city’s contracting process by allowing the mayor to designate someone else to sign contracts and allow the use of electronic signatures. The City Council will hold public hearings on the measures during its regular meeting at 7pm Monday, September 28 in the City Council chambers. Residents who want to speak should sign up ahead of time, with online sign‑ups open the day of the meeting. STORY: Bellingham arts nonprofit to assume tenancy of Public Market building Our downtown’s next creative chapter is about to begin. Paper Whale has signed a lease with Whatcom Transportation Authority to rent the former Public Market building on Cornwall Avenue. The nonprofit expects to move in October 1st and begin preparing the space for artist studios, creative coworking, and hands‑on workshops. Executive Director Nick Hartrich says the goal is to transform the building into a “third space” that drives the local creative economy. WTA Board Chair Ali Hawkinson says the partnership brings vibrancy to the site while WTA continues with planning a future transit hub. Paper Whale will release details on studio opportunities, programming, and opening plans as work progresses. STORY: Bellingham Cider Company announces acquisition of Lost Giants A major handoff is reshaping Bellingham’s cider scene. Bellingham Cider Company is taking over Lost Giants Cider Company. The move comes after Lost Giants founders Brad Wilske (WIL-skee) and Abe Ebert approached Bellingham Cider earlier this year about passing the brand to local stewards. Bellingham Cider co‑owner Bryce Hamilton says the goal is to preserve what makes Lost Giants special while giving both brands room to grow. Lost Giants’ recipes, branding, distributor relationships, taproom, and staff will remain, and production will eventually consolidate at the Lost Giants facility. Each brand will keep their own identities. The companies also hopes to reenergize the Lost Giants taproom with expanded events and community programming. STORY: WSDOT changes refurbishment plan for Mount Vernon bridge in hopes of full reopening by Thanksgiving A major bridge project in Mount Vernon is now set to finish months ahead of schedule. WSDOT will fully close the Division Street Bridge for two weeks in early November to speed up the final phase of preservation work. The agency originally expected the project to run into early next year, but a revised plan will allow the bridge to reopen before Thanksgiving. Crews will complete painting, steel repair, deck work, and remove tarps & rigging. WSDOT says reopening before the holiday season will restore access for businesses on both sides of the Skagit River — a key reason for accelerating the timeline. STORY: Brown among bipartisan coalition of AGs behind letter urging Congress to reign in unchecked A.I. development A bipartisan coalition says Congress needs to act quickly to rein in rapidly advancing artificial intelligence systems. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joined 25 other attorneys general in urging Congress to set national AI safety standards, citing recent cases where AI agents slipped out of their sand-boxes or behaved unlawfully online. The coalition wants Congress to require safety testing, create a transparent incident‑reporting system, and establish an international framework to prevent the development of harmful superintelligence. They also warn against any federal law that would block states from enforcing their own AI protections. Brown says Congress must move quickly to keep AI systems from evading human control. He notes Washington is already developing policies with the state’s technology policy team. STORY: WSP reports improving situation in continuing backlog of toxicology reportsWashington State Patrol toxicology labs are working through a backlog of drug tests that could delay some DUI prosecutions. The backlog peaked at more than 17,000 cases last August. The agency says submissions have increased 59 percent since 2015, while staffing has not kept pace. Prosecutors say alcohol and THC tests can take about 10 months, and drug tests up to 22 months. That can be a problem because the statute of limitations for a typical gross-misdemeanor DUI is two years. However, State Patrol officials say the backlog is shrinking and they’re on track to reach a 90-day turnaround by late 2028. Lawmakers have also authorized cities and counties to use private labs for testing. STORY: Free (and cheap) Bird 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. Book lovers can stock up at the Friends of the Bellingham Public Library September Book Sale. It’s happening today from 10 to 6pm, with books at half-price. Then on Saturday from 10 …
August 31, 2026 News Transcript
Whatcom PUD no. 1 declares emergency condition around Douglas Road water transmission line, Final Beats on the Bay performance moved ashore amid mounting safety concerns, Gas prices update, Two Bellingham authors announced as finalists for Washington State Book Awards, Library launches Participate in Democracy series, Five men indicted in Seattle federal court as part of wider money laundering scheme, WA joins coalition of states suing to block conditional retraction of federal funding for contraception, Are millionaires really moving out of WA due to income tax? Whatcom County Open House (run bet 9/15- 9/28) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August, 31. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom PUD no. 1 declares emergency condition around Douglas Road water transmission line A major water line in western Whatcom County is now under emergency review. The Public Utility District says the Douglas Road transmission line is at risk of failure after a recent inspection found widespread deterioration. The pipeline was built in the mid‑1960s and supplies irrigation, industrial process water, and fire‑suppression service. Both the PUD and Whatcom County have issued emergency declarations, citing the threat to public safety, property, and the continuity of fire‑suppression water if the line were to rupture. Emergency replacement is underway. Crews will build a new line while the existing one stays in service, with an accelerated timeline of about 90 days. The new segment will run through the Unick and Ulrich Road area and end at Lake Terrell Road. Temporary repairs will stabilize the old line during construction. The PUD says it’s committed to public safety and will meet all environmental and regulatory requirements. STORY: Final Beats on the Bay performance moved ashore amid mounting safety concerns A popular Bellingham waterfront event is getting a closer look this year. The Community Boating Center says the final Beats on the Bay, scheduled for September 1st, is canceled for this season. They say the event grew faster than the safety support around it. As crowds increased, they saw more people putting themselves in risky situations on the water — missing life jackets, swimming through boat traffic, impaired decision‑making, and using watercraft unsuited for the Bay’s cold conditions when the weather turned rough. The Boating Center plans to work with the City, maritime partners, and first responders to explore how the on‑water version could return next year with added safeguards. In the meantime, the celebration will continue on land as Beats Near the Bay, happening September 1st at Kulshan Trackside. STORY: Gas prices update Washington’s gas prices continue to edge higher. Triple-A puts the statewide average for regular at $5.32, slightly above yesterday and noticeably higher than a month ago. In Bellingham, Triple-A says regular is averaging $5.16. That’s flat from yesterday, but up 17 cents from a week ago. A year ago, drivers here were paying about 90 cents less per gallon of regular gas. Nationally, GasBuddy reports the average for regular has dipped to $4.01, but analysts warn the relief may not last. They say global tensions — including U.S.–Iran developments and Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries — are keeping oil markets volatile. Any shift in those conflicts could push prices around quickly, and drivers should expect continued ups and downs in the weeks ahead. STORY: Two Bellingham authors announced as finalists for Washington State Book Awards A statewide book award program is shining a spotlight on two Bellingham authors this year. The Washington Center for the Book has named 41 finalists for the 2026 Washington State Book Awards, which honor outstanding books published by Washington authors in 2025. Bellingham’s Cori Winrock is recognized for her memoir Alterations, and Rena Priest is a finalist for her essay collection Positively Uncivilized. Priest is also a former Washington State Poet Laureate. The full finalist list features writers from across the state — from Spokane and Seattle to San Juan Island, Tacoma, and beyond — reflecting the depth and range of Washington’s literary community. Winners in each of the seven categories will be announced September 15th. The awards, now in their 60th year, recognize literary merit, lasting importance, and overall quality. Judges reviewed 308 books for this year’s selections. STORY: Library launches Participate in Democracy series The Bellingham Public Library is launching a fall series on civic engagement. The library will host workshops, discussions, trivia events, and voter‑registration sessions through September, October, and November — all aimed at helping residents better understand government and participate in democracy. The first program is Wednesday, when Rural Civic Engagement Specialist Michael Bowman leads an interactive session on federal civics at the Central Library. The workshop runs from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and includes a group reading of the Declaration of Independence, discussion of its legacy, and trivia about how federal government systems work. Pizza will be available, and registration is encouraged but not required. Later events in the series will cover topics such as river‑rights debates, ranked‑choice voting, how local governments function, voter registration with the League of Women Voters, civic trivia, and a discussion on data‑center expansion. More details are available on the library’s website. STORY: Five men indicted in Seattle federal court as part of wider money laundering scheme A new federal indictment targets an alleged elder‑fraud laundering ring. The Department of Justice says five men helped move money stolen from seniors through tech‑support and impersonation scams. Investigators say the group routed victim payments through shell companies and dozens of bank accounts, then sent the money overseas. Three of the defendants are detained, one is released pending trial, and one is still being sought. Trial is set for November. Federal officials describe the laundering network as highly organized, saying it helped keep a larger fraud operation running nationwide. They estimate seniors may have lost more than $7 million in this case, with losses climbing even higher across the broader scheme. The defendants face conspiracy and money‑laundering charges. The charges carry up to 20 years in prison for conspiracy and concealment, and up to 10 years for …
August 28, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham PD arrests accused perpetrator of threatening message to WCC, Family Care Network to acquire Optum’s Bellingham clinic, operations to be turned over by November, I-5 lane closures coming to downtown Bellingham, Chuckanut Creek starting this weekend, T-Mobile announces statewide layoffs and location closures, Bellingham store closes while call center remains open, Hatchery Chinook return to Bellingham Bay, Judge pauses USPS Final Rule for mail-in ballots, Trump administration sues four more states over noncitizen college tuition rates, including WA (may have to bump to Monday), I know a guy that’s free but cheap, Whatcom County Open House (run no later than 9/28) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 28th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bellingham PD arrests accused perpetrator of threatening message to WCC A Bellingham man was arrested after allegedly making an online threat towards Whatcom Community College. Police say the 26-year-old was on a social-media call early Thursday when he became upset and made a specific threat enter the campus and “shoot people,” prompting someone on the call to dial 911. Officers flew a drone over the school but did not find him. They located the man later on F Street and took him into custody. He admitted to being in the chats. The Bellingham Herald reports he was arrested on suspicion of felony harassment and threats to bomb or injure property. WCC says there is no threat now and the campus is operating normally. STORY: Family Care Network to acquire Optum’s Bellingham clinic, operations to be turned over by November A longtime Bellingham medical clinic is changing hands this fall. Cascadia Daily News reports Family Care Network will take over Optum’s Ellis Street clinic in November. Family Care leaders say they expect to retain clinician staff and maintain continuity of care for the clinic’s roughly 8,000 patients. Optum has operated the site for seven years, most recently as a family-medicine and primary-care clinic with walk-in urgent care. The company says it’s selling the Bellingham clinic because it’s far from Optum’s other services and doesn’t fit into its regional care network. Family Care says the Ellis Street site will become its tenth clinic in Whatcom County, without effecting their other locations. STORY: I-5 lane closures coming to downtown Bellingham, Chuckanut Creek starting this weekend Drivers should expect lane closures and delays on I-5 this weekend. The right lane of northbound I-5 from Samish Way to north of Iowa Street will close from 6 a.m. tomorrow until 10 a.m. Sunday so that crews can replace damaged concrete panels. Nighttime lane reductions are also planned from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the Samish Lake area on both north and southbound I-5. WSDOT reminds drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones. STORY: T-Mobile announces statewide layoffs and location closures, Bellingham store closes while call center remains open T-Mobile will close a retail store in Bellingham this fall as part of a statewide layoff. The Bakerview & I-5 storefront is one of several retail sites the company plans to shut down. The call center on West Bakerview Road will remain open but will see job cuts. The company’s notice says a total of 77 workers across Washington will be effected, including cuts at other retail locations their corporate headquarters, and regional offices. The layoffs are scheduled between September 21st and November 18th. STORY: Hatchery Chinook return to Bellingham Bay Chinook salmon are returning to Bellingham Bay and lower Whatcom Creek for the fall run. About 7,000 hatchery Chinook are expected to return this season through a partnership between Bellingham Technical College, Fish and Wildlife, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, and the Lummi and Nooksack tribes. The fish usually arrive in late August and continue into October. Hatchery Chinook feed endangered Southern Resident orcas, support tribal and non-tribal fishing, and add nutrients to the creek ecosystem when they die of natural causes. Officials say harvesting these Chinook is legal under current rules, and they’re asking people to be respectful of fishers. You can see the salmon now at Maritime Heritage Park. STORY: Judge pauses USPS Final Rule for mail-in ballots A federal judge has put the brakes on the Postal Service’s new mail-in voting rules. CNN reports a Boston court issued a two-week restraining order blocking parts of a USPS plan developed under a Trump executive order. The plan would force states to redesign ballot envelopes, upload voter lists, and get Postal Service approval before mailing ballots to voters — steps the judge says states cannot manage in the few weeks before midterms. The judge also found the challengers — a coalition of states and voting-rights groups — are likely to succeed on claims that the Postal Service lacks the authority to impose requirements on the states as they are unconstitutional. The order remains in place for 14 days while the court considers a longer block. STORY: Trump administration sues four more states over noncitizen college tuition rates, including WA (may have to bump to Monday) The US Justice Department is taking Washington State to court over its in-state tuition and financial-assistance rules. Federal officials say the state gives in-state tuition to some undocumented students while charging higher rates to citizens from other states. They argue the laws discriminate against out-of-state citizens and grant benefits to immigrants that are not available to U.S. citizens. The agency also filed similar complaints against Arizona, New Mexico, and Oregon. The DOJ says yesterday’s filings bring the total number of tuition-related challenges to 21 nationwide. STORY: I know a guy that’s free but 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. Wild Things meets at Lake Padden tomorrow from 9:30 to 11am for a nature-based outing for kids aged zero to 6 along with their keepers. It’s pay-what-you-can, with a suggested donation of $10 per person or $20 for a family. Head to the corner of Railroad …
November 20, 2025 News Transcript
City of Bellingham reaches deal over Post Point plant’s air quality violations, Bellingham man arrested in 2021 for possession of child sexual abuse material receives formal prison sentence, Court documents outline sequence of events in October murder in Bellingham, Glass Beach set to close for cleanup of two toxic sites ahead of construction for new park, WA School Superintendent responds to changes in the Dept of Education, College students who are parents face food insecurity, WA upholds 2023 ban on assault weapons Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, November, 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: City of Bellingham reaches deal over Post Point plant’s air quality violationsBellingham says it has reached a settlement over air-quality violations at the Post Point wastewater treatment plant. City Council members voted unanimously Monday night to approve the agreement with the Northwest Clean Air Agency. Post Point treats wastewater from Bellingham and parts of Whatcom County. Treated water goes into Bellingham Bay, while solid waste is burned in incinerators that were built in the 1970s and ’90s. The deal follows a 2024 notice of violation that said the plant’s sludge-burning incinerators weren’t meeting air-quality standards. The city has not admitted wrongdoing, but it has agreed to add more pollution-control equipment and install continuous carbon-monoxide emission monitors on both incinerators. The Clean Air Agency says the upgrades will roll out over the next five years, and it will be monitoring the improvements. Mayor Kim Lund says the agreement confirms steps already underway to improve air quality at the decades-old facility near Fairhaven. STORY: Bellingham man arrested in 2021 for possession of child sexual abuse material receives formal prison sentence A Bellingham man has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. Sixty-eight-year-old Clifford Eugene Allen was arrested in 2021 and originally charged with five counts. He pleaded guilty to one count in May, and was sentenced Wednesday in Whatcom County Superior Court. According to court records, the investigation began in 2019 after Microsoft submitted Cybertips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Detectives later found more than 265,000 images and videos on Allen’s devices. He told investigators he downloaded abuse material “probably every day.” Allen is a convicted sex offender who served just over two years in prison almost 40 years ago. However, his public defender said the treatment that Allen received was ineffective and not science-based. Judge Jennifer Slattery followed the agreed recommendation: 30 months in prison, followed by three years of community custody. Allen must undergo a sexual-deviancy evaluation, complete treatment, and register as a sex offender for life. To report child sexual exploitation, contact the CyberTipline at report.cybertip.org STORY: Court documents outline sequence of events in October murder in Bellingham Two men are facing murder and attempted-murder charges in Whatcom County after an October shooting left one person dead and another injured. Nineteen-year-old Royelio Marquez (ro-HE-lio mar-kezs) and 20-year-old Alan Ramos were arraigned Nov. 14 in Whatcom County Superior Court. Both are being held on $2 million bail. Police say the victims — 26-year-old Daytin Duronoso-Harp(dura-no-so) and a second 25-year-old man — arrived at St. Joseph Medical Center late on Oct. 18th with gunshot wounds. Duronoso-Harp later died; however the second victim is expected to survive. According to detectives, security footage and cell-phone data place Marquez and Ramos in the area both before and after the gunfire. Both suspects were arrested without incident on Nov. 13 and are believed to be associated with a Sureno-affiliated street gang. Marquez and Ramos are scheduled to return to court in December. STORY: Glass Beach set to close for cleanup of two toxic sites ahead of construction for new park Bellingham’s popular Glass Beach is expected to close for major cleanup and construction work as early as the end of November. Public Works spokeswoman Stefanie Cilinceon(sil-lin-sea-on) says the beach will remain off-limits because it’s part of the environmental cleanup and will eventually be incorporated into the new Salish Landing Park. The $49 million cleanup will begin later this month, along with about $5 million in park construction. The entire project could take up to three years to finish. When complete, Salish Landing will feature a new beach, trails, restrooms, parking, benches, lighting, bike racks, and a kayak launch. According to the City, the first step is to address decades of pollution— which includes industrial operations, a dump site, and a wood-treatment facility that operated into the 1980s. STORY: WA School Superintendent responds to changes in the Dept of Education The U.S. Department of Education plans to shift the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education — along with several other K–12 programs — to different federal agencies, including the Department of Labor. In a recent release, Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal criticized the move, saying it could create confusion for educators, administrators, and families. He noted many of the programs being moved support historically underserved students, including those experiencing poverty, homelessness, or language barriers. Reykdal says shifting education programs to agencies with little connection to schools could be disjointed and potentially harmful He also emphasized that Washington schools remain committed to supporting every student. STORY: College students who are parents face food insecurity According to a new research brief, about one in five college students in Washington are raising a child, and many struggle to meet basic needs. The study found that 68% of parenting students experience food or housing insecurity. Most are women from low-income backgrounds who report difficulty finding affordable childcare. Nearly half say childcare hours don’t align with their school schedules. In Washington, costs of infant care are more than twice the cost of in-state college tuition and are on par with housing costs, making the state the eighth most expensive for childcare in the U.S. The brief recommends data collection, the creation of support systems and local partnerships, and greater funding to help them succeed. Experts say addressing these challenges could boost the state’s workforce and benefit families …
May 12, 2025 News Transcript
Closure of candidate filing produces list of Whatcom election candidates ahead of August primary, Local office positions remain vacant, Suspects in Bellingham kidnapping arrested, Annual Blessing of the Fleet commemorates those lost at sea ahead of Alaskan fishing season, What’s up with the state budget? Seattle man sentenced to eight years for role in Whatcom drug ring, Whatcom County launches customer service portal for online permits Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, May 12th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Closure of candidate filing produces list of Whatcom election candidates ahead of August primary The deadline has passed, and the 2025 election landscape in Whatcom County is now taking shape. The filing period closed Friday for off-year elections which cover city councils, school boards, local courts, and commissions—from fire districts to cemeteries. According to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, races with three or more candidates will appear on the August 5th primary ballot, while two-candidate races head straight to the November 4th general election. All contests are nonpartisan, and the top two vote-getters, regardless of political affiliation, move forward. After three terms, Whatcom County Councilmember Todd Donovan will step down and will not appear on the ballot. Three candidates have filed to fill his District 2 seat. Meanwhile, District 3 Councilmember Tyler Byrd faces stiff competition, with four challengers in the primary. Cities like Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas also have local races on the ballot, with incumbents defending their positions and new challengers stepping forward. Among the high-profile races: For the Whatcom County Council: In Port of Bellingham races: Other multi-candidate races include Sumas (soo-MASS) City Council Position 2 and Blaine City Council Ward 2, each with three contenders. Only residents in the relevant districts or wards can vote in primary races, while at-large seats are decided county- or citywide. STORY: Local office positions remain vacant In other election-related news: The Whatcom County Auditor has announced a special 3-day filing window will be open from this Wednesday through Friday. Some local offices received no candidate filings during the regular filing week. Open positions will appear on the November 4th ballot and include commissioner roles across several fire protection districts, as well as water, cemetery, and park and recreation districts. These include: For a full list of positions and terms, visit the county elections website or contact the Elections Office. STORY: Suspects in Bellingham kidnapping arrested A violent kidnapping case in Bellingham ended with two suspects in custody. Bellingham Police released new details today following a witnessed kidnapping that took place early last Sunday. Just after 1 a.m., a man reportedly pulled a woman into a van at gunpoint, with the help of a second suspect. The victim managed to escape unharmed several hours later. A dramatic takedown followed. Police say the primary suspect, 27-year-old Christopher William Zvara (zuh-VAH-ruh), refused commands, pulled a gun, and fled. Officers deployed non-lethal munitions and sent in Police Service Dog Rudy, who tackled the suspect; officers arrested him without further incident. Zvara was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and is now in jail facing multiple charges, including first-degree kidnapping, assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. His alleged accomplice, 28-year-old Margaret George Bespalova (biz-puh-LOV-ah), was arrested on Monday and charged with first-degree kidnapping. She remains in custody at the Whatcom County Jail, with bail set at $50,000. Police credit rapid collaboration between local and federal agencies for the swift arrests. STORY: Annual Blessing of the Fleet commemorates those lost at sea ahead of Alaskan fishing season Dozens gathered Saturday morning at Zuanich (zoo-ON-itch) Point Park for the annual Blessing of the Fleet. Names of commercial fishermen and women who died while working on the water were read aloud. Family members stepped forward, laying flowers in a wreath as a bell tolled in their memory. The ceremony also serves as a blessing for those preparing to head north to Alaska for the summer salmon season — a journey made by thousands from Whatcom County each year. Leaders in attendance included Governor Bob Ferguson, Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund, and Port Commissioners Bobby Briscoe and Michael Shepard. Lummi Nation Chairman Anthony Hillaire (hill-AIR) called the region “salmon country,” and spoke to the deep cultural and spiritual connection Indigenous people have with the water and fishing. The ceremony also paid tribute to Clayton Hoy, a 36-year-old Everson man who died last July after falling overboard in Alaska. His name was added to the Squalicum Fishermen’s Memorial statue. As the rain cleared, a flower-filled wreath was carried out to Bellingham Bay and laid upon the water in honor of those who never came home. STORY: What’s up with the state budget? A little over a week ago, lawmakers submitted a budget to Governor Ferguson after a grueling legislative session where representatives from all over the state battled to cover a 12 billion dollar shortfall. KMRE News sat down with producer of The Capitol Beat, Riley Sweeney, to find out more about what’s up with the state budget– where are the gains, and where are the losses. Sweeney 1 To listen to the entire interview, tune in today after the 5pm news. WX: It May Rain And now for the weather: Today will be warm and overcast, with sporadic chances of rain throughout the morning and early afternoon. The sun may emerge as the afternoon wears on, though we can expect it to remain at least partly cloudy throughout the day and into the evening with temperatures as high as 60 degrees. Nighttime lows are projected in the upper-40s. We can expect more consistent sunshine tomorrow, alongside some clouds. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Cody Mills, Aidan Larson, Glen Hirshberg (HERSH-berg), and Kathi O’Shea (O-shay). 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 …
March 19, 2025 News Transcript
Sumas man sentenced to over five years in prison for child molestation, Body of snowmobiler recovered from accident site off Canyon Creek Road, Ferndale’s Church Road temporarily closed following serious injury accident, Anacortes seafood company issues recall of chowder products following potential bacterial contamination, Whatcom County aids Habitat for Humanity in purchasing land for future low-income housing site, City of Bellingham breaks ground at new affordable housing complex, Strong oil odor reported by Birch Bay residents, Catholics in Whatcom adjust to increasing church consolidation, WA lawmakers seek to relieve strained youth justice system Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Sumas man sentenced to over five years in prison for child molestation 69-year-old Henry Paul Ruiz III of Sumas (SOO-mass) was sentenced Tuesday in the Whatcom County Superior Court to five-and-a-half years in prison for sexually abusing a 7-year-old girl. Ruiz was arrested in July of 2023, after the victim disclosed the abuse to her mother. Court records indicate that he initially denied the accusations, but later pleaded guilty to multiple counts of second-degree child molestation. During sentencing, the victim’s family expressed frustration over the lengthy legal process, and described the lasting impact of the abuse on the young girl. Prosecutor Caleb Nagel emphasized the severity of the trauma; the family noted Ruiz’s involvement in karate instruction and his church, and called his actions far reaching. Ruiz’s public defender, Charles Parrish, stated that Ruiz had shown remorse and cooperated with authorities. In addition to his prison term, Ruiz will serve three years of community custody, and a sexual assault protection order will remain in place for two years following his release. STORY: Body of snowmobiler recovered from accident site off Canyon Creek Road The body of a snowmobiler who died after riding into a tree well near Canyon Creek Road, northeast of Glacier, was recovered yesterday. Recovery efforts were initially hindered by challenging weather and avalanche conditions. The victim, identified as Joe de Boer (duh BORE) by the Northwest Glacier Cruisers snowmobile club, was located by search and rescue teams on the day of the accident, but hazardous conditions delayed the recovery. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office coordinated with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations and a helicopter team from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office to complete the recovery. STORY: Ferndale’s Church Road temporarily closed following serious injury accident A three-vehicle crash in Ferndale left one dead and three injured yesterday. The crash happened on Church Road around 2:11 p.m. A news release by Ferndale Police says that a southbound vehicle crashed into two northbound vehicles. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while three others were taken to the St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. No minors were involved. Church Road will be closed while the investigation continues, with traffic being detoured via Lakeridge Drive and Sievers Way. 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: Whatcom County aids Habitat for Humanity in purchasing land for future low-income housing site Whatcom County will help Habitat for Humanity acquire land to build 40 affordable homes in the King Mountain neighborhood. The County Council unanimously approved seven-hundred thousand dollars in grants and loans for the nonprofit last Tuesday to purchase two-and-a-half acres at Telegraph Road from Kulshan Community Land Trust. Deputy Executive Kayla Schott-Bresler (SHOT BRESLER) called the project a “unique opportunity” to address local housing needs. Homes will be available to low-income residents earning thirty-to-eighty percent of the area median income, with a family of four qualifying at seventy-two thousand five-hundred dollars or below. The funding includes a two-hundred and thirty-one thousand (231,000) dollar grant and a four-hundred and sixty-nine thousand (469,000) dollar loan from the Economic Development Investment fund. Habitat for Humanity follows a ‘sweat equity’ model, where future homeowners contribute to building their homes and those of others. STORY: City of Bellingham breaks ground at new affordable housing complex In more affordable housing news, the City of Bellingham has broken ground at a new affordable housing complex in the Old Town district. Work on the project to bring more housing and commercial space to Old Town began on Friday; about 800 new residential units will be built through eight city blocks over the next decade. The 84-unit apartment building on Astor Street – the first to be built – is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. According to Mayor Kim Lund, the project seeks to quote “inject new energy into Old Town, support economic vitality in our city center, and create hundreds of new housing opportunities over the next decade” unquote. The city says that the new complex will also boost the downtown economy, promote walkability and reduce car trips. In addition to the complex, both the city and Whatcom County are funding quote “streetscape improvements” unquote. In total, $5 million are being invested in infrastructure. STORY: Strong oil odor reported by Birch Bay residents Residents across northern Whatcom County reported a strong, unusual odor over the last weekend, with many experiencing headaches and breathing difficulties. According to the …
February 14, 2025 News Transcript
Fatal motorcycle crash stalls southbound I-5 traffic in Mount Vernon, Dump truck crashes into ten parked cars off Hannegan Road, WCC Outgoing President honored by State, Widow of late Whatcom fishing magnate seeking to sell business empire, Department of Health to expedite sex change designations on birth certificates, FREE AND CHEAP: Bellingham Valentine’s Day events / free and cheap?, Grants to Ports of Bellingham and Anacortes hit by federal funding freeze, Remains of missing Marblemount man identified Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, February 14th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY 1: Fatal motorcycle crash stalls southbound I-5 traffic in Mount Vernon A motorcyclist died early yesterday on I-5 near Burlington while fleeing from law enforcement. State Patrol attempted to stop the 43-year-old Mount Vernon man for speeding near Bow Hill around 3 a.m. The rider exited I-5 at Bow Hill, then immediately reentered the interstate heading southbound. He continued south, exiting at College Way in Mount Vernon, where the trooper ended the pursuit. Another trooper spotted him in Mount Vernon and attempted another traffic stop. The cyclist fled a second time, reentering I-5 at College Way traveling north in the southbound lanes. As he neared the Skagit River, the motorcycle struck part of the bridge, and he was ejected then hit by an oncoming semi. EMT pronounced him dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. The Skagit and Island County Multiple Agency Response Team is investigating. STORY 2: Dump truck crashes into ten parked cars off Hannegan Road First responders were summoned to Hannegan Road on Wednesday after reports that a dump truck crashed into multiple vehicles in the DeWaard and Bode (da-WARD and bow-DEE) parking lot. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy told Whatcom News the driver had a medical emergency, causing the vehicle to veer off the road into the parking lot. The truck collided with 10 unoccupied parked vehicles. No injuries were reported, and investigators ruled out speed and alcohol as factors. Authorities issued the driver an infraction for failing to maintain control of the truck. STORY 3: WCC Outgoing President honored by State The state House of Representatives honored outgoing Whatcom Community College President, Dr. Kathi Hiyane-Brown (CATHY hee-YUN-nee BROWN) with a resolution recognizing her achievements. Representatives Joe Timmons and Alicia Rule introduced the resolution, highlighting WCC’s growth in academic programs, community engagement, and student success. Since becoming president in 2007, Hiyane-Brown led efforts to expand certificate and associate degree programs and launch applied baccalaureate degrees. Under her leadership, the college gained national recognition as a Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity Education and Training, among other awards. Hiyane-Brown thanked lawmakers for the honor and credited faculty, staff, and the community for their role in supporting students. She plans to retire in March. STORY 4: Widow of late Whatcom fishing magnate seeking to sell business empire Erin Vitaljic (vee-TAH-leech) is preparing to sell the Bellingham-based seafood empire built by her late husband Andy. The third-generation Croatian fisherman, who transformed Whatcom County’s seafood industry, died last September at the age of 91. Andy Vitaljic began his career as a teenager, working as a deckhand on his uncle’s boat. After his father died in a boating accident in the late 1950s, he left the water and founded multiple seafood businesses, including American Canadian Fisheries. According to Cascadia Daily News, Erin plans to sell American Canadian Fisheries, the transportation and logistics company Hannegan Express, the real estate firm Hannegan Properties, and the pet food company Fat-Cat Fish. Andy, who wished to help feed the hungry in his own community, first donated fish through Christ the King Community Church’s food pantry, then set aside land at Hannegan and Hemmi Road for the CTK Farm. The farm grows produce for local food banks and has expanded to include large greenhouses and hundreds of volunteers. Last year, CTK donated 121,000 pounds of produce to the Whatcom County Food Bank Network. According to Erin, Moles Farewell Tributes reported Andy’s funeral was among the most well-attended in its history. She also said people in the seafood industry often described him as a towering figure in the business. STORY 5: Department of Health to expedite sex change designations on birth certificates Washington state has significantly accelerated the process for residents who wish to change the sex designation on their birth certificates. The State Department of Health announced on Wednesday that it will now process all requests within three business days, a drastic reduction of the previous wait time of up to 10 months. State birth certificates offer three sex designation options: male, female, and X. According to the Department of Health, “X” represents a gender that is not exclusively male or female, including transgender, nonbinary, and genderfluid identities. Governor Ferguson praised the decision on social media, and noted that department staff worked through a weekend to clear a backlog of more than 500 pending requests. Although processing now takes just three days, certificate mailing and delivery can still take up to two weeks. The announcement follows several executive orders by President Trump that affect transgender people. FREE AND CHEAP: Bellingham Valentine’s Day events / free and cheap? If you forgot to make Valentine’s Day plans, here are a few options: The B’ham Bop is hosting a Valentine’s Day swing dance lesson and social dance at The Nest on North Forest St. The event starts at 7 p.m. tonight, and no experience required. Online registration is closed, but those interested can still register at the door. Tonight at 9:30 p.m., the Upfront Theatre on Prospect Street will present Fifty Shades of Velvet, a love-themed improv show. Tickets starting at $10 can be purchased at the Upfront’s website. Mammoth Mini Golf, inside Bellis Fair Mall, is offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal on rounds of mini golf both today and tomorrow. The venue is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jay Irwin’s acoustic group will perform tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Stones Throw Brewery on Larrabee Avenue. The …
December 30, 2024 News Transcript
String of local burglaries continues with stolen car being driven into cannabis store, Bellingham thrift store sustains damage from fire, Traffic accident cuts power to Lakeway Drive, driver in custody, Former Ferndale police officer names BPD among defendants in federal suit, Mandatory food and yard waste collection to come to Bellingham in 2025 in advance of statewide adoption Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, December 30th. Good afternoon, I’m Theron Danielson. STORY: String of local burglaries continues with stolen car being driven into cannabis store Bellingham Police say they are investigating seven burglaries and one attempted burglary at local businesses over a 10-day span before Christmas. According to Lieutenant Claudia Murphy, the incidents appear unrelated, and only one suspect has been arrested. From December 14th through the 18th, there were break-ins at Serendipity, Fairhaven Runners, and the Barber Shack. This string of burglaries was followed by another; from December 20th through the 23rd, burglaries occurred at Sandwich Odyssey, Soy House, Wellman and Zuck General Contractors and the Dank of America dispensary, as well as an attempted break-in at Stones Throw Brewery. At Sandwich Odyssey, burglars entered through a window and stole the tip jar and items from the display case. No suspect has been identified. A glass door was smashed, plates were damaged, and items were stolen at the Soy House. The suspect, who was caught on camera, was arrested for this and another incident involving reckless burning at El Capitan’s. The office of Wellman and Zuck General Contractors was rummaged through, and a safe was stolen. The entry method and suspect are unknown, and there appears to be no connection to the Stones Throw Brewery attempted break-in next door. Finally, a group of five used a stolen vehicle to break into Dank of America, stealing $5,000 in cannabis products within two minutes. The vehicle was recovered, and probable cause has been established to arrest the suspects. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement pursuing leads from surveillance footage and recovered evidence. STORY: Bellingham thrift store sustains damage from fire Ragfinery, a nonprofit thrift shop on Bellingham’s North Forest Street, was damaged by a fire early yesterday morning According to Captain Dustin Michaelis (muh-KAY-liss) of the Bellingham Fire Department, the fire began on the exterior of the building and worked its way up an exterior wall, up the eves and into the attic. There was only moderate fire damage to the building, but significant water damage was found. No injuries have been reported. A social media post by Ragfinery told people to “stay tuned” on what this means for the organization’s future. A link for donations was also included. STORY: Traffic accident cuts power to Lakeway Drive, driver in custody A 24-year-old man suspected of driving under the influence crashed into a power pole in Bellingham on Lakeway Drive last Thursday evening, which cut power to the surrounding area for several hours. The crash occurred after the driver ran a red light and struck the power pole, which affected the intersection of Woburn, Yew and Lakeway. The driver was uninjured, but was arrested for suspected DUI and reckless driving and booked into Whatcom County Jail. Puget Sound Energy says the power has since been restored. STORY: Former Ferndale police officer names BPD among defendants in federal suit Former Ferndale police officer Michael Scott Langton has filed a federal lawsuit against the Bellingham Police Department. According to records, Langton is accusing Bellingham Police of violating his civil rights, as well as assault, false arrest, false imprisonment and negligent investigation. The lawsuit stems from Langton’s arrest during a SWAT raid at his Blaine residence in July 2022, which he alleges was conducted without probable cause or an arrest warrant. According to a report submitted to the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC), the SWAT raid and subsequent arrest came the same day a woman had come forward with evidence of recent text messages between her and Langton. It was alleged that the conversations showed that Langton proposed sex involving children, including her child. The report says law enforcement then executed a search warrant at Langton’s residence. Langton claims the messages were consensual discussions of fantasies. During the raid, Langton allegedly burned potential evidence and reset his phones, and has since refused to cooperate with Bellingham Police. Langton was eventually charged with criminal solicitation involving a minor. After posting bail, he was placed on administrative leave by Ferndale Police, and later terminated due to his inability to perform duties while barred from carrying a firearm. His law enforcement certification was revoked in November 2022. Citing a review of the evidence, prosecutors subsequently dismissed the criminal case against him in February 2023. Langton later accused former Ferndale Police Chief Kevin Turner of misconduct, but an investigation found no grounds for action against Turner. Langton’s current lawsuit against Bellingham Police was filed earlier this year on July 19th. He is now scheduled for trial in January 2026. STORY: Mandatory food and yard waste collection to come to Bellingham in 2025 in advance of statewide adoption Starting next year, single-family households in Bellingham will be required to use the FoodPlus collection service for food and yard waste. According to the City of Bellingham, the move aims to align local law with Washington state goals to reduce landfill organic waste by 75% by 2030. FoodPlus, offered since 2005 by Sanitary Service Company as a voluntary service, collects organic materials biweekly, including food scraps, yard debris, and compostable packaging. Currently, 8,000 households participate—- an additional 12,000 homes will be added by next May. The program will not initially include multi-family residences. According to the City, FoodPlus costs $13.69 per month but residents can save money by reducing trash service frequency. Exemptions for at-home composters are unavailable; however, FoodPlus accepts materials like meat and dairy that are unsuitable for backyard composting because of its high-heat processing. Processed locally by Green Earth Technology, the compost supports landscaping, agriculture, and public works while reducing emissions …
