Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism has hired Tony Briggmin, an award-winning sportswriter and newspaper designer, as its new marketing coordinator.

Briggmin takes over after leaving his position as assistant sports editor at The Idaho Statesman in Boise, Idaho.

“I look forward to utilizing Tony’s exceptional writing, graphic design and marketing skills in our tourism promotion activities,” said Loni Rahm, president and CEO of the tourism agency, in a Jan. 12 press release.

Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Briggmin graduated from Kent State University. He first moved to Whatcom County in 1997.