Tuesday, June 24, 2025
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Chelan PUD approves power contract for Microsoft Data Center in Malaga

The newly constructed Jumpoff Ridge substation in Malaga, shown here, was funded by Microsoft as part of an $86.5 million infrastructure investment to support its upcoming data center campus. The facility will deliver up to 18 megawatts of power under a contract approved by Chelan PUD commissioners.
WENATCHEE — Chelan County Public Utility District commissioners on Monday, June 16, approved a contract to supply power to Microsoft’s forthcoming data center campus in Malaga, marking …
Other News
Mourners and program participants gather before the memorial in the shadow of Rocky Reach Dam.
Decker memorial draws hundreds at Rocky Reach Park
WENATCHEE — Rocky Reach Park was the site of the public memorial for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia Decker on June 20, as family and friends gathered to honor the lives of the three young girls …
Winds, steep terrain and low moisture challenge firefighting efforts against Pomas Fire
GLACIER PEAK WILDERNESS – The Pomas Fire, located approximately 36 miles northwest of Entiat, has grown to 910 acres. In a June 19 update, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) said dead timber, …
Updated photos show how Travis Caleb Decker could have altered his face. The suspect is described as a white male, 5-foot-8, 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a tan or green t-shirt and dark shorts.
Sheriff’s Office refutes TikTok claim as search for Travis Decker continues
CHELAN COUNTY – Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has debunked a TikTok video claiming Travis Decker was taken into custody after a standoff, reiterating that the interagency search …
Janette Townsend has been named the new chief financial officer of Confluence Health, bringing more than 25 years of nonprofit healthcare finance experience to the regional healthcare system.
Confluence Health names new chief financial officer
WENATCHEE — Confluence Health has announced Janette Townsend as its new chief financial officer, bringing more than 25 years of healthcare financial leadership to the role as the organization …
Chelan schools’ HOPE Squad includes high school and middle school peer-nominated members.
HOPE Squad brings suicide prevention work to Chelan schools
CHELAN – Members of the Chelan schools’ HOPE Squad delivered a slide show presentation to the June 9 meeting of the board of Lake Chelan School District (LCSD). HOPE Squad is a …
1953 picture of Morgen Owings Elementary, which was built in 1948
Lake Chelan School Board approves $73 million bond for November ballot
CHELAN — The Lake Chelan School Board voted unanimously on June 9 to place a $73 million bond measure on the Nov. 4 ballot, aiming to fund major facility upgrades that district leaders say are …
Manson Elementary students step into leadership roles through “Leader in Me” program
MANSON — Elementary students at Manson School District are getting firsthand experience in leadership, thanks to the district’s implementation of the “Leader in Me” program. …
The Lakeside Park site development plan shows the proposed improvements.
City of Chelan approves review and rebid of Lakeside Park Renovation Plan
CHELAN – The Lakeside Park Renovation project was moved back to the drawing board by unanimous vote of the June 10 city council after bids received for the work were well in excess of the …
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
Chelan’s new Capital Projects Manager joins Lakeside Trail team
CHELAN – The city has wasted little time putting its new Capital Projects Manager (CPM), Rox Hoskins, to work on her first assignment, the Lakeside Trail project. The nearly $4 million …
Lake Chelan educator and Manson school cook honored as regional award winners
WENATCHEE — Two North Central Washington school employees have been recognized with top regional honors by the North Central Educational Service District. Madonna Carlton, a LifeSkills …
Co-producers Lauren Loebsack and Adam Eagle join their production partner Holly Thorpe on the first night of summer for the inaugural performance of Wenatchee LIVE!
One night only with Wenatchee LIVE! showcases local troupe’s variety show
WENATCHEE — On June 20, Wenatchee’s Numerica Performing Arts Center will host the inaugural performance of Wenatchee LIVE!, a variety show that will feature comedy, music, and a host of …
A display board at a recent event shows exactly what OVOF does: Take ideas and needs that are outlined by the community, and turn them into reality.
Our Valley Our Future seeks executive director for first time in a decade
WENATCHEE — Our Valley Our Future (OVOF), the nonprofit community-led group responsible for organizing and putting into action many of the programs and improvements you see happening all around …
Visible smoke and flames from the Pomas Fire, located 6 air miles northwest of Entiat.
Pomas Fire grows to 362 acres in Glacier Peak Wilderness
GLACIER PEAK WILDERNESS – Firefighters face low humidity, west winds, and heavy dead timber as they continue to respond to the Pomas Fire, which has grown to an estimated 362 acres since it was …
Protesters gathered in Wenatchee and across North Central Washington on June 14 for the “No Kings” demonstration, joining a nationwide movement rejecting authoritarianism and what organizers called “strongman politics.” More than 400 people participated regionally.
[PHOTO GALLERY] "No Kings" Protest across NCW
Hundreds of people across North Central Washington took part in the “No Kings” protest on June 14, joining a nationwide movement opposing authoritarianism and calling for the protection …
Protestors stand in front of Leavenworth CIty Hall during the “No Kings” protest. Many protestors wished to not disclose their names at the rally.
No Kings protest draws crowds throughout North Central Washington
CHELAN COUNTY –  Hundreds of protestors gathered throughout North Central Washington for the “No Kings” Protest on June 14, to protest the actions of the Trump Administration …
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Two homes damaged in Ringold Street fire

WENATCHEE — A house fire erupted in the 800 block of Ringold Street in Wenatchee on Thursday, June 5, prompting a response from the Wenatchee Valley Fire Department and Wenatchee Police …

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Thomas Tilton to showcase historic accordion collection

LEAVENWORTH –  For decades, Thomas Tilton has been at the heart of Leavenworth’s alpine music scene, whether it’s performing solo in Andreas Keller, with his wife and son in …

Other News
CHELAN — The Lake Chelan Wine Alliance, in collaboration with the Historic Downtown Chelan Association, will host “Sip into Summer,” a wine walk event scheduled for Friday, June 20, …
CASHMERE — The Cashmere City Council, acting as the city’s Transportation Benefit District, approved a one-tenth of one percent sales tax increase during its June 9 meeting, designating …
CASHMERE – Chelan County Fire District 6 will be visiting homes within its 45 square mile service area throughout June to connect with the communities it serves. “We want our …
Annalisa Noble is the Principal Funding Specialist/Grant Writer for Tower Consultants.
CHELAN – A funding progress report, summarizing grants received, grant requests pending, and repeat applications, provided the June 10 city council with insightful background details on how the …
WENATCHEE — A public memorial service honoring Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, June 20. The three young sisters—Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, …
Updated photos of murder suspect Travis Decker, who is wanted for the deaths of his three daughters. Authorities believe Decker is currently in the Blewett Pass / Highway 97 area.
KITTITAS COUNTY – Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) deputies and tactical team members are continuing to maintain elevated patrols as law enforcement searches for Travis Decker in …
Zach Dempsey of Wenatchee gets out early before the heat to water the hanging flower pots along Wenatchee Avenue.
A scale model of the new YMCA from the groundbreaking ceremony. The vision gets even closer to being realized with a generous gift from the Carl & Betty Campbell Family.
WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley YMCA has received a transformative $750,000 gift from the Foundation of Caring Fund, established in principle by the Carl & Betty Campbell family. This …

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Local features
The youth sports teams that Doane’s has sponsored over the years fill far more than this wall with photos.

Medicine for the body, ice cream for the soul, right in downtown Cashmere

CASHMERE — At the west end of Cottage Avenue stands a landmark business that’s finally made its way back into the hands of the family that established it. Dave Doane purchased the …

Eagle Creek Flower Farm’s roadside stand thrives on simplicity and trust

LEAENWORH — From late spring into early fall, Eagle Creek Flower Farm’s roadside stand comes alive with colorful bouquets that change with the season. Every weekend, the stand is visited …
An ancient Singer sewing machine tells a story of an era when every repair was done on a small machine or by hand.

From cobbler to cornerstone: More than a century of service at American Shoe Shop

WENATCHEE — In the first of our series on businesses in the Wenatchee Valley that have been operating for more than 40 years, we profile American Shoe Shop, a family-rooted establishment that’s been …

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Non-profit News

Mark Judy Memorial Caregiver Education Fund awards scholarships to seven Cascade Medical employees

LEAVENWORTH – Seven Cascade Medical Center employees were awarded a total of $5,600 in scholarships through Cascade Medical Foundation’s Mark Judy Memorial Caregiver  Education …

Mended Hearts chapter to host meeting on nutrition and food labels

EAST WENATCHEE — The Greater Wenatchee Mended Hearts chapter will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, May 5, focusing on nutrition and food label interpretation for heart patients and their …
A Cowboys receiver under the watchful eye of a Dolphins defender goes out for a pass.

Lake Chelan Valley Boys & Girls Club launches NFL Flag Football for ages 3-12

CHELAN — At Sargent Field this spring, there’s a new football team in town. Make that a few new teams. And with jerseys donated by the NFL from teams you already watch on Sundays in the …

Eagle Scout constructs benches for Tierra Learning Center

LEAVENWORTH — Tierra Learning Center received four newly constructed benches as part of a local teen's Eagle Scout project. Callie Holmes, along with friends and family members, built, …

Chelan County Fair announces special vendor spots for local nonprofits

CASHMERE — The Chelan County Fair, held this year from September 4–7, has announced they will be offering vendor spaces for nonprofit charitable organizations at a drastically reduced …
Volunteers collect food during the Methodist Church’s food drive last year.

Upper Valley MEND to host Easter weekend food drive

LEAVENWORTH – As food insecurity continues to rise in the region, Upper Valley MEND’s Community Cupboard food pantry is seeking additional support to meet the growing need in the …

Washington apple license plate program marks five-year anniversary, raises $142,000 for students

WENATCHEE — The Washington Apple Education Foundation announced Thursday that its specialized license plate program has raised more than $142,000 for student scholarships over the past five …

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Sports

AppleSox pull away late to defeat NightOwls 9-4

NANAIMO, B.C. — A late offensive burst propelled the Wenatchee AppleSox to a 9-4 win over the Nanaimo NightOwls on Saturday night at Serauxman Stadium. Wenatchee broke open a close game …

Wenatchee blanks Kelowna behind Sandvik’s six scoreless innings

WENATCHEE — Blake Sandvik tossed six shutout innings and struck out seven as the Wenatchee AppleSox defeated the Kelowna Falcons 13-0 Tuesday night at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium. The AppleSox …

AppleSox rout Pippins to clinch series behind Panganiban’s seven-RBI performance

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee AppleSox delivered a dominant 17-4 victory over the Yakima Valley Pippins on Sunday night, powered by a breakout performance from newcomer Kyle Panganiban and a strong …

AppleSox shut out Pippins, Darlington earns 100th career win

WENATCHEE — Alec Johnson delivered a dominant start and the Wenatchee AppleSox backed him with 10 runs to defeat the Yakima Valley Pippins, 10-0, on Saturday night, evening the opening series …

Pippins defeat AppleSox 5-1 in season opener

WENATCHEE — Despite a three-hit performance from Brady Bean, the Wenatchee AppleSox fell to the Yakima Valley Pippins, 5-1, on Opening Night at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium. The Pippins (1-0) …

Wenatchee AppleSox unveil 25th Anniversary Team ahead of 2025 season opener

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee AppleSox have announced their 25th anniversary team, honoring standout individual seasons as the club prepares to open its 25th season of play on Friday. The …

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Outdoors

Campfire restrictions take effect June 13 for Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest

WENATCHEE — The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest will implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective June 13th, limiting campfires to designated, developed recreation sites and specific …

Annual Discover Pass cost set to increase in October

OLYMPIA — Starting Oct. 1, the annual Discover Pass will increase from $30 to $45, marking the first price hike since the program was implemented in 2011. The Discover Pass is required to …

Patterson Lake access area to close temporarily for construction work

WINTHROP — The Patterson Lake Access Area, a popular site for anglers and recreational boaters near Sun Mountain Lodge, will be temporarily closed to the public from May 1 to May 14, the …

WDFW approves new hunting season rules

OLYMPIA — Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind has approved most proposed changes to hunting season regulations for the 2025-2026 seasons, with one notable …

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Obituaries
Kay Smith, 80, of Leavenworth, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Arrangements by Heritage Memorial Chapel, E. Wenatchee & Cashmere.
Sandra “Gay” Cordell
In Loving Memory of Sandra “Gay” Cordell November 11, 1945 – June 7, 2025 Sandra “Gay” Cordell was peacefully called into the presence of the Lord on June 7, …
Terrence J. Skube, 69, of Pateros, Washington, passed away on June 1, 2025.  Precht Rose Chapel in Chelan, Washington is handling the arrangements for the family. 
Jessie D.R. Hawk, 55, of Chelan, Washington, passed away on May 28, 2025.  Precht Rose Chapel in Chelan, Washington is handling the arrangements for the family.
Ellen (Hublitz) Park, 74, Wenatchee, WA Ellen Marie (Hublitz) Park passed away on Thursday, May 8th, at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. Ellen was surrounded by family …
Sheryl Leigh Gross of Bridgeport, WA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 17, 2025, at age 79.  She was born January 29, 1946, in Spokane, WA, to Eldon “Shorty” Ransom …

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State News
OLYMPIA — Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson on Tuesday signed into law a controversial policy requiring gun buyers to first pay for a new state permit.  Starting in two years, House Bill …
Gov. Bob Ferguson hands over one of the pens he used to sign House Bill 1296, the ‘students bill of rights’ to a child who attended the bill signing.
OLYMPIA — The parental “bill of rights” overhaul, one of the most divisive bills approved during this year’s Washington state legislative session, was signed by Gov. Bob …
Gov. Bob Ferguson’s signature on the the 1,367 page document outlining the state’s 2025 operating budget.
OLYMPIA — Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson entered office warning that a multibillion-dollar budget shortfall would require spending cuts and, as a last resort , higher taxes. On Tuesday, the …
Inside the Washington State Library in Tumwater, Wash.
OLYMPIA - Secretary of State Steve Hobbs is preparing to lay off nearly 50 Washington State Library employees due to a decline in state and federal funding. In the past two weeks, 47 workers at …
Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a trio of bills on Monday related to protecting immigrants in Washington state.
OLYMPIA _ Gov. Bob Ferguson signed three bills to protect immigrant rights last week.  These included measures to strengthen state power to inspect private detention facilities, prevent …
A new law in Washington will assure students are offered special education services until they are 22. State Sen. Adrian Cortes, D-Battle Ground, a special education teacher, was the sponsor. He spoke of the need for increased funding and support for public schools at a February rally of educators, parents and students at the Washington state Capitol.
OLYMPIA - A new law triggered by a lawsuit will ensure public school students in Washington are offered special education instruction until they are 22 years old. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed …

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Education
Riley Acheson
OLYMPIA — Riley Acheson, a sophomore at Cashmere High School, has been selected as the next student representative to the Washington State Board of Education, officials announced this week. …
Cascade High School’s Class of 2025 marked graduation on June 6 with speeches, student recognition, and a packed crowd at the football stadium in Peshastin. The ceremony included remarks from …
Pateros High School held its graduation ceremony on June 7, where students marked the end of their high school journey with heartfelt speeches and emotional goodbyes in front of family, friends, and …
Cashmere High School celebrated the Class of 2025 on June 6 with a graduation ceremony featuring diploma presentations, enthusiastic applause from the crowd, and musical performances by the school …
Graduates, school staff, and community members gathered at Manson High School on June 7 to celebrate the Class of 2025. The ceremony included student speeches and a performance of the National Anthem …

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Opinion
Terry Ward, Publisher
In this space, I often write about compassion, connection, and community—those quiet but powerful forces that bind us together, especially in times of crisis. Over the past week, North Central …
Terry Ward, Publisher
We live in a time when it’s easier than ever to share an opinion, voice frustration, or criticize someone or something. Social media, online forums, and even community meetings have become …
Terry Ward, Publisher
Most of us won’t leave behind statues or headlines. But maybe — just maybe — a few words we said, a kindness we offered, or a hand we extended will echo longer than we know. I …
Terry Ward CEO & Publisher Ward Media
Our community newspaper serves as a vital gathering place for meaningful local dialogue. We believe that the strongest communities are built on understanding, shared experiences, and the collective …
Terry Ward CEO & Publisher Ward Media
In these early days of 2025, as winter settles across North Central Washington, I'm struck by an overwhelming sense of possibility. From the snow-dusted orchards of the Wenatchee Valley to the …
Rep. Brad Hawkins addresses the House of Representatives in 2013 on “Children’s Day” with his two boys, Luke and Tyler. Hawkins served four years in the House of Representatives and eight years in the State Senate. He begins his role as Chelan County Commissioner on January 1.
The Washington State Legislature will begin its 105-day session on January 13th. Thanks to your support in the recent election, I’m now in the process of transitioning to the County Courthouse …

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Around the region

Link Transit holds Kid’s Day at Columbia Station on June 14

WENATCHEE — Link Transit is holding its inaugural Kids’ Day, a special event celebrating families and young riders as part of June’s “Ride Transit” Month. This free …
U.S. Marshals Service Eastern District Washington Chief Jerome Brown speaks at the June 11 conference. Brown said his agency has deployed its Rapidly Advancing Manhunt (RAM) program in the search for Decker.

Manhunt evolves as search teams work to surround Decker

WENATCHEE — The search for Travis Decker continues to evolve as law enforcement agencies shift tactics and deploy specialized resources in their pursuit. Decker, 32, of the Wenatchee area, …
Smoke rises out of Tumwater Canyon Tuesday evening.

Firefighters respond to brushfire in Tumwater Canyon

LEAVENWORTH – Firefighters responded to a brushfire in Tumwater Canyon at approximately 6:30 p.m. Tuesday evening. The highway remains closed in both directions at the Icicle Road and …
Cashmere is not immune to the pickleball craze, and the 2-day tournament hosted by Cashmere Rotary will be held at the high school tennis courts.

Founders’ Day takes the party city-wide in Cashmere this year

CASHMERE — It’s time again for Founders’ Day, and this year’s celebration promises to be as big a blowout as the small town vibe can handle, with at least one entirely new …

Cashmere Planning Commission reviews ADU code updates, launches comprehensive plan overhaul

CASHMERE — The Cashmere Planning Commission convened for a workshop meeting on June 2 to discuss upcoming updates to the city’s zoning code and long-term development blueprint, including …

Leavenworth Library to feature local abstract artist Melissa Osborne in summer exhibition

LEAVENWORTH — The Leavenworth Library will feature the work of abstract painter Melissa Osborne in an art exhibition running from June 17 through July 25 in the library’s Fireside Room. …
Tate Foshay plays Gaston from last season’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Foshay rented a home in Leavenworth from Kym Good, and now lives in Chicago to pursue theater full time.

Leavenworth Summer Theater collaborates with residents to host travelling performers

…

Tip leads authorities to Blewett Pass area in Travis Decker manhunt

BLEWETT PASS – Authorities say they have tracked a subject believed to be Travis Decker into the Blewett Pass/ Highway 97 area. In a June 10 update, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office …

Grief experts help community navigate the loss of Olivia, Evelyn, and Paityn Decker

LEAVENWORTH – The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Behavioral Health Unit organized three town hall meetings to help the community as it mourns the deaths of three sisters, Olivia, …

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