Saturday, July 27, 2024
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Wildfire Coverage

Pioneer Fire continues to grow; now 31,906 acres

A massive plume of smoke rises from the Pioneer Fire in the rugged terrain of Fish Creek on July 17.
STEHEKIN — The Pioneer Fire in Washington's Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has expanded to 31,906 acres, officials reported Friday.  Fire activity along the lakeshore moderated on …
Congresswoman Kim Schrier (D-WA)
WASHINGTON  DC—Congresswoman Kim Schrier (D-WA) is urgently calling for additional resources to combat the Pioneer Fire in Washington State, which has burned over 30,000 acres and is …
The North Cascades Highway reopened Friday afternoon after a multiday closure due to wildfire activity, state transportation officials announced. The stretch of State Route …

More wildfire coverage

Our top story

Homeless Housing Network sets up shop in Wenatchee, connecting at-risk families to community resources

The Homeless Housing Network Team (from left to right) Juan, Jon, Angela, and Amber take a brief moment of respite from their crucial work to pose for the camera.
WENATCHEE—The Wenatchee Homeless Housing Network (HHN) opened at Link Transit’s Columbia Station in Downtown Wenatchee. It aims to connect community members who are homeless or at risk of …
Multiple fire agencies contain Dryden house fire, prevent major wildland spread
DRYDEN– Chelan County Fire District 6 worked alongside a team of local fire agencies to contain an actively spreading house fire in the North Dryden Road area.  Reports of the fire …
Part of the film features an orchard in Cashmere.
Washington-based feature film highlights Cashmere, Leavenworth
CASHMERE – Cashmere, Leavenworth, and US-2 will be featured in “Evergreens,” a Washington-based feature-length film. The cast and crew spent multiple days filming at the Outpost …
Wenatchee artist Lindsay Breidenthal demonstrates the stencil painting techniques she will teach in the final workshop of the Wenatchee Valley Museum's 2024 Summer Art Series on August 31. In her upcoming workshop, participants will learn to use stencils to create depth in their paintings and produce small art pieces such as bookmarks and postcards.
Local artists to lead summer workshops at Wenatchee Valley Museum
WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center, in collaboration with NCW Arts Alliance, has announced a new summer art workshop series featuring regional artists and educators, …
Classic car enthusiasts braved the heat to attend and show their vintage cars at the Entiat Classic Car Show. The event included live music, hydroplane races, food vendors and more.
Vintage Cars and Hydroplanes draw crowds to Entiat's annual summer showcase
ENTIAT - The annual Entiat Vintage Car Show drew classic car enthusiasts to Entiat City Park last Saturday, July 20. Despite high temperatures, the event saw a strong turnout of both participants and …
The Cashmere School District Office, where staff members work year-round to ensure the constant maintenance and review of the district’s many facilities.
Cashmere School District passes Clean Building compliance review with flying colors
CASHMERE— The Cashmere School District (CSD) once again sets the standard high for Washington facilities after passing a Clean Building compliance review for every facility in the district. CSD …
Leavenworth E-Bikes owner Christy Weihs stands in front of her new location in Plain.
Leavenworth Electric Bikes reaches milestone with permanent location in Plain, adds rentals
PLAIN – After operating out of a mobile unit for the past three seasons, Leavenworth Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) is opening a permanent establishment in Plain, expanding its offerings to e-bike …
Commissioner Shari Campbell with her grandson, Jack.
Cascade Medical appoints Shari Campbell to Board of Commissioners
LEAVENWORTH – Shari Campbell has been appointed as the newest commissioner on the Cascade Medical Board, following the retirement of former commissioner Mall Boyd. “I think we have a …
Diverse stakeholders examine maps and discuss cross-boundary projects during a collaborative planning session. The meeting brings together agency representatives and community partners to coordinate wildland management efforts.
Forest Service to hold virtual meeting on Central Washington Wildfire Prevention Initiative
WENATCHEE - Federal and state officials will host a virtual community meeting on July 30 to discuss the ongoing Central Washington Initiative, a comprehensive effort to reduce wildfire risks and …
D'Andre Vasquez, newly appointed Hispanic Business & Community Relations Coordinator for the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Wenatchee Valley Chamber creates position to bolster Hispanic business relations
WENATCHEE—The Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce has hired D'Andre Vasquez as its new Hispanic Business & Community Relations Coordinator. The position was created in partnership with …
Roundabout Expert Sean Samsel presents a detailed overview of roundabouts to the Wenatchee City Council, explaining their many safety benefits.
Wenatchee City Council merges into the world of circular intersections at roundabout workshop
WENATCHEE– In preparation for a long awaited update of the intersection at Crawford Avenue and Okanogan Avenue, City Project Engineer Zachary Horton held an educational workshop at the …
The Van Tassell Center at Wenatchee Valley College. As WVC develops a new strategic plan, President Dr. Faimous Harrison aims to reposition the college as a community-focused institution serving the diverse needs of North Central Washington's expansive region.
WVC crafts new strategic plan to strengthen community and address equity
WENATCHEE—Wenatchee Valley College is developing a new strategic plan to enhance its community focus, address equity gaps, and maintain academic excellence. WVC President Dr. Faimous …
Chelan County imposes strict fire restrictions as wildfire danger escalates
WENATCHEE -- Chelan County officials have announced the implementation of Stage 2 fire restrictions beginning Friday, as wildfire risks escalate across the region. The restrictions, affecting …
Other News
BREWSTER – King salmon season is open for the upcoming 18 th annual Brewster King Salmon Derby, August 2-4, but there are restrictions as to where kings can be caught. The popular Brewster …
CASHMERE- The Cashmere City Council has taken steps toward creating a new Transportation Benefit District (TBD) to address rising city expenses and budget shortfalls. During their July 22 …
LEAVENWORTH – The City Council received an update from Fire District #3, approved contracts for city improvement projects, and said goodbye to a city staff member in its July 23 meeting. …
OMAK — The Okanogan-Omak Rotary Club Foundation has announced the availability of two scholarships for students attending Wenatchee Valley College-North in Omak for the 2024-2025 academic year. …
BRIDGEPORT – The city needs to add a fence permit and off-street parking requirement to its municipal code. That is the message Superintendent of Public Instruction Stuart Dezellem told the …
STEHEKIN -- Authorities have issued a Level 2 evacuation order for Stehekin, prompting the immediate departure of all visitors, campers, and hikers from the area.  Chelan County Emergency …
WENATCHEE — A multi-agency operation has led to the arrest of a 24-year-old man suspected of multiple counts of forgery, identity theft, and robbery across two counties. Dennis Mendez of …
STEHEKIN — A Level 2 evacuation notice has been issued for the remote community of Stehekin as wildfire threats intensify in the region. The order, set to take effect at 8 a.m. on Thursday, …

More news

Local features
Steve Simonson signals a call during a basketball game in the 1990s, showcasing the dedication that led to his upcoming induction into the Washington Officials Association Hall of Fame.

Cashmere's Simonson scores Hall of Fame honor after 44 years of officiating

CASHMERE– After 44 years of officiating sports games both in the local area and statewide, Cashmere local Steve Simonson is looking forward to his induction into the Washington Officials …
Hotelier and property manager Hans Mulders in front of his Obertal Inn, a Bavarian institution in the center of Leavenworth.

Savor homemade fare at the storybook Obertal Inn

LEAVENWORTH – In the heart of downtown Leavenworth every morning, the aroma of freshly baked biscuits and homemade granola wafts through the air, inviting visitors to experience the charm of …
IV Pro Mobile is a Wenatchee based mobile IV hydration and wellness clinic.

IV Pro Mobile brings hydration, wellness to your doorstep

WENTACHEE – Through her two decades of nursing experience Aura Brazill saw a need for hydration and wellness care outside of the confines of the hospital.  That prompted her to start …

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Non-profit News

Mended Hearts chapter to hold August meeting

EAST WENATCHEE -- The Greater Wenatchee Mended Hearts chapter will hold its next meeting on Monday, August 5, offering support to heart patients and their family caregivers across four counties in …
Teens decorate cookies at the Chelan Teen Center.

Thrive Chelan Valley to open new teen center in Manson this fall

MANSON—Thrive Chelan Valley will open a new teen center in Manson this fall, expanding its mission to serve, empower, and advocate for all youth in the Lake Chelan Valley. Thrive, a …
The tag sewn onto Dan Smith's Quilt of Valor details its dedication in Chelan on June 30, 2024. Created by the Thimblebuns quilting group, it was pieced by Sue Freden and bound by Tracy Shaw, exemplifying the community effort behind each quilt awarded to honor veterans' service and sacrifice.

Vietnam Veteran honored with Quilt of Valor in Chelan Valley ceremony

CHELAN—Vietnam veteran Daniel Smith was honored with a handmade quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation, which recognized his military service and contributions to the community. The …
One of 69 installed memorial bricks at Lake Chelan Health Hospital expresses gratitude to local voters. The brick reads,

Lake Chelan Hospital completes memorial brick installation

CHELAN—Lake Chelan Health Hospital has completed the installation of its latest batch of memorial bricks, representing the final phase of Hospital Guild Y's successful fundraising project. …

Peshastin Library Ice Cream Social set for Saturday

PESHASTIN—The Friends of the Peshastin Library will host an Ice Cream Social on Saturday, July 27, from 7 to 9 p.m. on the library lawn. Though the library is temporarily closed and in the …

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Sports

AppleSox rally late to edge NorthPaws, clinch 10th series win

WENATCHEE - The Wenatchee AppleSox overcame a late deficit to secure a 5-4 victory against the Kamloops NorthPaws on Thursday night, clinching their 10th series win of the season. In a tightly …

AppleSox stumble in 9-3 loss to NorthPaws, defense commits five errors

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee AppleSox's defensive woes proved costly as they fell to the Kamloops NorthPaws 9-3 on Wednesday night at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium, snapping their winning streak. …

AppleSox's Vassar shatters strikeout record in 15-0 rout of NorthPaws

WENATCHEE — In a dominant performance Tuesday night, the Wenatchee AppleSox routed the Kamloops NorthPaws 15-0, securing their fourth consecutive victory and etching a new name in the franchise …

AppleSox rally late to sweep Pippins, secure fourth series sweep of 2024

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee AppleSox completed their fourth sweep of the 2024 season, defeating the Yakima Valley Pippins 10-8 in a dramatic comeback victory on Sunday night at Paul Thomas Sr. …

AppleSox rally late to stun Pippins in 12-9 thriller

WENATCHEE -- The Wenatchee AppleSox staged a dramatic comeback, scoring five runs in the eighth inning to defeat the Yakima Valley Pippins 12-9 on Saturday night at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium. …

Three big innings propel AppleSox to victory over Pippins

WENATCHEE -- The Wenatchee AppleSox capitalized on three high-scoring innings to secure a 9-2 victory against the Yakima Valley Pippins on Friday night at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium. The AppleSox …

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Outdoors

Wenatchee River salmon season canceled for 2024 due to low Chinook returns

WENATCHEE — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced that the planned salmon fishing season on the Wenatchee River will not open in 2024 due to low Chinook salmon …

Washington State Parks Commission approves new camping stay limits

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has approved new limits on camping stays in state parks to improve access and resource management. At its meeting on July 18, …

WDFW urges prospective hunters to complete education courses ahead of fall season

OLYMPIA  - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is urging prospective hunters to complete mandatory hunter education courses ahead of the upcoming fall hunting season. With the …

Lake Wenatchee opens for Sockeye fishing as surplus exceeds spawning goals

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced that Lake Wenatchee will open for sockeye salmon retention starting July 22, 2024, due to projected surplus fish counts …

Read more outdoors

Obituaries
Maria Garcia Esparza, 74, of Chelan, Washington passed away in Brewster, Washington on July 14, 2024. Precht Rose Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family. 
Chuck Sherman, 91, of Manson, Washington passed away July 8, 2024. He was born in Troy, Michigan September 24, 1932. Services were held July 18, 2024.
Nina Florence Ellington Collier January 20, 1935 – January 12, 2024 Nina wrote the following in 1981:   “January was cold in Minneapolis, the night I was born- 20 …
Gerry L. Pentland, 70, of Brewster, Washington passed away on July 17, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family.
Larry Bruce “Ozzie” Morley Formerly of Ritzville and Brewster, WA Larry Bruce “Ozzie’ Morley passed away on July 10, 2024, of dementia, after a short stay at Casa …
Larry ‘Ozzie’ Morley, 82, of Brewster, Washington passed away on July 10, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family.

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Get your event in the spotlight with Ward Media!

If you have an exciting event to share, email Reporter Quinn Propst at quinn@ward.media. We’ll showcase the five most captivating events of the week, giving your event the recognition it deserves. Even if your event isn’t among the top five, it will still be added to our events calendar and featured online. Don’t miss this chance to make your event shine!

Here is this week's list of 5 Things to do this Week.
    • Teen Book Swap

      The Wenatchee Library will host a Teen Book Swap on Thursday, July 18 from 3-4 p.m. in the auditorium. “Tweens and Teens: Come down …

    • Outdoor Summer Concert Series

      The band Pretty Little Feet will perform at Lincoln Rock State Park as part of their Outdoor Summer Concert Series on Friday, July 19 from 7-9 …

    • Film Club

      Wenatchee Public Library will host Film Club on Friday, July 19 from 6-9 p.m. “Join us every 3rd Friday of the month after the …

    • Lake Chelan Pro Rodeo 2024

      The Chelan Rustlers Saddle Club will host the Lake Chelan Pro Rodeo 2024 on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20.  …

    • Yoga Basics

      The Wells House will host Yoga Basics with Dianne on Monday, July 22 from 10-11 a.m. “Improve your flexibility, balance, strength, …

Election 2024
WENATCHEE — Ballots for the August 6 primary election have been mailed to registered voters in Chelan County, Auditor Skip Moore announced Thursday. To be counted, completed ballots must …
OLYMPIA—Washington state is gearing up for its August 6 Primary Election, with county elections offices set to mail out ballots and open official drop boxes by Friday. More than 4.8 million …
SEATTLE — The League of Women Voters of Washington (LWVWA) announced Wednesday that its online voter guide, VOTE411.org , has been updated with comprehensive information for the upcoming August …
OLYMPIA - The Office of the Secretary of State has officially certified candidates for Washington's upcoming August 6 Primary election. The certification took place on Tuesday in the Legislative …
WENATCHEE - The Chelan County Auditor's Office seeks individuals to serve on "For" or "Against" committees for ballot measures in the upcoming August 6 Special Election Local Voters' Pamphlet. The …
Brian Burnett
WENATCHEE—Former Chelan County Sheriff Brian Burnett is running for State Representative, District 12, Position 1, as a Republican candidate. The announcement, made through a press release, …

More election coverage

Education
At its mid-July meeting, held at the Cascade School District offices, Superintendent Edou and the School Board embraced a positive outlook.
LEAVENWORTH – After a year of bi-monthly meetings dominated by budgetary woes, the July 15 meeting of the Cascade School District (CSD) Board of Directors was decidedly upbeat and optimistic. …
SPOKANE – Five Brewster and Bridgeport graduates now enrolled at either Spokane Community College (SCC) or Spokane Falls Community College (SFCC) have made the 2024 spring quarter honor roll …
Pateros School Superintendent/Principal Scotti Wiltse
PATEROS—Students returning to class in September will have to confront the welcome conundrum of what to do with a free day every Friday after the district board of directors approved a four-day …
CHELAN– In a world where the landscape of employment is continually shifting, Chelan High School is taking proactive steps to ensure its students are prepared for the future.  One of …
Tracey Edou <br> Cascade School District Superintendent
LEAVENWORTH – Cascade School District (CSD) will be reimbursed $111,000 by the state for special education expenses accrued during the 2023-2024 school year. “We have students who …

Read more education

Opinion
Terry Ward, Publisher
As the August 6 primary election draws near, it is crucial that we, as citizens, recognize the immense power we hold in our hands. The act of voting, often taken for granted, is the very foundation …
Terry Ward, Publisher
As wildfires like the Pioneer Fire continue to rage across our region, it's easy to feel frustrated and scared. The smoke-filled air, evacuations, and constant worry take their toll on all of us. But …
Terry Ward, Publisher
As the publisher of our local newspaper, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the recent Pew Research Center report on the changing relationship between Americans and their local news outlets. The …
J. Scott Graham<br> Chief Executive Officer<br> Three Rivers Hospital
Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) play a crucial role in providing healthcare services to residents in remote and underserved areas. Three Rivers Hospital in Brewster is one such organization. We …
Jesus Hernandez, CEO<br> Family Health Centers and Advance
Family Health Centers serves Okanogan County and North Douglas County with medical, behavioral health, dental, pharmacy, and an array of other support services.  It's governed by a volunteer …
Amy Yaley<br> COO<br> Ward Media
In the ever-evolving business landscape, the importance of strategic marketing cannot be overstated. A well-crafted marketing plan is the cornerstone for sustainable growth, guiding your business …

Read more opinion

Business news from Wenatchee Business Journal,
part of the NCW News network

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Around the region

State Senator Brad Hawkins calls for increased air assets and swift initial attacks to combat Chelan County wildfires

WENATCHEE - As wildfires continue to ravage Chelan County, State Senator Brad Hawkins is calling for more air assets and initial attacks to address the region's long-term fire risks. In a statement …

Brewster’s Digital Equity Day, marking one year since closing the digital divide

BREWSTER—The city council approved a proclamation designating Sept. 8 as Digital Equity Day, just a month shy of the Oct. 5, 2023, one-year anniversary of groundbreaking ceremonies marking the …

Kristen Taylor named to AdvisorHub's Advisors to Watch list for third consecutive year

ST. LOUIS — Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) announced Friday that Kristen Taylor, Managing Director/Investments with the firm's Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated broker-dealer …

Renovation work underway in Bridgeport’s Berryman Park

BRIDGEPORT – Renovation work was underway in Berryman Park when the Bridgeport Revitalization Committee met in the city hall conference room on Wednesday, July 18. J.M. Construction of …

Brewster leads the field for funded infrastructure projects

BREWSTER – A public hearing was held, and a resolution approved for the city’s 2024-29 Six Year Street Plan at the regular monthly of the city council last Thursday, July 18, but that was …
Youth compete at the 2023 Chelan Jr. Rodeo. This year youth from all over the state will compete on July 27 and 28 at the Chelan Jr. Rodeo.

Young cowboys and cowgirls set to compete at annual Chelan Jr. Rodeo

CHELAN – Young rodeo enthusiasts and their families are gearing up for the annual Chelan Jr. Rodeo on Saturday, July 27 and 28.  The rodeo is put on by the Chelan Rustlers Saddle Club …

Pool supporters in Leavenworth push community efforts as levy heads to ballot

LEAVENWORTH—As the option to reauthorize the Upper Valley Park and Recreation Service Area (PRSA) levy arrives on August ballots, the Upper Valley Aquatics Boosters (UVAB) are finding ways to …

Wildfire near Twisp prompts Level 1 advisory, scorches 125 acres

TWISP—A wildfire in Okanogan County has prompted authorities to issue a Level 1 Advisory for residents near State Route 20, east of Upper Beaver Creek and Frazer Crossing Road. The Frazer …

State mobilizes resources to support local firefighters battling the Pioneer Fire

STEHEKIN —State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the Pioneer Fire near …

More from around the region

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