Friday, September 20, 2024
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30 new U.S. Citizens take oath at 9/11 Memorial

Thirty individuals took the Oath of Allegiance on Sept. 11.
CASHMERE – Thirty individuals from eight different countries took the Oath of Allegiance and became naturalized U.S. citizens at the 9/11 Spirit of America Memorial in Cashmere on Sept. 11, …
Legislative candidates to discuss STEM Education at Wenatchee forum
WENATCHEE - Legislative candidates from three Washington state districts are set to participate in a forum focused on the future of STEM education and career-connected learning for youth. The event, …
Brewster’s Grant Becker won blues for his market swine.
Okanogan County Fair brings out FFA’s best
OKANOGAN—Despite the high heat, the 77th annual Okanogan County Fair brought out the best from local FFA chapters in Brewster and Pateros. Nearly two dozen exhibitors turned out with swine, …
Bear cubs search for picnic remains at a developed campground.
New food storage rules aim to curb bear encounters in Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest
WENATCHEE — The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest implemented new food storage regulations on September 16 to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, particularly with bears. The rules require …
Chelan PUD dedicated a bench at Rocky Reach Park to Tony DeRooy, pictured, in 2004 for his outstanding work creating beautiful and innovative public spaces.
Rocky Reach Discovery Center honored for Dahlia Garden excellence
WENATCHEE — The Rocky Reach Discovery Center and its grounds crew have been awarded a Commemorative Medal by the American Dahlia Society for their contributions to dahlia cultivation and …
Maria Chávez, professor of political science at Pacific Lutheran University, will present
NCW Libraries to host virtual talk on Latina struggles in U.S.
WENATCHEE—NCW Libraries will host a virtual presentation on September 26 at 6 p.m. exploring the challenges faced by Latinas in the United States. The program, titled "The Firsts: Latina …
Sheriff Morrison addresses Cashmere City Council, providing an overview of his office’s 2023 successes and challenges.
Sheriff Morrison discusses local issues with Cashmere City Council
CASHMERE—In the hopes of promoting region-wide public transparency, Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison visited the Cashmere City Council and delivered the previous year’s detailed annual …
Wenatchee Valley Fire District Battalion Chief Albert Torres acts as Master of Ceremonies, leading the event with a passion for honoring those lost on 9/11.
Cashmere's 9/11 Memorial Ceremony unites community and honors heroes
CASHMERE– Remembering the tragedy of September 11, solemn onlookers, both local and international, gathered around the Spirit of America 9/11 Memorial in a thoughtful ceremony of song, shared …
Columbia Post 97 Honor Guard members, from left, Commander Greg Wagg, Glenn Farrington, Bob Lewis, Mike Norris, and Brandon Caswell stand at attention.
Brewster ceremony observes 23rd anniversary of World Trade Center attacks
BREWSTER – At precisely 9:11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11, a small group of citizens gathered at the memorial in Legion Park to observe the 23 rd anniversary of the terrorist attack on the World …
Manson’s Lake Chelan Swim had more than 100 swimmers at this year’s swim. The annual event raises money to fund free swimming lessons in the area. The swim is 1.5 miles and goes from Willow Point Park to Manson Bay Park on the north shore of Lake Chelan.
Lake Chelan swim raises money to fund free swim lessons
Manson’s Lake Chelan Swim had more than 100 swimmers at this year’s swim. The annual event raises money to fund free swimming lessons in the area. The swim is 1.5 miles and goes from …
Lake Chelan’s popular Brews on the Bridge event showcases local beers and ciders.
Tickets on sale for Chelan’s popular 'Brews on the Bridge' event
CHELAN – Tickets are now on sale for one of Chelan's most popular events, Brews on the Bridge, set to take place on Sunday, October 6 from 1-5 p.m. The event, which sells out every year, …
This photograph is one example of the type of forest fuels reduction treatment that is taking place under the Upper Wenatchee Pilot Project. Here healthy fire resistant trees were limbed, and then ground brush and ladder fuels were removed prior to a prescribed burn in area on the national forest in Chelan County near Leavenworth.
Upper Wenatchee pilot project Forest Resilience Bond launch
LEAVENWORTH - The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Chelan County and partners in Washington state are taking a pioneering step in wildfire risk mitigation by launching the first Forest Resilience …
Gary Day served on the Design Review Board for the last three years.
Leavenworth honors former Design Review Board member
LEAVENWORTH – Former Design Review Board member Gary Day was honored for his time and dedication by the City Council on Sept. 10. Day served on the Design Review Board for three years …
Other News
WENATCHEE - Dancers in Wenatchee are preparing to join thousands around the globe for the 18th annual Thrill the World event, a synchronized performance of Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller" dance, …
CHELAN COUNTY — Chelan County commissioners are hosting a series of community meetings this week featuring a bear-conflict expert from Montana, as the region prepares for the potential arrival …
OLYMPIA — The Washington State Patrol (WSP) will conduct a statewide emphasis patrol to honor fallen Trooper Christopher Gadd, who was killed in the line of duty earlier this year. The …
WINTHROP -- The mətx̌ʷu/Methow Descendants are hosting an open house to share their traditional knowledge and activities with the public. The event will take place on Saturday, September 21, …
NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON  — Health officials and local organizations will host a series of Senior Health Fairs across North Central Washington, offering free screenings and information to …
WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Dispute Resolution Center (WVDRC) honored its founding director and recognized a community peacebuilder during its 2024 Annual Celebration. The sold-out …
LEAVENWORTH – After failing to keep order during a contentious Aug. 13 meeting regarding condominiums, the City Council stated its new expectations for residents and speakers moving forward on …
WENATCHEE — The Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority (CDRPA) has released the Phase 2 Report for the Regional Sports Complex Feasibility Study, advancing the evaluation of a potential new …
Local features
Hot Tubs Liquidator’s new Wenatchee location officially opens, providing the valley with low-priced luxury spa experiences.

Hot Tubs Liquidators expands to Wenatchee

WENATCHEE—Hot Tubs Liquidators, a local Chelan business, continues to prove itself as one of the most affordable spa businesses in the region. Owners John and Carol Aldrich look forward to the …
Fixers Amy Massey (right) and Virginia White (left) pose with their satisfied customer, Beryl, and her repaired pants.

Cashmere's Repair Cafe: Stitching community together while reducing waste

CASHMERE– The chatter of sewing machines and laughter echoed throughout one of Cashmere’s oldest buildings as locals gathered at Eastside Rebuild for a monthly Repair Cafe.  …
The Chelan Girls started vacationing in Chelan their senior year of high school and have been back every year since.

Forty years of laughter, memories, and friendship in Chelan

CHELAN – The Chelan Girls have been coming to Lake Chelan every summer for 40 years. Each year, the eight women take time to set aside their many obligations and prioritize their friendships. …
Non-profit News

WSU Extension opens applications for 2025 Master Gardener training

WENATCHEE — The Washington State University Extension Chelan-Douglas Master Gardener Program is accepting applications for its 2025 basic training course, beginning in January. The program …

Loup Loup Ski Bowl unveils new pass options and free skiing for kids

WINTHROP - Loup Loup Ski Bowl, a community ski hill in Okanogan County, has announced several new initiatives for the upcoming season. The ski area is introducing a Kids Ski Free Program, …

Braver Angels to address political divide at Ruby Theatre event

CHELAN - In an effort to address growing political polarization, the "Ruby U" speaker series is set to host representatives from Braver Angels, a national organization dedicated to depolarizing …
Construction is underway to build a bigger home for Chelan Valley Hope.

Chelan Valley Hope, Food Bank expand to better serve community needs

CHELAN – Chelan Valley Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individuals and families in need, and its partner, the Lake Chelan Food Bank, are undergoing a significant remodel …

Cascadia Conservation District sets hybrid board meeting

WENATCHEE — The Cascadia Conservation District has announced its upcoming Regular Board meeting, scheduled for Friday, September 20, at 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format, …
Sports

Cashmere Cross Country shows promise at competitive Quincy Invite

QUINCY — The Cashmere Bulldogs cross country team faced tough competition at the Quincy Invite on Thursday, finishing eighth in the varsity boys team standings and third in the varsity girls …
The Cashmere Bulldogs' football team flattened the Kiona-Benton Bears 68-0 in the Bulldogs' home opener. Next up are the College Place Hawks in Walla Walla and then the toughest test yet, a visit by powerhouse Royal on Oct. 4.

Cashmere Bulldogs dominate in 68-0 rout of Kiona-Benton

CASHMERE -- The Cashmere Bulldogs delivered a dominant performance Friday night, overwhelming the Kiona-Benton Bears with a resounding 68-0 victory in high school football action. The Bulldogs' …
The A-11 rounds the final turn with the nearest challenger seen in the background.

Brewster Hydrofest hosts third annual Tony Newton Memorial Regatta

BREWSTER – The third annual running of the Brewster Thunderfest – Tony Newton Memorial Regatta was welcomed by warm weather and good water as the Pacific Northwest Boat Racing Association …

Kodiaks fall to Mountain Lions in early season clash

LEAVENWORTH — The Cascade Kodiaks volleyball team faced a setback in their early season campaign, falling to the Liberty Bell Mountain Lions 3-1 in a non-league match on Thursday. The …

Kodiaks secure strong second place finishes at Quincy Invite

QUINCY — The Cascade Kodiaks cross country team demonstrated its strength at the Quincy Invite on Thursday, securing second place finishes in both the boys' and girls' varsity races. In …
The Cascade Kodiaks volleyball team celebrates their victory over Thorp. The Kodiak swept the Tigers in their season opener. They play Liberty Bell at home on Thursday.

Kodiaks sweep Thorp in season opener

LEAVENWORTH — The Cascade Kodiaks volleyball team opened their season with a decisive victory, sweeping the visiting Thorp squad 3-0 in a non-league match last week. The home crowd left in …
Outdoors

Washington State releases 2024 hunting prospects, emphasizes new regulations

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has released its annual hunting prospects for the upcoming fall season, providing crucial information for hunters across the state. …

WDFW officers to start wearing body cameras

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will equip all 152 of its commissioned law enforcement officers with body-worn cameras starting this month. The program will …

Bobcat hunters face rule change

OLYMPIA — Washington state has new requirements for small game hunters and trappers who harvest bobcats. The requirement that went into effect on September 1 requires hunters to submit the …

King salmon season open for annual Brewster Derby

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 …
Obituaries
Roberta Oliver, 89, of Brewster, Washington passed away on September 8, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family.
Dan Davies passed away August 29, 2024 following a short but courageous battle with metastatic brain cancer. He was a great husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He lived his life always trying …
Agapito Esquivel, 72, of Bridgeport, Washington passed away on August 31, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family. 
John Graham, 75, of Tonasket, Washington passed away on August 31, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family.
James Wick, 23, of Mansfield, Washington passed away on August 28, 2024. Barnes Chapel is handling the arrangements for the family. 
William H. Kruse AKA William H. Bowers, 82, of Chelan, Washington passed away on September 4, 2024.  Services will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus …

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.
    • Shrub-Steppe Poetry Reading

      The Visit Wenatchee Visitor’s Center and Tasting Room will host the Shrub Steppe Poetry group on Thursday, August 15, from 5 to 6 p.m. …

    • Lila Forde live

      Lila Forde, a standout finalist from season twenty-four of NBC's The Voice, will perform live at the Old Barn Drinkery in Wenatchee on Saturday, …

    • Percy Jackson's Birthday Party

      The Wenatchee Library will host Percy Jackson's Birthday Party on Sunday, August 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Robert W. Woods Reading Room. …

    • Family movie afternoon

      The Wenatchee Library will host a Family Movie Afternoon on Wednesday, August 21, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Sagebrush Meeting Room. …

    • NCW Writer's Group

      The Wenatchee Library will host the NCW Writer's Group on Wednesday, August 21, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Balsamroot Meeting Room. …

Election 2024
OLYMPIA — The Office of the Secretary of State has certified the results of the August 6 Primary and ordered a mandatory statewide manual recount for the Commissioner of Public Lands …
WENATCHEE — The Chelan County Auditor's Office is seeking citizens to serve on committees responsible for writing statements in favor of or against ballot measures for the upcoming November …
CHELAN – State Senator Brad Hawkins has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the primary race for Chelan County Commissioner District 3, securing a commanding lead that positions him strongly …
CHELAN – Incumbent Mike Steele continues to show a commanding lead in the primary race for the State Representative seat representing Washington's 12th District. As of the August 9 count, …
CHELAN COUNTY – A proposition that supports the Howard Hopkins Memorial Pool maintained over 70 percent approval in the Aug. 9 election update. Upper Valley Parks and Recreation Service …
WENATCHEE– As Washington State primary elections continue well underway, results for Wenatchee Valley Fire Department’s (WVFD) fire benefit charge appear overwhelmingly positive in both …
Education
CHELAN – The Lake Chelan School District is one of 13 rural school districts in Washington to receive funding through the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) to enhance college and …
PESHASTIN – Cascade School District’s youngest and newest students entered the halls of Peshastin-Dryden Elementary to start their first day of Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and …
LEAVENWORTH – Through a collaborative “Save the K-8 Art Teachers” effort, Village Art in the Park (VAP) and Icicle Creek Center for the Arts (ICCA) were able to support the salaries …
CASHMERE– Cashmere High School’s class of 2025 rode through town in a celebratory annual parade, kicking off the first day of yet another successful school year. With a promising …
CHELAN – School enrollment numbers in the face of declining numbers statewide were among the leading back-to-school topics of interest at the meeting of the Lake Chelan School District Board on …
Opinion
In our hyperconnected world of constant notifications, streaming media, and 280-character hot takes, a vital human skill is quietly slipping away: the art of listening. True listening – …
Compassion. It's a word we hear often, but when was the last time you truly felt it? Not just a fleeting moment of sympathy, but a profound understanding of another's pain that moved you to action. …
Today, as we observe Labor Day, we pause to reflect on the state of work in America and the evolving relationship between employers and employees. This holiday, born from the labor movement of the …
Imagine a world where every conversation is an echo chamber, where differing opinions are met with hostility, and where the fear of the unfamiliar drives every decision. Now open your eyes – …
The Biden administration recently announced that Intel will receive $8.5 billion in funding to ramp up U.S. manufacturing of semiconductors. These investments will help rebuild a previously declining …
In an era marked by polarization and heated rhetoric, the notion of civil discourse has become both a beacon of hope and a subject of intense scrutiny. As we reflect on the state of public …
Around the region

Chelan County Sheriff warns of auto glass scam

WENATCHEE — The Chelan County Sheriff's Office is warning North Central Washington residents about a scam targeting consumers seeking auto glass replacement services on Facebook Marketplace. …

Three Rivers Hospital requests ER levy renewal

BREWSTER—While the Three Rivers Hospital Board of Commissioners continues to evaluate options for constructing a new facility, the hospital will ask voters to approve the renewal of the …

Lake Chelan welcomes fall with wine harvest celebration

CHELAN – The Lake Chelan Wine Harvest is a roughly two-month-long celebration of the wine harvest in Lake Chelan Valley. It offers a chance to discover limited-edition and newly released …

Chelan city council hears ARPA funds distribution plan

CHELAN – The city council heard recommendations at its Tuesday, Sept. 10 meeting for the distribution of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds on hand that have been under consideration since …
Autumn Leaf is known among other parades for leading the chicken dance.

Autumn Leaf Festival to celebrate 60 years

LEAVENWORTH – The Autumn Leaf Festival returns for its 60th celebration over the last weekend of September. “I'm really looking forward to the community coming out and supporting the …

Schools locked down as armed suspect apprehended in Chelan

CHELAN — A 34-year-old man was arrested Wednesday following a disturbance that prompted a lockdown of local schools in Chelan. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office responded to a …

Cashmere Planning Commission weighs options to raise funding through future development

CASHMERE– As the City’s new Comprehensive Plan approaches completion, the Cashmere City Planning Commission met and discussed the future of Cashmere’s development and growth. …

Upper Valley partnership tackles CNA shortage with paid training program

LEAVENWORTH – Through a partnership between Cascade Medical and Mountain Meadows Senior Living, the Upper Valley Nursing Assistant-Certified (NAC) Training Program offers paid training to …
Those looking to register for the Charm Walk can scan the code to make a $20 donation to CEF’s Venmo. Bracelets can be picked up on the day of the event in Front Street Park.

Charm Walk fundraiser to support Cascade School District teachers

LEAVENWORTH—Cascade Education Foundation (CEF) is hosting its second annual Charm Walk during the Autumn Leaf Festival, raising money to support teachers in Cascade School District (CSD). …
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