As a new school year begins across North Central Washington, school administrators are focusing on student academic achievement, engagement, and expanded programs. In the Wenatchee School District, Superintendent Kory Kalahar emphasizes safe and healthy schools where every student feels a sense of belonging and receives free breakfast and lunch. Meanwhile, districts throughout the region are preparing for the upcoming months with a strong commitment to both student and staff success.
Ernest Radillo’s Entiat Valley cabin was destroyed by the lightning-caused Little Giant Fire after burning over 161,000 acres. Despite taking numerous precautions such as setting up sprinklers and clearing brush, Radillo and his family lost the property they spent eight years restoring. Nevertheless, Radillo plans to rebuild and hopes the tragedy will not define his family.
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East Wenatchee Chief Rick Johnson is taking on the role of Wenatchee police chief following approval from both city councils, while continuing his leadership in East Wenatchee. Although he acknowledges the challenges of managing two distinct departments amidst rising operational costs, Johnson remains optimistic about finding efficient ways to operate. Turning 49 recently, Johnson plans to continue in the role for at least the next four years until retirement age.
The arraignment hearing for a 14-year-old boy accused of first-degree premeditated murder in the stabbing death of Cassondra Marie Andrews-Huff has been continued to September 24. Prosecutors are seeking to try the teenager as an adult in Chelan County Superior Court, where he could face up to 26.5 years in prison. Defense attorneys requested more time to allow medical experts to respond to the state's legal memorandum.
The annual North Central Washington Fair has officially opened in Waterville, featuring an expanded layout with 18 rides and attractions alongside diverse vendors from across the Pacific Northwest. Fair manager Carolyn Morely highlighted the event's agricultural education focus, including animal barns and a petting zoo with baby animals. Additionally, the fair boasts musical performances by Niko Moon and Walker Hayes for weekend entertainment.
Due to failing HVAC systems and thick wildfire smoke, the Wenatchee School District has deployed over 260 box fans with filtration units across district buildings. Superintendent Kory Kalahar stated that three HVAC units failed at Wenatchee High School right before the school year started, prompting immediate action. To provide a permanent solution, the district will ask voters to consider a $275 million bond measure in November to replace aging HVAC systems.
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A Grant County judge dismissed a complaint by Wade and Teresa King challenging a $268,000 fine and restoration order issued by the state Department of Ecology regarding allegedly damaged alkali wetlands near Pear Lake. The ranchers, represented by the Pacific Legal Foundation, sought a jury trial, which the court denied without deciding if the state can force people into a tribunal without one. The legal battle will be appealed to the Court of Appeals.
A 26-year-old Othello woman, Jessica Detwiler, died following a two-vehicle collision on Highway 17 near Warden on Monday evening. According to the Washington State Patrol, Detwiler’s vehicle crossed the centerline into oncoming traffic and struck a Sorento head-on. The driver of the second vehicle was transported by Lifeflight with injuries, while the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks will be marked by an expanded Remembrance Ceremony in Cashmere's Riverside Park. Organizers have incorporated historical reflection cards penned by community members in 2002 to foster a full-circle moment of remembrance and education. The event will feature veteran speakers, musical performances, and special programs aimed at educating younger generations who have no personal recollection of the tragedy.
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The Cashmere City Council has delayed voting on a new 10-year Waste Management contract due to concerns over a proposed 10% rate increase. Council members questioned the necessity of the hike, pointing out that previous increases were capped at 4% annually based on the Consumer Price Index. Waste Management representatives explained that operating costs, including fuel, steel, and labor, have risen significantly over the past decade.
Communities across North Central Washington celebrated International Dog Day on August 26 by honoring shelter animals and family pets. The Wenatchee Valley Humane Society, which takes in hundreds of stray dogs annually, highlighted its mission to find loving homes for every dog. Local pet businesses like the Firehouse Pet Shop also participated by offering store discounts and free treats.
With school back in session across North Central Washington, drivers are reminded to adhere to strict traffic laws concerning school buses and school zones. Motorists must observe a 20 mph speed limit in school zones, yield to pedestrians, and stop completely when school bus red lights flash or stop paddles are extended. Illegally passing a stopped school bus carries a minimum $500 fine.
The Wenatchee Valley Dispute Resolution Center is celebrating its 20th anniversary with an annual celebration on October 1 at the Hilton Garden Inn. The event will honor community leaders, volunteers, and award recipients, including media CEO Terry Ward, the Interfaith Justice Coalition, and Concie Luna. Executive Director Jennifer Talbot emphasized the organization's ongoing commitment to dialogue, understanding, and peaceful problem-solving.
The Wenatchee Valley Dispute Resolution Center has expanded its service area to include Okanogan County following the closure of the Dispute Resolution Center of Okanogan County in August. Led by Executive Director Jennifer Talbot, the Wenatchee-based center is collaborating with local volunteers to ensure uninterrupted, high-quality dispute resolution services. Residents seeking mediation can now reach out through the center's website or phone line.
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The Wenatchee School Board unanimously approved a $158 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year, driven by declining enrollment trends. About $138 million is allocated to the general fund, while the remaining $19.8 million is distributed across four other funds. The district projects an enrollment of 6,190 students—238 fewer than last year—and anticipates continued declines over the next five years.
Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Eladio Marroquin in connection with a stabbing outside a Bridgeport Quick-E Mart that left a 35-year-old local man with a puncture wound to his lower back. Three other individuals—Monica Marroquin-Mercado, Iris Gail Marroquin, and Heliodoro Luquin Xhurape—were also booked into jail on suspicion of second-degree assault and criminal mischief. Surveillance footage reportedly captured members of the group confronting the victim outside the store.
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The Chelan City Council has approved an emergency facilities and land use agreement allowing the U.S. Forest Service to utilize the Lake Chelan Airport as a base for air support operations for the Little Giant Fire. The city will receive $300 per day from the federal government, along with retail fuel sales from fire response aircraft. City administrator Laura McAloon noted that the airport previously received $450 per day under a full-use agreement in 2024.
A deadly glacier collapse triggered massive floods and mudslides along the Nepal-China border, leaving over 390 people dead and more than 1,400 missing, including hundreds of foreign pilgrims. Rescue teams and military helicopters are searching for survivors amidst heavily damaged infrastructure and roads. The United Nations and Chinese officials have mobilized emergency aid and response efforts as floodwaters continue to threaten downstream communities.
East Wenatchee soccer player Diego Zaldívar has signed a professional contract with FK Sutjeska Foča in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After navigating collegiate soccer, injuries, and a brief trial in El Salvador, Zaldívar embraced the unexpected European opportunity. Now immersed in a Serbian-speaking team, he aims to elevate his game and inspire local youth.
Chinese humanoid robots surpassed human world records during the opening day of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, achieving a 100-meter sprint time of 9.39 seconds and a standing high jump of 2.88 meters. Over 2,000 humanoid robots participated in the five-day event, showcasing China's rapid advancements in robotics. While experts note that mass real-world deployment is still far off, spectators expressed excitement over the robots' evolving capabilities.
NFL owners unanimously approved the sale of the Seattle Seahawks from the Paul G. Allen Estate to a group led by billionaire Vinod Khosla for a record $9.612 billion. The transition, expected to finalize before the season opener against New England, ends the Allen family’s 29-year ownership. Vinod Khosla expressed humility and excitement about taking over the franchise while emphasizing a long-term focus on keeping the team winning.
Wenatchee Valley College men’s soccer team opened its home schedule against the Everett Trojans with a 0-0 draw. Both goalkeepers finished with six saves in the defensive battle. The Knights move to 1-1-1 ahead of their upcoming match against Pacific Northwest Christian College.
Rabbi Stanley Chester explores the biblical story of the man gathering sticks on the Sabbath, challenging the common interpretation of a harsh and unforgiving God. He argues that the account implies deliberate defiance and rebellion rather than an innocent mistake punished severely. Ultimately, Chester emphasizes that God is merciful, compassionate, and just.
Greg Asimakoupoulos reflects on the life and legacy of his late mother-in-law, Norma Steven, a missionary who spent six decades serving in Southern California and Mexico alongside her husband, Hugh. He highlights her remarkable resilience through personal tragedies and her daily spiritual devotion centered around prayer and a cup of tea. Steven's welcoming spirit and lifelong dedication to others left a profound mark on everyone she met.
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Scholar Sarah Dees explores how country music legend Dolly Parton transcended her musical status to become a spiritual icon for fans across diverse political and religious spectra. Parton navigated her complex relationship with religion publicly, embracing both her Christian upbringing and progressive values such as LGBTQ+ advocacy. Her widespread appeal and philanthropic efforts have cemented her legacy as a symbol of love, acceptance, and inclusivity.
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The expiration of Affordable Care Act enhanced subsidies at the end of last year has left millions of Americans, particularly in low-income states like Mississippi, without health insurance. Derrick Clark, an alderman and diabetes patient in Edwards, Mississippi, is among those whose coverage lapsed, making routine care unaffordable and threatening severe health consequences. While state officials expanded enrollment during the subsidy era, enrollment has now plummeted, reversing progress in overall population health.
Historic drought across Oregon, Idaho, and Washington has intensified the region's active wildfire season, causing severe water supply shortages for agriculture and utilities. Over 3.5 million acres have burned across the Northwest, fueled by extremely dry vegetation and record-high temperatures. Climatologists warn that depleted reservoir storage will leave little carryover water into the next water year.
Jacob Richards reflects on the impending dry-up of the lower Gunnison River in western Colorado due to severe drought and upstream water diversion. As a wilderness fly-fishing guide who has spent twelve summers on the river, Richards laments the ecological toll on the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness. He mourns for future generations who may never experience the river in its natural, wet state.
John M. Crisp reflects on the taxing nature of long military deployments at sea, using the return of the USS Abraham Lincoln as a backdrop. He recounts his own memories of service aboard the USS Bainbridge during the Vietnam War, emphasizing the psychological toll of isolation, cramped quarters, and prolonged separation from family. Crisp criticizes political figures like Donald Trump for lacking empathy toward the realities faced by enlisted personnel.
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Environmental advocates and regional officials are urging the public to oppose the Trump administration's plan to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which protects 58 million acres of federal forest land. Proponents argue that repealing the rule would threaten clean water, critical wildlife habitats, and thousands of miles of trails while increasing wildfire risks through expanded road access. Senators like Maria Cantwell continue efforts to codify the rule into federal law.
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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is emerging as a potential prominent candidate for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, building a national following as a progressive leader. While her youth, energy, and prominent platform appeal to progressive voters, critics point to her lack of foreign policy experience and ideological baggage as potential hurdles. Whether she decides to run for the House, Senate, or presidency remains to be seen following the upcoming midterms.
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Downtown Chelan business owners and association leaders urged the city council to increase funding for the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce, citing significant tourism revenue declines. Pointing to Leavenworth’s robust municipal investment in tourism marketing, local business leaders stressed the need for a multi-year funding agreement to attract off-season and shoulder-season visitors. Mayor Erin McCardle acknowledged the challenging economic conditions facing the local tourism sector.
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The Cashmere City Council voted 4-1 to extend its moratorium on new mini self-storage businesses and commercial storage operations for another six months. The temporary ban halts the processing of permits and licenses while the city updates its comprehensive plan and land use codes. Council members emphasized the need to align zoning regulations with housing goals rather than pre-judging commercial storage needs.
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The Chelan City Council approved a revised Affordable Housing Grant Fund policy making $50,000 available annually through October 15 for affordable housing projects within city limits. Funded through state shared tax revenue and developer contributions, the program aims to break down barriers for households at or below 120% of Area Median Income. Finance Director Heidi Evans noted that the fund will be effectively exhausted after three years without additional contributions.
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Local nonprofits have until October 1 to apply for $229,262 in available Chelan County lodging tax funds for 2027 events and tourism promotion. The grants are funded by taxes on lodging businesses and short-term rentals, with applications reviewed by the Chelan County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. Applicants are encouraged to provide concise responses to ensure eligibility.
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Washington state will receive $237 million as part of a $17.1 billion multistate legal settlement with Meta over allegations that its social media platforms intentionally harmed youth mental health. In response to the settlement, Meta agreed to overhaul its Instagram and Facebook apps by capping hours for young users, blocking nighttime usage, and limiting social comparison features. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown praised the agreement as a significant consumer protection victory against a major tech company.
Bellevue-based telecom giant T-Mobile is laying off 77 Washington-based employees and shutting down half a dozen retail stores across the state between September and November. The job cuts are attributed to changing business needs as the company transitions toward digital tools and company-operated stores. Affected locations include stores in Seattle, Bellingham, Bothell, Vancouver, Kennewick, Tacoma, and Yakima.
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The yellow No. 2 pencil remains a ubiquitous symbol of American education despite the digital shift in schools. Historian Caroline Weaver notes that elements like yellow paint and the eraser-tipped ferrule are uniquely American innovations. Henry David Thoreau's family helped pioneer pencil grading scales, leading to the familiar 'HB' and 'No. 2' standard.
Nvidia reported a massive surge in second-quarter revenue to $96.22 billion, well above Wall Street estimates, driven by insatiable demand for its artificial intelligence chips. CEO Jensen Huang announced that AI has reached an inflection point of productive and profitable enterprise use. Despite supply chain challenges, the company forecasts continued rapid growth for the upcoming quarter.
Eldercare attorney Harry Margolis recommends age 75 as the ideal time to initiate conversations with aging parents regarding their finances and caregiving arrangements. Key discussion areas include assessing their financial health, reviewing legal documents such as wills and powers of attorney, and evaluating home safety. Initiating these proactive steps can prevent family disputes and ensure parents' wishes are respected.
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Mexican ranchers in Sonora are preparing to resume live cattle exports to the United States after a yearlong ban triggered by a screwworm outbreak. The reopening at the Douglas, Arizona, border crossing comes with strict USDA controls, including RFID tags, electronic readers, and trained dogs. While local ranchers welcome the resumption, initial shipment limits and new restrictions have tempered their optimism.
A 1,300-square-foot condominium in Leavenworth sold for $880,000, topping the list of residential real estate sales in Chelan County for the week of March 16 to 22. A total of 14 residential properties were recorded during the week, with an average sale price of $388,643. Other notable sales included properties in Wenatchee, Chelan, and Peshastin.
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The Commerce Department reported that the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index rose 3.7% in July compared to the previous year, remaining unchanged from June and above the Federal Reserve's 2.9% target prior to the U.S.-Israel conflict. Core inflation also stayed at 3.3%, prompting speculation on how the Fed will adjust interest rates. Meanwhile, consumer sentiment remains gloomy as inflation-adjusted incomes rose just 0.2% over the past year.
U.S. stocks drifted lower on Friday as investors reacted to Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh’s remarks at Jackson Hole, Wyoming, signaling a potential interest rate hike to combat high inflation. The two-year Treasury yield jumped following the speech, reflecting growing expectations of a rate increase as early as next month. Meanwhile, strong quarterly results from retailers like Gap and semiconductor firms offered mixed signals across global markets.