Sunday, June 15, 2025
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Travis Decker Manhunt

Manhunt evolves as search teams work to surround Decker

“Every single day Travis is out there, he's going to have to aim for perfection. He's not going to be able to make a mistake, because all we need is one mistake, and one day to go in our favor, and he's going to be in our custody,” said Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison.
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, …

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No Kings protest draws crowds throughout North Central Washington

Protestors stand in front of Leavenworth CIty Hall during the “No Kings” protest. Many protestors wished to not disclose their names at the rally.
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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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 …
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.
YMCA announces $750,000 donation for new facility from Campbell Family’s Foundation of Caring Fund
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 …
Chip the Duck, the mascot for Link Transit, is finally recovered from this year’s Apple Blossom and will be on hand for Kids’ Day on June 14.
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 …
Firefighters stand by as Chelan County Fire District 3 responds to a brush fire near milepost 98 on Highway 2.
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 …
The Founders’ Day Crunch Pak Grand Parade is a yearly hit with the residents of Cashmere.
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 …
The Leavenworth Summer Theater is best known for its annual “The Sound of Music” production with a scenic backdrop at Ski Hill.
Leavenworth Summer Theater collaborates with residents to host travelling performers
…
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 …
Executive Director of Pacific Northwest Support Services Julie Boyer shares advice on how to talk about death with children.
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, …
Lake Chelan Food Bank held an open house for their newly remodeled and expanded building on June 5. Remodeling doubled their space, enabling them to have more storage for canned goods and boxed food items.
Food banks reach out to local growers for fresh products
CHELAN – Increasing food insecurity is putting more pressure on local foods banks that are struggling to meet greater demand in the face of funding cuts, rising prices, and dwindling stocks. …
A green buffer is among trail design options.
Chelan Council workshop awards Lakeside Trail Project to KRCI LLC
CHELAN – The bids for the Lakeside Trail Water Street to West Woodin Avenue Project have been opened, reviewed for compliance, and submitted to the June 4 Chelan City Council workshop. And the …
Swimmers enjoy a little shade on a hot afternoon in Cashmere.
Cashmere City Pool to open for season on June 12
CASHMERE — Cashmere’s City Pool, at 104 Paton Street in the Cashmere Water Park, is reopening for the summer season this year on June 12. Built to offer a safer alternative to …
Riley Acheson
Cashmere sophomore named student representative to State Board of Education
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. …
The extreme heat warning and red flag warning (high fire danger) for this area remains in effect through 9 p.m. on June 10.
Red Flag Warnings persist as extreme heat and wind elevate wildfire risk
WENATCHEE — Critical fire weather conditions continue to threaten North Central Washington as Red Flag Warnings remain in effect for eastern Chelan County and Douglas County through 9 p.m. …
The newest building slated to join the Wenatchee Valley College campus is the Center for Technical Education and Innovation, opening Fall of 2027.
WVC announces groundbreaking for new Center for Technical Education and Innovation
WENATCHEE — Wenatchee Valley College will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Center for Technical Education and Innovation (CTEI) building. The event is open to the public and will take …
The $86.5 million Jumpoff Ridge Substation, a required infrastructure improvement for the Microsoft data center, was paid for in advance by the computing giant.
Chelan PUD discusses powering Microsoft data center with customer rates and reliability in mind
MALAGA — Chelan PUD commissioners are considering a contract to supply power to Microsoft's new data center in Malaga, aiming to balance their large energy requirements with reliability and …
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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
Zach Dempsey of Wenatchee gets out early before the heat to water the hanging flower pots along Wenatchee Avenue.
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 — 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. …
LEAVENWORTH — The popular Bavarian Bike 'n Brews event is making its return to the Cascade foothills with a new name and expanded programming. Rebranded as the Leavenworth Bike Fest, the event …
Updated photos of murder suspect Travis Decker, who is wanted for the deaths of his three daughters, show several angles of his appearance and distinctive tattoos. The new images include close-ups of tattoos on his arms and lower leg, which authorities hope will aid in identification. Decker is considered dangerous and may be armed. If seen, do not approach—call 911 immediately.
CHELAN COUNTY – As the search for murder suspect Travis Decker continues, more analysis from crime scene evidence has created more questions and information for investigators to pursue. …
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 …

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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

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 …

State Parks expands same-day camping reservations to all campgrounds 

OLYMPIA  —  The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is opening up more camping opportunities for visitors by expanding its same-day reservation option to all parks with …

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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
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 …
CHELAN — Five student musicians from the region have been awarded scholarships to support their continued musical development, the Valley Winds Community Concert Band and the Bob Myers Memorial …
CHELAN — Chelan High School has earned full accreditation through the Washington State Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD), according to a June 5 announcement from the Lake …
CHS graduates applaud for the graduating kindergarteners.
PESHASTIN – Cascade High School’s Class of 2025 made a visit to Peshastin-Dryden Elementary (PD) to take part in the Kindergarten graduation ceremony on June 6.  This is the …
JoAnne Prusa presents the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship award to Caroline Menna during Cascade High School’s Awards Night on June 3.
LEAVENWORTH — Caroline Menna, a senior at Cascade High School, has been awarded a $2,500 STAR Scholarship from the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Sisterhood. The scholarship, …

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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

Red Flag Warnings issued as heat and wind increase Fire Danger in Chelan, Douglas, Okanogan Counties

WENATCHEE – The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for eastern Chelan County and much of Douglas County from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on both Monday, June 9, and Tuesday, June 10, …

Search continues for Travis Decker as Icicle Road reopens, public urged to stay alert

CHELAN COUNTY  – Authorities have reopened Icicle River Road and surrounding recreation areas as the manhunt for Travis Decker enters its second week, though law enforcement warns the public to remain cautious.

Law Enforcement agencies to host town halls on grief, loss and supporting children

WENATCHEE — A series of community town hall meetings hosted by the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office Behavioral Health Unit will take place next week, offering guidance on navigating grief …

Governor Ferguson activates National Guard in search for Travis Decker

OLYMPIA — Gov. Bob Ferguson has ordered Washington National Guard resources to assist in the ongoing search for Travis Decker, the man accused of killing his three young daughters, whose bodies …
Photos of Decker in the days leading up to his visitation with his daughters reveal his last known appearance.

Decker searched ‘How to Move to Canada’ days before daughters’ deaths

CHELAN COUNTY – Federal authorities say Travis Decker Googled “how to move to canada” days before his visitation, as the search for the triple murder suspect enters its second week. On June 5, the U.S. Marshals Service filed a criminal complaint and issued a federal arrest warrant for Travis Decker on a charge of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Amy Edwards and Mark Belton pay their respects at the memorial site where a vigil was held for the Decker sisters just days ago.

Community unites for Whitney Decker after unthinkable loss

WENATCHEE — Tragedy has united the community in support of Whitney Decker, the mother of Olivia, Evelyn, and Paityn Decker, the three sisters recently found deceased near the Rock Island …
It wouldn’t be the graduating class of Cashmere High School without a few ATVs in the mix.

Senior grads tradition takes to the street in Cashmere with police, fire escorts

CASHMERE — On Wednesday, June 4, downtown Cashmere was lined with trucks, ATVs, boats, emergency vehicles and even electric scooters as Cashmere High School’s graduating class of 2025 …
Photos of Decker in the days leading up to his visitation with his daughters reveal his last known appearance.

Investigators follow more leads in search for Travis Decker, public asked to remain vigilant

CHELAN COUNTY – Law enforcement is asking for public cooperation and support as the search continues for 32-year-old Travis Decker, who is suspected of murdering his three daughters. …

Chelan County Sheriff remains ‘optimistic’ as search for Travis Decker continues

WENATCHEE – An extensive search operation, including local, regional, state and federal agencies, remains active for Travis Decker. Decker is wanted on three counts of first-degree murder …

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