Your trusted source for local Leavenworth, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A 37-year-old hiker, Andrew Wong from Long Island, New York, was found dead in the Enchantments on September 9 after failing to return from a hike. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office confirmed his death resulted from injuries consistent with a fall. Local authorities praised the swift efforts of rescue teams in the challenging recovery operation.
The Chelan County Public Utility District Board of Commissioners extended General Manager Kirk Hudson’s contract through December 2029. Hudson has served as General Manager for 28 years, overseeing significant operations during his tenure. The decision reflects the board's confidence in his leadership amidst ongoing utility challenges.
A cross-border trap-and-haul project improved survival rates for adult sockeye salmon migrating to Canada's Okanagan River Basin. The pilot, conducted by Grant and Chelan Public Utility Districts alongside the Okanagan Nation Alliance, transported 105 adult sockeye from Wells Dam to a hatchery in British Columbia, bypassing a thermal barrier caused by high water temperatures.
Firefighters have achieved 11 percent containment of the Lower Sugarloaf Fire, which has burned over 17,000 acres since September 1. Crews utilized favorable weather conditions and conducted burning operations to strengthen fire lines and protect structures in the Entiat Valley. Over a thousand personnel are currently engaged in firefighting efforts.
Microsoft mandates office work for employees at least three days a week starting in 2026, rolling out the plan in phases. The decision reflects a growing trend among companies to bring employees back to the office after the pandemic. Many workers accustomed to remote work may resist this change.
Dr. Patrick Jones, executive director of Eastern Washington, reveals that the anticipated growth in North Central Washington is not supported by current data. Leaders in the region face critical decisions based on these findings. The analysis challenges the perception of rapid development in the area.
Electric vehicle enthusiasts will gather at Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee on October 5 for National Drive Electric Month. The event celebrates the growing popularity of electric vehicles across the nation. Participants will engage in discussions and activities highlighting the benefits of EV ownership.
The Wenatchee River Institute launched a $100,000 fundraising campaign to preserve its Traveling Naturalist in the Classroom program, which faces financial jeopardy. The program aims to provide educational experiences about nature to students in the region.
Leavenworth City Council approved pursuing PFAS-related class-action settlement funds and updated several city policies during its Sept. 9 meeting. The city will engage legal services on a contingency fee basis to explore potential PFAS contamination claims, while also amending policies on stop sign placement and lost and found items in city parks.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office warns residents about a phone scam where callers impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money. Victims receive calls claiming they failed to appear for jury duty and are pressured to pay immediately, often via Bitcoin. Authorities advise residents to hang up and verify claims directly with the Sheriff’s Office.