Latest News in Chelan, WA

Community Foundation awards 31,800 in grants to youth-focused programs across NCW

The Community Foundation of North Central Washington awarded $31,800 in grants to youth programs across Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties. The NCW Foundation for Youth Grant, initiated in 2017, supports local initiatives including arts, leadership development, and food security. Notably, the Wenatchee police departments received $10,300 for their "Shop with a Cop" program, which aids children during the holidays.

State Superintendent to fund Imagination Library of Washington amid budget cuts

Washington's State Superintendent Chris Reykdal will fund the Imagination Library for one more year despite a $12 billion budget shortfall. The program, which provides free books to children from birth to age five, serves 120,000 children statewide. Reykdal aims to secure permanent funding from the Legislature next session.

Fire Officials urge public to Skip the Sparks this Fourth of July to prevent wildfires

Fire officials in Chelan and Douglas counties urge residents to skip personal fireworks this Fourth of July to prevent wildfires. Instead, they recommend attending public displays to celebrate safely. This initiative aims to mitigate fire risks during the dry summer season.

Chelan County seeks Purple Heart recipients for 2025 Hall of Honor

Chelan County seeks nominations for Purple Heart recipients to be inducted into the Hall of Honor in 2025. The initiative honors military service members from Chelan and Douglas counties who were wounded or killed in action. Nominations are due by July 18, with an induction ceremony scheduled for August 7.

Notice of Public Hearing - Unit Lot Subdivisions Code

Chelan officials will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the Unit Lot Subdivisions Code starting June 25, 2025. The hearing aims to address community concerns regarding municipal council regulations and the Community Identification Number. The event runs until July 8, 2025.

NCW Tech Alliance launches regional campaign to bridge digital divide

NCW Tech Alliance and the NCW Digital Access Coalition launched the 2025 Digital Access Commitments Campaign to enhance digital equity across six regions. The initiative aims to address the digital divide and promote equitable access to technology.

Lake Chelan Community Center Announces Partnership with Boys Girls Clubs

The Lake Chelan Community Center will partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County to open a new youth development site on July 7. This collaboration aims to provide high-quality programming for children and teens in the Lake Chelan Valley, addressing a significant service gap in the region.

Winds, steep terrain and low moisture challenge firefighting efforts against Pomas Fire

The Pomas Fire has expanded to 910 acres in Glacier Peak Wilderness, complicating firefighting efforts due to steep terrain, dead timber, and low humidity. The U.S. Forest Service is utilizing air resources and containment lines from previous fires to combat the blaze, which likely ignited from lightning. Smoke has spread into surrounding areas, prompting trail closures for public safety.

Pomas Fire Update Thursday, June 19, 2025

The Pomas Fire in the Glacier Peak Wilderness continues to expand due to strong winds, affecting areas north into Ice Creek and northeast into Aurora Creek. Firefighters are assessing containment options while aviation resources support efforts, and smoke impacts visibility in nearby regions. Access to the Glacier Peak Wilderness is now restricted for safety.

Sheriffs Office refutes TikTok claim as search for Travis Decker continues

The Chelan County Sheriff's Office continues to search for triple homicide suspect Travis Decker, refuting claims he is in custody. Decker, wanted for the murders of his three daughters, remains at large as authorities conduct extensive search operations in Chelan and Kittitas Counties. The U.S. Marshals Service leads the investigation and offers a $20,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.