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The Autumn Leaf Festival and Parade in Leavenworth, Washington, is set to take place on September 24, 2025, with significant detours and street closures expected in the area. This annual event not only celebrates the fall season but also attracts visitors to the scenic town, making it a key highlight for local tourism. The festival features a parade and various activities, emphasizing the community's cultural vibrancy.
The Washington state House approved a $77.8 billion operating budget, aiming to address a significant budget shortfall while setting the stage for negotiations with the Senate and Governor Bob Ferguson. The budget includes controversial tax measures, including lifting the property tax cap and imposing a new wealth tax, which has drawn criticism from Republicans who argue it burdens working families. With both chambers having passed their budgets, discussions will intensify to reconcile differences and address an estimated $12 billion to $16 billion shortfall over four years.
Tumwater Canyon will be closed today from 8 AM to 3 PM, with a detour available via Chumstick Highway. This closure is crucial for maintenance and safety, affecting both local commuters and travelers in the region. The announcement has been shared through various local channels, including Facebook and the Washington State Department of Transportation.
Arlene Wagner, curator of the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, was the first guest on Conan O'Brien's TBS debut on November 8, 2010. At 99 years old, she continues to attract over 40,000 visitors annually to her museum, which holds the world’s largest collection of nutcrackers. Conan O'Brien now hosts a podcast after ending his TBS run in 2021.
Washington state lawmakers have proposed a $7.63 billion bipartisan capital budget for 2025-27, prioritizing infrastructure and community investments. The budget, largely funded through bond sales, aims to enhance housing, education, and behavioral health facilities across the state. Rep. Mike Steele praised the collaborative effort behind the proposal, highlighting its potential positive impact on local communities.
Washington state lawmakers have introduced a $7.63 billion bipartisan capital budget for 2025-27, aimed at addressing critical infrastructure and community needs. The proposal emphasizes investments in housing, education, and behavioral health, reflecting a collaborative effort between Republican and Democratic legislators. With significant funding allocated for various initiatives, the capital budget stands out as a beacon of bipartisan cooperation amidst broader budgetary challenges.
The article outlines the schedule for free drive-thru COVID-19 testing at Wenatchee High School, which will run from March 30, 2025, to November 22, 2025. This initiative aims to facilitate easier access to testing for the community, particularly benefiting residents of Wenatchee and nearby areas. The event is categorized under sports, but it serves a crucial public health function during an ongoing pandemic.
The second annual 'Women in Powder' event at Stevens Pass saw a significant increase in participation, doubling from last year's attendance to over 100 skiers and riders. The two-day event celebrated women in snow sports, featuring discussions with industry experts, including panelists who emphasized the importance of diverse representation and product design tailored for women. The event not only focused on skiing skills but also fostered a sense of community among women in the outdoor sports industry.
The Leavenworth City Council is assessing a resolution opposing federal actions affecting local Forest Service land and Wilderness Areas, following the reinstatement of thousands of federal employees fired in February. The council seeks to address urgent local needs, including wildfire risk management and funding for a Community Wildfire Defense grant, while community members express the importance of specificity in the resolution's language. The council ultimately decided to postpone the vote to refine the resolution further.
Cascade Medical Center is seeking voter approval to renew a six-year levy for emergency medical services in a special election on April 22. The levy, set at 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, has been essential for maintaining 24/7 emergency care in the rural Upper Valley region. With rising operational costs and insufficient insurance reimbursements, the levy is critical for sustaining necessary services.