Slices of Wenatchee

Today’s episode takes a leap into the future of clean energy: Helion, a Washington-based fusion startup, just secured a lease from Chelan County PUD to build what could be the world’s first commercial fusion power plant. We break down what this means for Central Washington, local power supplies, and the global energy landscape. Plus, before we get to the news, we’re introducing a new segment: Rotten Apples, our biweekly movie review. First up? Materialists, the latest romantic drama from director Celine Song.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Flag Day, hundreds gathered in Wenatchee’s Memorial Park for a “No Kings” protest—honoring American democratic ideals while mourning political violence and calling out authoritarian overreach.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, the Chelan County community prepares to honor three young sisters lost in a tragic crime, as law enforcement intensifies its search for their father, the prime suspect in their deaths.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Protesters across the country are preparing for what could be the largest coordinated demonstration of Trump’s second term — and Wenatchee is joining in.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wenatchee High School senior Ben Madson capped off his swimming career with a state title, a broken record, and a near win in one of the sport’s fastest events. We look at the training, team culture, and technical focus that powered his historic performance—and what comes next as he heads to the collegiate level.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The deaths of three young sisters in Wenatchee have left a community grieving and a mother calling for change. As the search for Travis Decker continues, Whitney Decker is pushing for reforms to Washington’s Amber Alert system and expanded mental health support.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you a story that’s shaken our community — a heartbreaking case involving three young sisters, a desperate search, and a father now wanted for murder. This episode includes details that some listeners may find disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An effort to reintroduce grizzly bears to Washington’s North Cascades is facing fierce local opposition, concerns over safety and economics, and new political uncertainty under the Trump administration.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As concerns about gang activity grow in school districts across North Central Washington, they are reinforcing policies aimed at preventing gang-related behavior from entering school environments, including restrictions on rosaries.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As wildfire risk grows across North Central Washington, homeowners in Chelan and Douglas counties are facing rising premiums, dropped coverage, and tough choices. We explore why insurers are pulling back, what factors raise red flags, and what options remain for those living in fire-prone areas.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Washington’s wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense, Spanish-speaking communities, many made up of migrant and seasonal farmworkers, are still being left out of critical safety messaging. In this episode, we follow Maria Blancas, a researcher who grew up in Quincy, and local advocates like Yesenia Perez from CAFÉ, as they work to close that gap. From bilingual bulletins to face-to-face outreach in labor camps, these community-led efforts are changing how wildfire information is shared—and who it reaches.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Proposed federal Medicaid cuts could have major consequences for rural communities in North Central Washington. Lawmakers and local care providers warn that reductions in funding could force nursing homes to close, eliminate in-home care services, and put added strain on families and emergency services. With Medicaid covering more than half the cost of long-term care in some counties, the impact could be severe. This episode breaks down the data, the local response, and what’s at stake for thousands of Washington seniors.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Anna Gullickson and her partner Eric spotted a 300-pound goat stranded near Stevens Pass, they had no idea he would change their lives. That rescue led to the creation of Ridge 2 River, a sanctuary in the hills above Cashmere where farm animals and people learn side by side. In this episode, we explore how one unexpected moment became the catalyst for a nonprofit that now houses 70 animals, runs humane education programs, and challenges assumptions about the food system.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wenatchee World reporter Jessica Drake recently sat down with Paula Poundstone for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from her upcoming tour and regional humor to interviewing techniques, banned books, politics, and more. Find tickets: https://numericapac.org/events/paula-poundstone-2/ Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Students from Wenatchee and Eastmont High are teaming up for a unique performance of “Sign Idol,” using American Sign Language to interpret songs from hit films like Barbie and Wicked. But this collaboration is about more than music, it’s a celebration of Deaf culture, community, and the power of expression beyond words.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new state budget eliminates funding for the Imagination Library of Washington, a program that mailed free books each month to kids from birth to age five. The decision affects more than 121,000 children statewide, including over 2,300 in North Central Washington. In this episode, we hear how local groups like CDCSA are responding, what the cuts mean for families, and what’s being done to try to save the program.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alano Club of Wenatchee recently hosted an open house and barbecue to showcase its expanded recovery services. Once known mainly for 12-step meetings, the club now offers a wide range of support including detox transportation, résumé help, peer coaching, and sober social events like art classes and karaoke. With over 3,300 visitors in three months and services like free Narcan and housing referrals, the club aims to meet people wherever they are in their recovery journey, providing not just abstinence-based support, but tools for rebuilding a stable, meaningful life.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new seven-story apartment complex is breaking ground in downtown Wenatchee—and it’s doing more than adding housing. The Majestic Apartments will bring 212 new homes, retail space, and a creative reuse of the city’s 132-year-old jailhouse, blending historic preservation with a bold vision for the city’s future. Feature: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/business/weidner-breaks-ground-on-the-majestic-apartments-restoring-historic-jailhouse/article_51ab7e05-6296-4c62-a8a0-c073e2a73909.html Headlines: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/local/east-wenatchee-councilmember-abruptly-resigns/article_927d9381-6222-5b75-b0e1-6776616070a6.html https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/education/wenatchee-valley-community-transitions-students-gather-for-2nd-reunion-at-pybus-public-market/article_ebbb9568-5622-4cc7-b266-fac401cd6f92.html https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/education/cashmere-student-wins-valedictorian-eligibility-lawsuit-against-school-district/article_6472f443-7e3e-529c-8901-277803bcddb1.html https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/go/abstracts-as-therapy-paintings-after-mental-health-work-both-at-pybus-art-alley/article_c1b3c05e-4dc0-40d6-a977-e3cd88c3af0c.html Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Around 60 people gathered in downtown Wenatchee for a moving march honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People. Led by a group of Indigenous women organizers, the event featured red handprints, handmade signs, and a banner listing over 140 missing individuals from Washington. With stories of personal loss and a call for justice, the march brought visibility to a crisis often overlooked, while uniting a community in healing and advocacy.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Button Jewelers, an independently owned jewelry store that opened in 1945, will close its doors in July, just shy of its 80th anniversary. Owners Joe and Jaimi Delagrave said they are retiring and shutting down the business ahead of the milestone. Read more: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/business/button-jewelers-to-close-after-nearly-80-years-in-wenatchee-begins-liquidation/article_2624c8b4-a36e-451a-8940-b65d7b88c04d.html Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aaron Williams is nearing the end of a 14-year prison sentence, and preparing for a new life through Washington’s Graduated Reentry program. At the Wenatchee Valley Reentry Center, he’s finding freedom in structure, support in community, and purpose in education.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Albert and Sheri Rookard spent five years and $4 million transforming a crumbling 1906 building in downtown Wenatchee into their home, bringing new life to a historic space once left behind.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re looking into the story behind Chelan County's Community Development Director, Deanna Walter — her challenges, her leadership style, and the controversy that's followed her.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Wenatchee, a new lowrider bike program is giving local youth more than just custom rides. Led by community members Valentin Mendoza and Francisco Jimenez through the nonprofit CAFÉ, the project pairs at-risk teens with mentors to build bikes, learn new skills, and connect to their cultural roots. It’s part of a growing effort to offer young people alternatives to gang involvement and a stronger sense of pride and belonging.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not all glamor and glitter for Apple Blossom Queen Ella Johnson. In this episode, we follow Ella through a day packed with early mornings, community visits, donut devotionals, promposals, and even a few Nerf snowball battles. From leading younger girls in faith talks to bringing joy to senior citizens, Ella shares the real heart behind the crown — and her advice for anyone chasing big dreams.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - A grieving nephew remembers a devoted father lost in a tragic East Wenatchee shooting. And later - simplifying water access for rural communities, building the Glacier View Trail, Washington’s lawmakers are looking for ways to raise revenue, and a local woman is about to turn 100.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - We look back on a night of glitz, grit, and grace as Colonial Vista crowns its first Senior Royalty Queen in Wenatchee. And later - a Wenatchee man was arrested for attempted murder, government officials visit Wenatchee, a proposed housing development is under review, and a major infrastructure project breaks ground.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Fifty years after waving from her Apple Blossom float, one Wenatchee queen reflects on the parade that changed her life — and the legacy still blooming today. And later - runway rehab, a potential four-day school week, a Microsoft scholarship, and a new splash pad is almost ready.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Chelan County faces a $4.1 million budget gap—can commissioners close it without raising taxes or cutting important programs? And later - a deadly crash, big changes coming to downtown Wenatchee, fires break out, and Earth Day is coming up. Feature:Chelan County grapples with $4M deficit Headlines:Wenatchee man dies in Othello collision, 2 injuredWenatchee Valley YMCA breaks ground on new facilityFires break out at Joe’s, Colonial Vista and Wenatchee FoothillsNCWPlanner: Earth Day fairs, crafts, fun runsSupport the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - The Chelan County Public Utility District is taking a close look at power infrastructure in Manson. That’s because the area’s main substation is getting close to its limit. And later - A federal judge in California has temporarily stopped the Trump administration from cutting legal aid for unaccompanied migrant children.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re looking at the housing crisis through the lens of what’s stopping new homes from getting built, and what might actually help. And later - we're talking about a brand new program that’s taking shape in the Wenatchee Valley—something that could have a real impact on working-class families trying to buy a home.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After being abruptly laid off due to federal budget cuts, local Forest Service employees are back on the job—with back pay—but legal battles over their reinstatement are far from over. Later in the episode, we look at how Confluence Health is using AI to ease the burden on providers, improve patient care, and maintain high-quality service in local communities.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - The Wenatchee Valley YMCA has just been named the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Washington State Apple Blossom Festival. And later - Sustainable North Central Washington is hosting its annual Earth Day Fair at Wenatchee Valley College, and it’s shaping up to be a full-on community celebration.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we're exploring an exciting new initiative that's helping to preserve and sustain outdoor recreation in Chelan and Douglas counties. The nonprofit Trails, Recreation, Education, Advocacy, and Development—better known as TREAD—has just launched their "One for the Outdoors" program. And later - Derek Sheffield, a poet and professor from Wenatchee Valley College, has been named Washington state's eighth poet laureate.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re diving into a controversial new executive order signed by President Donald Trump that’s shaking up voter registration rules. And later - A local immigrant rights nonprofit that has long provided free legal services and education to immigrant youth is now facing a significant setback. Due to a federal funding cut, the organization has been forced to pause taking on new cases.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Family-owned since 1963, Wenatchee’s Jerry’s Auto Supply was recently acquired by NAPA Auto Parts, marking the end of a multi-decade Berschauer legacy while ensuring continued service to its loyal customers. And later - Central Washington Veterans Counseling in Wenatchee secured a short-term VA contract extension to keep serving veterans, though its long-term funding remains uncertain. Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today – Colonial Vista is hosting a brand-new event as part of the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival—a Senior Royalty Pageant for women aged 55 and older. And later – Serve Wenatchee recently launched a pilot program designed to help families cover the upfront costs of renting an apartment. The goal? To prevent homelessness—one family at a time.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re diving into recent developments regarding the U.S. Department of Education—specifically the news that President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at dismantling parts of the agency. And later - Meet Bruce Simpson, a Wenatchee jeweler who’s spent 50 years at his bench—repairing heirlooms, setting stones, and building a legacy.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Curate by Dorrinda is a small Wenatchee chocolate boutique where founder and chocolate devotee, Dorrinda Carlson, merges her global travels and passion for cacao into an immersive tasting and learning experience for customers. And later - Sasha Sleiman, Executive Director for the Housing Authority of Chelan County & the City of Wenatchee, accepted the Public Life and Leadership Award at the North Central Washington Community Impact Awards on February 20th.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today – a father is suing the Eastmont School District, claiming his special-needs son was severely neglected. And later – we’re highlighting the remarkable success story of Andy and Lana Thomas—owners of Side Street Cashmere—who recently received the Business Impact Award at the North Central Washington Community Impact Awards ceremonySupport the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re looking at how fears surrounding immigration enforcement are affecting student attendance in North Central Washington. And later - we’re talking about Wenatchee’s Rails and Ales festival, which just celebrated its 11th anniversary. Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Mission Ridge recently purchased over 600 acres of land as part of a long-term expansion plan that includes ski lift expansions, residential and commercial developments, and open space preservation, but the project faces opposition from environmental advocates and is still awaiting final county approval. https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/business/mission-ridge-ski-and-board-resort-adds-630-acres/article_9208247a-ff76-11ef-a21e-534864f648c8.html And later - Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith urged the Leavenworth City Council not to oppose a 70-foot cross on Tumwater Mountain, citing a potential federal land swap—an idea later debunked—leading the council to withdraw its resolution, while the property owner had already abandoned the project. https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/local/chelan-county-tumwater-mountain-cross-permit-withdrawn-no-ongoing-land-swap/article_21554c90-ff9d-11ef-a502-23384800515f.html Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - Helion, an Everett-based company, is making big moves in Washington State, and nearly 400 people just packed a school gym to hear what they had to say. And later - Teresa Bendito, co-founder of Parque Padrinos, was honored with the Community Connection Award at the North Central Washington Community Impact Awards last month, recognizing her work in transforming public parks into inclusive community spaces.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today – We’re covering a recent rally at Memorial Park, where more than two hundred people gathered on Sunday to show their support for Ukraine. Supporters Rally for Ukraine Amidst Concerns Over U.S. Commitment And later – The Wenatchee School District is poised to accept a resignation agreement from David Vasquez—an educator charged (and later dismissed) with attempted rape. Wenatchee School District Considering Agreement with Former Educator Accused of Attempted RapeSupport the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re talking about a small business making big moves—Whipped Espresso in Quincy. What started as a coffee stand during the pandemic is now expanding beyond its roots, thanks to the dedication and vision of its owner, Pearl Lopez, and her niece, Elizabeth Lopez. And later - we're talking about Wenatchee Valley 101, a brand-new event series designed to help new residents feel at home, get involved, and meet others who are also settling into the area.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re diving into a critical issue that could have devastating consequences for healthcare access across the state. Proposed federal Medicaid cuts are on the table, and experts warn that these cuts could severely impact our hospitals, clinics, and the patients who rely on them. And later - Sasha Sleiman, Executive Director for the Housing Authority of Chelan County & the City of Wenatchee, accepted the Public Life and Leadership Award at the North Central Washington Community Impact Awards on February 20th.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into two major stories shaping Wenatchee. First, we explore Helion’s ambitious plan to bring a 50-megawatt fusion power plant to Malaga, a project that could transform clean energy in the region. Then, we turn to a growing debate over the presence of ICE in a city-owned building, as immigrant advocates push for change.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re diving into a major challenge facing Washington’s public schools. Despite a significant increase in per-student funding over the past decade, student achievement remains stagnant—or even in decline. And later - we bring you a heartbreaking and urgent story. A Wenatchee family is fighting to save their loved one who is battling for her life in Belize after a severe case of sepsis.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we're diving into a bill that could change the landscape of housing in Washington state. And later - Tony Sandoval, an Army veteran with the WDVA’s SSG Parker Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, accepted the Local Hero Award at the North Central Washington Community Impact Awards ceremony on February 20th.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re taking a closer look at this year’s Point in Time Count, also known as a PIT Count, which measures homelessness within the community. Read our full story. And later - North Central Washington Libraries received The Wenatchee World’s Progress Award during the Community Impact Awards ceremony on February 20th. They were recognized for their efforts to move communities forward across Chelan, Douglas, Ferry, Grant, and Okanogan counties.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - we’re heading to downtown Cashmere in the Wenatchee Valley to talk about a place that’s delighting customers with roasted nuts, deli sandwiches, and a very popular clam chowder – Almond Blossom Roasted Nuts and Eatery. And later - we’re diving into the latest matchups for both the women’s and men’s Wenatchee Valley College basketball teams.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.