Good Morning it’s Saturday April 3rd, and this is The Wenatchee World’s newest podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - In an effort to expand what people view as being outdoorsy - a Wenatchee Valley duo made a documentary called “Expedition Reclamation”.

 

This episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story...

 

In an effort to expand what people view as being outdoorsy - a Wenatchee Valley duo made a documentary.

 

It’s called “Expedition Reclamation,” and it’s the collective brainchild of Chelsea Murphy and Erin Joy Nash. 

 

It features a diverse range of people from around the Pacific Northwest.

 

Nash has a background in visual journalism and nonprofit work. She’s worked with Icicle Center for the Arts and Voortex Productions in Leavenworth, and in 2019 Nash directed the short film “Fail Forward Fast.”

 

Murphy is an activist, a speaker and a writer with a focus on nature. She has helped fundraise for the Colville Confederated Tribes Children and Family Services and spoke in front of thousands at Leavenworth’s largest Black Lives Matter march over the summer.

 

Their 20-minute film focuses on reclaiming belonging in the outdoors for the Black, indigenous and women of color communities.

 

Nash and Murphy also touch on the importance of giving back to the environment and using tribal names of locations as a way of honoring the land. 

 

Their goal? To shift away from thinking about what one can take, but rather how one can give back.

 

In their words, “we’re redefining outdoorsy.”

 

Here are some of the women working on the film:

 

We spoke with Murphy and Nash about the making of the film. Murphy noted that it’s not your average outdoor film. Instead it’s a collective voice of people in the outdoors that usually don’t get represented in outdoors films. 

 

For Murphy, who’s been to film festivals, she rarely feels represented.

 

Nash added that women in their film who tell their stories about just going out in the woods and forest bathing or being in their garden, and this message that, that is being outdoorsy, and that is creating a relationship with nature.

 

In a lot of these women’s stories, they are reconnecting what it means to have a reciprocal relationship with nature. Nash noted that it’s not this colonial view of “what can I get from this experience or what can I get when I go outdoors.”

 

In all there are 12 women featured in the film, all live in Washington state.

 

Murphy and Nash emphasized that despite being a film about BIPOC, this film is for everyone. They’re excited to see what people take away from it. 

 

The duo is submitting “Expedition Reclamation” to film festivals starting in August before releasing the film online to the public. A portion of proceeds made from the film will be donated to the Wenatchi Land Back fundraiser. 

 

To view the trailer and support the project, visit bravespaceproject.org.

 

You can also read more about their story at wenatcheeworld.com

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

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Next, our weekly profile of one of the World's 30 Under 35 award recipients. 

 

Ellyn Freed a Partner at Forte Architects

 

Ellyn graduated from Wenatchee High School Class in 2008 as the valedictorian. She went on to get her bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Washington in 2012.

 

Ellyn completed a facilities and design internship at Confluence Health - this included designing and coordinating various projects and remodels. 

 

For the next 5 years she worked in New York. As a young architectural designer, she was able to work on an array of projects, from converting a historic Brownstone into a women’s health center to designing and managing the build and fit-out of more than 400,000 square feet of commercial workplace space.

 

And in 2018 Ellyn returned to Wenatchee in 2018 and joined Forte Architects, becoming a partner in the firm in May 2020.

 

We asked Ellyn what inspires her, and she said that she’s always felt like her greatest inspirations for success have come from outside of the architecture and design sector. It’s the diversity of thought and process that keeps life interesting and always keeps us learning and curious for what’s around the next corner. In fact, her aspirations for success have fundamentally been derived out of her desire for the continued growth and progress of my community here in North Central Washington.

 

Ellyn’s ultimate goal is to add to the well-being and happiness of the people, animals and special environment around us in North Central Washington. She feels extremely lucky to call this area home. 

 

In her spare time, she is an avid skier, biker, hiker and dog owner.

 

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR  – New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

In 1906 a fund was started in Wenatchee to aid famine-stricken Japanese. A number of merchants and other citizens contributed money and food products. Amongst them included Wenatchee Milling Co., Wenatchee Fuel Co., Wenatchee Department Store, Wenatchee Drug Co., and Eagle Transfer Co.

 

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Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Tuesday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Thursday April 1st, and this is The Wenatchee World’s podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today --- Central Washington Hospital reported that suicide attempt emergency room visits have been on the rise throughout the pandemic.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story…

 

Central Washington Hospital reported a 64% increase in non-fatal suicide attempt emergency room visits for patients age 18 and under in 2020 compared to the previous year.

 

The hospital reported 193 emergency room visits for non-fatal suicide attempts in 2020 compared to 123 visits in 2019.

 

The numbers include visits for self-harm, suicide attempts and suicidal ideation. The certainly mirrors statewide and national trends.

 

Tessa Timmons, the behavioral health service line director at Confluence Health said that the numbers go lower in the summer, and then once school is supposed to go back in session. But she noted that now we’re virtual, and we get an uptick.

 

Now, suicide is the second leading cause of death for Washingtonians ages 10 to 24..

 

Dr. Julie Rickard of the Suicide Prevention Coalition of North Central Washington said that proper intervention after a first emergency visit can decrease the chance of reattempt. 

 

Rickard also said some at-risk youth never receive inpatient care or proper mental health care to learn suicide prevention strategies. She says this is due to a lack of proper care after an emergency room visit.

 

With the understanding that isolation would have an effect on the mental health of young people, the Washington State Department of Health released a provider alert in December 2020 for primary care providers to screen for suicide risk in youth patients. 

 

But it’s also not just youths, across all ages, the Washington State COVID-19 Behavioral Health Impact Situation Report reports an increase in the number of suicidal ideation, or seriously considering suicide. There’s also been an increase in emergency visits and an increase in the number of suspected suicide attempt-related visits in 2021 compared to the previous two years.

 

So what can we do? According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness - keeping the conversation going surrounding suicide is a key step to prevention.

 

If you’d like to learn more about the resources that are available in the community we encourage you to watch our video featuring local experts. We discuss mental health resources and also the challenges for older adults, Latino communities, children, first responders and those who are homeless.

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

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Next, we’re excited to highlight the Wenatchee Public Library which has reopened and is ready for in-person visitors.

 

We spoke with Jessica Adams, the branch supervisor about what it’s been like to re-open for both the staff, and visitors.

 

The library opens at 10 a.m. every day of the week. Keep in mind, as Adams mentioned, it does look a little different!

 

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Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

The Wahluke Slope is a place few people go to, but nearly every person who enjoys Washington Wine has tasted. The Centra Washington Region is now home to more than 9,000 acres of the state’s most prized vineyards. 

 

The appellation sits on a huge alluvial fan of soils and sands that were spread by giat ice age floods 15,000 years ago. This unique geology, combined with the region's climate led it to qualify for American Viticultural Area status back in 2006.

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Saturday!

 

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Tuesday March 30thand this is Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - Microsoft is projected to invest over $1 billion over the next five years for a new data center campus. The proposal has sparked mode debate over power rates.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story… 

 

So, you may have heard that Microsoft has spent $19.3 million to buy 170 acres of undeveloped land north of Pangborn Memorial Airport.

 

But that’s just the beginning. The total investment could be over $1 billion over the next five years.

 

Why? They’re building a multi-phase data center campus. If it’s completed as proposed, that would make it by far the most valuable property in Douglas County.

 

Microsoft has already started leveling its construction site. They've also applied to the county for a building permit for the first of three proposed structures.

 

That first building will be around 250,000 square feet. It’s valued at $409 million.

 

The first building alone would be worth twice as much as Douglas County’s second-most-valuable property: the Sabey Corporation’s data center down the street.

 

But with a new data center on the horizon, a debate over power rates returns

 

The area’s utilities are preparing to serve the East Wenatchee project by building out water and power infrastructure — though Microsoft is expected to cover most of those costs as well.

 

The company has agreed to pay for improvements to support its vast power needs. That project is expected to cost $24.9 million and should be completed in May.

 

So far, the PUD has not signed a power contract with Microsoft. They also haven’t provided an estimate of how much power the company has requested.

 

The East Wenatchee Water District is using the project as an opportunity to make much-needed upgrades to its water infrastructure.

 

The improvements will provide extra redundancy to the water supply system and ensure there’s enough flow to support firefighting efforts for the commercial structures, if it’s ever needed. The 2 million-gallon reservoir will also allow for future growth in the area.

 

Microsoft’s new home is an industrial area that has grown quickly over the years and now has a range of commercial businesses, including two existing data centers and a few cryptocurrency miners.

 

Improving the infrastructure in that area, for both industrial and residential customers, has been a vision of the water district for many years according to District Manager Vince Johnston.

 

For more on this story visit us at wenatcheeworld.com.

 

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Here’s what else you need to know about today…

 

Gov. Jay Inslee announced that workers in restaurants, manufacturing, and construction are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines starting tomorrow. People with two or more comorbidities, people ages 60-64 and people experiencing homelessness living in congregate settings will also be eligible tomorrow.

 

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All counties moved to Phase 3 on March 22nd. The state will evaluate the counties again on April 12 and will decide whether they will remain in Phase 3 or move back to Phase 2. Douglas County has until then to get its COVID-19 rate and hospitalizations below the standard metrics.

 

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Under Phase 3, spectators can attend sporting events with up to 25% capacity and indoor establishments, such as restaurants, can increase dining from 25% to 50% capacity.

 

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And remember, for all news related to vaccinations and covid-19 visit us at wenatcheeworld.com/news/coronavirus.

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

 

Berklee College of Music students Téa Renee and Joseph Nehring first thought the nationwide shutdowns in 2020 would only mean a longer spring break. 

 

But now, one year later the music duo released “Tell Me,” a song about distance, loneliness and struggles faced in isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Renee, a 2018 Eastmont High School graduate, started writing the lyrics after she had just been sent back home from the campus of her college in Boston. 

 

Renee has previously been involved in theater and choir at Eastmont, was nominated for a 5th Avenue Theatre Award, won the 2016 Wenatchee Valley Symphony Young Musician Competition, participated in the Lake Chelan Bach Fest, has performed at the Apple Blossom Musical and has been featured in productions at Icicle Creek Center for the Arts.

 

Working on a song was nothing new for Renee, but collaborating entirely remotely was. 

 

Their song touches on topics such as feeling like a burden when one wants to reach out and not having confidence as a communicator.

 

A major theme is the need for communication. 

 

Renee said she hopes the song reminds listeners that you’re never as lonely as you believe you are, especially during COVID.

 

“Tell Me” can be found on Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora and iTunes. Or, you can stick around for the end of today’s episode to listen.

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

The “Captain Alexander Griggs Walking to Work” statue was created by sculptor Richard Beyer and artist Cheryl Wrangle. It’s part of the City of Wenatchee’s public art collection. The cast bronze sculpture was donated by the North Central Washington Museum in 1997. 

 

Griggs’ was born in Ohio in 1838. He received his steam boat license at the age of 19 and began piloting steamboats. He eventually made his way to North Dakota and helped establish Grand Forks’ first bank. Later, he went west for new business ventures and moved to Washington in 1892 to form the Columbia and Okanogan Steamboat Company. He became the first man to operate a steamboat on the Columbia River. Finally, in 1900 he and his family moved to Wenatchee where he lived until his death three years later. 

 

Now his legacy as one of the founding members of Wenatchee is sealed in bronze.

 

Thanks for listening. We’d also like to thank our sponsor again, Equilus Group, Inc, a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Thursday!

 

Now, as promised, “Tell Me”, by Téa Renee and Joseph Nehring

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Saturday March 27th, and this is The Wenatchee World’s newest podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - A human skull was found by construction workers in Chelan County. It’s still unclear how old it really is.

 

This episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story...

 

Last Friday, construction workers unearthed human remains believed to be at least a few hundred years old. 

 

The crew was working at a rental property in Chelan when the operator of an excavator noticed a human skull in the ground. 

 

At that point work was stopped and the authorities were called. 

 

The Chelan County Coroner's office said he found an upper arm bone, shin bone, lower jaw bone, and some small rib fragments as well.

 

Officials consulted with the state forensic anthropologist, Dr. Kathy Taylor, who said that the remains were likely Native American. 

Dr. Guy Tasa, the state physical anthropologist with the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, surveyed the site Monday. He was with a representative of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Together, they found even more bones.

 

The age of the bones is still unclear. They could be anywhere from a few hundred years old, to a few thousand years old. 

 

For now, the skeletal remains will be placed in a cedar box after the investigation is complete. 

 

The public is urged to stay out of the area, and in the event that any remains or artifacts are found, they should be turned over to local law enforcement. 

 

For more on this story check out the latest edition of the Wenatchee World, or visit us at wenatcheeworld.com

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

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Next, our weekly profile of one of the World's 30 Under 35 award recipients. 

 

Today we’re highlighting Adelae Winters, a Wealth Care Specialist

 

Winters graduated from  Wenatchee High School in 2005. She went on to attend Wenatchee Valley College and Washington State University before returning to the Valley.

 

After a number of years working with a local small business she was ready for a change of pace. She started working at CNC Financial Group, a division of Wenatchee-based Cordell, Neher & Company, in 2014 as an administrative assistant. 

 

Two years later she became a Wealth Management Specialist with the goal of transitioning soon to a full-time financial planner.

 

Winters and her husband Nick met at Wenatchee High School. They have two children.. In addition to busy careers and parenthood they enjoy mountain biking, skiing and travelling.

 

We asked Winters what she was most proud of, and she told us that having the courage back in 2014 to make leaps outside of her comfort zone financially, socially and experientially is at the top of the list. 

 

She noted that doing all of this while raising babies is no small feat as any mother knows.

 

To Winters, she is inspired by her colleagues within the firm. She said she’s lucky to work alongside some brilliant minds and enjoy learning from them and working toward a common goal. 

 

She’s also inspired by her husband’s work ethic and steadfastness.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

The Wells House in Wenatchee is on the Wenatchee Valley College Campus. It was built by promoter William Timothy Clark and was the first home in Washington State to be placed on the National Register of Historic Sites. Its unique architecture, ties to Wenatchee Valley history and its significance as a local landmark helped the home achieve this status in 1973. 

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Tuesday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Thursday March 25th, and this is The Wenatchee World’s podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today --- According to a district survey, parents want their children to return to full-time learning. But a significant number of teachers and staff members say they’ll take a leave of absence if that happens.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story…

 

If most parents in the Wenatchee School district had it their way - students would return to classes full-time. But the district survey also showed that 41 teachers said they would take a leave of absence if the school district did in fact move to full time in person instruction.

 

The survey results were presented to the Wenatchee School board on Tuesday night. It was part of a larger discussion around whether there would be a return to full time in person learning in the coming weeks. 

 

Many parents of students also had a chance to voice their opinions during the meeting.

 

Board member Michele Sandberg said that it’s the staffing issues that put them in a jam - it’s the limiting factor.

 

Super independent Paul Gordon said that if this many certified staff members went out on leave it would have significant impacts. But he also noted that resuming full time in person school soon is still a possibility.

 

Right now the US Centers for Disease control and Prevention has updated its social distancing guidance to 3 feet instead of 6. Gordon said that if the state department of health comes to this same conclusion, then Wenatchee could resume full time in person learning.

 

During the meeting on Tuesday, board member Julie Norton said that students learn better in school, and in the hybrid format they’re just not as engaged. She said that even with a hybrid approach parents are still concerned about social and emotional impacts of not having a full time in person schedule.

 

For more on this story, check out the latest edition of the Wenatchee World, or visit us at wenatcheeworld.com

 

Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

 

Next, We’d like to take a moment to recognize a local leader from The Wenatchee World’s North Central Washington Impact Awards.

 

Today, Blair McHaney the CEO of Worx gyms in the Wenatchee Valley and a fitness software company. The company led a statewide effort to develop COVID-19 safety protocols to allow more than 740 gyms to reopen.

 

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

The Warm Springs Inn & Winery is 1611 Love Lane. The 1917 mansion turned luxury bed and breakfast was first built as a family home. It was later used as a sanitarium from World War I until 1940. Then it became a working orchard, Arabian horse farm and dog facility and again a family home.

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Saturday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Tuesday March 23rd and this is Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - servers in Douglas County were targeted in a cyberattack by a group out of China. 

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

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Now our feature story… 

 

Douglas County’s servers were among thousands of servers targeted in a cyberattack by a group out of China.

 

Brad Hudson, the Douglas County management information systems manager said that earlier this month, an international attack exploited a weakness in Microsoft servers. 

 

Hudson spent the next three days updating Douglas County’s servers. Luckily, the county didn’t lose any data... but it took a lot of time to respond to the attack.

 

Hudson told us that it seems like the attacks are targeted toward really any vulnerabilities. From there the attackers pick and choose who they really want to burrow in and mess with.

 

The White House press secretary released the following message shortly after the attack.

 

According to a Microsoft news release, the attacks came from a Chinese-sponsored actor called Hafnium. The group usually targets groups in the United States - like research labs, law firms, higher education institutes, and defense contractors.

 

CNBC recently had Joanne Lipman, a journalist and fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton on to talk more about the implications of this attack… 

 

 

This attack earlier this month went beyond the United States though, it affected groups around the world.

 

And cyber attacks have been on the rise since the start of the pandemic. 

 

In January, Okanogan County experienced an attack that compromised a large portion of its computer network. That cyberattack even caused all of the county's phone systems to stop working.

 

The two events are not related as far as experts can tell, but Hudson noted that  it does speak to the increase in these types of events overall.

 

In Hudson’s experience, there are more hacks this year than he’s ever seen. To put that in perspective, he’s been in the IT industry for going on almost 24 years now.

 

On top of an increase in attacks, Hudson says that it’s getting more and more difficult to stop all of them.

 

For more on this story visit us at wenatcheeworld.com.

 

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Here’s what else you need to know about today…

 

Gov. Jay Inslee announced that workers in restaurants, manufacturing, and construction would be eligible for COVID-19 vaccines starting March 31st. People with two or more comorbidities, people ages 60-64 and people experiencing homelessness living in congregate settings will also be eligible on that date.

 

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With vaccine doses still limited though, thousands of NCW residents have been unable to book appointments or have been added to a waitlist over the past couple weeks.

 

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A varying number of first-dose appointments should  be posted to the state's registration site every Sunday at noon, so keep an eye out. Once new appointments are posted, you can call the state's hotline or visit their website to book a time. For detailed instructions visit us at wenatcheeworld.com/news/coronavirus.

 

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On March 17th, around 10,000 more essential workers became eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in Chelan and Douglas counties.

 

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And remember, for all news related to vaccinations and covid-19 visit us at wenatcheeworld.com/news/coronavirus.

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

-

 

Next ---

 

The city of Wenatchee has applied for a nine-figure grant to help fund road projects in the Valley.

 

On Friday, the city submitted an application for $140 million. If awarded, this money would aid go towards the Apple Capital Loop project.

 

This project includes a new bridge into Olds Station, a revamped North Wenatchee Avenue, a new road into a burgeoning development in East Wenatchee and a widened Sunset Highway. 

 

The total cost? About $285 million in total, more than of half of which has already been secured. 

 

The grant is part of the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America program offered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. They have nearly $900 million to disburse nationwide.

 

Recently, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg spoke about how the biden administration is prioritizing transportation. 

 

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

The brick building at the northeast corner of Memorial Park is so tiny, that five years after it opened as the city’s first library back in 1912, it had already become cramped and impractical. 

 

Now, the Carnegie Building faces the city’s larger and newer library. It’s home to the Washington State Apple Blossom headquarters as well. 

 

The city of Wenatchee received funding for the building from the Carnegie Foundation, which was bankrolled by steel-industry magnate Andrew Carnegie. It’s one of over 1,500 Carnegie funded buildings in the US, and one of 44 in Washington state. The foundation also provided funds for another 822 libraries outside of the US.

 

For the full story check out the latest issue of Foothills magazine!

 

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Thanks for listening. We’d also like to thank our sponsor again, Equilus Group, Inc, a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Thursday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Saturday March 20th, and this is The Wenatchee World’s newest podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - Hannia Dalay Paulina Mosqueda Rodríguez, or simply Paulina, was found dead in March 2020 in a Wenatchee ravine five months after she went missing. She was just 18 years old.

 

This episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

 

Now our feature story...

 

Seventeen months ago. That was the last time Edith Rodríguez Chávez saw the inside of her daughter’s bedroom.

 

She didn’t dare go in.

 

Hannia Dalay Paulina Mosqueda Rodríguez, or simply Paulina, was found dead March 17, 2020 in a Wenatchee ravine five months after she went missing. She was 18.

 

Paulina’s death was ruled a homicide by the Chelan County coroner. There have been no arrests.

 

On Monday, Rodríguez and her longtime partner, José Miramontes, entered the room for the first time since Paulina's disappearance.

 

Aside from a few small alterations, Paulina’s childhood room has gone untouched.

 

Now, Rodriguez has a question to whoever killed her daughter:

 

“What did she do to you? What harm did she do to you to have deserved the harm done to her?”

She says that they finished her the day they killed her daughter.

 

Paulina went missing in October 2019. And what happened in the hours preceding her disappearance is not clear.

 

She was supposed to take a bus from Seattle to Wenatchee, but she didn’t show up at the bus station. Paulina eventually texted Rodríguez that she would catch a ride with a friend.

 

But still, she didn’t make it… then Rodríguez’s calls to her daughter went unanswered.

 

Later that day Paulina’s aunt texted Rodríguez saying Paulina was at the Wenatchee Valley Mall in East Wenatchee. And Rodriguez texted her to come home.

 

The message went unanswered.

 

Rodríguez knew something was wrong. The mother and daughter had had their squabbles, but never silence. 

 

Now, Rodriguez says it’s been too long. It’s going to be a year since her death, and law enforcement hasn’t shown any results.

 

Paulina's body was ultimately found outside Wenatchee city limits in Chelan County. She was reported missing in Douglas County. That means the investigation into her death and disappearance is a joint effort by the two counties’ respective sheriff’s offices.

 

Law enforcement officials say they haven’t given up.

 

And though there are no suspects, detectives are continuing to pursue leads.

 

For now, anyone with information related to the death of Hannia Dalay Paulina Mosqueda Rodríguez should contact the Chelan County Sheriff's Office at 667-6851 or the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at 884-0941.

 

Today, an altar in honor of family members who’ve died greets guests near the entrance of her small home. Most prominent is a 3-foot tall photo of Paulina in a pink quinceañera dress.

 

Paulina was 2 years old when Rodríguez moved her to Waterville from Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. She was the youngest of three after two brothers in their late 20s.

 

She was a happy girl who loved music, dancing and cooking. Tortillas were her specialty.

 

She worked at a packing shed, like her mother, and never missed work. She wanted to be able to afford nice things one day, like the blue Chevy Camaro that sits under a carport at her mother’s home.

 

Now, Rodriguez scrolls through photos and videos while tears disappear behind her mask as they roll down her cheeks.

 

Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

 

Next, our weekly profile of one of the World's 30 Under 35 award recipients. 

 

Today, we’re highlighting Devin Lau the Assistant manager at Stan’s Merry Mart

 

Devin Lau graduated from Eastmont High School in 2006 and in 2009 went on to work at Stan’s Merry Mart, a job that has turned into a career. She has worked her way up from footwear associate to assistant manager, all while raising a family at home. Her dedication, hard work and loyalty through the years, including the extra hours she put in during the pandemic, prompted her employers to nominate her a member of the Wenatchee Valley Business World’s 30 Under 35 Class of 2020.

 

We asked Lau what accomplishments she is most proud of, and Lau said that She’s very proud of her journey at Stan's Merry Mart. She has worked at Stan's Merry Mart since 2009, and has always wanted to be a part of a company that made a difference. During her fourth year there she realized it was right in front of her. She became a supervisor in June 2016, and then became the assistant manager in March 2018.

 

We also asked Lau who inspires her to be successful - her answer? She owes a lot to her parents for her work ethic. They taught her that you show up to work and you give 100% every day.

 

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

In the early 2000s, the traditional fruit orchards in the valley began to yield to grape vines. Tourists had already found the Bavarian flavor of Leavenworth and the sunny beauty of Lake Chelan and growers and vintners noted the good growing conditions for wine grapes. By 2004, 17 wineries had sprung up in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties with 19 more licensed for a total of 23 active and projected just in Chelan County.

 

-

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Tuesday!

 

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Thursday March 18th, and this is The Wenatchee World’s podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today --- After 101 years in business, the Liberty Orchards Company, makers of Aplets & Cotlets, has announced plans to close this summer.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

-

 

Now our feature story…

 

After 101 years in business, the Liberty Orchards Company, makers of Aplets & Cotlets, has announced plans to close on June 1st this year.

 

The Company President Greg Taylor said that this decision was made three years ago - they’d try to sell the business, and if they couldn’t sell it, they’d close.

 

Taylor told us that there’s been a lot of interest, they’ve had some good negotiations with several prospective buyers but they were never able to put together a deal. They had tried long enough, and it’s time to move on.

 

While the closure comes during the COVID-19 pandemic, Taylor said that the decision to close their doors was not directly related. From an operating standpoint, it did make it harder to be in business and it did have a negative effect on some sales, but the online business actually grew in this past year.

 

Taylor did note that the pandemic made it much more difficult to sell the business.

 

They had a number of interested buyers, but when the pandemic came on they walked away from exploring it further because they had bigger issues. 

 

The company was founded in 1920 by two Armenian immigrants, Mark Balaban and Armen Tertsagian, who owned a small orchard and developed the Aplets & Cotlets candies which became the staples of the company.

 

Here’s Taylor in an interview with Northwest Journey’s on the history of the company…

 

For Taylor, closing the company after so many years is a mixed bag.

 

There’s disappointment, but they’re very proud of 101 years of business. Taylor and the team are proud of the legacy, the employment they’ve provided and the customers they’ve served.

Liberty Orchards employs between 25 and 125. Those employees are one of the reasons the company has been in business so long, aside from the great product.

 

Many employees have been there for 20 or 30 years.

 

The company will be selling down its inventory in the upcoming months, and they’ll stay open through the end of May. Make sure to pay them a visit while you can!

 

For more on this story visit us at wenatcheeworld.com

 

Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

 

Next, We’d like to take a moment to recognize a local leader from The Wenatchee World’s North Central Washington Impact Awards.

 

Today, Alma Chacón, a longtime educator and co-founder of a thriving Wenatchee non-profit.

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR New members can sign up at nabur.wenatcheeworld.com.

 

By the way - it’s time for the 11th annual World’s Best, the Wenatchee World’s tribute to recognizing the Best of our area. This year, things will be a little different and we need your help! We are looking to you to nominate your favorite businesses, people and places in Round 1. From March 17th to April 4th, go to wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest to submit your nominees on the ballot. Round 2, the voting round, will be live on April 21. Visit wenatcheeworld.com/worldsbest for more information. 

 

Now, some history…

 

Many people dreamed of harnessing the Columbia for its hydroelectric potential. In the mid-1920s, Rufus Woods, who purchased the Wenatchee Daily World in 1907 and was its publisher until 1950, coined a tagline for the paper that is still used today: "Published in the Apple Capital of the World and the Buckle of the Power Belt of the Great Northwest." Not surprisingly, Woods became an influential booster of dams and hydro development. 

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Saturday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Tuesday March 15th and this is Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today -  Gov. Jay Inslee has announced Phase 3 of Washington’s “Healthy Washington” recovery plan. The new rules take effect March 22.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

--

 

Now our feature story… 

 

Gov. Jay Inslee’s Phase 3 of Washington’s “Healthy Washington” recovery plan will lift restrictions certain later this month.

 

So, what does it look like? Phase 3 will allow 25% fan attendance at outdoor sporting events, like high school sports, motorsports, and rodeos. It will also allow restaurants, fitness centers, places of worship and other indoor spaces to increase capacity to 50%.

 

Up to 400 people can attend indoor and outdoor activities, as long as it does not exceed 50% capacity. And larger venues, like sporting arenas in the Seattle area, can have up to 9,000 people or 25% capacity --- whichever is less.

 

The new rules take effect March 22 - and that’s for all counties. For youth sports and high school sports, the new provisions will kick in even earlier, on March 18th.

 

This announcement comes as covid cases have been declining and more and more vaccinations are distributed.

 

Inslee stressed that Washingtonians have been safe, have been diligent, and have been intentional. 

 

But he also noted that we’ve got to understand we’re still in a fight -- mentioning that other variants of the virus are still an issue.

Before January, there was no Healthy Washington plan. When it did take effect in January, it broke Washington into eight regions.

 

Since then every county has moved to the second phase - which resumed indoor dining and fitness centers at 25% capacity.

 

But groups like the Washington Hospitality Association have been urging the governor to allow restaurants to open at 50% capacity for some time.

 

With the announcement of phase 3 association president and CEO Anthony Anton said that the hospitality industry celebrated the decision. Anton also said that this will benefit both the health of our state and of our industry.

Inslee’s announcement also includes changes to the overall structure of the plan.

 

Gone are the regions, we’re back to a county-by-county approach. Each county will now be evaluated every three weeks. The first evaluation is set for April 12th.

 

Phase 3 will also have different metrics and criteria than Phase 2 and Phase 1. If a county fails one of the metrics, it will move back to Phase 2; the same is true for counties in Phase 2 — they will move back to Phase 1.

 

These metrics include a COVID-19 rate of less than 200 per 100,000 over 14 days;

And fewer than five people hospitalized with COVID per 100,000 over seven days.

 

Both Douglas and Chelan counties would qualify for Phase 3 based on data measured Thursday. 

 

For more on this story, and for major updates visit us at wenatcheeworld.com.

 

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Here’s what else you need to know about today…

 

Okanogan County is launching its own vaccine registration system for residents. Several organizations, including Okanogan County Public Health, Three Rivers Hospital, North Valley Hospital and others, came together to create the new system. People will be able to register for a vaccine and be alerted when they are eligible and one has become available. Okanogan County residents will also be able to list their preferred location for receiving the vaccine, the release states. Online registration is available on the Okanogan County Public Health website.

 

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Chelan and Douglas counties are in a race between vaccinations and COVID-19 variants. The rate of infection is low right now, and the percentage of COVID-19 tests coming back positive is at 4%, down from around 15% two months ago. But the number of variant cases of COVID-19 in Washington is climbing and the state is looking at a potential fourth wave of infection in April according to Chelan-Douglas Health Officer Dr. Malcolm Butler. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that Washington has seen three different variants.

 

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For the first time during the pandemic, Latino residents in Chelan County don’t appear to be carrying a disproportionate percentage of COVID-19 infections. The percentage of Latino people infected with COVID-19 now matches the percentage of Latino individuals in the community. This is not the same in Douglas County, where Hispanics continue to carry a disproportionate percentage of infections according to Dr. Butler.

 

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In Chelan County, about 28% of residents have had their first dose and 19% have had their second. In Douglas County, 21% of residents have had their first dose and 15% have received their second. The health district is now getting ready to focus on vaccinating H-2A and other agricultural workers, as well as anyone working in essential businesses.

And remember, for all news related to vaccinations and covid-19 visit us at wenatcheeworld.com/news/coronavirus.

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

 

Next ---

 

The summer theater season in Leavenworth, which was canceled last year because of covid restrictions, is moving ahead this year.

 

Auditions and callbacks for two summer shows — “The Sound of Music” and “The Secret Garden” — are being scheduled virtually. There are also plans for live rehearsals and performances. Rehearsals are set to start on June 13th, and performances are scheduled for July and August.

 

Executive Director Phil Lacey said that as of March 1st, the LST Board of Directors is confident that things will advance enough to a point where they’ll be able to produce a regular summer season. They are thrilled to move ahead with auditions.

 

Lacey also noted that they are now planning on producing a two-show season, having made the decision to postpone “The Music Man” to 2022. So this summer there will be two great shows up at the Ski Hill Amphitheater.

 

The rules state that actors 18 and older must provide proof of completed vaccinations for in-person participation.

 

For details on the auditions or the shows, you can visit leavenworthsummertheater.org.

 

Finally, some local history,  Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR

 

Did you know that the first “business house” in Wenatchee was established in 1867? Two men named Jack Ingram and John McBride operated a trading post in what is now Rock Island and began trading with local native Americans. Other small businesses and a hotel soon followed.

 

 

Thanks for listening. We’d also like to thank our sponsor again, Equilus Group, Inc, a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

 

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Thursday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Morning it’s Saturday March 13th, and this is The Wenatchee World’s newest podcast, Slices of Wenatchee. We’re excited to bring you a closer look at one of our top stories and other announcements every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

 

Today - Wenatchee residents need to decide by April 9th whether to keep their 96-gallon garbage can and pay a higher rate.

 

This episode is brought to you by Equilus Group Incorporated. Equilus Group, Inc is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com. Member SIPC and FINRA.

 

Now our feature story...

 

Wenatchee residents need to decide by April 9 whether to keep their 96-gallon garbage can and pay a higher rate that goes into effect May 1, or save money and opt for a smaller container.

 

The city approved a new contract with Waste Management Northwest in January that moves from the current “one size fits all” model to a “pay-as-you-throw” model.

 

Tyler Mackay, Waste Management’s manager of public sector solutions in Wenatchee says the “pay-as-you-throw” model is popular in communities across the region. According to Mackay, it encourages waste reduction and better recycling.

 

To help customers, Waste Management has created videos on their youtube page with tips on recycling… like this one…

 

The new rates will depend on the size of the garbage cart, with options ranging from the current 96-gallon container to a 64-gallon, and a 35-gallon container.

 

This all starts on May 1st. It’s also important to note that additional garbage bags or recycling items set out for collection that don’t fit inside the container will incur an extra charge.

 

This past week, Waste Management drivers are attaching notices to customers’ garbage containers with information about the changes to service. They’ve also emailed individuals who have provided email addresses. So far, about 15% of customers have responded - so over 1,000 residents.

 

If you’re not sure which size is right for you - you can check out the containers for yourself! They’re on display at the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce office as well as the Wenatchee Transfer Station.

 

And there are some other changes being made to the recycling service too. Starting May 1st, glass will not be accepted in the curbside recycling service.

 

For more details about these upcoming changes visit the full story at wenatcheeworld.com. You can also learn more at wmnorthwest.com/wenatchee.

 

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Before we continue, a special thanks to our friends and sponsors at Confluence Health. The team at Confluence Health is grateful for the trust the community puts in them every single day. They are diligently working to improve the health and quality of life for our friends and neighbors. They are Grateful | They are Confluence Health.  Learn more by visiting them at ConfluenceHealth.com

--

 

Next, our weekly profile of one of the World's 30 Under 35 award recipients. 

 

Today, we’re highlighting Cristina Escalera, The Assistant branch manager at Wenatchee Numerica Credit Union.

 

Cristina Escalera attended Eastmont High School. She focused on starting a family before jumping into a career and continuing her education.

 

She was hired as a teller at Numerica Credit Union in 2013, and was then promoted to lobby manager a few years later. She then transitioned into the role of financial service representative. Finally, in 2020, before her 30th birthday, she was named assistant branch manager at the Wenatchee branch.

 

Her success, according to her supervisors, comes from her dedication, problem-solving skills and can-do attitude. They also note that she takes time to encourage others along the way — and set her own personal goals.

 

She enrolled at Wenatchee Valley College in 2016 and, while working full-time, raising her young family and supporting her husband’s startup business, she completed her associate degree, graduating in June 2017.

 

She has gone on to participate in the Wenatchee Valley Chamber Leadership Group, serve as a Numerica mentor and is a member of Numerica’s Hispanic Committee.

 

When we asked Escalera what inspires her, she said that her biggest inspiration would have to be family.

 

Escalera’s parents came here from Mexico with nothing in the hopes of improving themselves and to give her and her sisters the opportunity to be something.

 

Also, her husband Gerardo, who supports her in everything and is always wanting the best for her and the family. Escalera also wants her daughters to be proud and have a good example to follow.

 

Finally, some local history, Wenatchee Valley History is brought to you by NABUR

 

In 1929, Herman Ohme purchased 40 acres of land for an orchard.

 

He and his new bride, Ruth then transplanted small evergreens from the nearby Cascade Mountains. They created pathways and borders from native stone that they hauled from the Columbia River. They hand watered the Gardens using five-gallon milk cans - eventually constructing an elaborate irrigation system that could pump water to the site. And over time, desert sage gave way to low-growing ground cover, and pools took shape adjacent to massive natural rock formations.

This all became Ohme gardens.

 

It was initially intended to be a family retreat, but ultimately Herman and Ruth opened their private oasis to the public. They continued their work on the Gardens for 42 years, until 1971 when Herman passed away. Then their son, Gordon, and his family took over caring for the Gardens until 1991 when they sold the Gardens and surrounding property to Washington State Parks to preserve them for the public and for generations to come. 

 

The Gardens are now owned and managed by Chelan County.

 

Thanks for listening. Today’s episode is brought to you by Equilus Group, Inc- Building Your Financial Success. Learn more at Equilusfinancial.com

The Wenatchee World has been engaging, informing and inspiring North Central Washington Communities since 1905. We encourage you to subscribe today to keep your heart and mind connected to what matters most in North Central Washington. Thank you for starting your morning with us and don't forget to tune in again on Tuesday!

Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.