News
High speed chase from Rock Island to East Wenatchee
On 01/05/19 at approximately 9:55 pm, a Douglas County Deputy was on patrol following a vehicle (Mercedes Benz, 350) in the 5000 block of Rock Island Rd. The Deputy ran a registration check on the vehicle and learned it was a stolen vehicle out of Wenatchee. The Deputy initiated a traffic stop in the 1500 block of Ohio Street. The driver initially followed commands but then sped away. The deputy gave chase.
The driver of the stolen vehicle continued to try escape running stop signs and speeding at a high rate of speed. The pursuit went into Rock Island and then onto SR28 back towards East Wenatchee. After several, more turns, the vehicle was westbound on Grant Road approaching the East Wenatchee City limits at about 100 mph. The Deputy in the lead of the pursuit saw other vehicles and determined it was unsafe to continue the pursuit into the City limits. He discontinued pursuing the vehicle and notified dispatch and all other units in the area.
East Wenatchee Officers saw the vehicle as it entered the city limits and gave chase for a short time until the driver fled on foot. The driver was caught shortly thereafter. The driver was identified as Jesus Morales-Lozano a 26-year-old male out of East Wenatchee. Douglas County Deputies booked Jesus into CCRJ for possession of a stolen vehicle, attempting to elude a police vehicle, driving while license suspended in the third degree. Jesus also had an outstanding arrest warrant for driving while suspended in the third degree.
Manson Parks Regular Board Meeting 1-3-19
- Written by Robin Pittman
Regular Board Meeting
142 Pedoi Street, Bumgarner Building, January 3, 2019, 4:10pm
I. Call to Order
II. Flag Salute
III. Agenda Additions and Deletions
IV. Public Comment
V. Conflict of Interest Acknowledgement Form
VI. Payroll and Voucher Authorization Form
VII. Approval of Minutes
a. December 13, 2018 Regular Meeting minutes
VIII. Financial Review
a. Review Monthly Financial Report
b. Review and Approve Monthly Voucher
IX. Old Business
a. Old Mill policy update
b. 2019 Goals and Objectives
c. Director’s Report
X. New Business
a. Leffler Field
b. Marina Commercial Contract updates
c. AAU rate increase
d. Old Mill pay station
e. Maintenance vehicle
XI. Adjournment
Next Regular Meeting: February 14, 2019 at 4:10pm, 142 Pedoi Street, Manson, WA 98831
Walmart thieves did not know when to quit
- Written by Sergeant Foreman, CCSO
Sheriff Brian Burnett reports on December 20th, 2018, at around 2:45 pm the loss prevention department at the Chelan Walmart called RiverCom to report a theft in progress. The suspects were seen carrying various items out a fire door exit where they had staged their vehicle for a quick getaway. Chelan County Deputies responded to the location but the suspects had left prior to Deputies arrival. The vehicle used in the theft was a newer white Chevrolet pickup truck with U Haul decals on the doors. The suspects had stolen over $2,000 worth of electronics. One of the suspects was identified from prior investigations as a 24 year old male from Arlington, WA. He had previously been trespassed from all Walmart properties following a 2018 arrest.
An "Attempt to Locate Bolo" was sent out to all surrounding law enforcement agencies. Chelan Walmart staff notified the neighboring stores in Wenatchee and Omak to also be on the lookout for the suspects. At around 5:45pm Omak Police responded to a suspicious call at the Omak Walmart. The suspects along with their vehicle had been observed at this location. The suspects left the store when they saw law enforcement arrive on scene. The Omak Police and Okanogan County Sheriff's Office contacted the suspects a short time later in the suspect vehicle. The driver of the vehicle and was arrested for Burglary 2nd degree and Theft 2nd degree. The 2nd suspect was identified as a 27 year old male from Lake Stevens, WA. He was identified as the other suspect in the Chelan Walmart theft, and was placed under arrest for Theft in the 2nd degree.
Both subjects were booked into the Chelan County Regional Jail. The loss prevention director for Wenatchee and Chelan Walmart's believe since November of 2018, the 24 year old suspect has stolen over $15,000 worth of merchandise. Numerous additional charges are pending from the Wenatchee Police Department as well as other theft investigations on the Westside of the State. Charges could be amended to Organized Retail Theft based on the method employed by the suspects and the total value of items stolen between the two stores in Chelan County. Organized Retail Theft is a Class B Felony.
The Chelan County Sheriff's Office would like to recognize the Omak Police Department, the Okanogan County Sheriff's Office and the Walmart's Loss Prevention Department for their help and collaboration. It was a true team effort to capture these suspects.
Geoffrey Castle's Celtic Christmas Dec 20 at the PAC
- Written by Lake Chelan Tourist Center
Lake Chelan Tourist Center presents its First Annual "Lake Chelan Christmas" with ~ Geoffrey Castle's Celtic Christmas.
It's First Year in the Lake Chelan Valley, legendary electric violinist Geoffrey Castle brings the Christmas magic with this dazzling concert, featuring the Seattle Irish Dance Company, The Geoffrey Castle Celtic Band, Guitarist and Irish Tenor Dan Connolly and singing sensation and former Miss Kirkland Emily McIntosh. Bagpiper David Wilkie will kick off the show.
Now in its 11th year, Geoffrey Castle's Celtic Christmas Celebration has become a new Northwest Holiday Tradition, bringing communities together to celebrate the magic and mystery of the season, with an Irish flair for fun!
Geoffrey Castle is a living legend on the electric six-string violin. His performance history includes playing music with members of supergroups like Heart, Queen, Journey, Bad Company, YES, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Blues Traveler, the Pogues, and the Neville Brothers, while releasing 12 albums on his own independent label and touring and performing all over the world.
The Seattle Irish Dancers are the only professional performance Irish dance company in the Pacific Northwest. They've performed with musicians from around the world - Gaelic Storm, The Chieftains, and Celtica Pipes Rock - to name just a few. They perform often with Geoffrey Castle and are excited to come to the Lake Chelan Valley. All other performances in Washington have sold out, so this is the last chance to see this years Celtic Christmas Concert.
This production was brought to the Lake Chelan Valley by the Lake Chelan Tourist Center in is efforts of creating Family Friendly Community Events & Entertainment.
Proceeds from this concert benefit Various Lake Chelan Community Events & Student Programs.
CHELAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (PAC)
215 WEBSTER AVE
CHELAN WA 98816
DECEMBER 20th 2018 / THURSDAY NIGHT (7pm - 9pm) Box Office Opens at 6:00pm Doors Open at 6:30pm
Tickets can be Purchased Online at: www.LakeChelanChristmas.com
PHONE ORDERS: 1-800-514-3849 / GROUP TICKETS: (509) 682-9150
In Person at: Damascus Rose Floral, 311 E Woodin Ave, Chelan & Allisons of Manson, 71 Wapato Way, Manson. (While Supplies Last)
Manson FFA Competes at State Apple Judging
- Written by Manson FFA
Upper L-R: Raven Pope, Cody Fitzpatrick, Cole Cochran, Emily Valencia
Bottom L-r: Henry Armstrong, Blake Cochran, Teresa Venegas
The Manson FFA Apple Judging team consisting of Cody Fitzpatrick, Henry Armstrong, Blake Cochran Marcos Diaz, and Nadia Tejada, traveled to Kennewick, Washington to participate in the state FFA Apple Judging CDE.
It was an early morning start leaving the high school at 5am for the 3 ½ hour drive. There were 127 competitors with Blake Cochran placing 28th individual.
The team placed 11th overall out of 28 teams missing the top ten by a mere 1.5 points.
The contest consisted of 25 questions out of the private applicator pesticide manual, judging two sets of trays (one red delicious and one granny Smith), figuring maturity date from full bloom, showing the proper way to pressure test, grading 25 golden delicious and 25 red delicious apples, identifying 25 varieties of apples and pears, identifying 25 insects and 50 blemishes on the apples.
The team was excited about placing and look forward to next year
Manson Parks Regular Board Meeting 12-13-18
- Written by Robin Pittman
Regular Board Meeting
142 Pedoi Street, Bumgarner Building, December 13, 2018, 4:10pm
I. Call to Order
II. Flag Salute
III. Agenda Additions and Deletions
IV. Public Comment
V. Approval of Minutes
a. November 8, 2018 Regular Meeting minutes
VI. Financial Review
a. Review Monthly Financial Report
b. Review and Approve Monthly Voucher
VII. Old Business
a. Willow Point Park
b. Manson Bay Waterfront Revitalization Project
c. Old Mill policy and rates
d. Goals and Objectives for 2019
e. 2019 Budget
f. Director’s Report
VIII. New Business
a. Lanny Armbruster memorial
b. Blackwatch contract
c. Paid Family & Medical Leave program
IX. Adjournment
Next Regular Meeting: January 10, 2019 at 4:10pm, 142 Pedoi Street, Manson, WA 98831
SR 26 bridge closure and detour near Othello ends Dec. 14
- Written by Jeff Adamson, WSDOT Communications
WSDOT Photo - Railraod Bridge before work
The barricades east of Othello will be removed at noon Friday
OTHELLO – Work to replace the State Route 26 bridge deck over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks east of Othello will be complete at noon on Friday, Dec. 14. After barriers are removed by contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation, traffic between Colfax and Vantage will no longer need to use the 32-mile detour for this primary route between western Washington and Washington State University in Pullman.
Between now and Dec.14, the concrete barrier rails will cure for the necessary ten days since they were poured. Specialty crews will finish curbing and guardrail work, paint temporary striping and perform deck pavement grooving before traffic flow is restored at noon.
“Safety for travelers and workers is always WSDOT’s first priority and we appreciate the support and patience from parents and WSU students who were inconvenienced. We are also grateful for the difficult work in harsh conditions accomplished by Degerstrom crews and BNSF,” said Project Engineer Dan Lewis. “At the same time, the simple detour has proven capable of safely accommodating high traffic volumes without significant delays.”
The deck replacement project began Oct. 15 and was expected to take six weeks. The contractor, N.A. Degerstrom Inc., initially hoped to finish the $1.2 million project by Nov. 21, but the new concrete bridge deck and rails could not be poured and cured following delays due to permitting and weather.
State commission to adopt long-range transportation plan, discuss autonomous vehicle recommendations
- Written by Reema Griffith, WSTC executive director
Dec. 11-12 meeting takes place in Olympia
OLYMPIA – An updated statewide transportation policy plan, Washington Transportation Plan 2040 and Beyond, ongoing transportation technology work and the first round of findings and recommendations on autonomous vehicle policy needs are on the Washington State Transportation Commission’s agenda next week in Olympia.
The meeting starts 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, and at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, at the Transportation Building, 310 Maple Park Ave. SE, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia.
On Tuesday morning, the commission will receive a briefing on the Road-Rail Project Final Report, which recommends to the Legislature a statewide project list for separating road and rail traffic in places where they cross at the same level.
Then, the commission will continue its information gathering on transportation technology and autonomous vehicles so that it can provide timely and insightful recommendations to the Legislature in the 2019 session. First, the commission will hear from industry leaders on truck platooning. INRIX, an international traffic data company headquartered in Kirkland, has identified corridors that can most immediately benefit from freight truck platooning, including Interstate 5 in Oregon and Washington as a prime corridor. Platooning is when trucks, operating with autonomous systems, can safety follow each other at a close distance to achieve travel and fuel efficiency and increase safety.
On Tuesday afternoon, the commission will receive a report on the progress of the Autonomous Vehicle Work Group and its subcommittees. This briefing and discussion will frame the commission’s report to the Legislature and Governor with findings and recommendations about autonomous vehicle policy needs prior to the 2019 session.
Tuesday’s agenda concludes with an update on the Road Usage Charge (RUC) pilot project and a briefing on the Office of Financial Management’s 2018 Transportation Attainment Report. This report measures areas of improvement and challenges to be addressed in the statewide transportation system and operations.
Wednesday morning’s agenda begins with a briefing on proposed changes to broaden the scope of the Commute Trip Reduction Program, a partnership with business to encourage their workers to drive alone less often, reduce carbon emissions and keep the busiest commute routes flowing.
The commission then turns to tolling items, beginning with an update on the tolling options under consideration for the “Gateway Program,” which relies on tolling revenues to complete the SR 509 and SR 167 connections with I-5 near SeaTac and in Pierce County. Following this, there will be an update on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge financial plan, and an overview of SR 520 tolling.
The meeting concludes with commission action to adopt WTP 2040 and Beyond, the long-range statewide transportation plan that establishes policy and fiscal guidance within the context of the six transportation policy goals established in law: promoting economic vitality, mobility, safety, preservation, environmental health and stewardship. This plan is updated every four years and provides guidance for other plans and statewide investments.
The commission also will adopt its 2018 Annual Report, which contains near-term policy and fiscal recommendations for the Legislature and Governor to consider in the 2019 session.
The commission meeting is open to the public and persons wishing to speak to the commission may do so during several public comment periods throughout the two-day meeting.
For more information about the commission and a complete meeting agenda, visit: www.wstc.wa.gov/
Chelan Fire and Rescue Commissioners Meeting 12-12-18
- Written by Carol A. Kibler, Administrative Office Manager, Chelan Fire and Rescue
AGENDA
Chelan Fire and Rescue
Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at 5:30 P.M.
232 East Wapato, Chelan, WA
Proposed Chelan Fire and Rescue agenda pending Board approval.
Flag Salute:
Call to Order:
Approve Agenda:
Public Comment:
Consent Agenda:
* Revenue and Expenditure Report: October 2018
* Payroll: $151,229.06 November 1-30, 2018 Paid: 12-05-2018
* Vouchers for November General Account: Vouchers #18454 – 18468 for $9,364.65; Vouchers #18469 – 18488 for $12,907.58; Vouchers #18489 – 18499 for $10,572.16; Vouchers 18500-18507 for $4,134.80.
* Vouchers for November Capital Account: Vouchers #17081 for $697.19.
* Minutes: November 14, 2018.
Fire Chief Report:
* 2018 Budget / Emergency Response Report / Facilities/Apparatus/Equipment
◦ Deputy Chief Operations Report: Operations / Fire Prevention / Public Education / Career Staff
◦ Assistance Chief of Volunteer Services: Volunteer Recruitment and Training / Volunteer Staff / Explores/Junior Firefighters
Firefighters Association Report:
Unfinished Business:
* Ladder 71
* Assistant to Firefighters Grant - SCBA
* Rescue Boat
New Business:
* 2019 Shift Staffing
* Hiring Process – Administrative Assistant
* Long Range Planning - Schedule Meeting
* Resolution 2018-07 – Commissioner Compensation Increase
* Change Board of Commissioner Meetings date and time
* Appoint Chairman of the Board and Secretary for 2019
Special Event:
* 12/18/2018, CFR Holiday Social - Station 71, 6-9
Board for Volunteer Firefighters
* Invoices & Accident Report
Commissioner Comments: No action to be taken.
Executive Session:
Adjournment:
Manson High School Robotics travels to Central Washington University
- Written by Janice Stewart
Manson High School Robotics Club competed in their first competition on December 1, 2018 at Central Washington University. Students who attended were Cole Cochran, Jonathan Sarmiento, Cara Hutton, Zoe Thomas and Grant Torgesen. Students competed in the skills challenge where they earned 1st Place for their autonomous and driver control skills.
Students also competed in the brackets challenge and earned 9th Place out of 16 teams who competed. This is the first year for Robotics Club and students are off to a great start!
Manson High School freshman invited to speak at Microsoft
- Written by Janice Stewart
Cara Hutton, freshman at Manson High School was invited to speak at a kick-off of Computer Science Education Week in Seattle at the Microsoft offices.
Miriam Brady, TEALS Rural and Distance manager was impressed with Cara’s enthusiasm and her computer science experience that she observed while on a visit to Manson High School.
Cara was one of three students chosen to speak at the event.
Below is a video link that shares this great event.
Link to code.org page: https://www.youtube.com/user/CodeOrg/featured
Adopt-A-Tree at Buckner Orchard - a great gift!
- Written by Herb Sargo
A Great Way to support the Orchard!
Looking for a stocking stuffer, a special gift to commemorate a memory or loved one, or to create a sense of caring and nurturing in a young person? Consider giving an adopted tree at the Buckner Orchard for 2019.
If the Buckner Orchard is going to continue as the treasure we know it to be, it must have caretakers now, as well as long into the future. What better way to ensure that future than by giving a child a gift of a tree!
The response of children who received trees is touching. They picked out their trees, wanting "to grow up" with a younger tree, pulling weeds, placing mouse guards, and running water to "their tree". They have become attached to "their" tree and now have a wonderful opportunity to care and help nurture a living thing for many years to come.
TREES ARE NOT JUST FOR CHILDREN!. Maybe you know someone who doesn't get to Stehekin often enough, who has a special memory of the Orchard, or you just want to support the work of the Foundation in caring for the Orchard? The adoption of trees also raises awareness of the Orchard and its care.
Adopt-A-Tree is one way in which you can support the work of the Foundation in caring for the Buckner Orchard. With your support much can be done to protect and conserve the heritage of this national treasure, and to continue its place as an important part of the Stehekin Community.
Adopt a tree for yourself and be a part of the Buckner Orchard!
Adopt-A-Tree funds are used exclusively to support the care and maintenance of the Buckner Orchard and are tax deductible.
HOW TO ADOPT A TREE
Step 1. E-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to ensure a certificate arrives in time, providing the first and last name of the person the gift is being given to, as well as the address to which you would like it sent. Be sure to include your e-mail address; this saves the Foundation both time and money in getting the receipt to you.
A personal message may be included on the certificate, such as, With love and fond memories, from Aunt Cinda and Uncle Jim. You choose the one-line wording.
Step 2. Mail a check (@$25.00 per tree) to the Buckner Homestead Heritage Foundation, PO Box 184, Manson, WA 98831. Because some may be given as Christmas gifts, a certificate will be mailed immediately, trusting that the appropriate payment will be forthcoming.
Certificates can also be sent to you in PDF format via e-mail, ready to print from your computer, name of the recipient included. Let us know your preference.
RENEWALS
This is also a great time to renew trees adopted during previous years. Please let us know if a new certificate is needed and follow the directions above.
Adopt-A-Tree is one of three means by which the Foundation raises funds to support the Orchard and Homestead. The other two are memberships and donations. Please help us today and give a gift of love and caring.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web site: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Buckner Homestead Heritage Foundation is a not-for-profit organization created specifically to support and preserve the Buckner Homestead and Orchard in Stehekin, Washington,
and is registered as such with the State of Washington and the IRS
(Tax ID #452913458)
Funeral Procession for Leavenworth Soldier
- Written by Sergeant Kent Sisson, CCSO
Funeral services to celebrate and honor the life of Sergeant Leandro Jasso will be held Sunday, December 9th at 11 a.m. at Cascade High School in Leavenworth. Motorist should expect delays as the funeral procession makes it way from East Wenatchee to Leavenworth Sunday morning.
The procession will depart Heritage Memorial Chapel in East Wenatchee at 9:30 a.m., head north on Valley Mall Parkway to Sunset Hwy, North on Sunset Hwy, and then east on State Highway 2 to Leavenworth. Intersections along the route will be temporarily closed as the procession passes through. Motorists should plan ahead and expect delays if they are traveling in the area.
If the public would like to show their respect to Sergeant Jasso and his family, the recommended viewing areas are Valley Mall Parkway in East Wenatchee and along Highway 2 from Riverbend Drive to the Chumstick Hwy in Leavenworth.
The funeral procession is being managed by local law enforcement and fire agencies from Chelan and Douglas Counties.
Free Snowmobile Safety Class Dec 8th
- Written by Deputy Rich Magnussen, CCSO
Photo by Unknown - https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=At4DAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA359Photograph and article appeared in Popular Mechanics of March 1911, no author or photographer listed., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11767459
WENATCHEE, WA – The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and the Lake Wenatchee Recreation Club, is offering a free Snowmobile Safety Certification Class to young snowmobilers in December.
The free class is designed for youth ages 12 to 16 but is open to new riders of all ages. The class is scheduled for Saturday, December 8th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lake Wenatchee Recreation Club, 14400 Chiwawa Loop Rd, Leavenworth, WA. Lunch will be provided for the participants by the Lake Wenatchee Rec. Club.
The key to safe snowmobiling lies in the operator’s knowledge, capabilities, limitations and understanding of the machine. It is recommended that snowmobilers be aware of weather and trail conditions and the safety of other winter sports enthusiasts, while respecting wildlife and the environment. The snowmobile safety course training includes:
- Basic snowmobile maintenance.
- Survival skills and dealing with emergencies, including avalanche awareness.
- The proper clothing and equipment for winter weather.
- Hand signals while riding and other basic skills.
- Properly preparing for a ride.
- Riding skills test.
Registration deadline is December 6th. A parent or guardian will need to sign a consent form for each child registered and sign them out at the conclusion of the class. For more information or to register, contact Deputy Rich Magnussen with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office at (509) 667-6508 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Avalanche chutes fill up, SR 20 North Cascades Highway closes for the season
- Written by Jeff Adamson, WSDOT Communications
DIABLO – Get the holiday decorations ready – the snowy season has arrived, at least in the mountains. Enough snow has fallen in the North Cascades that avalanche chutes are full and, for traveler safety, the 37-mile seasonal stretch of State Route 20 will close at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28.
The Washington State Department of Transportation will swing the North Cascade Highway gates closed at milepost 134 near Diablo and milepost 171 near Mazama. This section will remain closed until sometime in 2019 when the snow stops falling and melts enough to make it safe for maintenance crews to plow the road.
Winter access
Snowshoers, cross-country skiers, fat-tire bikers or snowmobilers can access the closed area throughout the winter. Parking is available near each closed gate. Anyone choosing to use the area should know the conditions, including avalanche risks, watch the forecast and bring proper gear.
Later this winter, once there is significant snowfall, adventurers should plan for the gate closures to expand on both ends of the North Cascades Highway. In the Diablo area it will move back to milepost 130, on or after Jan. 2, 2019. The closure in Mazama will move back to milepost 178 once snow is too deep for snow blowers. Extending the closure area when the snow gets heavier and deeper saves money and resources. There will still be parking available at both closure locations.
Highway history
WSDOT opened the final section of SR 20/North Cascades Highway in 1972. Each year crews close it to vehicles for the winter due to the snow in the 27 avalanche chutes that loom above the highway. That closure usually happens in November or December. However, in previous years the highway has closed as early as October. The latest closing was Jan. 3, 1990 and in 1976-77 the highway remained open all winter due to the lack of snow.
Spring 2019 reopening
Avalanche experts will assess conditions in the spring. When it is safe, WSDOT will move snow blowers, plows and loaders to the area to start clearing snow, removing winter debris and replacing damaged guardrail and signs. That clearing process usually takes about eight weeks.
Chelan Fire and Rescue Commissioner Special Meeting 11-29-18
- Written by Carol A. Kibler, Administrative Office Manager, Chelan Fire and Rescue
Commissioners Special Meeting
Thursday, November 29, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.
Agenda
Flag Salute
Call to Order
Old Business
Ladder 71 – Options
Adjournment
Burn ban expires for Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas and Okanogan counties
- Written by Washington State DOE
A Stage 1 burn ban in Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas and Okanogan counties expires at 4 p.m., Monday, Nov 26, 2018, according to the Washington Department of Ecology.
Washington State Department of Transportation to be the first statewide agency to host an artist-in-residence
- Written by Barbara LaBoe, WSDOT Communications
Washington will become the first state to embed an artist in a statewide agency, bringing a creative approach to advancing the agency’s goals like improving safety, reducing congestion, promoting economic vitality, supporting multimodal transportation systems and creating healthier communities.
Nov. 20, 2018 — An artist-in-residence will spend a year working with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to help develop new ways to achieve agency goals through a first-of-its-kind program created by ArtPlace America and Transportation for America, a program of Smart Growth America. WSDOT will be the first stage agency in the country to pilot an artist-in-residence program.
Applications are now open for artists interested in the year-long position, which will be located within WSDOT. The call for artists and application can be found here: https://smartgrowthamerica.org/program/arts-culture/wsdot-air/
Recognized as a tool for pioneering innovative and creative solutions, artist-in-residence programs have been piloted across the nation in municipal governmental agencies, including the Los Angeles and Seattle DOTs, but never before at a statewide agency.
Several organizations collaborated on the artist-in-residence program. ArtPlace America is providing a $125,000 grant for the program, including a $40,000 stipend for the selected artist and $25,000 for a final project(s) the artist and staff develop. Transportation for America (T4A) will administer both the funds and the overall program, including providing staff and consulting assistance. The State Smart Transportation Initiative (SSTI) will also provide staff support. Both T4A and SSTI are programs of Smart Growth America. WSDOT will supply in-kind contributions consisting of work space for the selected artist and staff time for agency workers to collaborate on the groundbreaking new program.
“Artists can provide fresh approaches and new ways of doing things, interpret complex processes, and provide unique perspectives for existing programs,” said Ben Stone, Smart Growth America’s director of arts & culture. “While a handful of cities have embedded artists in various departments over the years, WSDOT will be the first statewide agency to embark on such a program. We’re excited to be a part of helping Washington state harness arts and creativity to create better supported and more beloved transportation projects that help accomplish the state’s goals.”
Why employ an artist-in-residence?
“This type of program has a proven track record at the municipal level by bringing creativity to design challenges, increasing community buy-in, fostering deeper community engagement, building relationships with underrepresented communities and helping improve processes for day-to-day work," said Roger Millar, WSDOT’s secretary of transportation. “Our goal is to find innovative ways to better engage the communities we serve and deliver the best possible transportation projects.”
What will an artist-in-residence do?
The residency will run for one year with rotations through WSDOT’s core divisions to gain knowledge on the agency’s operations, priorities and challenges. The artist will then propose projects to address WSDOT’s overarching goals while improving community engagement, supporting alternatives to single occupancy vehicle transport and enhancing safety and equity. After four months of rotations, eight months will be devoted to the artist’s project(s) development and production.
Cities across the country have engaged artists-in-residence to support their efforts. The Seattle Housing Authority has engaged artists-in-residence to collaboratively produce art with residents of Yesler Terrace that celebrates the community's culture and history, builds connections to the adjacent neighborhoods, and connects residents to the arts. The Seattle Department of Transportation has embedded artists-in-residence in the northwest tower of the Fremont Bridge to produce art and performances that explore the historic bridge's role and meaning in Seattle.
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation's artists-in-residence have installed interactive artistic elements to bus shelters, taught storytelling skills to the DOT staff to help them better communicate their projects to the public, and served as a bridge between transportation advocates and DOT staff. In Minneapolis, artists-in-residence have used theatre to help the city's Regulatory Services Department staff develop more empathetic policies and better relate to their constituents, while St Paul's artists-in-residence have worked to make community meetings more creative, fun, and productive.
“We are thrilled to invest in the first artist-in-residence program within state government, and to share the results with state departments of transportation across the country,” said Jamie Bennett, ArtPlace America’s executive director. “WSDOT will establish a valuable model for how artists can contribute toward the planning, creation and utilization of safe, sustainable and integrated multimodal transportation system.”
The artist will be based in WSDOT’s headquarters in Olympia, but may also work from one of WSDOT’s regional offices in Spokane, Wenatchee, Shoreline, Tumwater, Union Gap, or Vancouver for part of the residency.
Interested artists can learn more about the position and apply for consideration here: https://smartgrowthamerica.org/program/arts-culture/wsdot-air/.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal opportunity and having a diverse staff are fundamental principles at Transportation for America. Employment and promotional opportunities are based upon individual capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation/preference, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established under law.
Stage 1 burn ban starts Saturday in Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Klickitat and Okanogan counties
- Written by Washington State DOE
A ban on outdoor burning and the use of uncertified stoves and fireplaces begins 10 a.m. Saturday in Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Klickitat and Okanogan Counties due to poor air quality in the region. Restrictions on burning will continue until further notice.
The Washington Department of Ecology is calling the ban because stagnant conditions are predicted to return in these counties after a brief break, putting the communities at risk for unhealthy levels of air pollution. In the first half of this week monitors showed elevated levels of air pollutants. Fine particles from wood smoke can easily get into people’s lungs causing heart and breathing problems.
Under a Stage 1 ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited including residential, agricultural and forest burning. Use of uncertified wood stoves, fireplaces, inserts, and other uncertified wood-burning devices are prohibited unless they are a home’s only adequate source of heat. Cleaner burning certified wood stoves, pellet stoves and other certified wood-burning devices are allowed.
Call 866-211-6284 if you think someone is illegally burning or you are impacted by smoke.
Up-to-date burn ban information is available at www.waburnbans.net.
Just like any good recipe, early prep is key for Thanksgiving weekend traffic
- Written by Barbara LaBoe, WSDOT Communications
Leave early, use tools for smoother holiday and Apple Cup travel
OLYMPIA – While making plans for the big holiday feast, be sure to add travel prep to the Thanksgiving to-do list.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to “know before you go” and plan head for smoother travel during the busy holiday weekend.
The agency also provides several tools to help plan holiday travels:
- Consult WSDOT’s travel times charts, which use historical information to help drivers know before they go.
- Check out online tools, including mobile apps, traffic cameras and email alerts.
- Visit WSDOT’s online traveler information about traffic, weather and ferry schedules.
- Follow WSDOT’s social media accounts, such as Twitter and Facebook.
- Pre-program 530 AM and 1610 AM to vehicle radios for highway advisory radio alerts.
- Carry chains and other winter driving essentials.
- Check current chain and traction requirements on the WSDOT passes website or by calling 5-1-1, and watch for highway advisory signs.
- Leave extra time for holiday and winter travel, slow down and leave extra space between vehicles when driving on snow or ice.
Apple Cup travel
Those traveling to the Friday, Nov. 23, Apple Cup football game in Pullman should prepare for possible winter weather on passes and allow extra travel time. A detour on State Route 26 near Othello – the main route to Pullman from the west side of the state – will continue for the holiday weekend to allow concrete to cure. The detour adds 15 minutes to the normal drive, but travelers should prepare for delays during heavy holiday or game-day traffic. Westbound traffic on I-90 at Snoqualmie Pass both Saturday, Nov. 24, and Sunday, Nov. 25, is likely to be heavier than normal with both game and holiday travelers, so please allow extra time or alter travel plans if possible.
Mountain passes
- SR 123 Cayuse Pass and SR 410 Chinook Pass remain open as of Nov. 15, but check the winter closure webpage for updates before traveling because conditions could cause the passes to close before the holiday.
- SR 20 North Cascades Highway also remains open as of Nov. 15 and details about the road status and winter closure also are available online.
- On Interstate 90 Snoqualmie Pass travelers can receive text alerts for pass delays of 30 minutes or longer – text “wsdot snoqualmie” to 468311 to subscribe, and “wsdot stop” to unsubscribe.
Tolls
In the Puget Sound area, the SR 520 bridge will have weekend toll rates on Thanksgiving, Nov. 22, returning to weekday rates on Friday, Nov. 23. On the I-405 express toll lanes, travel is free for all on the Thanksgiving holiday, returning to normal toll and HOV requirements from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. Weekends are always free to travel in the express toll lanes. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and short term account options on the Good to Go! visitors page.
Other travel alternatives
Travelers planning a trip by ferry, train, personal aircraft or bus also should make plans to avoid holiday delays:
- Please plan ahead for heavy holiday ferry traffic and consider purchasing tickets online to save time. The longest lines are expected westbound Wednesday afternoon and evening, Nov. 21, and eastbound Friday morning, Nov. 23. Reservations are recommended on the Anacortes/San Juan Islands/Sidney, British Columbia and Port Townsend/Coupeville routes. Some ferry routes run on Saturday schedules on the holiday; check ferry schedules online or call 888-808-7977 for details.
- Amtrak Cascades passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets early and should plan to arrive at the station one hour before departure. There are no extra Thanksgiving trains this year. All Amtrak Cascades trains require reservations and trains fill up quickly during holidays. Visit www.amtrakcascades.com/ or call 800–USA–RAIL for details.
- Information about traveling via state-operated airports is available on line or call 800-552-0666.
- Check with local public transit agencies for any holiday schedule or service changes, including some Dial-A-Ride and fixed-route service that may not run on holidays.
Aurora Flores Elected To Serve as President Of Washington State School Directors’ Association
- Written by Janice Stewart
The Manson School District is proud to announce that Manson School Board member Aurora Flores will be sworn in as President of the Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) at its annual conference in Spokane on November 17, 2018. Manson High School’s Jazz Kats will perform at the swearing in ceremony.
Mrs. Flores is one of three Manson School Board Members who have served as WSSDA President. Ed Armbruster served one term in 1972 and Esther Stefaniw served two terms from 1991-93. WSSDA is an organization that represents 1,447 school board members across the state, the highest group of elected officials in Washington.
Mrs. Flores has worked as a paraeducator, community liaison, a banking operations officer, a school district finance manager and an auditor for the state. Currently, Aurora is an academic counselor for the Omak School District in the WAVA program. She holds an AA in Business Administration from Reedley Community College and a BS in Business Administration/Accounting from California State University and a M.ED in ESA Counseling from Heritage University. She is currently completing doctoral work at Grand Canyon University. In 2015 she was appointed by Governor Inslee to serve on the Professional Educator Standards Board.
Mrs. Flores is very involved in her community as well. She has chaired Manson Apple Blossom, is a member of Business and Professional Women, is a past member of the Washington State School Director’s Multi-Cultural Advocacy Team and is currently serving on the Lake Chelan Hospital Foundation
Aurora and her husband Balentin moved to Manson in 1987. They raised four children in the valley all whom attended Manson Schools.
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Gabe and his wife Sandra own and operate Valley Fitness in Chelan;
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Ann Marie is a teacher in the Manson Schools and her husband Andy is a surveyor for Pinnacle Surveying;
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Jaime manages a construction company, Property Solutions and his wife Kristy works for McLean Real Estate;
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Valerie works for Lacy Kane and Kube – Attorneys in Wenatchee
She also has six grandchildren all living in North Central Washington.
Congratulations Aurora!
Tree removal to close westbound I-90 near Cle Elum next week
- Written by Meagan Lott, WSDOT Communications
CLE ELUM – Maintenance crews with the Washington State Department of Transportation will close the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 near Cle Elum to remove trees next week.
The westbound lanes of I-90 will be closed at Exit 84 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13 to remove several trees in the area. Traffic will be detoured around the closure using Exit 85.
Drivers should plan for added travel time. This work is weather dependent and subject to change.
WSDOT provides a variety of tools to help plan your trip over Snoqualmie Pass:
- Sign up for email updates and text message alerts.
- Snoqualmie Mountain Pass Web page for real-time travel information and to view traffic cameras.
- Check the weekly Construction Updates and Traffic pages for region-wide updates.
- Tune into the Highway Advisory Radio at 1610 AM and 530 AM.
- Follow us on Twitter @snoqualmiepass.
- Call the I-90 construction hotline at 888-535-0738 or 511.
SR 26 bridge project’s closure & detour is extended
- Written by Jeff Adamson, WSDOT Communications
Deck replacement work east of Othello will remain in place at least through Thanksgiving and Apple Cup game
OTHELLO – Work to replace the State Route 26 bridge deck over the BNSF right-of-way east of Othello has taken longer than expected, so the closure now could last into December.
The 32-mile detour around the closure using state routes 17, 260, and US 395 remains in place. It adds an extra 14 miles to the trip compared to the usual 17.5 mile drive through the now-closed portion of SR 26.
Contractor crews from N.A. Degerstrom Inc., working for the Washington State Department of Transportation, had hoped to complete the work in time for the Thanksgiving holiday and annual Apple Cup football game. However, protecting the railroad tracks under the bridge during demolition work took longer than anticipated, delaying the concrete pour.
Contractor crews had hoped to finish this $1.2 million project by Nov. 21, but the new concrete bridge deck will not cure in time for that. The remaining work may require the closure to extend into December.
“Safety for travelers and workers is WSDOT’s first priority and requires the additional time for this project,” said project engineer Dan Lewis. “At the same time, the simple detour has proven capable of safely accommodating high traffic volumes without significant delays.”
Regardless of the route, travelers should be prepared for winter driving. WSDOT’s online traveler information provides updates on traffic and weather.
WSDOT will provide weekly construction updates on the project’s web page including pictures as well as social media postings. Also:
- Subscribe to get email messages for both regional traffic and construction alerts. Sign in with an email address or phone number for texts and you are automatically subscribed to the requested list.
- To get WSDOT Eastern Washington Twitter feed, go to and follow @WSDOT_East.
Manson Parks Regular Board Meeting 11-8-18
- Written by Robin Pittman
Regular Board Meeting
142 Pedoi Street, Bumgarner Building, November 8, 2018, 4:10pm
I. Call to Order
II. Flag Salute
III. Agenda Additions and Deletions
IV. Public Comment
V. Approval of Minutes
a. October 11, 2018 Regular Meeting minutes
VI. Financial Review
a. Review Monthly Financial Report
b. Review and Approve Monthly Voucher
VII. Old Business
a. Willow Point Park policy update
b. Singleton playground renovation
c. Annual Report: review ‘Goals and Objectives’ for 2019
d. Director’s Report
VIII. New Business
a. Newsletter survey responses
b. Resolution 2018-05 (Authorization for 2019 tax levy increase)
c. Resolution 2018-06 (adoption of credit card policy)
d. 2019 preliminary budget
IX. Adjournment
Next Regular Meeting: December 13, 2018 at 4:10pm, 142 Pedoi Street, Manson, WA 98831
AAU Basketball signups end November 9th
- Written by Robin Pittman
Manson Parks would like to announce that registration is now open for this year’s AAU basketball season.
This program is for Kindergarten through 6th grade.
Forms will be sent home with Manson Elementary students. They can also be completed at the Parks Office (142 Pedoi St.) or ONLINE (at mansonparks.com).
Office hours are Monday through Friday 10am - 2pm.
The LAST DAY FOR SIGN UPS WILL BE November 9, 2018.
The office will remain open until 6:00 p.m. on the 9th to accommodate working parents.
The total cost to play is $29.00, or $15.00 if the athlete has a current AAU card.
For more information please call our office at 509-687-9635 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Veterans Breakfast at Manson High School Nov. 9th
- Written by Janice Stewart
All local veterans are cordially invited to attend a breakfast in their honor on Friday, November 9 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Manson High School.
Students will be preparing and serving pancakes, eggs, bacon and coffee.
Please join us as we honor those who have served.
Start preparing for winter driving before snow and ice arrive
- Written by Gregory Kennedy
Studded tires allowed in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31
OLYMPIA – The falling leaves and colder weather can mean only one thing – snow and ice are just around the corner. With the changing seasons, now is the perfect time for travelers to shift their focus towards winter driving.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges all travelers to start preparing themselves and their vehicles well before the threat of snow and ice kicks into high gear. Drivers can check out WSDOT's winter driving web page for tips and information. WSDOT also asks travelers to always "know before you go" and get the most up-to-date roadway information before heading out.
“Our crews are ready for winter and work hard to keep roads clear of snow and ice,” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “But we also need the public’s help in being prepared for winter weather. Most of the pass closures we see are due to spin outs or crashes from a vehicle traveling too fast or not having proper winter driving equipment.”
To check conditions and prepare for adverse weather:
- Download the WSDOT mobile app.
- Follow WSDOT's regional and pass accounts on Twitter, the agency's Facebook site and online travel alerts.
- Sign up for email and/or text updates about road conditions – including Snoqualmie Pass delay text alerts.
- Download, print and carry the WSDOT Winter Driving Guide (pdf 1.83 mb).
- Get your vehicle ready (pdf 2 mb) and plan extra time to cross all mountain passes, including heavily traveled routes such as Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass and White Pass.
- Carry chains and know current traction and chain requirements for mountain passes, which are also available on highway-advisory signs and highway-advisory radio and by calling 511.
- Preset your radio to 530 AM and 1610 AM for WSDOT's traffic-information stations.
Alternatives to chains
Some vehicle manufacturers recommend against the use of tire chains for certain models – but that doesn’t exempt travelers from state laws about extra traction devices. The Washington State Patrol provides a list of approved, alternative-traction devices (pdf 133 kb) that meet state chains and traction tires requirements. All travelers are reminded to carry chains whenever crossing mountain passes to be prepared for changing weather conditions and potentially avoid a costly ticket. Failure to obey a tire chains sign can mean a ticket of up to $500. Special chain enforcement patrols will be keeping an eye on mountain passes this winter.
Studded tires
By law, studded tires are legal for use in Washington state only from Nov. 1 through March 31. This applies to all vehicles in Washington, even those traveling from other states.
WSDOT estimates studded tires cause between $20 million and $29 million in pavement damage to state-owned asphalt and concrete roadways each year. Motorists are encouraged to visit a tire dealer to learn more about stud-free, winter tread traction tires. These type of tires are different than all-season tires, are legal year-round and do not cause the same roadway damage as studded tires. More information about studded-tire restrictions and requirements can be found in the FAQ on the WSP website.
5 arrested in drug house sting
- Written by Chief Jason Reinfield, CCSO
Sheriff Brian Burnett reports on October 25th, 2018 at approximately 1:45 PM the Columbia River Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 200 block of North Chelan Avenue in Wenatchee.
CRDTF received several recent complaints of suspected drug activity in the residence. Through investigation, they were able to develop probable cause for the arrest of two 28 year old Wenatchee male residents for unlawful possession of a firearm. The task force obtained a search warrant for the residence and for the arrest of the two subjects.
Due to the possibility of firearms in the residence and the potential number of occupants, it was determined the Chelan County Regional SWAT Team would be used initially to serve the warrant. The two subjects named on the warrant were arrested and the residence was cleared without incident. Three other occupants of the residence were taken into custody on arrest warrants as well.
Chelan Avenue was closed from Fifth Street to Second Street for approximately one hour while the residence was cleared and neighboring businesses were asked to shelter in place.
Washington State Department of Corrections Officers, Wenatchee Police Department, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, and City of Wenatchee Public Works assisted with this operation.
The Chelan County Regional SWAT Team is comprised of Officers and Deputies from the Wenatchee Police Department and Chelan County Sheriff’s Office. The Columbia River Drug Task Force is comprised of Detectives from Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, Wenatchee Police Department, East Wenatchee Police Department, and Washington State Patrol.
Fatality accident takes life of 37 year old female from Waterville
On 10-11-18 at approximately 11:58 PM Douglas County Deputies were dispatched to a one vehicle rollover collision in the 500 block of Road M NW.
When Deputies arrived they found Charles T. Besel, a 38 year old male of Wenatchee, and Judy M. Hoffman, a 37 year old female of Waterville, outside of the vehicle.
Due to their injuries Judy and Charles were transported to the Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee. Charles was treated and released, however Judy later passed away from her injuries.
The investigation revealed Judy was the driver and alcohol was involved.
Leavenworth man fires on BNSF workers
- Written by Sheriff Brian Burnett, CCSO
Sheriff Brian Burnett reports on October 23, 2018 at approximately 10:43 p.m., Chelan County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 12000 block of Chumstick Hwy, approximately four miles north of Leavenworth, for the report of a male subject firing a gun at co-workers.
Burlington Northern Santé Fe (BNSF) employees were attempting to access a railroad crossing construction site via a private driveway off of Chumstick Hwy. The BNSF employees were in a large Freightliner truck and had utilized the driveway twice earlier in the day to access the work site. They were confronted by a male subject, James Carl Brown, carrying an AR style rifle. Brown advised the BNSF workers that they were on private property. As they attempted to leave and drive back down the driveway towards Chumstick Hwy, Brown shouted for the group to stop, raised the rifle and fired 3-5 rounds into the ground in front of the truck. They drove in reverse until James told them they were on BNSF right of way before James disappeared into the trees.
Fearing for their lives and not wanting to drive forward and unable to drive back down the driveway as the railroad crossing was completely torn up due to the construction, they radioed a co-worker who was approximately one mile south of their location. The BNSF workers were eventually able to escape south on the railway by using a railroad machine via the rail line.
Chelan County Sheriff’s Deputies were able to establish phone contact with Brown. Brown stated that Law Enforcement was not allowed on his property and refused to meet in person and would only talk on the phone.
Chelan County Regional SWAT was activated and utilized as negotiators continued to dialogue with Brown in an attempt for a peaceful conclusion. Brown eventually stopped communicating with Chelan County Deputies but was later located by members of the SWAT team and taken into custody without incident.
After securing search warrants for Brown’s residence, multiple firearms were located, secured for evidence and safe keeping.
Brown was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center on (RCW 9A.36.011.1) Assault 1st Degree-assaults another with a firearm (four counts) and (RCW 9A.40.040) Unlawful Imprisonment (four counts).
Mystery shooting at social gathering
On 10-22-18 at about 11:19 PM Douglas County deputies were notified of a gunshot victim at the Central Washington Hospital emergency room.
Investigators learned the gunshot victim, a 21 year old male of Michoacan, Mexico, was attending a social gathering at a residence in the 5300 block of 4th ST SE.
At some point during the gathering the victim walked away from the group into an open field, to talk on the phone. While in the field talking on the phone an unknown subject, believed to be attending the same gathering, shot a firearm towards the open field. The victim was struck two times staining non-life threatening wounds.
The victim was transported to the hospital in a private vehicle. Investigators believe this was an isolated event and there is not a public safety risk.
The investigation is still underway.
Manson School District Emergency Drill October 26, 2018
- Written by Janice Stewart
Manson School District will be conducting emergency exercises on Friday October 26, 2018.
The purpose of these drills are to help students and staff prepare for possible emergencies.
The district will send out a reminder text message to parents regarding this drill occurring.
Please do not be alarmed if you observe emergency vehicles on our campus during this training.
Manson School Public Notices 10-22-18
- Written by Janice Stewart
MANSON SCHOOL DISTRICT
MANSON SCHOOL DISTRICT
PUBLIC NOTICE
Saturday, November, 17, 2018
WSSDA Conference/Joint Board MeetingThe Manson School Board of Directors will be attending the Annual WSSDA Conference in Spokane, WA from November 14-17, 2018.
The Manson Board of Directors will also be conducting a joint meeting with the Lake Chelan School Board on Saturday, November, 17 from 7:15 a.m.-8:30 a.m.
Topics of discussion will include: current ways in which the districts are working together, potential ways to partner in the future. No action will be taken at this conference or the joint meeting.
MANSON SCHOOL DISTRICT
PUBLIC NOTICE
BOARD WORKING SESSION
Thursday, October 25, 2018
The Manson School District Board members will be visiting Manson Elementary School located at 950 Totem Pole Road in Manson on Thursday, October 25th from 8:30-1:00 p.m.to learn more about the innovative programs and work that they are doing with students. No action to be taken.
Manson Staff participate in Active Shooter Training
- Written by Janice Stewart
All Manson School District Staff recently participated in an ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) training which better prepares school staff to more proactively handle the threat of an armed intruder or active shooter event. The training is a part of an overall “layered” approach to improving student safety in which many different proactive and real time responses are being added.
“As violent attacks have evolved our approach on how to best protect our students and staff has changed” says Superintendent Matt Charlton. We are teaching staff and older students option-based tactics vs. the traditional lockdown only approach. We believe these strategies will give our staff the tools they need to keep our students as safe as possible.”
On October 12th all staff were led through a series of training scenarios by two Manson staff members, Brad Soliday and Michelle Rogge who are ALICE Certified Instructors. Manson Elementary teacher Brandy Sampson shared “Upon completing the program, not only did I feel more empowered and knowledgeable, but also more confident about the safety all Manson staff can provide for our students.”
Chelan County Sheriff Deputy/Resource Officer Nigel Hunter assisted in the training as did community member (and former CCSD Deputy) Dale England. Charlton shared “Dale England served on our safety committee and offered to help our District. He understands the importance of preparedness and training.”
The District will next look to train students and put the recent staff training to the test with a district-wide drill on October 26, 2018. Parents and the community will also be offered an opportunity to learn more about student safety improvements on November 8th at a Manson Inc. parent night.
For more information about ALICE go to www.alicetraining.com.
State Autonomous Vehicle Work Group meets to consider initial recommendations to Legislature
- Written by Reema Griffith, WSTC Executive Director
OLYMPIA – With new and evolving technology advances in vehicle operations, the Washington State Legislature enacted a law in 2018 creating the Autonomous Vehicle Work Group. The body is convened by the Washington State Transportation Commission and is required to make recommendations on possible laws and regulations that will address the operation of autonomous vehicles on public roadways in the state.
The work group will meet from 12 – 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, in the Nisqually Board Room at the Department of Transportation Headquarters Building, 310 Maple Park Ave SE, Olympia. The meeting is open to the public.
The work group held its first meeting in June and established five subcommittees charged with assessing regulatory and legal needs for autonomous vehicle deployment on roadways. The subcommittees bring together public and private sector interests to collaborate on assessing potential implications and effects of autonomous vehicles across five topical areas:
- Vehicle and driver licensing/ rules of the road
- Safety/ enforcement
- Infrastructure and systems
- Liability/ insurance
- System technology and data security
The work group will receive status reports and recommendations from the five subcommittees at their Oct. 24 meeting. The work group will then forward the recommendations on to the commission for consideration during its Dec. 11 and 12 meeting in Olympia. The work group will also provide the commission with a proposed work plan for the next two years (July 2019 – June 2021) which will outline the major efforts they will undertake in their ongoing review and assessment of autonomous vehicle deployment in Washington state.
The commission will submit a report of findings and initial recommendations, along with the proposed two-year work plan, to the Legislature in January 2019.
For more information on the work group, visit: wstc.wa.gov/Meetings/AVAgenda/AutonomousVehicleWorkGroup.html
For more information on the Transportation Commission, visit: wstc.wa.gov/
State Transportation Commission adopts SR 99 tunnel toll rates
- Written by Reema Griffith, WSTC executive director
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Transportation Commission today voted to approve toll rates for the State Route 99 tunnel under downtown Seattle. Drivers will not be charged tolls when the tunnel first opens in early 2019, and an exact date to begin tolling has not yet been determined.
The adopted toll rates will range from $1 to $2.25 for drivers with a Good To Go! pass, depending on time of day. Drivers without a Good To Go! account will pay an extra $2 per toll. Toll rates will also be higher for vehicles with more than two axles.
On weekdays, tolls will be $1.50 during the morning peak commute (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.), $2.25 during the evening peak commute (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.), and $1.25 during non-peak hours between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Overnight (11 p.m. to 6 a.m.) and weekend tolls will be $1.00. Toll rates will increase by 3 percent every three years beginning in July 2022, subject to annual review by the Transportation Commission.
The Transportation Commission has previously determined that there will be consistent exemptions on all toll facilities for public transit, emergency responders, highway maintenance vehicles, school buses and qualified private buses, which serve the public or commuters.
State law requires that SR 99 tunnel tolls be used to repay $200 million borrowed to build the tunnel as well as related debt service costs, and ongoing operations, maintenance, and safety costs.
The Transportation Commission engaged in a five-month long public input process before finalizing toll rates. The commission considered over 1,900 written public comments during this time, and held three public meetings in Seattle during June 2018.
Mail theft in Sunnyslope area
- Written by Chief Jason Reinfeld, CCSO
Sheriff Brian Burnett reports on October 15th, 2018 the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office took several complaints of mail theft. This included a report from a postal carrier who found mail littering the roadway along the their route. This took place in the Sunnyslope area including Lower Sunnyslope Road, Easy Street, Sunset, Knowles Road, American Fruit Road, Viewmont, and Lovell Road.
Deputies responded and assisted in gathering mail from the roadway. They have been assisting in returning mail to residents in the area. This will continue into tomorrow as well. At this point there is no suspect information.
The Sheriff’s office is asking the public for assistance in locating the suspect(s). If you believe you have information to include surveillance video of the thefts, please contact the Sheriff’s Office tip-line at 509-667-6845. You can also submit a tip at the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office website: www.co.chelan.wa.us/sheriff/forms/submit-a-tip.
This is the time of year where valuable items are often sent through the mail. It is important to protect yourself from mail theft for outgoing and incoming mail. The US Postal Inspector recommends delivering valuable items through the slot at the post office or by handing it to the postal carrier. For incoming mail, If you don’t receive an expected check or credit card, contact the issuing agency immediately.
There are many other suggestions for safeguarding your mail available at the US Postal Service Inspection website: https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/
NOTE: If you are charged with mail theft, you could face up to five years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000.
Two arrested in connection with recent vehicle prowls
- Written by Captain Jim West, Operations Bureau Commander, Wenatchee Police Department
On 10/11/18 Wenatchee Police Officers responded to a suspicious call at the Holiday Lodge located in the 700 block of N. Wenatchee Ave. The caller reported that two males were acting suspicious around the property for several hours. Both suspects left the property before officers arrived.
The caller discovered that it appeared a couple of the hotel rooms had been entered and possibly a blanket was missing. The Holiday Lodge requested that officers contact the suspects and advise them to not return to their property.
Wenatchee Police Officers eventually located the two suspects identified as Makaella A. Leonardo, a 23 year old female from Visalia, CA and Patrick J. Malone, a 31 year old male from Wenatchee.
During this contact officers noticed that the suspects had several items under some shrubs and Malone had a silver Apple Mac laptop in his possession. At this time both suspects were advised not to return to the Holiday Lodge.
After the officers left they spoke about the contact they had with Leonardo and Malone. Another officer advised that he took a vehicle prowl report on 10/10/18 where a silver Apple Mac was stolen. Officers returned to the area where Leonardo and Malone were contacted but they had left. Officers located items in the same shrubs which included items linked to several vehicle prowls and thefts that have been occurring the past several weeks.
Officers began checking pawn shops to see if the laptop had been pawned. At Pawn Fathers, located in the 500 block N. Wenatchee Avenue, employees stated a couple matching the description of Leonardo and Malone came in on 10/10/18 with two bikes to pawn. Officers looked at the bikes and they recognized one of them as recently reported stolen. Officers reviewed video footage at Pawn Fathers and identified Leonardo and Malone as the suspects who brought in the stolen bike. At the time the suspects brought in the bikes, Leonardo used identification that had been stolen during a vehicle prowl in Carson, WA.
A short time later officers located Leonardo and Malone walking along N. Wenatchee Ave. Both suspects were arrested without incident and were booked into Chelan County regional Jail for Trafficking Stolen Property, Possession of Stolen Property, Identity Theft, and Possession of Methamphetamine.
The investigation into the vehicle prowls and theft is ongoing and officers have collected items of evidence from the suspects relating to several vehicle prowls that have been reported in Wenatchee.
Exercise equipment doubles as academic tool
- Written by Janice Stewart
Two new machines made their debut in the weight room this week at Manson High School.
Sarah Wiggum and Kami Kronbauer, both teachers at the high school, submitted a proposal through the CWU GEAR UP program to purchase ergometers (commonly known as rowing machines) for the Manson Secondary School.
"We are incredibly excited to find an avenue to integrate math and physical education," says Mrs. Wiggum. "Not only will students be able to learn about kinesthetic awareness and timing while they are challenging their cardiovascular system, but they will also be diving into a unit embedded with subjects like rate, power, and momentum."
The mind-body connection can be incredibly powerful when it comes to recall of knowledge, and for some students, being able to make these connections both mentally and physically helps solidify and expand their learning. Wiggum states, "they won’t just be able to remember the process but FEEL the process."
Manson Schools invites residents to work committee 10-15-18
- Written by Janice Stewart
Manson School District is forming a facilities review committee and would like to invite any resident of Manson to join in this work. The committee is charged with:
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Reviewing previous committee recommendations
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Reviewing enrollment (past, current and projected)
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Reviewing current facilities
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Reviewing staff and community input
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Making recommendations to the Manson School Board
Our first meeting is October 15th at 6:30PM at the Manson District Office.
Please call Janice Stewart at 687-3140 to RSVP
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