Good morning, Wenatchee.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Washington cities among America’s best places to live based on affordability, jobs and quality, listing Sammamish at 21, Redmond at 75, Bellevue at 90 and Kirkland at 151 while Wenatchee earned a top 10 state ranking at 9.

Seattle-based AI company Optimly, led by CEO Apurva Luty, swept major awards at last Thursday’s Flywheel Investment Conference at Pybus Public Market, earning a $150,000 investment award, the Fan Favorite Award, and a relocation package for a total prize of $205,000.

Pinnacles Prep is hosting 'Test & Tinker' Science Camp for grades 5-9 on June 15-18, 23-26, and 30-July 2 at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 504 South Chelan Avenue — the camp offers hands-on STEM activities including building hovercrafts and safe chemical experiments.

Cariann Bryant, founder of Virtual Track Club, won the Judges’ Choice Award on May 20 at Pybus Public Market, earning a $2,500 prize during the Flywheel student pitch competition.

She will launch a pilot program on June 1 to offer affordable online coaching for track and field athletes.

The U.S. Forest Service warns campers and hikers that roads, bridges, and trails in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest are closed ahead of Memorial Day weekend due to winter damage.

Visitors should check current conditions at local ranger offices before traveling.

Washington law prohibits picking wildflowers like lupine and balsamroot on state land, parks, and private property, though limited collection is allowed in some National Forest areas if local rules permit it—experts warn that removing them disrupts ecosystems and reduces blooms for future visitors.

Brian Brett has been honored as Washington Fire Chief of the Year for his dedicated leadership in public safety.

Chelan-Douglas Health District confirmed a case of hantavirus on May 15 in Chelan County.

Health officials say the rare disease can be serious and advise residents to follow health guidelines.

Hosts in Wenatchee are encouraged to improve backyard gatherings this holiday weekend by planning for guest comfort.

A survey from the Caledonian Record showed nearly half of guests left early due to outdoor discomfort, so adding shade, bug spray, and warm seating can help everyone stay longer.

Spring Writers Conference

5 PM - 3 PM — Wenatchee Valley College — Early bird registration extended — A weekend of craft sessions, industry insights, and community for writers at every stage.

Art Alley at Pybus Public Market

5-7 p.m. — Pybus Public Market — Donation-based — Experience an evening of creativity with local artists and musicians at Wenatchee's year-end student art exhibition.

NWPF Wenatchee HOPE Conference

9:30 AM – 3:30 PM — Hilton Garden Inn Wenatchee — Free entry — Attend to learn about Parkinson's resources and community support.

Kyle Kinane Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Numerica Performing Arts Center — Tickets start at $98 — Kyle Kinane is set to deliver an unforgettable comedic experience in Wenatchee.

2026 IE VS Starlight Open – Swimming

Jun 19-21 — Wenatchee City Pool — Registration closing Jun 9 — Dive into thrilling swimming competitions at the scenic Wenatchee City Pool.