News

OKANOGAN – The county commissioners passed the 2009 budget, reduced by just over $300,000 from the 2008 budget, on Monday, Dec. 22 2008.

Editor’s Note: This week we take a look back at just a few of the stories that made the front pages of the Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune during all of 2008. G.A.D.

January

Next 10 years critical for Okanogan County PUD – As John Grubich settled into his new job as manager of the PUD, he said ongoing negotiations of a sales agreement with the Bonneville Power Administration is “job one” for the utility’s health.

MAZAMA – A snowmobiler riding northwest of Mazama was buried under an avalanche and died Sunday, Dec. 28, according to the Okanogan County Sheriff’s office.

NORTH COUNTY – The answer to whether the national economic crisis has slowed business in Oroville and Tonasket depends mainly on who you talk to.

TONASKET – After rescuing animals for 20 years for no fee, Wendy Steever is closing Howling Ridge Rescue and starting a new rescue business.

TONASKET – In June of next year, 22 Tonasket eight and ninth graders are traveling across the country to visit Washington D.C.

OROVILLE – Like the town, Oroville’s Immaculate Conception Parish celebrated its 100th birthday this year, but the area’s connection with Catholicism predates the town by nearly seven decades.

Miss Tonasket Rodeo Queen 2009 Kelsey Gallas helped lead children to Santa during Winter Fest on Friday, Dec. 5 so that they could tell him what they want for Christmas.Photo by Emily Hanson

OROVILLE – Just how much the state will cut from school funding as it faces a huge deficit has yet to be determined, but the Oroville School District can already see storm clouds gathering on the horizon.

OMAK – Representatives from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries will be holding a seminar for small businesses on Dec. 9 in Omak.