Airport plan meeting
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Aviation Division is updating the Methow Valley State Airport Master Plan, and invites the public to hear about the process in a meeting on Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Winthrop Barn. from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Community members, airport users, neighbors and other interested parties are invited to learn about the update and share their perspectives. The meeting will also be accessible online through Zoom. People who cannot attend the Sept. 24 open house can learn more and provide feedback at https://engage.wsdot.wa.gov/methow-valley-airport.
Fundraiser for fireworks
Want to help raise money for the annual Christmas at the End of the Road fireworks show? Head out to “Sparks on the River,” a benefit event at the River Run Inn in Winthrop on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 5-7:30 p.m. Music will be provided by local bluegrass band Gobblers Knob, and wine will be poured by Lost River Winery. All donations, plus a percentage of every glass of wine, go toward supporting the fireworks display, which is coordinated by the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce. Bring a chair or blanket.
Twisp Ponds trail closures
The Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation (MSRF) advises that some trail closures will be in place on the west end of the Twisp Ponds through mid-October while the organization conducts a habitat restoration project within the ponds system. The east end of the trail system will remain open throughout the construction period. Trail signs are in place where trails are closed and a map is posted at the trailhead.
The project aims to improve water quality and habitat conditions for salmon and other species that utilize the Twisp Ponds system, according to information from the MSRF. The restoration project will improve water quality in the ponds and adjacent Twisp River by building a riparian buffer between three ponds and Twisp River Road. The buffer will be raised benches, built of wood, cobble and soil, designed to capture runoff from Twisp River Road.
Logs with root wads will be placed within the benches, protruding into the ponds, to provide instream habitat and cover for juvenile salmonids, according to the MSRF. The completed benches will be planted with a mixed species of riparian vegetation to increase riparian canopy cover, benefitting many species of animals, while shading the ponds to reduce stream temperatures.
For more information, visit www.methowsalmon.org or email grace@methowsalmon.org.
Medicare Open Enrollment
To help local residents navigate their options, two Medicare Open Enrollment assistance events will be held at the Winthrop library on Thursday, Oct. 29, 8-10 a.m., and Thursday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m.-noon. Trained volunteer Medicare counselors from SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to answer questions and provide personalized guidance. Bring your laptop or tablet or smartphone if you are interested in navigating the Medicare.gov system yourself or a with a bit of assistance. For more information about Medicare Open Enrollment, go to https://www.insurance.wa.gov/insurance-resources/medicare.
Medicare’s Open Enrollment period runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, giving beneficiaries the opportunity to review their current coverage and make changes for the coming year. In September, Medicare beneficiaries received notices from their insurance providers about updates for 2027. These notices include important information about Medigap Supplements, Prescription Drug Plans, or Medicare Advantage Plans. Reviewing these updates carefully is essential to ensure that your coverage continues to meet your needs and remains affordable.
Health & Wellness Fair
The annual Methow Valley Health & Wellness Fair — a free community event designed to help you stay healthy, informed and connected — will be Thursday, Oct. 1, from 1-3 p.m. at the Winthrop Barn.
Visit with representatives from more than 20 local hospitals, medical clinics, and community organizations offering information and support for healthy aging. Free services and resources include blood pressure checks, balance testing, hearing screenings, flu shots and advance care planning information. Enjoy complimentary coffee and treats, and enter a raffle for a chance to win prizes. For information, email donna@methowathome.org.
The event is sponsored in part by the Methow Valley Elder Care Coordination Network, Methow At Home and Room One.
