Eliane and Ben Smalley moved to Manson in 1972 where Ben worked on the family ranch. They were great supporters of the Manson School District. And they never missed a home sporting event for many years, as well as attending as many out-of-town events as possible. They received several Super Fan Awards from the students for their support of school events, including athletics, band, drama, Apple Blossom Royalty and graduation. They were honored by the Manson Apple Blossom festival in 2003 with being the parades “Grand Marshalls” The school also honored them by dedicating the 1999 High School Annual to them.

In that honor – Ben and Elaine felt that they could continue to support the school and its students by leaving an endowment to the Lake Chelan Health & Wellness Foundation for educational purposes. In their will they generously gave $25,000. This money will go a long way but it is not the only support the foundation receives and any size contribution is a wealth for its recipients.