Yakima Herald-Republic Weekly News

Again: Search on for new Yakima city manager

2012-02-10T11:12:30-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Yakima is again advertising for a new city manager.

Okanogan couple charged in faith-healing death

2012-02-10T09:23:07-08:00

OKANOGAN, Wash. — The Okanogan County prosecutor has charged a faith-healing couple with second-degree murder in the death of their 17-year-old son who had burst appendix.

Nearly 200 now reported sick after cheerleading tournament

2012-02-10T08:28:49-08:00

State health officials now say that nearly 200 people are sick following a high school cheerleading tournament earlier this month in Everett.

’I’ve got a big surprise for you’: 2 Powell boys’ social worker to recall final moments on ’20/20’

2012-02-10T08:16:29-08:00

Josh Powell told his oldest son he had a “big surprise” for him moments before he attacked his two boys with a hatchet and started a fire that killed them all.

Burn ban ordered for most of Yakima County

2012-02-10T08:06:20-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — A burn ban has been declared for all of Yakima County, except the Yakama reservation due to stagnant air conditions.

What's happening this weekend in the Yakima Valley: Friday, Feb. 10

2012-02-10T06:13:00-08:00

• “The Last Five Years,” a musical put on at The Warehouse Theatre run tonight and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Head on out to the Allied Arts Center, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., in Yakima for the show. Tickets: $18.50 general admission or $16 for seniors/students. Fo

Supreme Court upholds tribal fishing rights after long battle

2012-02-09T23:22:33-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. -- In a ruling announced Thursday, the state Supreme Court determined that state wildlife authorities had no right to give a Yakama fisherman a ticket for catching undersized fish with a net at a tribal fishing site.In a 6-3 decision, the

Police look for info in case of missing woman

2012-02-09T23:03:12-08:00

WAPATO -- Authorities are looking for a 20-year-old Wapato woman who has not been seen by her family and friends since Feb. 3.Jessie Anna Goodrow's vehicle, a 1995 green Ford Aerostar van, was found by her boyfriend Feb. 7 in the parking lot of Legends C

Eluding, DUI suspect arrested Wednesday

2012-02-09T23:02:51-08:00

YAKIMA -- Yakima police Wednesday night arrested a 45-year-old man they said crashed into a parked car, a garbage bin, a crosswalk button and a power pole during a pursuit.About 11 p.m., an officer spotted a 1997 Ford Taurus without headlights activated

Parole check leads to discovery of 26 pot plants

2012-02-09T23:02:38-08:00

GRANDVIEW -- A parole check resulted in the discovery of a modest indoor marijuana grow and two arrests Wednesday, police said.The case began at 5:20 p.m. when a parole officer and a detective assigned to the LEAD task force arrived at 302 Elm St. to che

Property owner fined for altering creek's channel

2012-02-09T23:02:27-08:00

ELLENSBURG -- A Manastash Creek landowner has been assessed a $16,000 penalty for changing the creek's channel without permits, a violation of the Clean Water Act.The state Department of Ecology imposed the fine against Monica Hunt for taking action in t

Federal grant to replace WV firefighters' air packs

2012-02-09T23:02:14-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- West Valley firefighters will use a $343,000 federal grant to replace their aging air packs, which are vital for entering smoky house fires.Fire district officials had planned to set aside money from the agency's budget to meet a Januar

Prosser High School principal suspended for seven days

2012-02-09T23:01:46-08:00

PROSSER -- Kevin Lusk, the principal of Prosser High School, has been suspended for seven days without pay for his role in his wife's probation violation.Prosser School District Superintendent Ray Tolcacher suspended Lusk until Thursday of next week for

Clean Air Agency delays decision on dairy policy

2012-02-09T23:00:29-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- A dairy emissions policy now set for adoption next month likely will emphasize a voluntary approach to reducing pollutants that travel off dairy farms.The Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency board tabled the policy Thursday and asked that

Downtown bank robbery suspect gets greedy, arrested

2012-02-09T22:59:56-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- He wanted more. He didn't get any.Police said a man who tried to rob a bank in downtown Yakima on Thursday was dissatisfied with the amount of money tellers gave him and threw it back, demanding more.The robbery occurred at 4:15 p.m. a

Skewered Apple BBQ contest moving to Selah

2012-02-09T22:59:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Selah will add to its tourism draw this fall when Tree Top moves its annual Skewered Apple BBQ Championship from downtown Yakima to the grower-owned cooperative's campus.The event began in 2010 as part of Tree Top's 50th anniversary cel

Photo Journal: Thanks, sis

2012-02-09T22:57:01-08:00

Emma Cruz, 12, helps her sister, Alexandra, 3, ride her bike along the pathway at Kissel Park in Yakima on Saturday.

Playhouse plight: Capitol Theatre ticket sales in serious decline

2012-02-09T22:44:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- People just aren't buying tickets; it's not much more complicated than that. The Capitol Theatre, a year and a half removed from the triumph of opening its new 4th Street Theatre, has found itself in serious financial trouble.

Downtown Yakima bank robbed, suspect nabbed immediately

2012-02-09T16:41:00-08:00

Arrests made in Grandview marijuana grow

2012-02-09T13:48:57-08:00

GRANDVIEW, Wash. — A parole check resulted in the discovery of a modest indoor marijuana grow and two arrests Wednesday, police said.

Prosser principal suspended in connection with wife's probation violation

2012-02-09T13:42:00-08:00

PROSSER, Wash. — Kevin Lusk, the principal of Prosser High School, has been suspended for seven days without pay for his role in probation violations by his wife, Linda.

Kittitas landowner fined for altering Manastash creek

2012-02-09T12:23:54-08:00

ELLENSBURG, Wash. — A Manastash Creek landowner has been assessed a $16,000 penalty for changing the creek’s channel without permits and in violation of the Clean Water Act.

Driver shears power pole and more during Yakima police pursuit

2012-02-09T10:20:23-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Yakima police Wednesday night arrested a 45-year-old man they said crashed into a parked car, a garbage bin, a crosswalk button and a power pole during a pursuit.

State Supreme Court backs Yakama fisherman in sturgeon case

2012-02-09T09:06:00-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. — In a ruling issued this morning, the state Supreme Court determined that state wildlife authorities had no right to give a Yakama fisherman a ticket for catching undersized fish with a net at a tribal fishing site.

Agency set to investigate handling of 911 call about Josh Powell

2012-02-09T08:11:32-08:00

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is unhappy with the way a 911 call taker handled a call from the caseworker who tried to summon deputies to Josh Powell's home in the agonizing minutes before he killed his children and himself.

Anger, disgust over embezzlement of money for slain Lakewood officers' families

2012-02-09T08:03:26-08:00

A Lakewood police officer allegedly embezzled about $150,000 intended for the families of the four officers killed in a coffeehouse shootout in 2009, spending some of the money on a Las Vegas trip and REI shopping spree, according to charges filed Wednesd

What's happening today in the Yakima Valley: Thursday, Feb. 9

2012-02-09T06:23:01-08:00

• “The Last Five Years,” a musical put on at The Warehouse Theatre is tonight (as well as Friday and Saturday) at 7:30 p.m. Head on out to the Allied Arts Center, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., in Yakima for the show. Tickets: $18.50 general admission or $16 for s

Women in Technology event is today at Perry Tech

2012-02-09T06:23:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Perry Technical Institute is highlighting opportunities for women in technical fields today at its annual Women in Technology event.

Bill promotes transparency in health care billing process

2012-02-08T22:47:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — A year and a half ago, patients at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital's Cornerstone Medical Clinic were shocked and angry when they began receiving two bills for their doctor visits: one from the clinic and one from Me

Training Center rings out with sounds of readiness

2012-02-08T22:45:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — The mortars are heavy and cold to the touch, but the winter weather doesn't stop 4th Stryker Brigade from its mission at the Army's Yakima Training Center.However, the cold air sends the aftershocks of the mortars an

Highland High Smorgasbord event Sunday

2012-02-08T22:36:01-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The Highland High School Band, Cheer and Drill Annual Smorgasbord Dinner is Sunday at Highland High School.The meal includes turkey, sliced ham, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, salad, cranberries and dessert. The dinner is from noon to 4 p.

Searchers find missing snowmobiler in good condition

2012-02-08T22:35:27-08:00

ELLENSBURG -- A 73-year-old Ellensburg snowmobiler missing overnight in Kittitas County was found about 3 p.m. Wednesday.Authorities said Howard Umland, who got separated from his group Tuesday evening in the Reecer Creek area, was in good condition.He

Police seize weapons, drugs, stolen bulletproof vests in raid

2012-02-08T22:35:16-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- For the second time in three months, Yakima police have recovered body armor stolen from a federal agent.Two bulletproof vests, along with two assault rifles, other firearms and illegal drugs, were seized during a raid Tuesday at a hous

Oft-arrested drug dealer sentenced to 7 1/2 years

2012-02-08T22:35:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- A Yakima drug dealer who was arrested five times last year was sentenced Wednesday to 7 1/2 years in prison.Terry William Smith, 49, received a mid-range sentence after pleading guilty in Yakima County Superior Court to a charge of deliv

Journalist tracks migrants on journey from 'tip to top'

2012-02-08T22:34:00-08:00

GRANGER, Wash. -- Kadir van Lohuizen knows what it's like to be migrant. He's been one for 11-plus months. The internationally known Dutch photojournalist has been following the migrant trail for more than 20,000 miles, crossing multiple borders, hitchi

Environmental group sues Yakima Clean Air Agency

2012-02-08T22:32:39-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- An environmental group is suing the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency for refusing to provide electronic copies of emails related to a policy on reducing pollutant emissions from dairies.The lawsuit, filed in December but served Wednesda

Yakama Nation awarded $6.3 million housing grant

2012-02-08T22:32:05-08:00

WAPATO, Wash. - The Yakama Nation Housing Authority has been awarded a $6.3 million grant by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.Yakama Nation Housing Authority Executive Director Jim Berg said a portion the money will be used to refurb

Downtown Yakima Greyhound bus depot to close

2012-02-08T22:32:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The Greyhound bus depot, a fixture on Yakima Avenue downtown for more than 50 years, will close next week and reopen inside a Fruitvale Boulevard mini-mart.Customers will be able to buy tickets 24 hours a day at the new office in the Ar

City of Yakima issues demolition permit for old plywood plant

2012-02-08T22:31:47-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The city of Yakima has issued a permit for the dismantling of the former Boise Cascade's plywood plant in northeast Yakima that closed in 2006.A permit issued to P and P Demolition Inc. of Estacada, Ore., calls for the building to be ta

Washington state lawmakers pass gay marriage bill

2012-02-08T15:41:00-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. -- Washington state lawmakers voted to approve gay marriage Wednesday, setting the stage for the state to become the seventh in the nation to allow same-sex couples to wed.

Book Scene -- 'The Gods of Gotham'

2012-02-08T13:30:00-08:00

Intelligently written, "The Gods of Gotham" is an impressive sophomore effort by Lyndsay Faye in the world of historical mystery.

Variety is the theme of new clay exhibit at Larson Gallery

2012-02-08T13:30:00-08:00

It's hard to identify a theme in "From the Ground Up," the exhibit opening Saturday at the Larson Gallery. Aside from the obvious -- that all the work is made from clay -- the show does not appear to have a real through-line.

On the Menu -- Tony's Big Cheese Pizza

2012-02-08T13:29:00-08:00

"Tony's" might possibly be the single most common name for a pizza joint in the world.

The Indoorsman: Taking stock on birthday No. 34

2012-02-08T13:28:00-08:00

I stopped at Trader Joe's on the way back from Seattle a couple of weeks ago and spent, like, $50 on snack foods.

Dear Crabby -- Wrapped up in miserliness

2012-02-08T13:27:38-08:00

Dear Crabby, I swear I'm not a miser; I just hate waste. I've been known to reuse really nice wrapping paper, though I don't expect anyone else to.

Dyme Def headlines hip-hop show at The Seasons

2012-02-08T13:27:02-08:00

There's something going on in Seattle hip-hop the past few years, and people nationwide are starting to notice. It's no longer just where Sir Mix-a-Lot is from.

Cinemavore -- 'Diner'

2012-02-08T13:26:26-08:00

"Who do you make out to? Sinatra or Mathis?" If you can answer this question, I applaud you. If not, there's a good chance you haven't seen one of the greatest buddy films of all time, 1982's "Diner."

Noted vibraphonist Shoemake to play The Seasons tonight

2012-02-08T13:26:00-08:00

Vibraphonist Charlie Shoemake played with the George Shearing Quintet for seven years, so the man knows a little something about Shearing.

02/09/12 10 Days Out

2012-02-08T13:25:42-08:00

Barry Jones' video work is compelling and disorienting. And if you're at all interested in exploring the intersection of language and technology, this is a place to start.

02/09/12 Film clips

2012-02-08T13:24:59-08:00

"THE IRON LADY" -- Meryl Streep disappears into the role of Margaret Thatcher, from her arrival at Parliament in early middle age until her dotage, in this biopic about the iconic British prime minister.

02/09/12 Night life

2012-02-08T13:24:28-08:00

1885 BAR AND GRILL AT VAN'S. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Rotating lineup. 208 Naches Ave., Naches. 509-653-2257.

02/09/12 Theater

2012-02-08T13:24:10-08:00

DR. BETTY EVANS ORIGINAL ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL. 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday at McConnell Auditorium, off East University Way, Ellensburg. Short plays written by students.

02/09/12 Planner

2012-02-08T13:23:46-08:00

CAMERATA CLUB MEN'S CHORUS OF YAKIMA. Mondays from 7-9 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church, 14 N. 48th Ave. Preparing for the International Chorus Festival Concert in Penticton, British Columbia, April 2 and a local performance in November.

02/09/12 Just Announced

2012-02-08T13:23:29-08:00

2012 SPRING BASH. 4 and 7 p.m. March 17 at the SunDome, 1301 S. Fair Ave. Featuring The Game, DMX, Ying Yang Twinz, Miss Crazie, Baby Bash. Hosted by Ray J. Tickets on sale at 9 a.m. Saturday: $44, $54, $64, and $152 for meet and greet.

02/09/12 Books

2012-02-08T13:23:10-08:00

YVONNE PEPIN-WAKEFIELD. 4-5:30 p.m. Sunday at Inklings Bookshop, 5629 Summitview Ave., Chalet Place. Author will read from "Suitcase Filled With Nails: Lessons Learned From Teaching Art In Kuwait." 509-965-5830.

02/09/12 Art

2012-02-08T13:16:49-08:00

"FROM THE GROUND UP." Opens with a reception from 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday at the Larson Gallery, YVCC campus, South 16th Avenue and Nob Hill Boulevard. Clay and mixed media works by various artists. Through March 31.

Yakama Housing Authority getting $6.3 million

2012-02-08T11:53:55-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today announced it was awarding the Yakama Nation Housing Authority a $6.3 million grant.

Drugs, guns and tactical gear seized in Yakima

2012-02-08T11:49:40-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Police recovered several guns and drugs while serving a search warrant Tuesday afternoon at a home in the 1100 block of South Naches Avenue.

Sheriff unhappy with dispatcher in Powell case

2012-02-08T11:44:22-08:00

SEATTLE (AP) — Washington state authorities say they’re not happy with the performance of a 911 dispatcher during last weekend’s murder-suicide involving the husband of a missing Utah woman.

Lost Ellensburg snowmobiler has been found

2012-02-08T11:34:00-08:00

ELLENSBURG, Wash. — A 73-year-old Ellensburg snowmobiler missing overnight in Kittitas County was found at about 3 this afternoon.

Greyhound to move out of downtown Yakima

2012-02-08T11:18:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Greyhound will close its downtown depot on Tuesday and open a new office on Fruitvale Boulevard in a mini-mart.

Questions & Answers on the expected challenge to gay marriage legislation

2012-02-08T09:50:47-08:00

With the state House expected to pass gay-marriage legislation today and send it onto the governor’s office, opponents are making plans for a ballot challenge.

Was idea of court-ordered test too much for Josh Powell?

2012-02-08T08:01:43-08:00

The thought of having to submit to an intrusive — and potentially damning — psychosexual evaluation before he could regain custody of his sons might have been more than a control-obsessed man like Josh Powell could bear, said Pierce County Prosecuting At

House begins debate on same-sex marriage this afternoon

2012-02-08T08:00:00-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The state House of Representatives will debate and vote on the Marriage Equality Act starting at 1:00 p.m. today.

Free produce to be distributed today at Grace Lutheran Church

2012-02-08T06:19:53-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Free produce and perishables will be distributed to people in need from noon to 2 p.m. today at Grace Lutheran Church. No appointment, documentation or proof of income is required.

What's happening today in the Yakima Valley: Wednesday, Feb. 8

2012-02-08T06:19:31-08:00

• A lecture by civil rights attorney Lani Guinier is tonight at 7 at Central Washington University’s SURC Ballroom, 400 E. University Way, in Ellensburg. Tickets: $15 general admission and free for CWU students with an ID. For more information, visit www.

Eisenhower welding students craft roses to sell for Valentine's

2012-02-08T00:51:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Eisenhower High School’s welding classroom is filled with industrial equipment: masks, torches, and powerful shears and saws for cutting metal.

Sunnyside still up in the air over latest departure

2012-02-08T00:49:22-08:00

Lower Valley man wants to update Satus dairy

2012-02-08T00:48:07-08:00

Closure of longtime Yakima firm leaves electrical jobs undone

2012-02-08T00:46:36-08:00

Familiar name may help Sunnyside develop former feedlot

2012-02-08T00:44:32-08:00

State probes illness outbreak from cheerleading contest

2012-02-08T00:42:25-08:00

Deputies track down, arrest two teens in Zillah break-in

2012-02-08T00:41:08-08:00

Lower Valley men hurt in truck rollover near Soap Lake

2012-02-08T00:40:05-08:00

Yakima County formally appoints court cost-study panelists

2012-02-08T00:12:36-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Yakima County commissioners formally appointed Tuesday the three-member panel to examine law and justice costs and recommend ways to rein in what has become an alarmingly large piece of the county budget.The panel is being asked to report

Doc Hastings defends earmark near his Pasco property

2012-02-08T00:11:14-08:00

McClatchy News ServicesWASHINGTON, D.C. -- For Republican Rep. Doc Hastings, it made good sense to secure a $750,000 earmark in 2009 for the city of Pasco: It would help replace a deteriorating, 74-year-old underpass that had to be closed for repairs last

Yakima City Council votes not to impose own car-tab fee

2012-02-07T23:07:22-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Rick Ensey put his fellow City Council members on the spot at Tuesday night's meeting: Do you support imposing a car-tab fee on the voters for road repairs?The answer was no, by a 5-2 vote.After months of politically sensitive debate,

Man who bludgeoned Yakima Arcade clerk gets 34 years

2012-02-07T23:06:53-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- A drug addict who robbed an adult bookstore after savagely beating the store clerk to death with a socket wrench was sentenced Tuesday to 34 years in prison.A lawyer for Aaron Wilsey, 40, said his client suffers from a host of "function

Slice of Yakima: New wheels for YH-R news carrier

2012-02-07T23:06:33-08:00

Marcie Earp admits she doesn't always read the entire newspaper.But in late January, the widowed Mabton woman spotted a days-old news story in the Yakima Herald-Republic about Florentino Martinez, a carrier for the newspaper whose van was destroyed by a

More sweeping changes coming for outdoor recreationists?

2012-02-07T23:05:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Winter recreationists have gotten wind of what they think are some budget shenanigans that they say could make snowmobiling and cross-country skiing a lot less desirable in the state.As with almost everything in Olympia these days, it's

Business is sweet at Patricia's Chocolate Emporium

2012-02-07T21:36:00-08:00

ZILLAH, Wash. -- Patricia Russell is not ashamed to admit that she will dip anything in chocolate. Ice cream? Sure. Bananas? Absolutely. Cheesecake? You betcha. Bacon?Of course."I fry it up crisp and then I dip it in the dark chocolate," Russell said.

Two juveniles arrested after Zillah area burglary

2012-02-07T17:51:42-08:00

ZILLAH, Wash. — Two 15-year-olds from Sunnyside were arrested Tuesday morning following the burglary of a home in the 3000 block of Cheyne Road.

Komen exec quits after Planned Parenthood flap

2012-02-07T13:13:00-08:00

ATLANTA — The vice president of public policy at Susan G. Komen for the Cure who backed the breast cancer charity's move to strip Planned Parenthood of funding resigned Tuesday, saying the now-abandoned decision "has unfortunately been turned into somethi

Sunnyside turns to former manager to help develop old feedlot

2012-02-07T12:17:00-08:00

SUNNYSIDE — This city may turn to a familiar face to finally put the former Monson feedlot to good use.

Yakima County proceeds with law and justice cost review

2012-02-07T11:28:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Yakima County commissioners this morning formally appointed the three-member panel to recommend efficiencies and the best way to allocate money within the county law and justice system.

Hastings defends earmark near his Pasco property

2012-02-07T11:13:02-08:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — For Republican Rep. Doc Hastings, it made good sense to secure a $750,000 earmark in 2009 for the city of Pasco, Wash.: It would help replace a deteriorating, 74-year-old underpass that had to be closed for repairs last year, a road so

Yakima adult bookstore killer gets 34 years

2012-02-07T11:05:03-08:00

YAKIMA, WASH. — Aaron Wilsey, the 40-year-old Yakima man accused of killing a clerk at an adult bookstore on Front Street in 2010, plead guilty this morning to premeditated murder and was sentenced to 34 years this morning.

Jailed father of Josh Powell a person of interest in Susan Powell’s disappearance

2012-02-07T09:29:00-08:00

TACOMA, Wash. — Steven Powell, the jailed father of Josh Powell and grandfather of Charles and Braden Powell, has been named a person of interest in the disappearance of Susan Cox Powell.

Yakima woman burned in motel fire in critical condition

2012-02-07T08:09:58-08:00

A 71-year-old Yakima woman severely burned Sunday when a fire started in her room at Cedars Inn and Suites in Kennewick remained Monday in critical condition at a Seattle hospital.

Two Yakima Valley men hurt in Soap Lake crash

2012-02-07T08:05:00-08:00

SOAP LAKE, Wash. — Two Lower Yakima Valley men were injured Soap Lake in Grant County on Monday when their semi truck rolled off State Route 17.

What's happening today in the Yakima Valley: Tuesday, Feb. 7

2012-02-07T06:43:07-08:00

• The Yakima Miniature Club meets tonight at 6:30 at the Harman Center, 101 N. 65th Ave. It’s for collectors of doll-house miniatures. For more information, call Jan Schuller, 509-965-4999.

State rules Yakima-Ellensburg bus service is legal

2012-02-06T23:33:09-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The buses will keep chugging between Yakima and Ellensburg.The state Utilities and Transportation Commission has ruled that the service provided by Yakima Transit and HopeSource, a social services agency in Ellensburg, does not break the

Lawmaker backs capital gains tax to fund education

2012-02-06T23:33:00-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The Senate's chief budget writer Monday proposed a plan that would have voters decide not only on a temporary sales tax increase this year, but also on a permanent capital gains tax that would be dedicated to paying for education for th

Bills would retool teacher evaluations in state

2012-02-06T23:33:00-08:00

SEATTLE (AP) -- Two years ago, a plan to change the way teachers are evaluated in Washington state became law. Now, lawmakers are debating several possible course adjustments for Washington's teacher evaluation system.There are a number of competing propo

January snow sets city of Yakima back $415,000

2012-02-06T23:32:49-08:00

YAKIMA, WASH. -- The January snow storms cost the city of Yakima $415,000, according a staff report prepared for the City Council.That's in the ballpark of the $425,000 estimate that city officials had offered shortly after the storm, which started Jan. 1

Tim Tebow's mother to speak at Yakima benefit

2012-02-06T23:32:30-08:00

YAKIMA, WASH. -- Football, famous and fundraising -- the three are coming together here in February.Pam Tebow, mother of Tim Tebow, quarterback of the Denver Broncos, will be speaking at a luncheon Feb. 21 at the Yakima Convention Center, 10 N. Eighth St.

Benton County may loan engineer to Franklin during probe

2012-02-06T23:31:00-08:00

By Kristi PihlTri-City HeraldPasco, Wash. -- Franklin County may borrow Benton County's engineer while eight county employees, including Franklin County's engineer, are on paid administrative leave.Tim Fife, Franklin County public works director and eng

House panel advances gay marriage bill

2012-02-06T23:30:00-08:00

the Associated PressOLYMPIA -- A House committee on Monday approved a measure to legalize same-sex marriage in Washington state, setting the stage for final passage this week. The House Judiciary committee advanced the measure on a 7-5 vote after a final

Jay Inslee offers his jobs plan

2012-02-06T23:29:00-08:00

By Jim Brunner the Seattle Times SEATTLE -- Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jay Inslee rolled out his jobs plan Monday, proposing new business tax breaks and a state government focused on growing key industries such as aerospace, clean energy and agri

Two Pullman residents hurt in I-90 rollover near Cle Elum

2012-02-06T23:28:44-08:00

CLE ELUM, Wash. -- Two Pullman residents were injured when the car they were riding in rolled over Sunday evening on Interstate 90.Sm G. Mortuza, 27, and Jubaidi S. Silvi, 24, were taken to Kittitas Valley Community Hospital for injuries suffered when the

Logging will restrict snowmobiling in Naches District

2012-02-06T23:28:11-08:00

NACHES, Wash. -- Winter logging will bring some trail restrictions to snowmobilers using Gold Creek (Forest Service Road 1705) Sno-Park and groomed trail off State Route 410 near Whistlin' Jack Lodge and Resort. After midnight Monday, snowmobilers will h

Wapato event to benefit homeless shelter

2012-02-06T23:26:36-08:00

WAPATO, Wash. -- A spaghetti dinner and silent auction will be held Sunday to help raise funds for Noah's Ark in Wapato, the only homeless shelter in the Lower Valley.Organized by the Toppenish Council of the Knights of Columbus, the event is from 3 to 6

Yakima woman seriously burned in Kennewick motel blaze

2012-02-06T23:26:00-08:00

KENNEWICK, Wash. -- Investigators say a woman who was seriously burned in a Kennewick motel fire had been drinking and smoking in bed.The fire early Sunday was confined to a single room on the third floor of the Cedars Inn and Suites. The 71-year-old Yaki

Photo Journal: Ice fishing

2012-02-06T23:25:00-08:00

Ben Sahlgren watches the display screen for his underwater camera as he fishes for trout in frozen Dog Lake near White Pass on Saturday

Boys resisted final, fatal visit with father, grandparents say

2012-02-06T23:12:30-08:00

While Judy and Chuck Cox were readying their grandchildren for a court-ordered visit with their father on Sunday -- a visit that both boys were uncharacteristically fighting -- authorities say their father was busy laying a death trap.

Fixing Yakima's streets -- $20 car-tab fee a road map to repairs?

2012-02-06T23:11:05-08:00

Yakima's streets, on average, are going through pavement's version of a midlife crisis. Now the City Council has to decide how to handle this largely unfunded problem.

Jail security upgrade costs higher than expected

2012-02-06T23:06:13-08:00

Some unexpected costs in security upgrades at the downtown jail are forcing Yakima County commissioners to choose between delaying the renovations -- which has risks -- or cutting other projects funded by bonds.

Sunnyside city manager's resignation surprises

2012-02-06T23:05:00-08:00

SUNNYSIDE -- Mark Gervasi resigned as city manager Monday night, an unexpected move marking the latest chapter in Sunnyside's turnover-plagued City Hall. "It's time for me to retire," said Gervasi, 63.

Pam Tebow, mother of NFL quarterback, to speak in Yakima this month

2012-02-06T14:00:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Football, famous and fundraising — the three are coming together here in February.

Burn ban on Yakama reservation to be lifted Tuesday

2012-02-06T12:04:43-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash -- Because of improving air conditions, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tomorrow will lift an outdoor burn ban on the Yakama reservation.

Washington House committee advances gay marriage bill

2012-02-06T10:43:00-08:00

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — A House committee on Monday approved a measure to legalize same-sex marriage in Washington state, setting the stage for final passage this week.

71-year-old Yakima woman severely burned in Kennewick motel fire

2012-02-06T08:13:00-08:00

KENNEWICK -- A 71-year-old woman was severely burned Sunday morning after a fire started inside her room at Cedars Inn and Suites in Kennewick.

Logging to restrict some trail access off SR 410

2012-02-06T07:57:33-08:00

NACHES, Wash. — Winter logging will bring some trail restrictions to snowmobilers using Gold Creek (Forest Service Road 1705) Sno-Park and groomed trail off State Route 410 near Whistlin’ Jack Resort.

Police: Powell planned deadly fire for some time

2012-02-06T07:57:00-08:00

GRAHAM, Wash. (AP) — Josh Powell planned the deadly house fire that killed him and his young sons for some time, dropping toys at charities and sending final emails to multiple acquaintances before the blaze, authorities said Monday.

Two injured in I-90 crash near Cle Elum

2012-02-06T07:51:00-08:00

CLE ELUM, Wash. — Two Pullman residents were injured when the car they were riding in rolled over Sunday evening on Interstate 90.

New fight, lockdown at Walla Walla penitentiary

2012-02-06T07:07:00-08:00

What's happening today in the Yakima Valley: Monday, Feb. 6

2012-02-06T07:03:48-08:00

• There’s a Bunco and Bon Bons Party tonight at 6 at Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, in Yakima. Cost: $35 per person and includes a glass of wine, finger food and prizes. Proceeds benefit the YWCA. To register, call Becky, 509-248-7796 or visit www.yw

Audiology/hearing aid practice moves

2012-02-05T22:26:21-08:00

Hearing Connection has relocated. The audiology and hearing aid practice is now at 1703 Creekside Loop, No. 100, in Creekside Business Park, owners Greg Sheets and Holli Christensen said in a news release. The owners, who have practiced in Yakima for mo

Rising costs of gas fuels budget issues for governments

2012-02-05T22:26:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — For Debbie Zarana, the prospect of rising fuel prices is hardly surprising. "I think we always expect that it will go up," said Zarana, transportation supervisor for the Naches Valley School District.

Local fast food franchise owners try to exceed standards

2012-02-05T22:24:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — For the salads that Don Copp sells at seven Papa Murphy's stores in the Yakima Valley, he opts to purchase romaine hearts and cut and clean them in-house. The parent company doesn't require it; it's fine with pre-cut,

02/06/12 In Basket

2012-02-05T22:18:46-08:00

Medical The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America has awarded Erik Mickelson with the Assistive Technology Professional certification. Mickelson, manager at Howard's Drug and Medical Supply in Selah, earned the cr

Photo Journal: Goose, goose

2012-02-05T22:17:40-08:00

Authorities: Husband of missing Utah woman appears to have blown up Graham house, sons on purpose

2012-02-05T14:14:00-08:00

GRAHAM, Wash. (AP) — The long, bizarre case of a Utah woman missing for two years took a horrific turn Sunday when a powerful house explosion killed the woman’s husband and his two young sons, moments after the boys arrived for a visit that was supposed t

Prosser police respond to suspected assault incidents

2012-02-05T08:09:00-08:00

PROSSER, Wash. — Prosser police arrested two men Saturday in connection with a suspected domestic assault, according to a department news release. Separately, Prosser police said they took a man into custody early Saturday morning after reports that he fi

Lawmaker says Medicaid payment system is broken

2012-02-04T23:18:48-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- A Central Washington state senator says she has enough bipartisan support to pass a bill that would reform the way the state detects Medicaid fraud.But Sen. Jana Holmquist Newbry, R-Moses Lake, has yet to convince those would have to i

Gay marriage opponents begin drive to put issue on ballot

2012-02-04T23:17:24-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- As legislation legalizing gay marriage sprints its way through the Legislature, Washingtonians opposed to the measure are already gearing up for a long fight to the ballot box to overturn it.Fervor against the legislation is particularl

Gang member with long history faces 20 years for stabbing

2012-02-04T23:16:39-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- A gang member known as "Sapo" faces more than 20 years in prison if he is convicted in connection with a stabbing last month at a Yakima apartment complex.Pablo Angel Castillon, 28, was arraigned Thursday in Yakima County Superior Court

Fearing state cuts, West Valley school levy aims high

2012-02-04T23:16:28-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. -- With state legislators talking about potential cuts to K-12 funding, the West Valley School District has sent a worst-case scenario levy to voters. The $16.8 million, two-year maintenance and operations levy is a 23.5 percent increase ov

Photos: Spreading CPR knowledge

2012-02-04T22:51:01-08:00

Carina Sanchez practices using an automated external defibrillator on a dummy as part of the third annual CPR Blitz on Saturday. This is the second year the event has taught the use of AEDs in addition to CPR.

Yakima Co. appoints committee to find savings in justice budget

2012-02-04T22:51:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — On the third floor of the Yakima County Courthouse, fates are determined daily. Judges and lawyers run the show. Juries made up of ordinary people decide the facts.

Photo: Clearing the courts

2012-02-04T22:49:19-08:00

Glen Haddox shovels snow off a tennis court at Kissel Park in Yakima on Saturday. Haddox said he had been clearing what was about 14 inches of snow from the courts for nearly two weeks, with plans to clear four of them. “I was bored,” he said. “And it see

Prosser high vandal gets two-year sentence

2012-02-04T11:05:00-08:00

KENNEWICK, Wash. — A Prosser High graduate who never expected a senior prank would end up costing a half-million dollars in cleanup and repairs asked a judge Friday to give him a second chance.

Lower Valley city looks to keep on the Sunnyside

2012-02-03T23:12:00-08:00

SUNNYSIDE -- Revitalization brought downtown Yakima new sidewalks, period streetlights, hanging flower pots and benches. Grandview has similarly spruced up its downtown.

Seattle driver runs into back of tractor-trailer

2012-02-03T22:44:44-08:00

SNOQUALMIE PASS -- A Seattle woman was following too closely on Interstate 90 on Friday just east of Snoqualmie Pass and ran into a tractor-trailer that had slowed for traffic, the Washington State Patrol said in a news release.Tara Miller, 31, was taken

Victim in fatal Lower Valley shooting identified

2012-02-03T22:44:14-08:00

HARRAH -- An investigation continued Friday into the fatal shooting of a 36-year-old Lower Valley man on Thursday in a rural farming area about two miles east of Harrah.Authorities identified the man as Audelino Mendez. However, they are withholding his a

88-year-old man injured when vehicle rolls on I-90

2012-02-03T22:43:36-08:00

CLE ELUM -- An 88-year-old Easton man was taken to Seattle's Harborview Medical Center after suffering injuries in an accident on Interstate 90 on Friday morning.Ralph D. Look was driving a 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser east on I-90 about five miles west of C

Proposed levies in Kittitas County hope to fill in funding gaps

2012-02-03T22:37:06-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Four school districts in Kittitas County are asking voters to renew levies to help fund day-to-day operations and maintenance. With the possibility of more budget cuts to state funding coming out of Olympia, the lev

Photojournal | Having a noodle of a time

2012-02-03T22:35:14-08:00

Nathan Shedd, 5, of Tacoma eats noodles during a break from skiing at the Nordic Center at White Pass on Jan. 28.

Judge rules reservation towns must pay Clean Air Agency fee despite jurisdiction

2012-02-03T22:32:43-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — A Yakima County Superior Court judge has ordered Toppenish to pay annual assessment fees to the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency.The city faces paying up $13,000 in arrears to the agency, said agency spokesman Dave

Mabton seeks small increase in 4-year school district levy

2012-02-03T22:32:09-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — The Mabton School District is asking voters for a four-year maintenance and operations levy that's a little higher than the current levy set to expire this year.The district, which serves nearly 1,000 students, use

Gleed pastors plant new church in downtown Yakima

2012-02-03T20:21:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Going from the long-standing Memorial Bible Church in Gleed to a hotel in downtown Yakima meant more than a change of address for associate pastor Sam Middlebrook and youth director Shawn Niles.The pair felt they w

02/04/12 Faith Happenings

2012-02-03T20:20:28-08:00

Free food available for people in needFree produce and perishables will be distributed to people in need from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday at Grace Lutheran Church. No appointment, documentation or proof of income is required.A truck provided by Second Harv

Easton driver seriously injured in accident near Cle Elum

2012-02-03T14:56:00-08:00

CLE ELUM, Wash. — An 88-year-old Easton man has been taken to Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center after suffering injuries in an accident on Interstate 90 this morning.

Court rules against Toppenish on air agency fees

2012-02-03T14:50:00-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — A Yakima County Superior Court judge has ordered Toppenish to pay annual assessment fees to the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency.

Driver following too closely rams semi on I-90

2012-02-03T14:43:00-08:00

SNOQUALMIE PASS, Wash. — A Seattle woman was following too closely on Interstate 90 this morning just east of the pass when she ran into a tractor-trailer that had slowed for traffic, the Washington State Patrol said in a news release.

Lower Yakima Valley homicide victim is identified

2012-02-03T14:38:26-08:00

YAKIMA, Wash. — Authorities have released the name of a 36-year-old man who died Thursday night after being shot at a home in the 6200 block of Lateral B Road outside Wapato.

Franklin County public works manager accused of embezzling $1 million to fuel cocaine habit

2012-02-03T14:35:55-08:00

PASCO — A Franklin County public works manager is under investigation for using a fake company to embezzle possibly a $1 million to support an alleged cocaine habit.

Five-year sentence in Benton City vehicular assault case

2012-02-03T14:13:44-08:00

KENNEWICK, Wash. — A 34-year-old man with an obvious drug problem only was thinking of himself when he drove away after crashing into two motorcyclists, a Benton County judge said Thursday.