http://www.dailysunnews.com/ Stories from the Daily Sun News (c)2012, Eagle Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved The aftermath of last May's fire that engulfed the Safari and El Conquistador restaurants in downtown Sunnyside continues. Last week neighboring property owners filed suit against Rigoberto and Enedina Carrasco, owners of the Safari Restaurant where the blaze originated. The suit was filed in Yakima County Superior Court and seeks damages from the Carrascos, claiming negligence was responsible for the fire. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23335/safari-owners-named-in-lawsuit Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:34:21 GMT 23335 As a Sunnyside native and a member of the community with roots dating back to near the city's beginnings, Bernie Barker recently accepted an appointment to the Sunnyside Planning Commission. She said her interest in making Sunnyside the best community it can be dates back three generations to her great-grandfather, J.B. George. "He inspired me, as did my grandfather and father," said Barker. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23334/commissioners-aim-is-to-make-city-prosperous Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:32:17 GMT 23334 GRANDVIEW - The Lower Yakima Valley unit of the Washington State School Retirees Association will meet Tuesday, Feb. 14, at The Vineyard, 150 Division St. in Grandview. The business meeting and lunch will start at 11 a.m. The program will be a field trip to the new Grandview Library. Elizabeth Jahnke, Library Director, will lead the tour of the library and discuss the partnership between the city of Grandview and Yakima Valley Community College. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23333/school-retirees-to-meet-feb-14 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:49 GMT 23333 Five dates have been set aside for sign-ups for Cal Ripken Baseball in Sunnyside. The first two sign-ups are next Tuesday, Feb. 7, and Thursday, Feb. 9, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Harrison Middle School. A sign-up session will also be offered Wednesday, Feb. 15, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Sunnyside Christian Elementary School. The final two sign-up sessions will also be at Harrison Middle School from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21, and on Thursday, April 19. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23332/cal-ripken-sign-ups-start-next-week Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:09 GMT 23332 FRIDAY Sunnyside Fraternal Order of Eagles Friday night dinners: spaghetti, 5:30-8 p.m., followed by dancing to recorded music of Feel the Heat Productions. Live music at Yakima's Kana Winery, featuring Big Bossman & Friends and the Great Adventure Band, 5:30-10:30 p.m. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23331/whats-happening Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:29:36 GMT 23331 The agricultural industry is now being besieged with the implementation of the Food Safety Act. Farmers, transporters, food processors, handlers and distributors will be required to invest significant time and money to comply with even more government mandates and regulations. I'm certainly not a person to be against the intended consequences of most government programs, but the government, by over-reaching its Constitutional authority, seems to almost always fail with its intentions, or creates unsustainable outcomes at the expense of the private sector. The war on poverty and drugs has been a failure. The creation of Social Security and Medicare are unsustainable. The creation of the Lottery system that was crammed down our throats in this state, with the intention of solving all the problems of financing basic education, has been a total farce. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23330/forum Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:28:47 GMT 23330 Who are these young people that keep vandalizing my daughter's car and home? My daughter and her family moved to Sunnyside a few weeks ago. They are a quiet family who have never done anything to anybody. They are just trying to live a quiet, peaceful life and live happily. Two times this has happened to their car and now their home. What is wrong with these people, if I can even call them people? Do they come from such a bad environment that they want to continue living like that, in filth and destruction? Do they even know who they are doing this to? I think not. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23329/forum Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:27:32 GMT 23329 It was announced yesterday that three schools in the Sunnyside School District were among the nine schools in the Yakima Valley that were presented Washington Achievement Awards from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The recipients were chosen based on data from the Washington State Achievement Index, which measures test scores in reading, writing, math and science. Pioneer Elementary, Washington Elementary and Outlook Elementary were awarded for overall excellence. Washington Elementary also received special recognition for their math scores, and Outlook received special recognition for overall improvement. It should be noted that Chief Kamiakin Elementary was just a few tenths of a point away from also joining the prestigious list. They should also be commended for their excellent academic gains. In fact, I believe we should congratulate and celebrate each of the eight schools in our district for the tremendous academic growth that has been accomplished over the past few years. Our teachers, administrators and support staff have worked exceptionally hard to develop a system of continuous improvement district-wide. This includes development of uniform curriculum guides, research-based instructional practices and an assessment system that provides our teachers and administrators with timely and relevant data to adjust instruction based on students' needs. All of this work is focused around our district's overarching goal of 100 percent success for every student. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23328/guest-column Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:26:41 GMT 23328 America's Catholic bishops are princes of diplomacy, highly educated, erudite, men of tact, propriety. They're asked to shepherd the flock with a long historical timeframe - like, say, eternity. They tend not to have knee-jerk reactions to issues of the moment. And so, it's not often when a paragon of decorum, namely, Pittsburgh Bishop David Zubik, publishes a letter in his diocesan newspaper with a title like, "To hell with you." Gee, what could have provoked that? The answer is the Obama administration via its horrendous mandate to Catholic institutions to provide contraceptives, sterilization and abortifacients - that is, birth-control drugs that induce abortion. The Catholic Church defines these things as "evil." The Church and its members are now being told they must provide them. By fiat, the Obama administration has issued that decree. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23327/guest-column Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:24:44 GMT 23327 On Monday, Jan. 23, I met Inkwell the kitten. He had been brought in the door at the Daily Sun News by a customer who had just found him in the wheel well of a car in the parking lot. The kitten was completely black, hiding the motor oil in his fur, except for four very muddy feet. I stroked the little guy's head for a bit, impressed by the sheer volume of his purring. He seemed extremely grateful to be inside, away from the cold and noise, the slush and snow and surrounded by appreciative humans. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23326/word-nerd Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:24:05 GMT 23326 Mabel Nixon Stark, 99, a long-time Sunnyside resident, was reunited with her Heavenly Father and five sisters on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012. She was born March 17, 1912 in Mapleton, Iowa to Andrew and Stella (Jordan) Hanson. Mabel graduated from Palouse High School in Palouse. Mabel later moved to Sunnyside. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23325/obituary Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:23:22 GMT 23325 OLYMPIA - As Washington State Senate President Brad Owens announced that the same-sex marriage bill, ESSB 6239, had passed, an anxious audience of hundreds watching attentively during tense floor debate erupted with applause. The bill, which had bipartisan support, passed in the Senate 28 to 21 late last night, Feb. 1. The bill has already garnered enough support in the House after it moves through committees to pass and is expected to be on the governor's desk early next week. "I think it's one of the more powerful experiences of my life," said Sen. Kevin Ranker (D - Orcas Island). "This, getting married, and having my little girl. This is amazing. It's an incredibly powerful experience." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23324/senate-passes-gay-marriage-bill Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:17:14 GMT 23324 MABTON - Last week county prosecutors filed a felony charge against a Mabton man accused of having child pornography in his possession. "The initial report came from Microsoft," said Yakima County Sheriff Detective Stu Graham. Microsoft operates a "cloud drive," which allows its users to upload and store electronic information with the ability to access it in various locations. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23323/child-porn-charges-filed Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:08:33 GMT 23323 The city of Sunnyside has heard from the Washington State Auditor's Office regarding a 5 percent "step-up pay" that was proposed recently for Deputy Police Chief Phil Schenck. The issue was brought before council at the Monday, Jan. 23, meeting during which City Manager Mark Gervasi requested a temporary pay increase for Schenck's service while Sunnyside Police Chief Ed Radder was on medical leave last year. The retroactive pay increase would have amounted to more than $1,460 in compensation for taking on additional responsibilities. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23322/new-councilmans-push-for-retroactive-bonus-pay-for-citys-deputy-police-chief-doesnt-pass-muster Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:07:45 GMT 23322 OLYMPIA - As Washington State Senate President Brad Owens announced that the same-sex marriage bill, ESSB 6239, had passed, an anxious audience of hundreds watching attentively during tense floor debate erupted with applause. The bill, which had bipartisan support, passed in the Senate 28 to 21 late last night, Feb. 1. The bill has already garnered enough support in the House after it moves through committees to pass and is expected to be on the governor's desk early next week. "I think it's one of the more powerful experiences of my life," said Sen. Kevin Ranker (D - Orcas Island). "This, getting married, and having my little girl. This is amazing. It's an incredibly powerful experience." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23321/senate-passes-gay-marriage-bill Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:06:42 GMT 23321 LYNNWOOD - The Washington State Dairy Women recently welcomed Kristen Wedam of Sunnyside as one of the Washington state alternate dairy ambassadors during a public relations forum at the Embassy Suites in Lynnwood. Wedam was crowned by reigning Washington State Dairy Ambassador Shannon Rodeffer and Alternate Ambassador Emily Neff. Wedam addressed the audience with enthusiasm, stating, "I am very happy to have this opportunity to serve as your alternate dairy ambassador and I will do my best to represent you and the dairy industry..." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23320/wedam-crowned-state-alternate-dairy-ambassador Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:04:11 GMT 23320 MABTON - A furious rally at the end wasn't enough as the Mabton Viking boys basketball team lost to visiting Riverview 54-51 this past Tuesday night. Mabton trailed by seven points with just two minutes left in the contest when it caught fire and nearly pulled even. The Vikes cut the margin to three points and missed a 3-point attempt at the buzzer that would have sent the game into overtime. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23319/mabton-high-boys-on-playoff-bubble Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:03:00 GMT 23319 The year 2011 was one of firsts for the Dalrymple family of Sunnyside. John Dalrymple won his first regional title on the NHRA racing circuit and son Joshua ended his first year of NHRA racing. The elder Dalrymple has been competing in National Hot Rod Association competitions for 11 years and has had several near misses in winning the Pacific Northwest Division, known as Division 6. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23318/dalrymple-family-looks-to-continue-winning-nhra-ways Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:59:09 GMT 23318 MOSES LAKE - The Sunnyside High School Grizzly Dance Team this past weekend competed in Moses Lake, bringing home several honors. The team competed in the hip-hop and pom categories, winning top honors with 263 points and 234 points, respectively. Earning runner-up honors in the pom competition was Othello with 220 points and West Valley earned third place honors. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23317/shs-dance-team-wins-at-moses-lake Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:56:48 GMT 23317 The Sunnyside High School Technology Student Association took first place honors in two categories at Zillah High School's Robotics Competition this past December. The Boe Bot is a small robot that moves according to the programming students input through computer language. The group, a club new to Sunnyside High School of nearly 19 students, earned second place honors in a "follow the line" competition, where robots had to be programmed to follow a lined pattern set before it. In addition, students earned first place honors in a mystery event and first place honors overall. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23316/shs-students-embracing-bot-technology Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:55:35 GMT 23316 In the coming months Sunnyside students will be introduced to "financial literacy" through Junior Achievement programs throughout the district. That's according to Junior Achievement of Washington Regional Director Greg Jewell, who spoke at Wednesday morning's Daybreak Rotary Club meeting. Junior Achievement of Washington focuses on aiding students in owning their financial futures. Programs are offered to students of all ages, and teach a variety of financial literacy facets. Courses include teaching students how to compose resumes, acquire employment and manage a business. In addition, students learn at a young age how to differentiate between spending money for "wants" versus "needs," says Jewell. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23315/sunnyside-students-being-given-hands-on-lessons-in-financial-literacy Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:52:29 GMT 23315 John Dennis Hughes, 66, of Sunnyside passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. John was born March 2, 1945 in La Grande, Ore., the son of Fredrick Manson and Dorothy Velma (Wilmers) Hughes. The first 10 years of John's life were spent in a logging camp in La Grande. He with his family moved to Hillsboro, Ore., where John completed his education and graduated from Hillsboro High School with the class of 1963. He later earned his Master's degree in social work from Portland State University. During this time he married Ann McBride in Portland, Ore., and they had two sons, Joseph and Michael. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23314/obituary Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:51:18 GMT 23314 YAKIMA - A holdover from Yakima County's irrigation history, two Sunnyside-area drainage improvement districts, received new board members yesterday. That's according to action by Yakima County commissioners on Tuesday. Dan Newhouse was appointed to Drainage Improvement District #12 and Jeremy Hazzard was appointed to Drainage Improvement District #7. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23313/newhouse-hazzard-named-to-drainage-district-posts Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:35:00 GMT 23313 Sunnyside police last night (Tuesday) were led on a pursuit just after 9 p.m. that started in the 400 block of Cemetery Road. Officials said a traffic stop was attempted for a minor equipment violation, but the driver, identified as a 15-year-old male from Grandview, failed to stop the vehicle. The vehicle, a 2003 Suzuki Aero, traveled northbound on Cemetery Road to Van Belle Road, said officials. The driver turned westbound to Scoon Road and led police to Independence Road before turning onto SR-241. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23312/sunnyside-cops-led-on-high-speed-pursuit Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:34:10 GMT 23312 GRANGER - Billy Dunn, born in 1927, enlisted in active service for the United States Army on Jan. 19, 1951. Private First Class Dunn served in the 539th Quartermasters Company during the Korean War. While being shipped out to sea from San Francisco on a troop carrier, it was the first time he had seen the ocean and had ever been on any ship. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23311/granger-veteran-recognized-nationally Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:31:58 GMT 23311 The Washington State Department of Health has been working for the past four years to fully implement an emergency cardiac and stroke system, similar to the statewide trauma designation system. Sunnyside Community Hospital has received level II cardiac status and level III stroke status within the system. These designations granted in mid-January 2012 allow the hospital to meet the state requirements of appropriate care and also triaging from the field to appropriate facilities for cardiac and stroke treatment. The goal is to stabilize stroke patients and get them into advanced cardiac care within 90 minutes of arrival at any hospital. About 10 years ago the state first recognized a disparity of stroke care between rural and larger urban hospitals. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23310/faster-care-for-cardiac-stroke-victims-now-available-at-sunnyside-community-hospital Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:29:05 GMT 23310 MABTON - The seniors on Mabton's team were shining on senior night as the Lady Vikings mastered the Panthers, winning 60-47. During the last home game of the season, senior Jazzee Sustaita led her team with 22 points, while fellow senior Adeline Barajas bucketed another 14 points against visiting Riverview. "This is how I'd hoped they would go out," said Coach Chris McCallum. "And this is how I'd hoped the underclassmen would come together to make the night special." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23309/mabton-lady-vikes-square-league-record-at-5-5 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:28:26 GMT 23309 WALLA WALLA - A strong second quarter was just what the 1B Sunnyside Christian Lady Knight basketball team needed in a 41-32 win at 2B DeSales last night. "They're a good team, it's a dog fight every time we walk in that gym," Sunnyside Christian Coach Al Smeenk said of tussling with the Irish. DeSales opened with a slight edge Tuesday night, leading 8-6 after one quarter. Sunnyside Christian answered by taking the lead for good in the second stanza with a 16-6 run. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23308/second-quarter-surge-sparks-schs-lady-knights Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:26:52 GMT 23308 BICKLETON - The Lady Pirates fought hard to contain Trout Lake's top scorer at last night's home basketball game. Trout Lake's Ashley Sampson single-handedly contributed 24 points, with six 3-point shots, to a Lady Pirate loss, 51-39. The first quarter ended in a tie, 14-14, with Bickleton's chances looking good. In the second quarter both teams fought for the lead and Trout Lake walked into the half with a 13-10 run over the Lady Pirates with a halftime score of 27-24. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23307/lady-pirates-defeated-by-3-point-shooter Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:25:15 GMT 23307 In its home finale of the 2011-12 season, the Sunnyside Grizzly boys basketball team faded down the stretch in a 60-43 CBBN loss to Hanford. The Grizzlies trailed just 20-17 at the half. The close game broke open in the third quarter when Sunnyside's post players got into foul trouble and Hanford took advantage. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23306/falcons-soar-past-sunnyside-with-big-rally-in-second-half Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:23:12 GMT 23306 (Family Features) Did you know that more than 86 percent of consumers said they threw away a percentage of their pantry items that have been opened but not completely finished? Why not use up those ingredients to come up with new and creative recipes? According to a survey conducted by Hungry Jack(r), 37 percent of home cooks feel challenged when creating new recipes. Kelsey Nixon of The Cooking Channel's "Kelsey's Essentials," knows that when you have a wide selection of staple ingredients on hand, creative cooking is easy, fun and doesn't require an extra trip to the grocery store. Here are some of her tips for keeping your pantry recipe-ready: http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23305/is-your-pantry-recipe-ready Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:22:06 GMT 23305 The Palomarez family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed donations and their time for Roy. The dance was a great success, not only for the donations given but also for all the people who traveled to the dance after the winter storms hit this past week. Roy and Blanca started the festivities by dancing to the first song that was played. Seeing everyone come together was truly amazing. We are blessed to have so many friends and a great family. Thank you. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23304/forum Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:20:12 GMT 23304 Please join me in voting YES for the replacement maintenance and operation school levy on Feb. 14. The Sunnyside School District currently has the second lowest school tax in Yakima County, and will continue to be the second lowest if passed. A yes vote will tremendously benefit our students and keep our school tax rate low. By voting yes, the new tax will be $1.51 per $1,000 of assessed property value. If defeated, the tax will increase to $1.91 per $1,000 assessed property value. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23303/forum Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:19:30 GMT 23303 Every day in Mabton a familiar sight occurs as school buses pull up to the building and hundreds of students pour into the building-a sight familiar to all communities. We are different in some ways, however. Mabton is a very small town; the high school is the hub of our community with sporting events or practices occurring nearly every night of the week. It is not unusual for many of us to walk into the building at 8:00 in the morning and leave at 8:00 or 9:00 at night after a long day of school, clubs, meetings, tutoring and sports. We have felt first-hand the impact of budget cuts. Last year we lost several teachers, and we have not had a librarian for several years. And, when visiting other schools, it becomes even clearer to us what we do not have in the way of programs. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23302/forum Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:18:53 GMT 23302 As a member of Congress, I have the privilege of attending the President's annual State of the Union address. Leading up to this year's speech, presented last week, I hoped the President would embrace bipartisan solutions to grow our economy. Unfortunately, he instead chose to pump up the partisan rhetoric and ignore our ever-growing fiscal problems. The President missed an important opportunity to announce bipartisan policies that would help America's job creators. Devoid of detail and high on politics and platitudes, President Obama's speech could be characterized as none other than a campaign speech. Unfortunately, over the past three years, rousing speeches have not translated into prosperity and job creation. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23301/words-from-washington Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:18:16 GMT 23301 The 2012 Washington state legislative session is nearly half over and it's been interesting to see the proposals that have come out of Olympia. Everyone's familiar with the budget troubles lawmakers are trying to fix. Of course, there's been a lot of press about the gay marriage issue the state legislature is addressing this week. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23300/f-as-in-frank Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:17:26 GMT 23300 OLYMPIA - The Senate Labor, Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee held a hearing last Thursday on Senate Bill 6397, a measure that opponents say would harm Washington's agricultural community by restricting the use of pesticides. Sen. Curtis King, R-Yakima, and Sen. Jim Honeyford, R-Sunnyside, are opposed to the legislation as both come from rural districts with large agricultural regions. "We are greatly concerned about what this bill will do to Washington citizens and their businesses, from the rural farmer to homeowners taking care of their yards," said Honeyford. "Washington already has rules and agencies to regulate pesticides and to protect our workers. This legislation is an attack on Washington agriculture at a time farmers are asking for help." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23299/sunnyside-lawmaker-calls-bill-attack-on-ag Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:40:56 GMT 23299 Sunnyside Community Hospital is one of several hospitals partnering with Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences in Yakima. That partnership provides medical students like Mike McCormick and Bryan Tolle the opportunity to learn at the side of experienced physicians. McCormick is from Bremerton and said he initially selected the Yakima university because he liked the location, which isn't too far from his family. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23298/students-making-the-rounds-at-sunnyside-community-hospital Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:39:39 GMT 23298 The Sunnyside Fire Department recognized several firemen earlier this month for outstanding service. Fire department personnel gathered at Bon Vino's recently for their annual awards dinner. Chad Werkhoven was named the department's volunteer firefighter of the year, while Sean Glasser took home the award of career firefighter of the year. Additionally, the top responder awarded was given to Gary Pira. In addition, perfect attendance recipients include Ed Laverman and Jerry Monroe, who have been with the department for 32 years, Lloyd Hazzard with 20 years in the department, Jamie Price with 19 years and Woody Clough with 17 years. In addition, Aaron Hunsaker (15 years with the department), James Woodworth with 10 years, Alan Van Beek with nine years, Chad Werkhoven with eight years and Joshua Visser with two years, were also awarded with perfect attendance. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23297/firemen-honored-for-outstanding-service Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:37:52 GMT 23297 Jon Smiley, CEO at Sunnyside Community Hospital and Clinics, has announced his retirement effective March 1, 2012, according to Board President Jon Mercer and HealthTech Management Services Senior Vice President Dave Woodland. Smiley has served as CEO of the hospital since December 1992. According to Mercer, "Under Jon Smiley's outstanding leadership, Sunnyside Community Hospital has developed a first-class health delivery system for citizens in the Lower Valley. He has been critically involved in state and national legislation and has kept our board on the cutting edge of health care issues. We wish Jon and his wife Mary the best as they enter retirement." During Smiley's tenure, the hospital has experienced significant organizational success by attracting new physicians to the community as well as improving financial and operational performance. In addition, Sunnyside Community Hospital has been named as a top performing hospital by state and national organizations, including consecutive recognition as a "Most Wired" hospital by Hospital & Health Networks magazine for its progress in adopting health information technology. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23296/hospital-ceo-retiring-after-20-years-at-the-helm Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:36:48 GMT 23296 Same-sex marriage is a hot-button issue among individuals, groups and organizations nationwide. And it appears to be heating up locally as a measure is being considered by the state legislature, amending the marriage laws in Washington state that would legalize same-sex marriages. If the bill passes, Washington would be the seventh state across the nation to do so. Last week, as the 25th and deciding vote, Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen (D-Camano Island) declared she would vote for the bill. In turn, she caused an uproar statewide of both triumph and vexation. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23295/washington-state-senate-to-vote-on-same-sex-marriage-bill-tomorrow Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:35:26 GMT 23295 Kermit Jacobson's new fitness club doesn't discriminate by age, but his target market is definitely mature women who want a comfortable and non-judgmental place to work out. The facility, open now in the Sunnyside Eastway Center, features a number of hydraulic fitness machines that can be adjusted for any level of need. And Jacobson will make sure the machines are at the right level for the person using it. "Too many people believe that crap about 'no pain, no gain,'" said Jacobson. "I want to give women a workout that makes them feel good while they are doing it and has them feeling good the next day." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23294/fitness-club-for-older-women-opens-at-eastway-center Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:32:50 GMT 23294 Dr. Sean Quigley is the latest addition to Community Dental Clinic in Sunnyside, specializing in keeping the teeth of children clean and healthy. Quigley and his family moved to town six months ago specifically for the dental job. He was recruited because of his talents in dentistry, and he's turned out to be a good fit for Sunnyside. He is fluent in Spanish after spending time in Chile on a mission for his church and time in Bolivia working on water sanitation projects. And he loves the patients in Sunnyside. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23293/new-dentist-cleans-up-at-community-dental-clinic Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:31:44 GMT 23293 Betty Ruth Lundy, 83, of Grandview died on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012. She was born Aug. 18, 1928 in Bishop Mills, Ontario. Canada, the daughter of Donald and Flora (Watts) Hamblen. On Sept. 28, 1946 she married Arnold Lundy in Prescott, Ontario, Canada. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23292/death-notice Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:27:20 GMT 23292 Howard Raymond Coder, 88, of Wapato and a former Sunnyside resident died on Sunday Jan. 28, 2012, at Emerald Care in Wapato. He was born Sept. 15, 1923 in Ulysses, Kansas. He served in the U.S. Army during WW II. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23291/death-notice Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:26:42 GMT 23291 David Olson spent three years in Haiti, and it literally changed the direction of his life. Olson, now the Chief Operations Officer at Sunnyside Community Hospital, learned during his time in Haiti that he enjoyed the challenges of administration. As a result, instead of going into grad school as a medical student, he went into health care administration. Speaking to the Sunnyside Noon Rotary Club recently, Olson compared the situation in Haiti to the health care needs here in the Lower Valley, noting that the needs in both places are great. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23290/the-issues-of-haiti-presented-to-rotary Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:31:18 GMT 23290 One hundred years after being born in Campbell, Ark., Mildred Maxey Moran celebrated her birthday surrounded by friends and family at the Sunnyside Community Center last Saturday afternoon. Four generations of her descendants showed up at the 100th birthday party, which was also attended by Moran's numerous friends from her 67 years in Sunnyside. People came from as far away as Arkansas to celebrate her centennial. Moran was the fifth of six children. She had three children of her own, two still alive. Both were at the big party. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23289/local-woman-celebrates-100-years Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:29:41 GMT 23289 BICKLETON - The Bickleton girls basketball squad hoped to repeat a win over the visiting Klickitat squad this past Saturday. But their hopes failed with a 36-28 loss, despite Jamie Venema's double-double efforts of 14 points and 14 rebounds. The first quarter began with Bickleton trailing by four, 10-6. In the second quarter the Lady Pirates gained momentum with a 12-point run, taking the lead 18-12. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23288/klickitat-vandals-steal-win-from-lady-pirates Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:29:13 GMT 23288 The Grandview Greyhounds this past Friday and Saturday competed in two road games and were victorious in both CWAC battles. Friday, against Othello, Grandview secured a 59-52 win, and Saturday the Greyhounds defeated East Valley 56-46. The Greyhounds improved their league record to 12-2, 12-4 overall, with the games going into the win column. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23287/grandview-wins-two-on-the-road Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:28:20 GMT 23287 YAKIMA - The Sunnyside Grizzly wrestling team ended a 2011-12 perfect regular season with dual match victories over Eisenhower and Davis high schools in Yakima this past Saturday. Sunnyside romped in both matches, knocking off Davis 55-15 and Ike 48-15. Against Davis, Sunnyside won the first seven matches, starting with a 15-3 technical fall recorded by Homer Romero (106 lbs.) over the Pirates' Diego Badillo. Sunnyside's Jesse Barajas (113 lbs.) followed with a 10-3 win over Daniel Sandoval. Santos Guerrero (120 lbs.) and Nathan Gonzalez (126 lbs.) continued Sunnyside's momentum with pins in their matches over Alex Ramos and TJ Morehouse, respectively. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23286/grizzlies-end-regular-season-with-a-sweep Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:27:36 GMT 23286 RoseAnn Omta-Katte, 85, of Sequim passed away on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012, of age related causes. She was born April 6, 1926 in Granger to Derk and Augusta Oord-Omta. They moved to their Swan Road farm in Sunnyside in 1928. She graduated from Sunnyside High School in 1944. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23285/obituary Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:23:19 GMT 23285 Randall Benjamin Omta, 51, of Colorado Springs, Colo. died on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012. He was born June 29, 1960 to Richard and Marjories Omta. He is survived by his parents; his wife, Carla; a stepdaughter; and one grandson. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23284/death-notice Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:22:24 GMT 23284 Phyllis A. Fordyce, 86, of Pasco died on Friday, Jan. 27, 2012. She was born March 16, 1925 in Sunnyside. She is survived by two daughters, Ardean Fox of Grandview and LeeAnn Fordyce of New Bern N.C.; one stepson; five grandchildren; and one great-granchild. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23283/death-notice Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:21:46 GMT 23283 The Sunnyside School Board voted 3-2 last night (Thursday) to stay in the Columbia Basin Big Nine instead of joining the new breakaway league centered in the Tri-Cities. Superintendent Rick Cole and district athletic director Bill Daley presented the situation to the board during the regular meeting. According to Cole, the 15 schools in the Big Nine voted 8-7 to change the schedules to a geographic division late last year, but because a supermajority of 75 percent was required by league bylaws, the vote was nullified. As a result of the dissent, the superintendents of the districts involved appointed a task force to try to meet the needs of all the schools as best possible. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23282/sunnyside-stays-with-new-six-team-cbbn Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:58:53 GMT 23282 The final tally from Sunnyside and the rest of Yakima County's homeless count yesterday won't likely be known for a few months, but the number of homeless appears to be on the increase - at least in the Lower Valley. That's according to initial figures during the eighth annual Point in Time homeless survey held yesterday, Thursday. Sunnyside was one of five locations countywide conducting the survey and providing services for the homeless. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23281/homeless-figures-look-to-be-on-rise Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:57:28 GMT 23281 YAKIMA - For the second straight year, the Sunnyside High School wrestling team has cruised through 3A Columbia Basin Big Nine League action with a perfect undefeated record. Last night's 54-23 victory over the winless West Valley Rams, which gives the Grizzly grapplers a 7-0 mark in conference play this season, secured the league title for Sunnyside. Pasco finished second in the 3A conference with a 6-1 mark. The Grizzlies have two non-league matches remaining, against the 4A Eisenhower and Davis squads this coming Saturday, before opening postseason action at the District championships on Feb. 3-4 at Southridge High School. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23280/sunnyside-claims-second-consecutive-3a-cbbn-league-title Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:55:39 GMT 23280 WAPATO - The Grandview Greyhound grapplers yesterday secured their second win of the 2011-12 season. Grandview came out on top of the Wolves in Wapato, 43-36. The win was made possible with six victories on the mat and 12 points due to forfeits from the Wolves. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23279/grandview-pins-down-another-win Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:55:11 GMT 23279 The largest purchase of riverside habitat in the Columbia River estuary in nearly 40 years is now a reality. That's according to an announcement this week by the Columbia Land Trust, Bonneville Power Administration and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The land purchase permanently protects essential refuge for salmon, steelhead and other wildlife. Specifically, it will benefit salmon from Oregon, Idaho and Washington as they migrate to the ocean. The purchase is seen as the largest step yet in the estuary to mitigate the impacts of federal dams on the Columbia and Snake river systems. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23278/purchase-planned-for-salmon-habitat Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:54:29 GMT 23278 Normally to attend an Anita Chen concert, you would need to travel to New York City's Carnegie Hall. But for one evening only, Friday, Feb. 3, Chen will perform at the Sunnyside High School auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Chen is one of the rarest talents in orchestra music: she is equally adept on two instruments, the piano and the violin. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23277/acclaimed-virtuoso-concert-performance-in-sunnyside-next-friday Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:52:04 GMT 23277 The Thomas family would like to thank the Sunnyside community (and beyond) for such an outpouring of love and support when our son, Kyle, passed away. The doctors and nurses at Sunnyside Community Hospital were so professional and compassionate, we felt respected and supported every step of the way. Your gifts of food were enjoyed by many members of our family, as we tried to come to terms with his absence. The flowers sent were gorgeous, and reminded us of the beauty of his life. Your donations to the Special Education Dept. of the Sunnyside School District were unexpectedly generous, and will affect kids in every school in the district in a positive way. Lastly, all the words of comfort, in cards or in your welcome appearance at his memorial, have uplifted our hearts in a way no words can really convey. You reminded us of Kyle's beautiful life, and have made it just a little easier to breathe without him. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23276/forum Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:51:30 GMT 23276 As the Board of Directors for the Sunnyside School District, we would like to thank the voters of Sunnyside and Outlook for the past 12 years of support for district levy measures and ask that you continue that support of Sunnyside schools by voting YES for the Maintenance and Operation Levy renewal. Simply put, approval of the levy renewal is good for our taxpayers, our community and our schools. Approving the levy allows us to keep Sunnyside's school tax rate the second lowest in Yakima County. By collecting the $2, 040,656 local levy, and the up to $7,200,000 in state levy equalization funds that come with it, we have the ability to use excess general funds to pay the bond debt on behalf of the taxpayers. If approved, the rate collected would average around $1.51 per $1,000 of assessed value over the four years and provide much needed funds to support fine arts, educational technology, safe schools, updated textbooks, sports and much more. However, the bond tax rate would be a much higher $1.91 if the levy fails, and the district would not be able to offer the educational programs and supports that are critical to student success. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23275/forum Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:50:59 GMT 23275 I plan to vote FOR the Sunnyside School District levy for two basic reasons. If the levy passes it will actually mean that property tax bills in Sunnyside will be LESS. It will also enhance public education in Sunnyside with updated technology and support fine arts and sports programs among other items. A good education is the most important thing we adults can provide for the children of our school district. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23274/forum Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:50:09 GMT 23274 As a Sunnyside community member and parent of two Sunnyside School District graduates, I want to encourage voters to vote YES on the school levy Feb. 14. We have an opportunity on Feb. 14 to keep taxes low and support a quality education and activities program for kids. Voting yes will mean a slight increase in taxes, but it still keeps taxes lower than a no vote. If the levy does not pass, the school district would need to collect the higher bond rate. Passing the levy also allows the school district to receive levy equalization funds from the state. These levy equalization funds are used for technology, curriculum and activities such as sports and music programs. Without these funds many of these programs may be reduced and jobs may be eliminated. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23273/forum Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:49:39 GMT 23273 A huge thanks ...to manager and employees at Maverik in Sunnyside! This morning I stopped for gas before heading to work in Yakima. After a stop in Zillah, I headed to Office Max before going to my office. When I opened my wallet to pay for my purchase, my gas credit card was gone! When I arrived at the office I called the Maverik station. I explained which pump I used and the gentleman said, "Hold on, I'll go look right now." And he found it...damp, but safe. I picked it up after work. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23272/forum Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:49:01 GMT 23272 The Washington State Wildlife Commission recently adopted a wolf plan for Washington state. The plan calls for an unrealistic minimum number of 15 breeding pairs given the constrained habitat of this state. This plan, touted as a "re-introduction," is actually an introduction of an invasive species, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Grey Wolf. The fact is that the sub-species of wolf that was eradicated from this state is truly extinct and the advocates of wolves have substituted the Canadian Rocky Mountain Grey Wolf instead. It is important to note that the extinct wolf is estimated to have weighed around 75 pounds, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Grey Wolf weighs upwards of 120 pounds. It is most important to realize that the Canadian Rocky Mountain Grey Wolf is hardly sensitive, threatened or endangered within its native range. The Canadian wolf's numbers are so great that it is significantly hunted to reduce excessive debilitation of game animal numbers. The past few years, these invasive wolves have been walking into our state from neighboring states (prior introductions) and Canadian provinces. Currently, five packs have been confirmed within Washington by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). There is at least one unconfirmed pack in the Blue Mountains. There are unconfirmed reports of wolves on the Yakama Indian Reservation as well as other reports of wolf sightings within the County of Yakima. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23271/guest-column Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:46:13 GMT 23271 Lawrence "Larry" Edwin Hicks, 89, of Sunnyside passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, in Sunnyside. Larry was born April 5, 1922 in Pasco, the son of Callie T. and Elizabeth Mae (Kinney) Hicks. Larry graduated from Waitsburg High School with the class of 1940. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23270/obituary Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:45:27 GMT 23270 Raul "Rudy" Torres Ortiz, 58, of Grandview passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012. Rudy was born April 14, 1953 in Mercedes, Texas to Jesus and Angelina Torres Ortiz. He married Dana Aguirre Ortiz on Jan. 21, 1977 in Sunnyside. Dana and Rudy were married for 35 great wonderful years. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23269/obituary Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:36:28 GMT 23269 Sunnyside firemen were called to a reported house fire yesterday (Wednesday) at approximately 9 a.m. Firemen arrived in the 1000 block of Yakima Valley Highway to find a double-wide modular home engulfed in flames and smoke. Sunnyside Fire Chief Aaron Markham says the fire began in the attic, but the cause is unknown and is still under investigation. Firemen spent nearly an hour trying to contain the flames. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23268/sunnyside-family-displaced-by-fire Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:24:14 GMT 23268 GRANDVIEW - "We think you can begin moving in in February," said Karl Croft of Blews Construction this past Tuesday night. He was speaking to members of the Grandview City Council during a tour of the newly constructed community center located at Country Park. The new facility features two main entrances, one for those participating in the senior meals program and another for the general public participating in parks and recreation programs. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23267/grandview-community-center-opening-rapidly-approaching Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:22:57 GMT 23267 WHITE SWAN - The Mabton Viking wrestling team wrapped up its regular season dual match season with a 36-30 victory last night at White Swan. All of the host Cougars' points Wednesday night were the result of Mabton forfeits. The Vikes, in turn, only received two forfeits from White Swan, but prevailed in all four head-to-head matches. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23266/mabton-grapplers-pin-cougars-36-30 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:22:34 GMT 23266 Sunnyside's Little Grapplers wrestling club began its Monday through Thursday practices this week, setting the stage for the six Saturday tournaments the group will participate in this coming season. Club membership is open to all youngsters, boys and girls, from the ages of 5 to 14. Registration costs are set at $60 per child. Parents will be required to show proof of their child's age with a birth certificate. Parents who want to enroll their child as a club member are asked to contact Daniel Guillen (831-7502). http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23265/local-wrestling-club-seeking-new-members Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:21:43 GMT 23265 MABTON - The Mabton Viking boys basketball team got down early and could never catch up in a 66-58 loss last night to visiting Royal. The Knights took the lead from the outset Wednesday night and built a 13-point advantage before settling for a 38-27 lead at the half over Mabton. "They were able to get the shots they wanted and they were making everything," Mabton Coach Brock Ledgerwood said of the first half. "We didn't have any intensity defensively, we just started flat." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23264/mabton-cage-team-falls-short-against-royal Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:20:15 GMT 23264 SEATTLE - Sunnyside native Aaron Ramos is taking a crack at success after completing courses at Palmer College of Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif. this past December. The SHS grad began his trek into higher education by earning his Bachelor's degree at Washington State University. There he focused his studies in science kinesiology. From the beginning of his college career, Ramos says he knew what the end goal would be: to become a chiropractor. He says he's always been interested in health, sports and the importance of keeping in shape. Chiropractic services emphasize natural health and along with eating and exercising properly, Ramos says one can have a better quality of life. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23263/sside-high-graduate-opening-chiropractic-clinic-in-seattle-area Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:17:55 GMT 23263 Raul "Rudy" Torres Ortiz, 58, of Grandview passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012. Rudy was born April 14, 1953 in Mercedes, Texas to Jesus and Angelina Torres Ortiz. He married Dana Aguirre Ortiz on Jan. 21, 1977 in Sunnyside. Dana and Rudy were married for 35 great wonderful years. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23262/obituary Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:16:08 GMT 23262 Lawrence Edwin Hicks, 89, of Sunnyside died on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, in Sunnyside. He was born April 5, 1922 in Pasco, the son of Callie T. and Elizabeth Mae (Kinney) Hicks. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23261/death-notice Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:08:01 GMT 23261 YAKIMA - Soon, inmates in the Yakima County Jail will get their legal information via the internet. That's the result of action yesterday, Tuesday, by Yakima County commissioners in approving a contract to allow computer connection for inmates wanting to access an electronic law library. Ed Cambpell is the director for the county's corrections department, and he says the digital law library will save money. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23260/library-at-county-jail-goes-digital Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:27:00 GMT 23260 The City of Sunnyside has revised its business license requirements and Monday, the city council approved the revision. The amended business license requirements clarify that the city will not approve a business license if the business is not lawful under city, state and federal statutes. Intended to limit activity associated with collective gardens (medical marijuana gardens), the new language prohibits Sunnyside from issuing business licenses to anyone seeking one for purposes that are not federally legal. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23259/medica-marijuana-patients-cant-grow-gardens-in-sunnyside Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:24:47 GMT 23259 MABTON - During preliminary 2012 budget planning late last year, the Mabton City Council identified the need for increased police coverage. To save funds, Police Chief Rick Gutierrez recommended adding reserve officers on the payroll at $16.50 per hour. The idea was to increase coverage while still attempting to save the city money. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23258/mabton-pares-back-reserve-officers-salaries Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:22:44 GMT 23258 GRANDVIEW - Catholic Charities Housing Services has been dutifully constructing affordable homes for families in the Lower Valley since 1998. The most recent project nearly complete is a 19-home development on Grandview's Meadowlark Road. Now, the organization is gearing up to begin a seven-home project on Groom Court, aptly named New Life Homes. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23257/catholic-charities-housing-development-ramps-up-in-grandview Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:21:00 GMT 23257 SELAH - The Grandview Greyhounds traveled to Selah last night, making up for a cancellation last Friday. The Vikings didn't know what hit them in the opening quarter as Grandview started with a 15-2 run and ended the quarter 16-10 on its way to a 58-41 victory. Selah wasn't able to stop the Greyhound attack in the second stanza. Grandview's defense held the Vikings to just seven points, while the offense scored 14. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23256/grandview-boys-dunk-vikings-58-41 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:20:30 GMT 23256 WHITE SWAN - The state-ranked 2B White Swan Cougars sent the visiting Sunnyside Christian Knights home last night with a head-hanging 55-40 loss. The 1B Knights knew before Tuesday evening's non-league game that the White Swan boys basketball team was extremely quick. The game plan, said SCHS Coach Dean Wagenaar, was to control the tempo, "...to turn it into a half-court game. "We didn't do that," he said. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23255/cougars-too-quick-for-sunnyside-christian Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:19:06 GMT 23255 A packed house got its money's worth last night. The Grizzly faithful watched, almost in disbelief, as the Sunnyside High School wrestling team rallied from a 28-10 deficit to win the final five bouts against the visiting Pasco Bulldogs. The late heroics by the Grizzlies earned Sunnyside an improbable 39-28 victory. Both teams were unbeaten in 3A CBBN action entering Tuesday evening's match-up. The come-from-behind win assures Sunnyside of at least a share of the league crown. The Grizzlies close out conference action this Thursday at West Valley. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23254/league-champs Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:14:48 GMT 23254 GRANDVIEW - The Grandview High School class of 1967 reunion committee is searching for missing classmates. Missing former classmates include Violet Brons, Doug Bullis, Roger Bunch, Gary Clemments, Pam Frye Healea, Joe Messenger, Kristen Peterson and David Steffen. Anyone knowing the contact information for the above mentioned former classmates is urged to contact Eva Urrutia Garcia at 617 E. Third St. in Grandview or by email: evag1967@charter.net. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23253/students-wanted-for-class-reunion Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:13:29 GMT 23253 Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 810 E. Custer Ave. Sunnyside WA 98944, 7 p.m. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23252/sunnyside-school-board-agenda Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:12:38 GMT 23252 What great community support! On Jan. 17 our local Sunnyside McDonald’s hosted a McTeacher’s Night. McTeacher’s Night is a fundraising activity hosted by our local McDonald’s restaurant, where some of the proceeds go to the school that is participating. Washington Elementary School was the school that participated. Our local teachers and administration worked that night and boy was it an enjoyable night. It was so delightful to see our local community come to support our school. Parents and our students were amazed to see their teachers and principals working to support their school. Thank you on behalf of Washington Elementary School for support provided that night. An extra special thanks to our local Sunnyside McDonald’s for graciously hosting us. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23251/forum Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:11:54 GMT 23251 Downtownrevitalization thoughts As a long time property and lot owner in downtown Sunnyside’s designated core area, the revitalization development appears very interesting. It will take funding to provide signage that could lead to this becoming a tourist and visitor attraction, and there will be other expenses that grants could assist with. Mr. Richard Gaines, a Sunnyside educational historian, has repeatedly claimed my location at 525 S. Sixth St. was where the first school in Sunnyside was sited. Recently I reviewed my common wall legal agreement with the unoccupied building to the north. W.H. Cline was a signer, who according to the book “Courage and Water” written by Roscoe Sheller, was the first store proprietor in Sunnyside. So it’s possible the first school was located next to the first store in our town. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23250/forum Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:11:04 GMT 23250 Short and sweet – there are two trains of thought when considering how to mark your ballot that will be arriving in the mail soon. The ballot in question asks you, a patron of the Sunnyside School District, to approve a four-year maintenance and operations levy. The first consideration, point blank, is to decide if our youngsters deserve every opportunity to excel and succeed in school in order to grow into the productive adults and leaders we all want them to become. The money being sought, a hair over $2 million annually over a four-year cycle, will help keep the people employed who are trained to mold our youngsters into responsible adults. This new four-year levy money replaces an existing levy that property owners are already paying. This money is also used to augment such things as new textbooks, much needed supplies and teaching materials, updated computer equipment, as well as ensuring that our youths have access to quality fine arts programs (music, art, drama) and extracurricular athletic opportunities. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23249/dsn-editorial Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:06:04 GMT 23249 The American dream, coming to the United States, is all some ever hope for in their lives. But once they arrive, some continue to stay beyond legal means, and with them they bring their children. Last month a select group of people, among them students, asked the Grandview School Board to approve a resolution voicing support for giving undocumented students access to federal financial aid. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23248/off-the-record Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:03:41 GMT 23248 Surrounded by the cherished members of her family, Ramona Story, 78, of Sunnyside passed away peacefully at Yakima Regional Hospital on Monday evening, Jan. 23, 2012. Leatrice Ramona McCathern was born Feb. 25, 1933 in Shreveport, La., to David E. and Annie Laurie McCathern. She was the youngest of five children in the McCathern family. Following the passing of her parents at an early age, Ramona, along with three of her siblings, was raised and educated in the Methodist Children's Home in Ruston, La. Ramona graduated from high school in Ruston and went on to further her education for two more years at a university in Louisiana. She completed her collegiate studies at satellite classes in the Yakima Valley, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in social work from Eastern Washington University in 1983. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23247/obituary Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:03:00 GMT 23247 Maria Cepeda, 87, of Mabton passed on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at her home. She was born Aug. 25, 1924 in Gonzales, Texas, the daughter of Eligio and Emiliana (Flores) Rosales. On April 20, 1951 she married Francisco B. Cepeda in Musquiez Coah. Mexico. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23246/obituary Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:58:51 GMT 23246 Last night the Sunnyside City Council considered and decided to wait before authorizing a temporary pay adjustment in the amount of more than $1,460 for Deputy Police Chief Phil Schenck. The 5 percent "step-up pay" would compensate him for filling in during an absence of Police Chief Ed Radder, who was absent for medical reasons between June 6 and Nov. 8, 2011. City Manager Mark Gervasi told the city council the city has allocated a 5 percent pay increase on a temporary basis in similar situations. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23245/step-up-pay-adjustment-for-fill-in-police-chief-put-on-hold Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:48:59 GMT 23245 When some think it's time to discard household items, Erin and Robert Medina want to give those devices a 'Second Chance'. The Sunnyside couple fulfilled their dream of owning a business with the opening of Second Chance Items nearly two weeks ago. "It's always been (our) dream to own a business," Erin Medina said. "It's been a long time in the making." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23244/local-merchants-give-items-area-residents-a-second-chance Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:47:46 GMT 23244 GRANDVIEW - Washington is changing state academic standards to hopefully prepare students to become competitive globally, competitive for work and competitive for post-secondary education. Grandview Superintendent Kevin Chase outlined to school board members at Monday night's school board meeting the changes afoot for the district concerning state academic standards titled, "common core state standards." The standards describe the knowledge and skills in English, language, arts and mathematics that students will need when they graduate high school. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23243/grandview-superintendent-makes-case-for-the-common-core Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:43:36 GMT 23243 The visiting Southridge Suns avenged a 19-point loss earlier this season in winning a 54-53 squeaker over the Sunnyside Grizzly boys basketball team last night. "We lost a barn burner," said Grizzly Assistant Coach Ruben Fernandez. "It was back and forth the whole way." Sunnyside opened Monday night's contest - originally scheduled for last Friday night - by grabbing an 11-10 lead after one quarter. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23242/suns-nip-shs-boys Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:42:16 GMT 23242 The Sunnyside girls hoop team last night prevailed 46-43 over the Southridge Suns. "It was a different game," Lady Grizzly Coach Rick Puente said in reference to his club's 13-point win over the Suns earlier this season, stating his team had difficulties last night with its outside shots. That meant Sunnyside had to create opportunities for itself from inside the lane. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23241/lady-grizzlies-overshadow-suns Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:40:03 GMT 23241 What do you think about Pacific Power's rate increase proposal? The state's Utilities and Transportation Commission wants to know during a public hearing tomorrow, Wednesday, in Yakima. Pacific Power is requesting a 4.3 percent hike in utility rates, while Commission staff members are recommending a 1.1 percent increase. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23240/public-comments-sought-on-power-rate-hike-proposal Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:39:05 GMT 23240 Sunnyside firemen were dispatched at approximately 3:17 a.m. this morning to a reported structure fire. Officials say the fire caused an estimated $10,000 in damage to the home of Domato Fernandez, and nearly $1,000 damage to its contents. It took 12 firemen nearly two hours to contain, overhaul and clean up the fire in the 400 block of NW Crescent. The fire itself was extinguished at approximately 4 a.m. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23239/fire-takes-10000-damage-to-sunnyside-home Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:38:29 GMT 23239 Area firemen are getting in shape for the climb of their life, March 11, in Seattle. Local firefighters from the Sunnyside Fire Department and Yakima County Fire District #5 will compete at this year's annual Scott Firefighter Stair Climb this spring at the Columbia Center tower in Seattle. At 788 feet of vertical elevation, the Columbia Center (formerly Bank of America Tower) in downtown Seattle stands as the second tallest building west of the Mississippi. It takes 69 flights of stairs and 1,311 steps to reach the highly acclaimed observation deck overlooking the city. The Scott Firefighter Stair Climb supports the mission of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, raising money through sponsorships, individual and department fundraising and entry fees. In 2011, the event featured more than 1,500 firefighters from 281 different departments and brought in a record $930,000 for blood and cancer research and patient services. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23238/local-firemen-getting-in-shape-for-climb-for-a-cure Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:37:57 GMT 23238 Standing at six foot eight, he towers above the students he teaches. But his height is no barrier to his communication with students, who don't hesitate to approach him with questions or problems. Eidson was raised near East Wenatchee with his older brother. His father was a state park ranger and his mother a teacher. "My mother's entire side of the family is teachers," he said. "We could make a school with just them." http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23237/leadership-teacher-stands-tall-at-shs Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:36:30 GMT 23237 Kenneth Lee Hysell, 67, of Sunnyside passed away on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at his home. Kenneth was born July 18, 1944 in Kennewick, he son of Virgil Harlen and Violet Marie (LeLacheur) Hysell. On Sept. 29, 1962 he married Stella Lundberg in St. Mary's, Idaho. http://www.dailysunnews.com/archives/story.aspx/23236/obituary Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:35:45 GMT 23236