Stories for June 2011

New at the Walla Walla Public Library - 06/30/11

Featured books will be available for the public today. They can also be placed on hold online at wallawallapubliclibrary,org or call the library for assistance at 527-4550.

A message for all seasons and sizes

Walla Walla Community College will present its summer musical, 'Hairspray,'Thursday through July 23.

Playing the lead role as Tracy Turnblad in "Hairspray" for Walla Walla Community College Foundation's 30th annual summer musical might be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Jana Townsend."I was ecstatic," Townsend said. "I was very excited, just because Trac

Patisserie hosts art by Fairbanks

Local artist L.A. Fairbanks will display a new collection of monoprints at the Colville Street Patisserie, 40 S. Colville St., July 1 through Aug. 31.The show, title "H(art)" is "a study of hearts, medicine, healing, opening to the space within," accordin

BOOK NOTES - Stories too good to be true may not be

Have you been fooled by a book that you thought was true? Several books have sold millions of copies and even made the New York Times Best-Sellers list only to be exposed as "less than true" months or even years later."The Long Walk" by Slavomir Rawicz (1

Early pioneer women to be portrayed

The Living History Company of Fort Walla Walla Museum, 755 Myra Road, brings two pioneer portrayals to life this weekend.At 2 p.m. Saturday in the Museum's pioneer settlement Harriet Hart Beach portrays her great-great-grandmother, Nancy Estes Wiseman. Na

Blue Mountain Land Trust hosts farm tour

Blue Mountain Land Trust will host the second of its summer outings July 10 with a tour of the Don and Anne Marie Schwerin family farm and conservation easement near Dixie. Tour participants will meet at 2:45 p.m. at the Rose Street parking lot between Co

Shakespeare classes offered for students

Acting Up with Shakespeare is a new program being offered by Walla Walla Parks and Recreation at the Powerhouse Theater, 111 N. Sixth Ave.The program for ages 8-12 will be July 18-22 and for ages 13-17 will be July 25-29. This is the first set of student

Learn to 'cook' raw meals

COLLEGE PLACE -- The Walla Walla University Church Health Ministries Board will host a raw vegetarian cooking class that will offer samples of raw food dishes and demonstrations on how to prepare them. The class will be held 1-3:30 p.m. July 10 at SonBrid

Whitman Mission hosts activities

Wool spinning and fire making are two activities offered this weekend at the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, 328 Whitman Mission Road.On Saturday from 1-4 p.m. visitors can take a turn spinning wool into yarn or watch experts demonstrate this time

The Randy Hansen Band to perform at Walla Faces

The Randy Hansen Band will play 7-9 p.m. Saturday, at Walla Faces Tasting Room, 216 E. Main St. The band is known for its emulation of the performances of Jimi Hendrix.This is a benefit concert for the Walla Walla Community College Foundation.Tickets are

Kephart's work at two locations

Artist Peter Kephart will show his unique art made with fire and paper at two Walla Walla tasting room galleries. The first reception is 5:30-9 p.m. July 14 at Cavu Cellars, 602 Piper Ave., with Kephart giving a demonstration of his technique at 6 p.m. Th

Author Nisbet to speak about early fur agent

PASCO -- Author, teacher and naturalist Jack Nisbet will talk about Canadian fur agent and cartographer David Thompson at 10 a.m. July 9 at Sacajawea State Park Interpretive Center, 2503 Sacajawea Park Road. Thompson connected the first formal survey of t

Carnival to promote autism awareness to be held July 9

The second annual Autism Awareness Carnival will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 9 in the parking lot at Jacobi's Cafe, 416 N. Second Ave.The carnival will have a silent auction, dunk tank, jumping castle, tattoos and face painting. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - It's time to take America back

Between 2002 and 2007, 65 percent of all income growth in America went to the richest one percent of Americans. This one percent now controls just under 35 percent of all the wealth in America.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Super absorbers are nothing new

I hate to be the one to bring the news that super absorbers such as those used in diapers were first tried as soil amendments by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the 1960s. It was those experiments that led to commercial uses such as in diapers.

Sam Reed has served state's citizens very well

Secretary of State Reed is calling it a career when his term ends in 18 months.

It wouldn't be surprising to look up public servant in the dictionary (or in a Google search) to find a picture of Washington's Secretary of State Sam Reed.

Historical Auto Club to host tour for holiday weekend

WALLA WALLA -- The Walla Walla Historical Auto Club will be hosting a regional Fourth of July car tour here from Saturday until Monday evening.

Participants sought for National Night Out in Columbia County

DAYTON -- Businesses, organizations and individuals interested in participating in Columbia County's National Night Out can sign up now. Exhibitors and volunteers for running errands, crowd control and other assistance are needed.

Student reps chosen for Columbia School Board

BURBANK -- The Columbia School Board has two new student representatives to the board.

Garfield County Courthouse overhaul celebrated

The historic building got a $1.7 million makeover from top to bottom.

POMEROY -- The crowd overflowed into an office adjacent to the courtroom and into the hallway for the rededication of the Garfield County Courthouse.

Emergency Services - 06/30/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

$n$ In the minutes - GARFIELD COUNTY

Garfield County Commissioners are Dean Burton, Wynne McCabe and Robert Johnson. With all present Monday commissioners:

On the agenda - PRESCOTT SCHOOL BOARD

WHEN: 7 p.m. todayWhere: Board RoomWhat: Special meeting

In the minutes - DAYTON COUNCIL

Members of the City Council are Christine Broughton, Kathy Berg, Merle Jackson, Terry Herrin, Charlie Button, Jim Cooper and Bill Graham. Mayor is Craig George. With Button absent Monday the council:

Consultant on Walla Walla-area libraries: Work together

'Whether or not you do the annexation, to survive you need a consolidated model,' a consultant said.

WALLA WALLA -- Better cooperation is key to solving the region's library woes, especially if city and county officials decide to follow a consultant's recent recommendation to annex into one regional library taxing district.

Report sees funding disparity between city, rural residents

A consultant found that while the Rural Library District takes about $40 per person, the city takes an amount in the $20s.

WALLA WALLA -- As expected, a recently released report on library funding confirmed the city's library is grossly underfunded, but what was also revealed by an independent consultant is that Walla Walla County Rural Library District may have been justifie

Exchange Club wins All City Babe Ruth crown

Police Guild manages to snarl it up in the third inning, but Exchange pulls away for the 15-3 victory.

WALLA WALLA — Exchange Club powered to a 15-3 win over Police Guild Wednesday night under the bright lights of Borleske Stadium for the 2011 Babe Ruth All-City Championship crown.Aron Fazzari started and went five innings, while Exchange's offense backed

Robin Kerry Peterson

June 30, 1951 - May 17, 2011

Death Notice - Roberta Winchell

Oct. 31, 1936- June 29, 2011

EarlVada Gaines

June 25, 1925 - June 24, 2011

Allison Holloway

Dec. 8, 2000 - June 23, 2011

Frank Cox Jr.

Aug. 2, 1936 - June 27, 2011

Busy on the South Fork Walla Walla River Trail

An unusual number of hikers are encountered along the South Fork Walla Walla River Trail.

Usually I expect to see one or two people on a weekday hike along the South Fork Walla Walla River Trail.

County furlough day set for Friday; offices closed Monday

WALLA WALLA -- Walla Walla County's schedule of furlough days, adopted for budgetary reasons, will include Friday.

Sheriff's Round Table set for Thursday in Walla Walla

WALLA WALLA -- The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office will be hold a Sheriff's Round Table meeting Thursday in Walla Walla.

Tumac sells Walla Walla Kubota dealership

WALLA WALLA -- Tumac Outdoor Equipment has sold its Walla Walla Kubota dealership to a Yakima company, officials said today.

Emergency Services - 06/29/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Colville St. cafe to serve vegan fare

The wait is over for those who've been wanting to sink their teeth into downtown Walla Walla's new vegan cafe.

Potato waste befouls Milton-Freewater street

A spill from a commercial truck stunk up the town Tuesday afternoon.

MILTON-FREEWATER -- If you're in the mood for potato soup, Tuesday was your chance.

Columbia REA buys Walla Walla facility

A deal between Columbia REA and the Port would put the electric co-op on Melrose Street.

WALLA WALLA -- The Port of Walla Walla plans to sell its 88,000-square-foot Melrose Street building complex to electric cooperative Columbia REA in a roughly $5.3 million deal expected to close in September.

Umatilla County turbine rules OK'd

A victory years in the making was handed down by Umatilla County Commissioners on Tuesday.

Let's celebrate the Fourth of July -- but let's do it safely

And remember, high-flying, loud fireworks are not legal in the city of Walla Walla.

High-flying fireworks that explode with a loud boom are extremely popular on the Fourth of July. Yet, they cannot be discharged legally in the Walla Walla city limits.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Mania for scrutinizing private lives takes toll

The mania for scrutinizing the private lives of politicians has increased dramatically as has the technology for doing so. Politicians and other community leaders now live under a microscope easily wielded by political opponents and an oppressively self-r

A DAY OF CONTRASTS

In yet another day of weather contrasts, the jagged edge of a rose leaf collects droplets of rain just above the soft, pink petals of the rose itself. A brief spattering of rain interrupted the mostly sunny and warm attempt Tuesday afternoon for a summer day.

Kevin Allen Myrick

May 04, 1987 – June 13, 2011

Ruth Eddy

Jan. 15, 1918 - June 24, 2011

Death Notice - EarlVada Gaines

June 24, 2011

Ronald Elton Schmale

December 4, 1934 ~ June 24, 2011

Blue Devil hardballers, coach pick up All-State honors

WALLA WALLA — Local prep baseball players earned Washington State Baseball Coaches Association All-State team honors last week.Wa-Hi head coach Keith Gradwohl was selected 4A Coach of the Year, while Blue Devils pitcher Drew Christina and infielder Kevin

Sweets need 10 innings to snap losing streak

Walla Walla ends an eight-game losing streak in 10 innings with a 6-2 win against Kelowna Tuesday.

KELOWNA, B.C. — It ended an inning later than they hoped it would, but the Walla Walla Sweets finally snapped their eight-game losing streak, scoring four runs in the 10th inning to beat the Kelowna Falcons 6-2 on Tuesday night at Elks Stadium.Walla Walla

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Highway fumes could be problem

This is in regard to the large, monster building near Applebee's.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Something to consider

We Americans tend to assume that a first-term presidential incumbent wants to be re-elected. What if he doesn't? What if he planned to be a one-term president?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Are heavy trucks really avoiding scales?

I would like Mr. Richerzhagen to expand on his statement about heavy or large trucks avoiding the scales by running on county roads on a daily basis (letter in June 17 Union-Bulletin).

School Board to hold session on 2011-2012 budget

WALLA WALLA -- The Walla Walla School Board will hold a public work session Wednesday at 4 p.m. to discuss the district's budget for the 2011-2012 school year.

Walla Walla dancers win in international competition

CESENA, Italy -- Walla Walla dancers placed first in theater dance at the Dance Grand Prix Italia on Sunday. They were also awarded second overall in ballet and second overall for choreography.

Port to hold special meeting regarding property sale

WALLA WALLA -- Port of Walla Walla commissioners will gather Wednesday morning for a special meeting related to the sale of Port property.The meeting begins at 8 a.m. at the Port office, 310 A St. Port commissioners will consider approval of a letter of i

Library study doesn't offer realistic options

The report's recommendation to impose a property tax to fund the library services is not likely to be embraced by city residents.

Walla Wallans have been -- as they should be -- supportive of the city library.

Moped driver injured in morning crash at Park, Main

WALLA WALLA -- A collision between a car and moped this morning sent a Walla Walla woman to the hospital, according to city police.

Home sales in Washington down 4.6 percent in first quarter of 2011

Home sales in Washington were down 4.6 percent in the first quarter ending March 30, and down 9.2 percent in Walla Walla County, compared to a year ago, according to the Washington Center for Real Estate Research's latest figures. Median resale prices dro

Emergency Services - 06/28/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

In the minutes - PRESCOTT SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Prescott school board are Erik Young, Sara Fletcher, Pam Stueckle, Eva Madrigal and Karen Tonne. With Young and Stueckle absent Thursday the board:

In the minutes - Walla Walla County

Walla Walla County commissioners are Perry Dozier, Gregg Loney and Greg Tompkins. With all present Monday, the board voted as follows:

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Debra Lyn Hong, 38, 615 Sprague St., was sentenced June 20 on one count first-degree theft-welfare fraud. The court dismissed two other counts.

Counselors on hand after Milton-Freewater student dies

Christian Lebon Ruiz died Saturday after a pellet gun accident, an official said.

MILTON-FREEWATER -- The Milton-Freewater School District will open a safe room at Ferndale Elementary on Wednesday evening following the accidental death of a student over the weekend.

How many burgers could you eat in Burger Hut's belly-buster contest?

The Burger Hut is planning a belly-buster of a burger-eating contest.On Friday, the Milton-Freewater eatery will host its first Blair Burger Challenge.

WALLA WALLA TABLE - A steak is better when grown using sustainable ag practices

Summer is just around the corner, I keep telling myself in hopes it actually happens. That means y'all are going to be grilling outdoors soon. And grilling to me, means meat. My apologies to all of my vegetarian friends out there, it's just how I roll.Whi

SIMPLY YOGA - Proper yoga breathing is a breeze

The last time I wrote about my love affair with yoga, I talked a lot about breathing. In my earlier days of teaching fitness classes, I scoffed at the idea of "practicing" breathing.How ridiculous is that? Who sits around and practices how to breathe? The

LEGAL BRIEFING - Woman seeks custody of grandaughter

Dear John, My daughter and her 4-year-old son have lived with me for the past two years, while the father is in prison. I have had to assume the role of caregiver for the boy because his mother doesn't do it. She lets him get dirty, never combs his hair,

MIDDLE-AGED PLAGUE - (Home) Space Trek: The continuing saga

Once while attending a Welcome Parents! orientation with my soon-to-be College Girl, I escaped the maddening crowd and settled myself in a public lounge. I was clacking away on a sweater when a woman stopped to watch."I really want to knit," she sighed."I

Burgers, with a side of history

A Burbank-area writer serves up origins of 'the perfect burger' in his debut book.

You'll laugh. You'll find out how not to cry when handling onions.And you'll learn a lot more than you ever expected in a book about how to make what Walla Walla County author Erik D. Walker calls his "perfect" hamburger.Such are his vignettes on the orig

Company recalls hundreds of bags of dry cat food

Nestle Purina PetCare Company today recalled approximately 870 bags of dry cat food shipped to Colorado, Idaho and Oregon.

Bomb scare doesn't amount to hill of beans

A container detonated by law enforcement officials in Walla Walla turned out to be a big can of legumes.

WALLA WALLA -- In the interest of public safety, someone spilled the beans.

Walla Walla teen faces prison sentence in rape, molestation

Phillip S. Ingram pleaded guilty Monday to charges related to crimes New Year's Day.

WALLA WALLA -- A 19-year-old man could face about a decade in prison after entering guilty pleas Monday afternoon to two sex crimes he committed in the Eastgate area New Year's Day.

Caution urged as fireworks season launches

With a week of fireworks just getting under way, officials offer reminders about rules and safety for people and their furry pals.

Walla Walla man pleads guilty in child porn case

Larry R. Mackler faces 6 1/2 to 8 1/2 years in prison but may receive an alternative sentence involving treatment.

WALLA WALLA -- A local man has pleaded guilty in Superior Court to possessing child pornography at his home last year.

'BARROW OF BUNNIES

Well-stocked with food, water and shade for their furry cargo, Tommy Laver, right, and his son Cameron Laver, 11, stroll down Main Street with their wheelbarrow full of 4 bunnies Monday afternoon. The father and son sales team were trying to sell the last of an original group of 12 bunnies at the price of $15 for one or 2 for $25. Tommy Laver commented that he would accept phone orders at 525-1903 or 956-8304. "We didn't have anything else to do today," added Tommy.

Exchange Club, Police Guild in Babe Ruth All-City finale

Exchange Club downs Walla Walla Transmission, 9-4, and Police Guild handles Banner Bank, 14-6, in the All-City semifinals.

WALLA WALLA — Exchange Club and the Police Guild advanced to the Babe Ruth All-City Tournament championship Monday night in Tietan Park, with Exchange taking a 9-4 victory over Walla Walla Transmission and the Police Guild handling Banner Bank, 14-6.

Walla Walla Bears win High Desert Classic

EPHRATA, Wash. — The Walla Walla Bears went undefeated at the High Desert Classic tournament over the weekend, handling the Columbia Basin Riverdogs, 10-1, in Sunday's title game for the championship.The Bears edged Kitsap, 6-5, on Saturday night to advan

Walla Walla Sweets close, but lose eighth straight in 14th

KELOWNA, British Columbia — Kelowna first baseman Kyle Pearson was waiting for an opportunity to run home from third and finally got it as a pitch got far enough away in the 14th inning to allow him to score from third. He just beat the throw home and in

Anatomy of an award-winning 'family' bank

Ask Baker Boyer Bank President and CEO Megan Clubb the foundation for the company's more than 140-year success and she's bound to bring up the family.

Online coupon business targets small-town markets

WALLA WALLA -- If June Cleaver had a career in e-commerce, it might look a little like Local Thrifty.

Decor store find success being open twice a week

Being open two days a week may seem to run counter to growing a business, but for Walla Walla's Real Deals on Home Decor it's been a successful strategy.

Port commission seat to be a three-way race in August primary vote

WALLA WALLA -- Port of Walla Walla Commissioner Mike Fredrickson will face two challengers for his District 2 seat in the Aug. 16 primary.

Elia's Walla Walla City Council seat a hot ticket in upcoming elections

WALLA WALLA -- Eleven candidates have filed for four City Council positions, with four running against each other for seat No. 7, held by Dominick Elia.

St. Mary Medical Center recognized for big strides in fighting infection

WALLA WALLA -- Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Walla Walla was recently honored for its efforts in taking a healthy swing at combating patient infection.

WW clothes retailer brings 'green' trend to new shop

WALLA WALLA -- Not everything at Blue Mountain Trading Company is what it seems.

May unemployment rate holds steady

Walla Walla County's May unemployment rate held at 7.2 percent, matching the April rate in a typical transition between the two spring months and, said regional labor economist Arum Kone.

Business Monthly Bio - Diane Benfield

Business/job title: Registered dietician, owner of All About Nutrition, 800 Sprague Ave., Suite 103.

What's Going Up? - 06/28/11

What: The Bonsella-Estrella-Figueroa infrastructure repair and replacement project in Walla Walla.

Christian Ruiz

Oct. 12, 1998 - June 25, 2011

Goldaperl Hunt

Dec. 7, 1920 - June 23, 2011

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Comments regarding Sheriff's Office questioned

This is in response to Theodore Richerzhage III's detailed State of the Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office that outlined the "good and bad" of the new administration as it stands today (June 17 U-B letter to the editor).

STILL ROOM AT THE LODGE

One kestrel already has a sunny spot while another hovers, considering whether there's room at the lodge on the Alco Ave/Lodge Dr sign. With blue skies and warm weather finally taking hold plenty of folks---not just the birds---will be flying, driving, biking and hiking to their favorite summer spots and sunny locales.

Superior Court - DISSOLUTIONS

Steven and Audrey McLean.

FDA advises not to eat Evergreen Produce brand sprouts

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is advising people to not eat Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts as they may contain Salmonella Enteritidis, which differs from the pathogen found in a European outbreak.The sprouts are possibly

Fire damages house in College Place over weekend

COLLEGE PLACE -- Fire damaged a house here early Saturday morning, but no injuries were reported.

Sheriff's round table meeting set for Tuesday in Burbank

BURBANK -- The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office will be hold a Sheriff's Round Table meeting Tuesday in Burbank.

Emergency Services - 06/27/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Progress welcome in getting US out of Afghanistan

We would have liked President Obama to bring troops home at a faster pace.

The United States must get its troops out of Afghanistan -- the sooner the better.

PHOTO GALLERY - Pool time at Jefferson Park

Swimming season was off to a splash this weekend at Jefferson Pool. Parks and Recreation staff say the pool has been averaging about 70 users per day since it opened June 13, with at least one day that saw 170 users. The pool is primarily for kids 10 and

Suspicious container turns out to be tin of beans

In the interest of public safety, someone spilled the beans.Washington State Patrol technicians deployed a 'disrupter” bomb detonator this morning in the parking lot next to the Adult and Child protective services building at 208 W. Poplar St.Upon arrivin

Etcetera - 06/27/11

Providence St. Mary Foundation will host a charity golf classic July 7 at the Walla Walla Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament will go to patients and families in need. Details for registration are at www.smmc.com or call 522-5910.

Parents take turns as science students, teachers

A recreational program at the Farm Labor Homes teaches parents to carry out science lessons with their children.

WALLA WALLA -- Before the lesson of the day, a lesson for the day's teachers.

Errors hurt Walla Walla Bruins in tourney title game

Walla Walla outhits Kirkland, but five errors lead the Merchants past the Bruins for the championship Sunday.

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla's Bruins were unable to capture the championship of their annual Junior American Legion baseball tournament that wrapped up Sunday.The Bruins had an 11-9 advantage in hits, but committed five errors in a 6-4 loss to the Kirkland

Walla Walla's Smith, Dunovant top Chapman

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla's Ronnie Smith and Dona Dunovant followed their opening round 72 with the same score during the final round Sunday to take low gross honors at 144 at the 2011 Couples Chapman Invitational at the Walla Walla Country Club.Low net w

Early hits don't pay off as Sweets lose seventh straight

KELOWNA, British Columbia — When the first two batters of the game get hits it's usually a sign of good things to come. It was the exact opposite for the Walla Walla Sweets on Sunday as they did not record another hit over the final eight innings as they

Xplosion '00 fastpitch team second at state tournament

TRI-CITIES — The Walla Walla Xplosion '00, a 10-and-under girls fastpitch team, finished second at the National Softball Association State Tournament here over the weekend. The Xplosion '00 lost 6-2 in the championship game on Sunday to Snohomish County E

12U Explosion places ninth at Washington State Tournament

TRI-CITIES — The Walla Walla 12U Xplosion finished ninth at the Washington State Tournament at Trac here over the weekend.The Xplosion opened its state tournament with a three-inning, 18-0 mercy-rule win over SFC (Seattle) Havoc to start play Friday.

Elks Scramble raises $1,500 for Children's Eye Center

MILTON-FREEWATER — Milton-Freewater Municipal Golf Course hosted the Elks Scramble Saturday, with 20 four-player teams competing.Low gross honors in Flight 1 went to Craig Amsden, Monte Smith, Royal Hansen and Tyler Larson with a 49.Flight 2 low gross wen

Death Notice - Christian Ruiz

Oct. 12, 1998 - June 25, 2011

Death Notice - Herbert Wing

Aug. 6, 1925 - June 24, 2011

Death Notice - Hugh Coy

Aug. 7, 1923 - June 25, 2011

Death Notice - Nancy K. Cross

March 6, 1944 - June 27, 2011

Death Notice - Ronald Schmale

Dec. 4, 1934 - June 24, 2011

Death Notice - Ruth Eddy

Jan. 15, 1918 - June 24, 2011

On the agenda - Dayton Council

When: Monday, 7 p.m.Where: City Hall, 111 S. First St.

On the agenda - College Place Council

When: Monday, 7 p.m.Where: College Place City Hall, 625 S. College Ave.

On the agenda - Walla Walla County

When: Monday and Tuesday. Monday meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. and recesses at noon. Afternoon session begins at 1:30 p.m.. Tuesday workshop begins at 9 a.m.

COURT REPORT - CRIMINAL CASES - 06/26/11

Superior CourtWalla Walla CountyLeonard M. Peraliz, 37, 687 Bolles Road, was sentenced June 17 on one count violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act-possession of heroin. The court dismissed two other counts. The sentence included $200 in court c

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Bennie and Faye Mason

Bennie and Faye Mason of Milton-Freewater celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on June 3. They were joined by a great-grandson who had just graduated from high school at a barbecue for family and friends at their granddaughter's home. On June 4 they

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Frank and Donna Gallo

Frank and Donna Gallo of Walla Walla celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a reception on May 28 that was hosted by Craig, Tina and Keshia Arland and Tom and Tim Gallo. On June 4 they took a week-long cruise to Alaska.The couple was introduced by

Veterinarian to discuss how animals age at Tamástslikt

MISSION - Dr. Tiah Sigler, who practices at Associated Veterinary Medical Center in Walla Walla, will present "Animals Age Too" on July 13 at 6 p.m. at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.Sigler will demonstrate how to estimate the age of an animal, what human

‘Raw' vegetarian cooking class to be held July 10 in College Place

COLLEGE PLACE - The Walla Walla University Church Health Ministries Board will host a "raw vegetarian cooking class that offers guests samples of raw food dishes and demonstrations on how to prepare them.The class will be held July 10 at SonBridge Communi

Washington wine veteran to help Oregon Wine Board

A former executive director of the Washington Wine Commission will temporarily run the Oregon Wine Board after its director left the position, Wine Press Northwest reported this week.Steve Burns, who owns a wine marketing business in Sonoma, Calif., told

Tonight's College Place School Board budget meeting cancelled

COLLEGE PLACE — A meeting scheduled tonight for the College Place School Board to review the district's budget has been canceled.Superintendent Tim Payne said this morning more time is needed to prepare the budget for the 2011-12 school year before it can

Some Milton-Freewater power customers likely to see rate hike

MILTON-FREEWATER - Bonneville Power Administration customers will most likely see a 9 percent increase in rates starting next month.At their regular Monday night meeting at the Milton-Freewater Library, City Councilors will review and most likely approve

Tour of Columbia School District facilities set for Monday

BURBANK - The Columbia School Board will hold a tour of its facilities Monday prior to its regular meeting.The facility tour will begin at 5:30 p.m., and will be followed with an executive session at 6:15 p.m. for the board to discuss contract negotiation

Milton-Freewater votes to join in ambulance taxing district

MILTON-FREEWATER - Earlier this month, City Council members unanimously voted to be included in a proposed ambulance taxing district that the county is currently considering.Mayor Lewis Key and councilors Orrin Lyon, Ed Chesnut, Jeff Anliker and Steve Irv

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Social Security depends on today's workers

Our Social Security experience is quite different than that of Ms. Ferguson, U-B, June 14.Our father lived to age 96, living on his Social Security income after his age of 68 when he retired from his job in a lumber mill.He was a poor man having neither a

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Consider root cause of societal problems

Mr. Riggle's public tantrum against pro-lifers in the letters to the editor last week barely merits a reply.After reading it, I went to Mass, and looked around at the seven kids attending I know have been adopted.On further consideration, within two minut

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Locals should visit their local treasure

Recently several carloads of residents from Pendleton's splendid Sun Ridge Retirement Community visited the marvelous Fort Walla Walla Museum in your city.As a resident, I was privileged to be part of that group. It was a most enjoyable experience to be e

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Walla Walla drivers are, well, talented

If you want a thrill just drive around Walla Walla. Here in Walla Walla we have a group of special, talented drivers.To wit:The NASCAR driver - Turns city streets into a race track so he or she can be first at the next red traffic light.

For some senior projects, the students become the teachers

Two Weston-McEwen athletes are running sports camps for kids as their senior projects.

ATHENA — The dozen or so middle school students running around the basketball court one summer afternoon were in the middle of an educational experiment.The topic? Basketball.The final exam? A scrimmage, then a rendition of the Weston-McEwen fight song.Bu

Walla Wallans have Saturday's low grosses at Chapman

WALLA WALLA — Ron Smith and Dona Dunovant of Walla Walla had low gross at 72 in the 2011 Chapman Invitational golf tournament at Walla Walla Country Club after the first round Saturday.Brant and Debby Gibler of Bainbridge Island, Wash., had low net at 65

Sweets drop first two at Corvallis

Walla Walla loses 4-3 on Saturday and 5-2 on Friday to the Knights.

CORVALLIS — For eight innings, the Walla Walla Sweets did everything they could to win on Saturday night.But for one inning, the ninth, they did everything they could to lose, blowing a 3-2 lead by walking four and allowing a walk-off single to the Corval

Local junior golfers qualify for district WJGA play Thursday

KENNEWICK — Local junior golfers qualified for district play at the first of four sub-district tournaments at Canyon Lakes Golf Course here Thursday.Ryan Baumgart, in the boys 16-17 division, shot a 73 to finish second.Nick Atwood, in the boys 14-15 divis

Wa-Hi ace Ambler picks up another softball award

WALLA WALLA — Wa-Hi softball ace Alyson Ambler has another award to add to her cabinet.The right-handed pitcher was selected for the West Region second-team Louisville Slugger/NFCA High School team.Ambler is one of two players from Washington and four fro

Bruins split in tourney's third round

The Bruins top Lower Columbia 14-4, then lose to the Diamondbacks 12-8. They play Sockeye Baseball Club at 8:30 this morning.

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Bruins split a pair of games at Walla Walla Community College's Warrior Field on Saturday during session three of their annual Junior American Legion baseball tournament.Walla Walla dropped a 12-8 decision to the Kuna Diamond

Project brings new life to Farm Labor Homes

A project currently under way to replace half the homes with new units is just part of a shift in how the development is managed.

WALLA WALLA — Renee Rooker has overseen a dozen building and renovation projects for Walla Walla Housing Authority in her nearly 20-year tenure as the agency's executive director.The authority helps provide housing for low-income fam

Library study to meet public

A consultant's draft report recommends the city's library be annexed by the Rural Library District, a move that could raise taxes for residents.

WALLA WALLA — A library study spurred by contract disputes between the city and rural libraries systems will be reviewed at a public meeting this week.The study points to a system for operating area libraries that would result in a tax hik

EMERGENCY SERVICES - 06/26/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crimes may request through law enforcement agencies that their names not be released to the media.

COURT REPORT - 06/26/11

Superior Court

Walla Walla County extension sets annual grain tour

WALLA WALLA - The Walla Walla County Extension will hold its annual tour of Washington State University cereal grain variety plots Tuesday.The tour will begin at 6 p.m. at the winter variety plot on Lower Waitsburg Road, seven miles north of Walla Walla.

Ex-Blue Ridge principal to lead Homelink

The program hooks home-school families into the Walla Walla School District.

WALLA WALLA - Former Blue Ridge Elementary Principal Connie Taylor-Randall has been named principal of the Walla Walla Public School's Homelink program.Homelink is a partnership program offered by the district to community families who home-school their c

Teen works to tame second mustang

A year after training and adopting Jet, Gabrielle Longmire is working this year to teach Faith the ropes.

TOUCHET - There is something new every day for Faith, the chestnut yearling mustang who came to the Longmire family's corral May 21.The wild horse is under the care of 14-year-old Gabrielle Longmire, who has 98 days to gentle, and begin basic training in

Disturbing images on cigarette packs may save lives

It won't be easy for smokers to see the devastation of tobacco, but it will move some to quit.

Everyone knows smoking kills.Why then would anybody who isn't already hooked on nicotine smoke?It's impossible to offer a rational explanation because those hooked on cigarettes act irrationally to begin with. It was likely an emotional decision.

ETCETERA - Wa-Hi Class of '55 awards two scholarships

Walla Walla High School Class of 1955 Scholarship Foundation awarded $1,000 scholarships to Wa-Hi graduates Beau Marshall and Rubi Villegas. Since its establishment in 2006 to administer distribution of scholarships to Wa-Hi seniors, the foundation has pr

PASTOR COLUMN - Unity honors universal truths in all religions

What is Unity?In a nutshell, "Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. Unity honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual's right to choose a

CHURCH BULLETIN - 06/26/11

Unity Church of Peace to present the Rev. Dr. Kachel

PANORAMA - Sweet Times at the ...

Sweet times at the Sweets!Baseball is a sport with its own special flavor and style. Whether fans are enjoying the game or filling their mouth with food and drink, appetites are satiated while the game speeds slowly into the night.Youngst

SENIOR CENTERS

Activities and weekly lunch menus at area senior centers

Larry Ek

March 4, 1953 - June 22, 2011

Marilyn Klein

Sept. 29, 1931 - June 10, 2011

Conley Kincheloe, Jr.

Aug. 16, 1951 - June 9, 2011

Death Notice - Goldaperl Hunt

Dec. 7, 1920- June 23, 2011

Rev. Robin Kerry Peterson,

June 30, 1951, died May 17, 2011

Gary Moss

June 15, 1939–Dec. 22, 2010

Crisis teams to help Athena-Weston students deal with 10-year-old's death

WESTON -- The Weston-Athena community recently lost 10-year-old Allie Holloway due to medical complications, according to a news release. The School District is making a crisis team available to students and families Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the lo

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Thoughts on sheriff, God and the octopus 'sign'

I find it's time to write again and clear up a few misconceptions. First referring to a letter from Theodore Richerzhagen, dated June 17.

Etcetera - 06/24/11

Walla Walla musician and accompanist Kristin Vining is at it again.

Prescott Pool to offer free food, swimming Tuesday

PRESCOTT -- Prescott Pool will observe National Pool Safety Day with free food and free swimming Tuesday from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Prescott High reunion set for Saturday at school

PRESCOTT -- Prescott High School Alumni Association will hold its 46th annual reunion Saturday at the Prescott School.

Mercedes show, Mooney fly-in to join B-25 exhibit Saturday

WALLA WALLA -- Classic cars and classic airplanes will join a display of a World War II bomber this weekend.

Lower Granite lock reopens after gate cables replaced

POMEROY -- Lower Granite Dam's navigation lock service has reopened to recreational vessels.

In the minutes - POMEROY SCHOOL BOARD

Pomeroy School District Board members are Paul Ruark, Lori Slaybaugh, Steve Carlson, Bart Gingerich and Ed Sullivan. With all present Thursday the board:

City to say 'howdy' to Texans seeking nation's friendliest small town

Walla Walla will soon host some special visitors searching for the Friendliest Small Town in America.

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Adam R. Sellers, 32, 304 Bussell Road, was sentenced June 17 on one count each second-degree driving while license suspended and obstructing a law enforcement officer and violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act-possession of heroin.

State road work pulls over for holidays

It's ironic most highway construction takes place in the summer when folks are on the road.

Emergency Services - 06/24/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Walla Walla sprinkled with irrigation educators for conference

A gathering at WWCC brought teachers from across North America to the city.

WALLA WALLA -- People who teach how to make sure the other fellow's grass really is greener were in Walla Walla this week.

Free movie night set for Saturday at Borleske

The big screen is coming to Borleske Stadium on Saturday.

Tuition hike OK'd for two-year schools

And it's no small shakes: An average of 12 percent a year the next two years.

WALLA WALLA -- Tuition at Walla Walla Community College and the state's other 33 community and technical colleges will go up an average of 12 percent a year over two years after a meeting of the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges on Thursday.

Officials: American Red Cross see low supplies of blood

The supply of type O negative blood at the American Red Cross has dropped to critically low levels, officials said this week. Type O negative blood is in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency sit

Blood sugar balance turns out a fine line to walk

It started on Monday. I had returned from a run to Portland and noticed the trip had really taken a toll. I was exhausted in that way you are when you've shoved a Volkswagen Beetle up a hill with the emergency brake on.

Keys to healing as close as your pocket

Have you ever had an ache (headache, stomachache, toothache or pain from an injury, disease or surgery) that just wouldn't go away, no matter what you did for it?

Pesticide rankings something to chew on

In two of my previous columns, the question was raised as to the dangers of pesticides stating that no one knew for certain what those pesticides might do to humans.

SOUND MIND, SOUND BODY: Take bull by horns with water safety

I have a memory of happily jumping into the deep end of a pool when I was 5 years old ... and then not being so happy as I started sinking quickly toward the bottom.

Mary Leonetti

Jan. 14, 1931 – June 21, 2011

Mary Martha-McBane-Lea

July 30, 1926 - June 21, 2011

Gary Hodgson

April 26, 1957 - June 20, 2011

Walla Walla Sweets offense again absent in loss to Knights

CORVALLIS — Despite collecting seven hits, the Walla Walla Sweets could never put anything together offensively, dropping their fourth straight West Coast league game and the first game of their six-game road trip, 3-1, to the Corvallis Knights Thursday n

Walla Walla Bruins win, Milton-Freewater Blazers fall at Sweet Invitational

The host Bruins down Kirkland, 8-2, while Milton-Freewater is sunk by the Foss Tugs by the same score.

WALLA WALLA — A pair of 8-2 verdicts yielded different results for a pair of local teams Thursday during the opening session of the Walla Walla Bruins' annual Junior American Legion Sweet Invitational summer baseball tournament.The host team, behind a 13-

Errors doom Griz at Rookie Beetle Tournament

YAKIMA — The Walla Walla Griz combined for 10 errors in two games in the opening day of the Yakima Rookie Beetle Tournament, falling to Naches 12-3 and Bellingham 10-7.'In a wood-bat format tournament, the games usually come down to defensive plays becaus

Wa-Hi summer volleyball camp slated next week

WALLA WALLA — Wa-Hi's summer volleyball camp for girls in grades 5-12 is Tuesday through Thursday at the Wa-Hi gym.For more information, contact Audra Cummings at 526-6962 or acummings@wwps.org.

Art of Boldman House's flora to be shown

The Art in the Garden event Saturday will feature a variety of works depicting plants on the grounds. There will also be refreshments and tours.

DAYTON -- Artists' renderings of the flora of the Boldman House will be displayed from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the Boldman House garden, 410 N. First St. Most of the artwork on display was created during a Day in the Garden event in May, which was held fo

Bordello owner, brewers to be portrayed

Vice and brewing beer in early Walla Walla are examined through two Living History portrayals at Fort Walla Walla Museum, 755 Myra Road, this weekend. The portrayals will start at 2 p.m. Saturday, retired school teacher Lois Hahn portrays bordello owner J

Three acts to play music at Walla Faces

Torch Davis, local singer, songwriter and emcee, will perform at 3 p.m. Saturday at Walla Faces, 216 E. Main St. Davis will play an all-accoustic set of music, including ballads, blues and some rock. Cafer, performing classical acoustic guitar, will play

Annual Wildhorse Pow Wow July 1-3

PENDLETON -- The annual Wildhorse Casino & Resort Fourth of July Pow Wow will be there July 1-3 at 46510 Wildhorse Blvd.Festivities will begin at 7 p.m. July 1 and at 1 p.m. July 2 and 3. More than 300 dancers and 25 drum teams will celebrate their herita

Loretta Lynn to perform at Wildhorse

PENDLETON -- Country music superstar Loretta Lynn will perform at 3 p.m. Aug. 13 at Wildhorse Resort & Casino, 46510 Wildhorse Blvd.Tickets will go on sale starting 9 a.m. Monday at the Wildhorse Gift Shop and at noon online at wildhorseresort.com.

New at the library - 06/23/11

Featured books will be available for the public today. They can also be placed on hold online at wallawallapubliclibrary,org or call the library for assistance at 527-4550.

Legalizing pot not right move for Washington

While we see merit in eliminating profit for criminals, giving marijuana the stamp of approval is not going to better society.

The proposed initiative to legalize marijuana in Washington state has some very high profile, mainstream backers -- former U.S. Attorney John McKay, Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes, travel writer and TV personality Rick Steves and The Seattle Times Edit

Recreational traffic has been suspended at Lower Monumental Dam

KAHLOTUS -- Recreation traffic through the navigation lock at Lower Monumental Dam has been suspended after loose concrete was discovered on a section of the lock wall at a repair site. Commercial vessels will be able to use the lock while repairs are in

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Establishing 9-1-1 center not simple

The recent letter from Louis G. Valiante "WW City Council needs seminar from CP" presents an inaccurate and incomplete view of the move of the 9-1-1 center from Walla Walla to College Place.

Congress must take action on Internet tax collections

Mega retailers such as Amazon.com have an unfair advantage over Main Street merchants. And states are losing billions in tax revenue.

Collecting state sales tax is, of course, the responsibility of each individual state.

Etcetera - 06/23/11

In partnership with the American Cancer Society, Providence St. Mary Medical Center offers the Cancer Resource Center program in Walla Walla.

CRUTCH POWER

With an injury to his right foot, a man rides through the longest day of the year on a longboard, using a single crutch to propel himself west on Boyer Avenue Tuesday under the midday sun.

Emergency Services - 06/23/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

B-25 to linger at Walla Walla airport through end of month

The bomber 'Maid in the Shade' could possibly be joined here by a B-17 originally expected to visit.

WALLA WALLA -- "Maid in the Shade" will not be flying away too soon.

Shift in cardiac, stroke care takes effect around state

A new state system that puts added emphasis on the need for speed and cutting-edge drugs and surgery includes the designation of two local hospitals as high-level treatment centers.

WALLA WALLA -- How much time do you have?

Dayton Farmers Market a dual affair

Two groups will share space for the market, which opens Friday downtown.

DAYTON -- Dayton's Farmers Market opens Friday and continues Saturday on North First Street downtown.

Robot docs bridge gap between access, staffing

Telemedicine offers hospitals in smaller communities 24/7 access to specialists.

WALLA WALLA -- For a patient suffering a stroke, access to a neurologist is a vital piece of the treatment puzzle, but only the rarest of hospitals has neurologists on site 24/7.For hospitals such as Providence St. Mary Medical Center and Walla Walla Gene

Death Notice - Donald Dyer

May 6, 1948 - June 20, 2011

Death Notice - Larry Ek

March 4, 1953 - June 22, 2011

Tom's Chevron caps perfect season, wins All-City title

The Pacific League champions cap a perfect 24-0 season with a 12-0 victory over Dairy Queen for the All-City title.

WALLA WALLA — Tom's Chevron culminated its perfect 24-0 run with its second consecutive All-City Little League baseball championship in the title match here at Valley Field Wednesday.Tom's Chevron had it all going against a pitching-challenged Dairy Queen

Added DUI patrols planned for area starting Friday

WALLA WALLA -- Local law enforcement agencies will be taking part in extra DUI patrols taking place statewide.

College Place School Board to review upcoming budget Monday

COLLEGE PLACE -- The College Place School Board will hold a special board meeting Monday to conduct a preliminary review of the upcoming school year's budget.

Openings remain for WWCC toddler-parent classes

WALLA WALLA -- Spots are still available for families interested in enriching toddler-parent classes held at the Walla Walla Community College's Parent Child Center.

Open house planned at newly renovated courthouse

POMEROY -- An open house for the newly renovated Garfield County Courthouse will be held Friday from 1-3 p.m. at the Courthouse, 789 Main St.

Sheriff's round table meeting set for Thursday in Prescott

PRESCOTT -- The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office will be hold a Sheriff's Round Table meeting Thursday in Prescott.

Walla Walla School Board to evaluate superintendent Thursday

WALLA WALLA -- The School Board will hold a special board meeting and executive session Thursday at the home of board member Anne Golden, followed by a special meeting later in the day.

Starbuck School Board meeting set for Thursday canceled

STARBUCK -- The regular meeting of the Starbuck School Board set for Thursday has been canceled.

Hanford history, cleanup subject of talk Thursday

WALLA WALLA -- The history and current state of one of the nation's largest environmental cleanups will be the topic of a Walla Walla Rotary Club presentation Thursday.

Teen injured in Tuesday afternoon wreck on State Route 125

WALLA WALLA -- A Walla Walla teenager was injured Tuesday afternoon when the car she was driving rolled over off State Route 125, officials said.

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Vernon R. Hamblen Jr., 40, 809 Lamb St., Milton-Freewater, was charged June 16 with violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act and third-degree driving while license suspended.

On the agenda - Port of Walla Walla

When: Thursday, 1 p.m. following a noon work session.Where: Regular session at the Port of Walla Walla office, 310 A St.; work session at Sterling's Restaurant, 1425 W. Pine St.

Jobless figures hold steady in Walla Walla

The area has seen a slight loss in jobs over the past year, a state economist says.

WALLA WALLA -- Unemployment numbers continued on a stable path last month, according to the latest figures released by the state.

Races shape up after special filing period

COLLEGE PLACE -- A special three-day filing period closed last week with most School Board members returning to serve new terms, and one of the seats being challenged.

Oregon on path to full-day kindergarten

Oregon students are one step closer to securing full-day kindergarten programs throughout the state.

In the minutes - Milton-Freewater SCHOOL BOARD

Board members are Don Miller, chair; Duane Geyer, vice-chair; Dennis Burks, George Gillette, Sharee LaRue-Wright, Tim McElrath and Ken Sloan. With LaRue-Wright absent Tuesday, the board:

Emergency Services - 06/22/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Elections chief makes wise moves to improve voting

But Secretary of State Sam Reed's work is not done. He still needs to convince lawmakers to mandate an Election Day deadline for ballots.

Secretary of State Sam Reed, to his credit, is on an ongoing quest to make the state's elections better.

United Way distributes funds to local groups

The agency's annual campaign brought in $441,680 in donations.

From a highly successful 2010-2011 United Way campaign that brought in $441,680, nearly $350,000 will be distributed to Walla Walla and national organizations in the next year, according to Liz McDevitt, executive director of United Way of Walla Walla Cou

Farewells bid at Milton-Freewater School Board meeting

Two board members and the superintendent were honored Tuesday.

MILTON-FREEWATER -- The June meeting of the School Board took a sentimental twist Tuesday night as the board bid farewell to two members as well as longtime district employee Superintendent Marilyn McBride.

'TO BE OR NOT TO BE ... A PIRATE?'

More than 50 pirates, mermaids, comic-book characters and a lone -- and lonely -- albatross performed before an appreciative audience of family and community

WALLA WALLA FAMILY WHEELS AWAY THE BIG PRIZE

Ross and Jennifer Stremcha (and one young unidentified bystander) check out the controls of a new Mini Cooper Countryman automobile presented to them Tuesday for being one of six winners in the Dairy Queen Mini Blizzard TREATment online video contest whic

Birds of a Feather...

We turned onto the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area at Pierce Road, near La Grande, Ore.Two minutes later, an antelope toting thick horns strutted across the road in front of the rig. A small group of females followed. I counted six, and none of them appeared con

Walla Walla Sweets rally to win over Portland in 11

Walla Walla scores two eighth-inning runs to erase a 4-0 deficit and downs the Portland squad, 5-4, in 11 innings.

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Sweets gave up three runs to open the second half of a two-game homestand with the non-league Portland Stars on Tuesday.And although it took the Sweets seven more innings to catch up to the Stars, they finally did and pulled

Dumser aces country club's eighth hole on Sunday

WALLA WALLA — Bruce Dumser had a hole-in-one on Walla Walla Country Club's eighth hole on Sunday.He used a 7-iron for the 145-yard ace, his first. It was witnessed by his father, Gary Dumser.

Whitman to host tennis, wine camp July 21-24

The first event for adults combines a love of wine and tennis.

WALLA WALLA — Adults with interests in tennis and fine wine are invited to the first-ever Walla Walla Tennis and Wine Camp July 21-24.The camp, which will benefit the Whitman tennis programs, features nine hours of tennis instruction, drills and games on

Valley Little Leage All-Star teams announced

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Valley Little League All Stars selections were released on Tuesday.On the 11/12 year-old list, Mr. Eds and Cox Jones' led with three players each. Kurt Blackman, Roman Garibay and Ely Kimball came from Cox Jones, while Kyle H

Chapman Invite brings 90 couples to country club

WALLA WALLA — The 43rd annual Chapman Invitational will be at the Walla Walla Country Club this weekend.The couples' event begins with shotgun starts at 9 a.m. Saturday and 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The full field of 90 couples includes 64 from out of town, and 2

Youth Flag Football registration deadline Friday

WALLA WALLA — Registration deadline for a guaranteed spot in Walla Walla Parks and Recreation's NFL Youth Flag Football program is Friday. The program is open to boys and girls entering second through sixth grades.

Walla Walla Bruins suffer sweep by Bees, prep for Sweet Invitational

The Bruins host the 15-team tournament beginning Thursday.

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Bruins suffered an AA Junior American Legion baseball sweep to the West Valley Bees Tuesday, 12-6 and 9-5, at Walla Walla Community College Tuesday.The Bees jumped on the Bruins with a five-run first inning in the opener and

Hanson records third hole-in-one Monday

WALLA WALLA — Jake Hanson had a hole-in-one on the fourth hole at Walla Walla Country Club on Monday.He used a 9-iron on the 127-yard ace, his third. It was witnessed by his playing partners Al Mundle, Ray Pohs and Jim Aylward.

Death Notice - Marion Leonetti

Jan. 14, 1931 - June 21, 2011

Death Notice - Erik Lamb

Sept. 26, 1967 - June 20, 2011

Walla Walla teen injured in wreck on State Route 125

WALLA WALLA -- A Walla Walla teenager was injured Tuesday afternoon when the car she was driving rolled over off State Route 125, officials said.

HOME PLACE - Oh, give me a home where the kitchen is done

I am supposed to get a column out this week and it's one of those days.I have plenty to say, don't worry, but it's hard to type when you have joint compound embedded in your knuckles.I can't even talk about what's in my hair, despite repeated lathers.

THE WEEKLY - You're never too old to invest

But keep age in mind when thinking about risk and ability to recover, WW experts say.

Financial security is important, no matter what your age. But for adults 55 and older, risk becomes more of an issue. These folks often can't recover from losses as well as a younger person with more earning years ahead. Maybe you're retired and looking f

THE WEEKLY - Sweeet! Fans make it family

So you think Walla Walla Sweets players are having all the fun? Check out the crowd.

It's another perfect day for hometown baseball.The sun is shining off the lush Blue Mountains in the distance, and on the Borleske Stadium diamond before me I hear the crack of the bat as the Walla Walla Sweets and Corvallis Knights meet in the third of a

FACES AND PLACES - What's to do this summer? PLENTY

The familiar refrain, What are you doing this summer?" is one I've been hearing as far back as April. This summer in Walla Walla, responses could be just about anything.There are options for people with children and those without, whether activities

ETCETERA - Milton-Freewater native graduates from U.S. Air Force Academy

Milton-Freewater native Dan Mitchell is a proud member of the U.S. Air Force Academy's 53rd graduating class in Colorado Springs, Colo.A week of activities for the Class of 2011 and the Brigadier Gen. Robin Olds Class ran May 19-25, culminating with comme

THE WEEKLY - Kindness is all in a day's work

Newspaper carrier comes to the rescue of disabled woman locked out of home.

It's often the small, thoughtful acts that mean the most.Such was 23-year-old Spencer Caldwell's kindness to Barbara Brodie as he went about delivering newspapers on his Walla Walla route.Brodie, in town two weeks ago from Pennsylvania for a family weddin

Addiction authority to speak July 6 at Whitman College

WALLA WALLA -- John Shinholser, a nationally recognized authority on recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol, will present "Creating a Community of Recovery" when he visits the city as a guest of Walla Walla's Trilogy Recovery Community.

Sheriff to hold round table meeting today in Touchet

TOUCHET -- The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office will be hold a Sheriff's Round Table meeting Tuesday in Touchet.

Man reports being stabbed Monday in Jefferson Park

WALLA WALLA -- Police officers responded to a call in the 600 block of Chase Avenue at 5:46 p.m. Monday for an alleged assault.

Woman injured in Monday crash on Stateline Road

A two-vehicle collision on Stateline Road injured a local woman Monday afternoon.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - One-room schools

In late 1800s and early 1900s one-room schoolhouses or those with multiple classes in each room housed education of creators and entrepreneurs that produced the industrial revolution and launched America's explosive growth.

Emergency Services - 06/21/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Jami Jo Mercado, 46, 659 E. Chestnut St., was charged June 20 with violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, first-degree driving while license suspended or revoked, and driving in violation of ignition interlock restriction.

In the minutes - COLUMBIA COUNTY

Columbia County commissioners are Chuck Reeves, Dwight Robanske and Dick Jones. With all present Monday:

In the minutes - GARFIELD COUNTY

Garfield County Commissioners are Dean Burton, Wynne McCabe and Robert Johnson. With all present Monday commissioners:

In the minutes - Walla Walla county

Walla Walla County commissioners are Perry Dozier, Gregg Loney and Greg Tompkins. With all Loney absent, commissioners voted as follows:

Gov. Gregoire's claim of executive privilege off mark

Yet, a judge is keeping the argument alive even though executive privilege is not included in the state constitution.

Public documents should be available to the public except for the few exemptions allowed in state law. That's as it should be. After all, the documents and records produced are created on behalf of the people as part of their government.

Fourteen of the bank's workers in the Walla Walla Valley received awards.

WALLA WALLA -- Banner Bank employees from the Walla Walla Valley were among 58 from across the Pacific Northwest honored for their exceptional performance by the Walla Walla-based company.

Chef, radio personality to lead WWCC program

A Northwest chef known both for his work behind the grill as well as on the airwaves will lead the culinary arts program at Walla Walla Community College.

'Maid in the Shade' touches down for Walla Walla visit

The B-25 will be here through Sunday at the Walla Walla Regional Airport.

WALLA WALLA -- When a pair of World War II veterans got together Monday, their meeting really took off.

Tom's, DQ advance to All-City title tilt

Dairy Queen takes eight innings but edges Sun Rental, 3-2, and Tom's Chevron handles Pepsi, 10-0, in the semifinals.

ALLA WALLA — Pacific Little League will keep the 2011 All-City Little League baseball title in the family as a result of Monday semifinal action at the Valley field.Dairy Queen used its speed to score in the bottom of the eighth and eliminate Valley regul

Sweets get back on track with win over Stars

Walla Walla's three-game losing streak is in the rearview mirror after the 3-0 shutout of Portland.

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Sweets needed something positive after a tough weekend against Wenatchee.They got that in the form of a 3-0 shutout victory over the Portland Stars on Monday night at Borleske Stadium, snapping a three-game losing streak.Wall

Griz jump on Hermiston's ShockersGriz jump on Hermiston's Shockers

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla's Griz split an A American Legion doubleheader with Hermiston's Shockers at Walla Walla Community College Sunday, then traveled to Hermiston to sweep the Shockers on Monday.The Griz won Sunday's opener, 12-7, before dropping a 10

Xplosion wins bracket at Sweet Onion tourneyXplosion wins bracket at Sweet Onion tourney

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla 12U Xplosion softball team won the Silver Bracket at the Sweet Onion Tournament last weekend in Walla Walla.Saturday, the Xplosion defeated the Mountain West La Grande team, 13-3. Then they took a 10-5 loss against the Lady D

Walla Walla Blues go 3-1 over weekend road trip

YAKIMA — The Walla Walla Blues went 3-1 over the weekend in Walla Walla Valley Select baseball play.The Blues traveled to Moses Lake and beat the Crawdads, 11-5, Saturday, but dropped the second game, 9-8.They swept the East Yakima Valley Redhawks, 18-2 a

Pacific Little League names All-Star teams

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Pacific Little League selected its Little League All Stars for 2011.For the 12-year-old group, Dairy Queen's Dexter Aichele and Alex Lemus, McDonald Zaring Insurance's Hayden White and Nicholas Zehner, Grayson Gilin from Tompkins

Elsie Lauretta Pardue

October 11, 1918 – June 15, 2011

Peggy Mason

Aug. 02, 1932 - June 18, 2011

Death Notice - Mary Lea

July 30, 1926 - June 21, 2011

Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office to hold Round Table meeting

TOUCHET — The Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office will be hold a Sheriff's Round Table meeting Tuesday in Touchet.

Diversity Day packs Pioneer Park

The majority of the crowd surrounded the stage, watching numerous cultural performances.

WALLA WALLA -- The 18th Annual Diversity Day drew in a couple thousand visitors to Pioneer Park on Sunday, though event coordinators conceded it was hard to get an exact count.

CP planners to hold hearing on Gilbert Auto plat

COLLEGE PLACE -- The city Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 625 S. College Ave.

Scout camp to close parts of Rooks Park

WALLA WALLA -- Parts of Rooks Park will be closed Wednesday through Friday for a Cub Scout day camp.

A-W School Board to hold budget hearing prior to meeting

ATHENA -- The Athena-Weston School Board will hold a budget hearing at 6:45 tonight, which will be followed by a special board meeting at 7 p.m. to consider adoption of the 2011-12 school year budget.

M-F School Board to hold budget hearing Tuesday

MILTON-FREEWATER -- The Milton-Freewater School Board will hold its regular monthly meeting Tuesday immediately following a budget hearing.

WW School Board to meet early on Tuesday

WALLA WALLA -- The Walla Walla School Board will hold a regular meeting Tuesday at 4 p.m. The board is meeting an hour and a half earlier than its typical meeting. Meetings are held in the district's board room, 364 S. Park St., and are open to the public

Vehicle prowler strikes in Dayton over weekend

DAYTON _ At least seven cars were prowled Friday and Saturday in south Dayton, all within a four- to six-block area.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Windmill income not based on energy production

Your opinion (June 17) on BPA's Environmental Redispatch program is that wind-energy producers should take a back seat to hydro for access to transmission lines.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - WW City Council needs seminar from CP

In the news recently, the Walla Walla City Council wants to move the 9-1-1 call center to College Place. It seems to place blame on the 100-year flood plain "problem."

Emergency Services - 06/20/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

In the minutes - WESTON CITY COUNCIL

Members of the Council are Bill Boyd, Lynn Delph, Juan Avila and Dennis Snider. Mayor is Duane Thul. With all present in a special meet Friday the Council:

Etcetera - 06/20/11

At a Walla Walla Public School Board meeting in May, Pioneer Middle School Explorers students Brian Mott and Nate Brewer and teacher Dan Calzaretta spoke about their documentary, "Black Door Art Gallery." It recently won the National Film Festival for Tal

Ethics laws for public officials doesn't abridge their free-speech rights

Elected officials are representing their constituents, not themselves.

At a time when some elected public officials --particularly at the national level -- are too often behaving badly, it was concerning that ethics law were successfully callenged as a violation of the First Amendment's free speech protection.

Wenatchee Applesox complete sweep of Walla Walla Sweets

Wenatchee wins its 14th straight game with the 5-1 victory over Walla Walla Sunday night.

WALLA WALLA — It would have taken near-perfect baseball to beat the Wenatchee Applesox this weekend. The Walla Walla Sweets could not produce that on Sunday, committing two costly errors and going hitless through the middle innings as the Wenatchee Apples

Weston-McEwen's Thul, Babb play in All-Star basketball games

PORTLAND — A pair of Weston-McEwen graduates participated in the Oregon Coaches Association All-Star Series basketball games over the weekend.On Friday in Eugene, point guard Miles Thul and wing Tyler Babb played for the North squad in a 111-92 loss to th

Alyson Ambler enjoys sunshine and softball

Washington's Gatorade Softball Player of the Year, Wa-Hi's Alyson Ambler, is spending the summer ball season in California.

WALLA WALLA — There was a moment at the Washington Class 4A state softball tournament when everyone around the field held their breath.Wa-Hi pitcher Alyson Ambler was in a bases-loaded situation, with two outs, one ball and two strikes, and the Blue Devil

Four left in All City Little League tourney

Sun Rental, Mr. Ed's, Pepsi and Tom's Chevron continue the tournament Monday.

WALLA WALLA — And then there were four.Sun Rental, Mr. Ed's, Pepsi and Tom's Chevron earned berths in the semifinals of Walla Walla All City Little League baseball tournament with quarterfinal victories on Saturday at the Valley Little League Complex.Only

No bad Apples: Wenatchee beats Sweets for 13th straight

The AppleSox win their 13th straight WCL game with Saturday's 4-1 victory over Walla Walla.

A WALLA — Lucky 13.Wenatchee rode a three-run fifth and Aaron Brooks' pitching to its 13th consecutive West Coast League baseball victory here Saturday night.The AppleSox took a 4-1 victory over the Walla Walla Sweets to run their record to 13-1 atop the

Local sponsors help drop cost of Whitman boys hoops clinic

WALLA WALLA — Support from Key Technology and other local sponsors has dropped the cost of Whitman's 'Together We Can” boys basketball camp to $20 for administrative costs.Normal registration costs have been waived for the camp, which is for boys ages 8-1

Bears play for third in Bandit Bash tourney

The Walla Walla Bears pick up their first loss of the Kennewick tournament in a 12-6 downing to the Spokane Northstars.

KENNEWICK — The Walla Walla Bears will play for third place in the Bandit Bash baseball tournament at 10 a.m. today after posting a 3-1 record during the opening three sessions of the event that began Thursday at Southridge High School.Walla Walla suffere

Group helps dads build family foundations

WALLA WALLA - Josh Long is in the hot seat.His recent - slight - expansion of girth is the subject of the moment at a Monday meeting of Dads for Dads at Children's Home Society of Washington.It's baby weight, Long explains. His smile under the moustache i

Vintage Walla Walla events aid charities

WALLA WALLA — In spite of having to postpone the signature wine auction event, Vintage Walla Walla weekend coordinators said they expect to raise several thousand dollars for local and statewide children's charities.The wine, dine an

Charter to bump cable rates

WALLA WALLA - Charter will increase rates next month for its largest group of cable users.Expanded Basic customers, who make up roughly 85 percent of Charter's customer base, will see an increase from $55.99 to $58.99 per month.The rate increase will not

Law enforcement to hit the water to keep boaters from overindulging in alcohol

Operation Dry Water will check for drunken boaters on June 24-26.

WALLA WALLA - Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office marine law enforcement officers will participate in Operation Dry Water and will be out in force June 24-26 looking for boaters whose blood-alcohol content exceeds the state limit of .08 percent.Operation

Walla Walla parks to be full of summer activities

WALLA WALLA - The summer games for youths have kicked off, and along with them come a few Brits playing Cricket, Rounders and British Bulldogs."We are doing it because we think the kids in the community will enjoy learning sports other than the normal U.S

PANORAMA - People dancing, people playing – the concerts are back.

Saturday in the Park

With an early threat of rain long gone, a Saturday evening at Pioneer Park brought fresh breezes, gentle sunshine, and groups of people enjoying a carefree day.Across a patch of lawn, a volleyball game carried on while some spectators sat nearby. Families

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crimes may request through law enforcement agencies that their names not be released to the media.

ON THE AGENDA

WALLA WALLA COUNTY

ETCETERA - Retired Whitman professor to give talk on his new book

Clark Colahan will aim for a tone both cowboyish and academic when he talks about his new book "On the Banks of San Simeon Creek" at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Walla Walla Public Library, 238 E. Alder St.The book is founded on letters and diaries generated by

PASTOR COLUMN - God's way is also the healthy way

It is often thought that the gospel message has mostly to do with how we get to heaven. However, Jesus' message has far more to do with how we live on earth than how we get to heaven.The good news Jesus promises is that, regardless of how difficult things

CHURCH BULLETIN

Unity Church of Peace to host Father's Day speaker

CELEBRATIONS

Schneidmiller-Hodgson

Kevin and Susan Schneidmiller of Post Falls, Idaho announce the engagement of daughter Emily Ruth Schneidmiller, Spokane, to Andrew Dustin Hodgson of Dayton.

Safety must be top concern for nuclear cleanup

A new report found those who raise safety concerns at the nuclear waste site are punished. The culture that fosters that behavior must change.

Given that the Hanford Nuclear Reservation is relatively close to Walla Walla and is even closer to the Columbia River, which runs through the heart of the Pacific Northwest, we have serious concerns about major leakage of nuclear waste stored there. This is why, year after year, we have called for the federal government to live up to its responsibility to fully fund the multi-billion dollar clean-up project.

A cry for dignity, humanity and justice for Bahá'í captives

I first met Firita around 2000 in Hong Kong. We were among a number of Bah' friends who met during Chinese Spring Festival in the month of February.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Jeff Northam is an amazing coach

While I do not wish to take anything away from the wonderful coaches and athletes who recently won Blue Mountain Sports Awards, I'd like to take a few minutes to praise a local coach who is truly one of the most remarkable people in our Valley.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Feeling of pride overshadowed by disgust

Today I noticed new road construction in town and that is a good thing. I like to see progress, but who in the world is doing the design work and permitting?I see more concrete islands being installed just like the ones that were just removed on 13th Aven

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - New City Council majority might provide answers

It is well that the U-B Editorial Board believes our City Council incumbents are being challenged in the upcoming election (U-B June 13, page A6). However, the reading public may have been better served if you had said, "When elected officials don't face

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Quiet community has been destroyed

Our quiet community is being invaded by a commercial retirement building four stories high. My quiet residential community is turning into a commercial nightmare. First Sun Rental with its cherry pickers and semis parked on the city street -- now this eye

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Help children who are abandoned

Attention pro-lifers. It's time to step up to the plate. You carry signs and do everything you can to make sure every child conceived is allowed to be born "because it's God's will." Is it also "God's will" that those children be abandoned after delivery?

Marjorie G. Kinnear-Dudley

Oct. 20, 1918 - June 16, 2011

Delia Crumb

June 20, 1920 - Nov. 23, 2010

Beth Yeend

March 29, 1910 - May 25, 2011

Louise Smith-Warner-James

July 16, 1924 - June 16, 2011

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - WW County Sheriff's Office -- good news/bad news

The good news about our Sheriff's Office is we have a new sheriff and fiscally responsible leaders in the office.

Superior Court - JUVENILE CASES

Kevin A. Arroyo, 15, 330 W. Chestnut St., was sentenced June 10 on one count third-degree theft.

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Paul E. Cardenas, 49, 516 N. Division St., was charged June 14 with two counts of harassment. Cardenas is accused of knowingly and unlawfully threatening to kill two people on June 12.

Secretary of State Sam Reed's visit to Walla Walla runs gamut from bills to onions

Secretary of State Sam Reed visited the area, talking politics, throwing out a first onion and reading to children.

LEGAL BRIEFINGS - Parents likely on hook when kids go awry

Dear John, I'm wondering to what extent parents are liable for the actions of their minor children. Can parents be sued for the deeds of their children?

Grill-off highlights Vintage activities

Events around the Valley are under way as part of the annual wine-oriented weekend.

WALLA WALLA -- A cluster of local winemakers will turn up the heat to compete tonight for the title of Master of the Grill in the Vintage Pour and Summer Barbecue event that combines food, wine and fundraising.

Music returns downtown with summer series

The Downtown Walla Walla Foundation and Banner Bank are bringing music to the streets of Walla Walla every weekend.

Emergency Services - 06/17/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

In the minutes - WAITSBURG CITY COUNCIL

Council member are Kevin House, Orville Branson, Marty Dunn, Karl Newell and Scott Nettles. Mayor is Walt Gobel. With House absent Wednesday the council:

Baker Boyer tops in state workplace contest

The bank came out on top as a place to work in an annual rating compiled by Seattle Business magazine.

WALLA WALLA -- Baker Boyer Bank was named the best company of its size to work for in Washington state Thursday in a Seattle ceremony that celebrated business.

Riding competition set for Saturday in Milton-Freewater

MILTON-FREEWATER -- The Walla Walla Wagonettes and Blue Mountain Riders will hold a drill competition starting at noon Saturday during the Harder Memorial Open Horse Show and Playday at the Milton-Freewater Pioneer Posse Grounds.

Protecting fish trumps wind power access to transmission lines

Wind producers might have contracts for power, but space is not available on transmission lines because of heavy rains this spring.

New sources of power such as wind-generated energy are important to meet the energy needs of the Pacific Northwest and the nation.

Sweets win wild one against Gems, 10-6

Elliot Stewart has two home runs and four RBI in the West Coast League victory over Klamath Falls.

WALLA WALLA — Elliot Stewart's three-run home run in the fifth put the Sweets ahead 6-4, and his seventh-inning solo home run added insurance as the Walla Walla Sweets defeated the Klamath Falls Gems, 10-6, Thursday night at Borleske Stadium.Thursday nigh

Waitsburg, Dayton advance at All-City Little League tournament

The two Touchet Valley teams down Cummins Athletic and Union-Bulletin, respectively, to play on Saturday.

WALLA WALLA — Touchet Valley teams swept through the opening round of the Walla Walla Little League All-City tournament at Valley Field here Thursday.Waitsburg, the regular-season Touchet Valley champions, and Dayton, the No. 2 TV seed, both went to their

McClure Memorial Junior Golf Clinic set at M-F Muni next week

MILTON-FREEWATER — The A.J./Jay McClure Memorial Junior Golf Clinic for children ages 7-17 runs Monday through Thursday at the Milton-Freewater Municipal Golf Course.The clinic runs from 9-11 a.m. each day. For more information, call George Gillette at 54

Death Notice - Marjorie Kinnear-Dudley

June 16, 2011

Eugene Daniels

July 8, 1930 - May 30, 2011

In the Minutes - DAYTON SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Dayton School Board are Steve Martin, Marchand Hovrud, Tamara Fritze, Joe Huether and David Bailey. With Huether Wednesday:

On the Agenda - WESTON COUNCIL

When: Friday, 5 p.m.Where: W-A Memorial Hall, 210 E. MainWhat: Special Meeting

EMERGENCY SERVICES - 06/16/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Deal to keep Hudson Bay Farm tract organic

PCC Farmland Trust has cut a deal with the Hudson Bay Farm to preserve organic production on 300 acres.

WALLA WALLA -- A pact to preserve a tract of Walla Walla Valley farmland has been completed, a Seattle-based nonprofit group has announced.

Weston-McEwen principal to step down

Dan Greenough's resignation will lead to a shift in duties for district administrators.

ATHENA -- The Athena-Weston School Board has accepted a resignation request from Weston-McEwen High School Principal Dan Greenough, which will lead to administrative changes next school year.

Gov. Gregoire makes wise decision not to seek third term

The governor has shown great leadership through the current budget crisis, but has used much political capital in the process.

Gov. Chris Gregoire has shown great leadership as she has made some very difficult decisions in the midst of the state's financial crisis.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - There is room for motor vehicles and bikes

Perhaps no letters to the editor have surfaced because none of us -- car drivers or bike riders -- know what set the situation up for the tragedy of Sally Eustis being struck by a vehicle and killed.

Complex puts focus on independent living

Affinity at Walla Walla, now under construction between Plaza Way and State Route 125, is seen by its developers as being one-of-a-kind for the area.

WALLA WALLA -- A more than $10 million residential development for those 55 and older is taking shape along State Route 125 and may be ready for move-in as early as December, operators say.

Sweet Onion Softball tourney hits town this weekend

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Parks and Recreation is hosting a 35-team softball tournament this weekend.The Sweet Onion Softball Tournament begins Saturday at the Mill Creek Sportsplex, Pioneer Park and Murr Field. It includes four age groups and teams from

Baskin Robbins donates to Valley Little League

WALLA WALLA — Baskin Robbins will host a Valley Little League night at both locations. The store has agreed to donate 31 percent of all ice cream sales from 5-10 p.m. today to Valley Little League.

Gems pitchers shut down Sweets

Patrick O'Rourke closes out the game for Klamath Falls, shutting down an eighth-inning Sweets rally.

WALLA WALLA — A night after coughing up a 4-2, eighth inning lead, six Klamath Falls pitchers combined to allow one run on four hits, leading the Gems to a 3-1 victory over the Walla Walla Sweets at Borleske Stadium on Wednesday.The six pitchers were pred

Della L. Doughty

July 15, 1927 – May 26, 2011

Muriel Fairchild

Nov. 12, 1934 - May 26, 2011

Carol Wingfield

Nov. 8, 1924 - June 11, 2011

Death Notice - Elsie Pardue

Oct. 11, 1918 - June 15, 2011

Oregon motorcyclist to stop at Dutch Bros. locales in fundraiser

An Oregon motorcyclist will begin his 162-hour journey to every Dutch Bros. Coffee location Thursday.

Crash shifts plans for Walla Walla aviation event

A B-17 crash this week put the kibosh on a similar plane appearing here, but a B-25 is still scheduled to visit next week.

WALLA WALLA -- The B-17 Flying Fortress that was scheduled to touch down in Walla Walla next week will not be making the tour in the wake of the crash of the "Liberty Belle" near Oswego, Ill., on Monday.

Emergency Services - 06/15/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Judge's personal life generally not relevant

On Tuesday a judge took that stand when he upheld a ruling by a gay judge whose sexual orientation was cited as a reason to appeal his decision.

Should a federal judge who had a long-term relationship with another man have recused himself from a case involving California's voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage?

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Jon M. Meys, 39, Washington State Penitentiary, 1313 N. 13th Ave., was charged June 13 with two counts of second-degree assault.

Two now in race for state attorney general

Reagan Dunn joins fellow King County councilman Bob Ferguson in the race.

The race for state attorney general has doubled in size.

In the minutes - STARBUCK COUNCIL

Members of the Starbuck City Council are Katherine Shearer, Veronica McCoy, Keith Wharton, Richard Ells and Fred White. Mayor is Darcy Linklater.

In the minutes - DAYTON COUNCIL

Members of the City Council are Christine Broughton, Kathy Berg, Merle Jackson, Terry Herrin, Charlie Button, Jim Cooper and Bill Graham. Mayor is Craig George. With Jackson and Graham absent Monday the council:

On the agenda - CP SCHOOL BOARD

When: Thursday, 7 p.m.Where: District conference room, 1755 S. College Ave., above Sager gym.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Clown and police provide park entertainment

I was delighted to be paying a visit to my 4-year-old niece and 2-year-old nephew in Walla Walla recently. My delight was multiplied as they had not yet met my boyfriend, who is a professional children's entertainer of 32 years, and he would be coming wit

Prescott Community Club sets breakfast for this weekend

PRESCOTT -- Prescott Community Club's June breakfast will be 8-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday at Lions Hall, 101 D St.

Etcetera - 06/15/11

Children's Home Society of Washington and the Walmart Associate Volunteer Program 2476 co-sponsored the second annual community wide Relay for Hope "Walk Away Child Abuse" event.

Police seek 'person of interest' in shooting death

Officials say the person, who hasn't been named, is not a suspect in Kevin A. Myrick's death.

WALLA WALLA — City police say they are looking for a male who may have information about the shooting death of Kevin A. Myrick earlier this week.

John Alvin Cunnington

March 1, 1931– June 10, 2011

Wild end caps Sweets' rally over Gems

The Sweets lose a 2-1 lead in the top of the eighth but rally back in the bottom for a 6-4 win.

WALLA WALLA — Ryan Richardson had Walla Walla rolling with seven strong innings on the mound and the Sweets holding a 2-1 lead against the expansion Klamath Falls Gems at Borleske Stadium Tuesday night.But as soon as Richardson left in the eighth inning,

Anglers need good lures, not luck, at Rocky Ford Creek

But even lures and prodigious skill yield no fish at Rocky Ford Creek.

The newly repaired Sage fly rod shined like burnished bronze in the bright sunlight at Rocky Ford Creek.You may recall that last month I walked on its tip section and crunched the graphite flat after, like a dufus, I lay the rod on the ground while photog

Wheatland Wheelers sponsor safety ride

The Ann Weatherill Cycling Classic raises money for cycling safety across the county.

WALLA WALLA — The Wheatland Wheelers Cycling Club is sponsoring the sixth annual Ann Weatherill Cycling Classic on Saturday.Weatherill was a Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay, a Garrison Middle School teacher, mother and cyclist who was struck and killed

Walla Walla Little League All-City Championship begins Thursday

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Little League All-City Championships baseball tournament opens Thursday when four teams will contend for a pair of tickets to the quarterfinals.Dayton of the Touchet Valley League will play Walla Walla Union-Bulletin of the W

Sweets, Exchange Club host baseball clinic

WALLA WALLA — For the second year in a row, the Exchange Club of Walla Walla and the Walla Walla Sweets are partnering to bring a free community baseball camp to local children Friday at Borleske Stadium.The clinic will give all boys and girls ages 5 to 1

Winston Okerlund

Aug. 17, 1938 - June 13, 2011

Free summer lunches offered

WALLA WALLA -- Children and teens ages 1-18 can get a free lunch throughout the summer as part of the federal Summer Food Service Program.The City of Walla Walla Parks and Recreation department works with Walla Walla Public Schools each year to provide th

WALLA WALLA TABLE - Walla Walla's salad onions mark start of annual sweet season

The onion is a much maligned vegetable, often relegated to a standard but sub-par ingredient and at best a minor condiment.But think of all that the humble onion has given to us, especially here in the our valley, the only place in the world that a grows

MIDDLE-AGED PLAGUE - Patience becomes the gym exercise

It's important to me that the Norwegian Artist stay in good shape.That's why, when I head to the studio to exercise with a DVD in the upstairs TV room, I kick the man out.So he can garden. Or chop wood. Or muck out the goat pen. Or bring the garbage can i

THE WEEKLY - Walla Walla Library gets new languages-learning system

Looking to boost your resume with knowledge of a second language or make travel to a foreign country more enjoyable?The Walla Walla Public Library offers just the ticket -- an online language program called Mango. The learning program teaches practical co

THE WEEKLY - A shared road to recovery

Walla Walla woman's bout with deadly disease called on many to help restore her life.

The onset was sudden and brutal.On a spring Sunday in 2007, longtime Walla Walla resident and businesswoman Libby Frazier had sold a house.The next day she felt a tiredness.

A DIFFERENT VIEW - Unfamiliar surroundings pose challenges for sight impaired

I am independent when in my own familiar surroundings, but drop me in an unknown place and my independence may waver. Thus was a recent trip to the south hill of Spokane, an area I knew many years ago.I doubt I could have been any more confused as we walk

Cantwell's stand against high gasoline prices welcome

The senator might well be motivated by re-election, but high gas prices are nevertheless a national concern.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, as chairwoman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources subcommittee on energy, is well positioned to take on Big Oil over soaring gasoline prices. And she is doing just that.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Where is our Social Security money?

I'm responding to the letter in Thursday's paper from Mr. Strozinsky.

Drive rounds up diapers by the hundreds

A two-month diaper drive led by The Moms' Network and supported by local businesses raised by more than 2,500 diapers for families in need.

Police hunt for man's killer

Kevin A. Myrick was shot Sunday and died Monday afternoon.

WALLA WALLA -- Police continue to look for an unknown assailant who killed a Walla Walla man.

On the agenda - DAYTON SCHOOL BOARD

When: Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.Where: District Board Room, 609 S. Second St.

On the agenda - WAITSBURG CITY COUNCIL

When: Wednesday, 7 p.m.Where: Lions Club Community Building, Fairgrounds.

Emergency Services - 06/14/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

In the minutes - DIXIE SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Dixie School Board are Javin Berg, Debra Tiner, Richard Berrier, Kelly Dabulskis and Gene Wilks. With all present Monday the board:

In the minutes - College Place Council

College Place City Council members are William Jenkins, Alexander Scott, Marge Nyhagen, Mayor Rick Newby, Larry Dickerson, Steve Dickerson and Scott Duncan. With all present Monday, the board voted as follows:

Program connects kids with recreation, education, lunch

UPlay, which started Monday, is hosted at four parks in Walla Walla.

WALLA WALLA -- In the summer months, the city's public parks are a place for children to enjoy a free recreational program, grab a free lunch, and now also enjoy weekly visits from the Walla Walla Public Library.

Special filing period to open Wednesday

Walla Walla County's period runs through Friday. Columbia and Garfield counties also have planned special filing periods for later this month.

WALLA WALLA -- A special filing period will open Wednesday for offices in Walla Walla County that no one filed for last week.

Walla Walla man's drug trial transferred, delayed

Terry L. Knapp has a new date in court as well as a new judge for his trial

WALLA WALLA -- A new trial date has been set for a man accused of selling marijuana from his home near Sharpstein Elementary School this spring.

Several races to go straight to November ballot

Several candidates for College Place City Council and school district boards in Walla Walla and Burbank will advance unopposed to the November general election based on the results of last week's regular filing period.

College Place Council OK opens door to street project

Whitman Drive will be rebuilt between Larch Avenue and Academy Way this summer.

COLLEGE PLACE -- A quick vote Monday by the City Council cleared the way for a major street project this summer.

Man charged in September bank robbery

Bradley W. Monical is accused of kidnapping and robbery in connection with the incident at a Banner Bank branch.

WALLA WALLA -- A man who allegedly held up the Ninth Avenue branch of Banner Bank last September has been formally charged in Superior Court with first-degree robbery.

Walla Walla man sentenced to jail in chase case

Eduardo Miranda Salazar pleaded guilty in May in connection with the January pursuit.

WALLA WALLA -- A man has been ordered to serve jail time for leading officials on a vehicle chase in January that ended in a crash in the west end of town.

Richard 'Dick” Russo

June 4, 1930—June 8, 2011

Death Notice - Lester Laursen

Oct. 23, 1948 - June 13, 2011

Death Notice - Donna Bromps

June 12, 2011

Death Notice - Helen Sams

July 7, 1919 - June 11, 2011

Sweets look for some home-cooking help

Walla Walla opens an eight-game WCL homestand against Klamath Falls tonight.

WALLA WALLA — In need of consistent play, the Walla Walla Sweets will get a chance to work on that in the comfort of their own home. The Sweets host the Klamath Falls Gems at 7:05 tonight at Borleske Stadium, starting an eight-game homestand with three ga

Griz win own tournament over weekend

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Griz came out on top of their own Senior Legion A 2011 Walla Walla Griz Tournament held over the weekend at Walla Walla Community College, Murr Sports Park and Borleske Field.The Griz topped the Milton-Freewater Blazers 14-0,

Cameras can illustrate your bedtime stories

When I was young my mother would always read a bedtime story to my brother and me. That was the time of day when my imagination would take over even though Mom always read from a library storybook. Just listening to the words, "Long, long ago, and far, fa

Victim in Third Avenue shooting dead

WALLA WALLA — A city resident shot Sunday night in front of his home by an unknown assailant has died.Kevin A. Myrick, 24, of 1123 S. Third Ave., was pronounced dead at 12:25 p.m. today at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. He had been flow there for t

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Veterans Memorial Pool is missed

Summer and water activities go together. I miss Veterans Memorial Pool.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Weiner resignation would send wrong message

I respectfully disagree with your editorial (June 8) calling on Rep. Anthony Weiner to resign from Congress in light of his ongoing "embarrassing scandal."

Voters win as 11 candidates run for WW City Council

When incumbents face challengers it forces them to articulate their positions and listen to the people. And the challengers must do the same.

Competition is a great thing in sports, business -- and politics.

Etcetera - 06/13/11

Current armed forces members, veterans and their families may wish to participate in Walla Walla Elks Lodge 287's popular Walla Walla Sweets baseball game party, a repeat from last summer.

Teens can enjoy music, ice cream at Center

WALLA WALLA -- The Community Center for Youth will host a free music and ice cream social for area teens Wednesday.

County to hold hearing Milton-Freewater ambulance district

MILTON-FREEWATER -- Umatilla County commissioners will hold a public hearing at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Umatilla County Courthouse, Room 114, in Pendleton to discuss the formation of a city ambulance district.

Joint Community Development Agency to meet

WALLA WALLA -- The Walla Walla Joint Community Development Agency board will meet at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Grant to equip Weston students with technology

The iPads will go to all sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students and one class of fifth-graders.

WESTON -- Students at Weston Middle School will get to use iPad tablet computers next year through a technology grant secured from the Oregon Department of Education.

Police investigate Sunday-night shooting

WALLA WALLA -- Walla Walla Police are investigating a shooting Sunday night that injured one person.

St. Mary works to wash away infections

The hospital has been recognized for reducing the rates of infection associated with being hospitalized.

WALLA WALLA -- Inside every American hospital is an invisible, microscopic enemy that causes immense damage.

Emergency Services - 06/13/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

On the agenda - ATHENA-WESTON SCHOOL BOARD

When: 7 p.m. today.Where: Athena Elementary, 375 S. Fifth St.

Walla Walla Sweets stumble against Black Bears

Walla Walla ends its first road trip of the season the way it began, filling an 8-1 loss to Cowlitz with errors and walked batters.

LONGVIEW, Wash. — The first road trip of the season ended like it began for the Walla Walla Sweets. A day after playing their first flawless game defensively, the Sweets made three errors, the pitching staff walked eight, and the Cowlitz Black Bears took

Bruins salvage Legion split with Richland Knights

The Bruins follow a 9-4 Junior American Legion baseball loss to the Knights with an 11-9 victory Sunday.

RICHLAND — Moe Handcox was tenacious, if not overpowering, on the mound, Michael Lesmeister blasted a two-run home run in the first inning and Will Parnicky collected three hits and three runs batted in here Sunday as the Walla Walla Bruins salvaged a Jun

Bears complete rally past Hermiston Spuds, 5-4

WALLA WALLA — Ryan James and Drew Christina came up with clutch run-scoring hits in the bottom of the ninth inning Thursday night at Walla Walla Community College's Warriors Field, lifting the Walla Walla Bears to a 5-4 victory over the Hermiston Spuds.

In the minutes - PORT OF COLUMBIA

Port of Columbia commissioners are Lawrence Turner, Gene Warren and Dale McKinley. With all present Wednesday morning commissioners:

In the minutes - WAITSBURG SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Waitsburg School Board are Ross Hamann, Marilyn Johnson, Terry Jacoy, Randy Pearson and Greg Zuger. With all present Wednesday the board:

In the minutes - ATHENA COUNCIL

Members of the council are Eric Pickard, LaVerne Mitchell, John Shafer, Deborah Hayward and Carol Speed. Mayor is Charles Vickery. With Speed absent Thursday:

Sweets use big inning to get past Cowlitz

The Sweets fall to the Black Hears Friday, but come back with a big second inning for Saturday's win.

COWLITZ, Wash. — Done in by a six-run second on Friday night, the Walla Walla Sweets put together their own big inning on Saturday, scoring four runs in the second and the game's final five runs to even their three-game series with the Cowlitz Black Bears

Sweets host entertainment troupe's finale

Entertainment group The King and His Court was founded in Walla Walla by Eddie Feigner in the 1940s.

WALLA WALLA — What began on a dare 65 years ago will come full-circle to the city where the legend started when The King and His Court, founded by the late Eddie Feigner, a Walla Walla native, plays its final game Aug. 27 at Borleske Stadium.'We are privi

Griz host nine teams in tourney

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Griz are hosting nine teams in the 2011 Walla Walla Griz tournament this weekend at Borleske Stadium, Murr Sports Park and Walla Walla Community College. The tournament began Friday and concludes today with the championship a

Centerline Martial Arts hosting self defense seminar

WALLA WALLA — Centerline Martial Arts is holding a women's self defense seminar from noon-3 p.m. June 25.The seminar is $45 per attendant over age 14, and $40 for each additional family member.The seminars will teach and review many aspects of personal sa

Gig Harbor's Mitchell takes low gross at Senior Invitational

Frank Mitchell scores a 220 over three rounds at the Walla Walla Country Club to win the low gross.

WALLA WALLA — Gig Harbor's Frank Mitchell carved out a 220 over three rounds at the Walla Walla Country Club in play at the 2011 Senior Invitational Golf Tournament, which began Thursday and concluded Saturday.Mitchell took a three-stroke win over Tacoma'

WSU's Jacobs lands on Pac-10 academic team

PULLMAN — Washington State outfielder — and incoming Walla Walla Sweet — Brett Jacobs was named to the Pac-10 Baseball Academic First Team last week.Jacobs, a sophomore outfielder from Richland, carried a 3.42 grade-point average and is majoring in accoun

Walla Walla's Forge gets a wee bit of Ireland

Wa-Hi graduate and Whitman College women's basketball guard Anna Forge went on the USA Athletes International (USAAI) Irish Roots Tour playing basketball across Ireland from May 31 to Thursday. Forge kept a journal of her experiences in a blog. Selected p

Green Park teacher shares burden of cancer

Green Park teacher Anne Shelley's fight against cancer has included a host of tough conversations.

WALLA WALLA - "That is probably one of the hardest parts, is telling people, especially people who really care for you."Friday, Anne Shelley stood and walked with dozens of other men and women clad in purple T-shirts to tell the world she is a cancer surv

Group-buying site hones in on small markets

Local Thrifty Walla Walla Valley, set to launch Monday, aims to hook businesses up with deal-seeking customers.

WALLA WALLA - If June Cleaver had a career in e-commerce, it might look a little like Local Thrifty.The new group-buying site poised for launch in the Walla Walla market Monday is designed as if a 1950s television mother were speaking to you - from the vi

Walla Walla water plans break new ground

Recently approved plans are the first for a partnership that puts control of water in local hands.

WALLA WALLA - A pioneer water management project centered in Walla Walla County has passed a new milestone.The Walla Walla Watershed Management Partnership and state Department of Ecology recently approved three local water plans, the first of their kind

Eleven seek to fill four Walla Walla City Council seats

Two races feature more than two candidates and will have August primaries.

WALLA WALLA - Eleven candidates filed for four City Council positions, with four of those candidates running against each other for seat seven, held by Dominick Elia.Elia, who filed for re-election last week, is being challenged by Paul Mobley, Mary Lou J

War and Peace

Old mixed with the new at Fort Walla Walla Days Saturday as guests witnessed re-enactors dressed in period clothing from the Civil War through World War I and were treated to a Civil War battle complete with musket, carbine fire and cannon shots. Below le

Boil order lifted for Weston water

WESTON — Tests of the city's water system have come back clear of E. coli bacteria and a boil order for drinking water has been lifted, officials said today.Five water samples were taken from different locations in the system and sub

$n$ ON THE AGENDA

Cp council

EMERGENCY SERVICES - 06/12/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Relay caps fundraisers for cancer research, programs

WALLA WALLA - The 14th Annual Relay for Life took place this Friday and Saturday at Martin Field.The 24-hour event is the culmination of a number of community fundraisers, corporate sponsorships and close to 50 teams, which together raised close to $65,00

Local partnership a test for local control of water resources

The Walla Walla Watershed Management Partnership is a 10-year pilot project authorized by the state Legislature in 2009.Orignally proposed by state Rep. Bill Grant, D-Walla Walla, the legislation has made the Walla Walla River basin a test model

Two challengers to face commissioner in Port race

Rich Monacelli and Barlow Corkrum have thrown their hats in the ring to oppose Mike Fredrickson.

WALLA WALLA - Port of Walla Walla Commissioner Mike Fredrickson will face two challengers for his District 2 seat in the Aug. 16 primary.Walla Walla residents Barlow Corkrum and Rich Monacelli will challenge Fredrickson for a six-year term on the three-pe

Primary filing period wraps up in counties

Special filing periods will be held around the region to allow candidates a chance to file for positions that were not filed during the filing period last week.Primaries will be held in races with three or more candidates.

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT? - Let's play three: Fair concert stacks up acts

The Band Perry, LoCash Cowboys and Joey+Rory: What's up with that?

Summer - at least on the calendar - is upon us and that means the Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days isn't far away. This year's opening night concert seems to be getting a big push on the radio. I heard a spot the other day urging me to buy my tickets to s

Boil order lifted in Weston

Tests of the city's water have come back free of E. coli, officials said.

WESTON - Tests of the city's water system have come back clear of E. coli bacteria and a boil order for drinking water has been lifted, officials said today.Five water samples were taken from different locations in the system and submitted for testing. Al

PANORAMA - Space to breathe

Yoga classes lend an air of flexibility to the spaces at Carnegie Art Center

Built around the turn of the century, the Carnegie Art Center was originally dedicated as the new Walla Walla Public Library in 1905, and served as such until 1971.Today, the stone, brick and wood edifice listed with the National Register of Historic Plac

Washington Park day for kids a smash hit

Attendees at the fifth annual Da de los Nios/Children's Day had great fun during the piata-breaking marathon for which 40 were made by hand.

CHURCH BULLETIN - 06/12/11

Cowboy church to host country gospel singing groupWALLA WALLA - Walla Walla Valley Cowboy Church, 717 E. Alder St., will play host to a country gospel singing group, the Hubbard Family, from Texas, at 9 a.m. today.Call 509-525-9493 or 509-525-2485 for mor

$n$ SENIOR CENTERS

senior centers

Funding new facilities at prison is wise

The $42.5 million project — adding new housing units and expansion of a kitchen — will make operating the Washington State Penitentiary more efficient.

Yes, money is very tight in state government. The Legislature recently balanced the state's two-year budget by trimming nearly $5 billion in spending requests.

OUR READERS' OPINIONS - 06/12/11

Move ninth-graders to middle school?I graduated from high school in 1958. The school supported kids from four other towns. The school had been there for sometime before I went.In 2008 I went back to New Jersey for the 50th reunion. The school was still th

Lois Duncan

Sept. 24, 1925 - June 7, 2011

Caroline Kopelke

Nov. 5, 1944 - June 3, 2011

Barbara Taylor

March 22, 1952 - June 8, 2011

Warren Hatcher

June 14, 1917 - June 7, 2011

Richard 'Dick” Russo

June 4, 1930—June 7, 2011

Ex-small business official in Port race

WALLA WALLA -- A challenger has emerged in the Port of Walla Walla Commission District 2 race, according to the latest results from the Walla Walla County Elections office.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - EPA needs effective oversight

There needs to be effective Congressional oversight and control over the EPA.

Voter-approved performance audit program is cost effective

Gov. Gregoire should veto the transfer of millions of dollars from the audit program to other agencies.

Making government as efficient as possible is a great way -- maybe the best way -- to trim spending.

Fiber in, fiber out, along with the carbs

We're going to talk about poo today and there is no way around it. In a sort of magical setting, yes, but still. Consider yourself warned.

Walla Walla, Waitsburg win state smart growth awards

The cities are among 12 communities in Washington to win acclaim this year.

Waitsburg and Walla Walla are among the 12 communities in Washington named as winners of the 2011 Smart Communities Awards announced by Gov. Chris Gregoire Wednesday.

Rebuttal tendered in caffeine debate

After the completion of my series of columns on caffeine, a gentleman I will refer to as the professor voiced his opinion about what I had written in an article that led "Beware the electron-hating zealots."

Deep breathing opens door to vitality

Inspiration (breathing) is a vital sign of life.

Thrift, fashion mingle on Wellington Avenue in Walla Walla

Blue Mountain Trading Company has the feel of an upscale boutique but not the prices.

WALLA WALLA -- Not everything is what it seems at clothing store Blue Mountain Trading Company.

Dances to stop traffic in downtown Walla Walla

A pair of Relay for Life dances are planned at First and Main today and Saturday.

WALLA WALLA -- Two downtown street dances are planned in conjunction with Relay for Life this weekend.

SOUND MIND, SOUND BODY: Guys, take note (and ownership) of health

Each year, the week leading up to Father's Day is designated "National Men's Health Week."

Charges will not be pursued against deputy

Deputy Kenton Boyd is still the subject of an internal probe, however.

COLLEGE PLACE -- The city attorney has declined to prosecute a Walla Walla County Sheriff's deputy who was put on administrative leave last month after being arrested on investigation of domestic violence.

Walla Walla man sent to prison in assaults

Joseph A. Davis received 40 months behind bars for attacking two women, witness tampering and intimidation.

WALLA WALLA -- A man who pleaded guilty to assaulting his then-girlfriend and her sister during a disturbance last year was sentenced Thursday to three years and four months in prison.

Four races in works for WW Council

WALLA WALLA -- All four City Council members running for re-election this year will face opponents in the fall.

Emergency Services - 06/10/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Grant gives boost to Walla Walla County social services project

Walla Walla County has recieved $1 million to help pay for work at the service center in Walla Walla.

The Washington state Department of Commerce announced Thursday that Walla Walla County will receive $1 million for its ongoing community service center project.

A killer meal? Fungi safety worth the effort

It's a classic plot device of murder mysteries: An evil killer slips poisonous mushrooms into the frying pan of an unsuspecting victim who dies an agonizing death.

Appeal of Inland Octopus decision filed

Bob Catsiff is seeking a review by the state Supreme Court of a ruling this month in local court.

WALLA WALLA -- Inland Octopus owner Bob Catsiff this morning formally appealed a local judge's decision that allows the city of Walla Walla to enforce its sign regulations.

Tacoma's Weidman has two-shot lead at Seniors Tournament

Rich Weidman is the only player to match Walla Walla Country Club's par-72.

WALLA WALLA — Tacoma golfer Rich Weidman was the only player in the field of 114 to match par Thursday during the opening round of the 51st annual Walla Walla Country Club Seniors Tournament.Playing in near perfect conditions, Weidman matched par-72 and f

Sweets ready for first road trip

Walla Walla faces off with the Cowlitz Black Bears for a three-game series beginning tonight.

WALLA WALLA — Fresh off a 4-1 start at home, the Walla Walla Sweets will face their first road test of the season when they travel to Longview, Wash., to take on the Cowlitz Black Bears for a three-game series at Story Field this weekend.Game times are 6:

Wa-Hi's Christina, Toon playing in all-state baseball tournament

WALLA WALLA — Wa-Hi baseball players Drew Christina and Kevin Toon are playing in the Washington All-State Tournament this weekend at Yakima County Stadium.Games begin at noon Saturday between the four teams, and continue at 10:25 a.m. Sunday.

Local softball players earn all-area honors

WALLA WALLA — Local softball players earned all-area honors as named by the Tri-City Herald.Wa-Hi's Alyson Ambler earned all-area most valuable player, and teammates Hope Klicker, Libbie Jimenez, Andrea Hamada and TraeAnn Payne earned first-team honors.

Wa-Hi's Ambler Gatorade Washington State Player of the Year

CHICAGO — Wa-Hi softball pitcher Alyson Ambler has been named Gatorade Washington Softball Player of the Year.Ambler joins Blue Devil teammate Hope Klicker, who won the award last year.The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence,

Annual softball clinics for 6-12th graders start Monday

WALLA WALLA — Blue Mountain Girls Softball Associaton (BMGSA) and the Wa-Hi Blue Devils are having annual summer softball clinics for players entering 6-12th grade beginning Monday.

Death Notice - John Cunnington

March 1, 1931 - June 10, 2011

Death Notice - Conley Kincheloe

Aug. 16, 1951 - June 9, 2011

Death Notice - Eugene Daniels

July 8, 1930 - May 30, 2011

E. coli reported in Weston; residents urged to boil water

An owl's nest in a municipal water tank is blamed for the contamination.

WESTON — The city has issued a warning for its drinking water. Residents are being advised to boil all water used for human consumption until further notice.

Walla Walla County gets $1 million in grant

The Washington state Department of Commerce today announced Walla Walla County will receive $1 million for its ongoing community service center project.In December, county officials approved a $2.1 million loan from the county's investment pool to buy the

Service members, families get free entrance to Fort Walla Walla Museum, other museums

Fort Walla Walla Museum is now an affiliate of Blue Star museums. The Blue Star initiative is a partnership of Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts. Its purpose is to allow free admission to more than 1,300 museums across the country

New at the Walla Walla Public Library

Featured books will be available for the public today. They can also be placed on hold online at wallawallapubliclibrary,org or call the library for assistance at 527-4550.

MARQUEE - Celebrate region's history at Fort Walla Walla Days

The heritage of the Walla Walla region is interlaced with the legacy of soldiers, pioneers and American Indians. For more than a decade, Fort Walla Walla Museum, 755 Myra Road, has commemorated the region's heritage in its two-day, early June event.The ev

Collectors of stamps will meet tonight

The Walla Walla Valley Philatelic Society will host a special event for stamp collectors and those interested in learning about stamp collecting or needing an appraisal starting at 6 tonight at the China Buffet banquet room, 1618 Plaza Way.Stamp dealer St

Reptile Man visits Milton-Freewater library

MILTON-FREEWATER -- The Reptile Man brings his reptiles to kick off the Summer Reading Program activities at 4:45 p.m. Friday at the Milton-Freewater Public Library, 8 S.W. Eighth Ave. Richard Ritchey, aka "The Reptile Man," is based in western Oregon. He

Diversity Day June 19 in Pioneer Park

The 18th annual Diversity Day Multicultural Arts Festival will start at 11 a.m. June 19 at Pioneer Park, Alder and Division streets.There will be a variety of foods, crafts, games and entertainment. The fifth-annual Geography Bee will begin at 3:45 p.m.,

Free summer concerts begin in Pioneer Park

The Kirkman House Museum and the city of Walla Walla Parks and Recreation will host a series of free summer concerts at the Pioneer Park Bandstand.These concerts continue the more than 100-year old tradition of gathering our community around the bandstand

Mares 'n' Music teams up symphonic music, expert horsemanship

The event will also feature a vocal performance by Shane Laib and Jennifer Northam.The Walla Walla Symphony and local horse groups are pairing up for a unique afternoon of western riding and horsemanship with live symphonic music at 3 p.m. Sunday at the W

Inland Northwest Musicians to hold final concert June 19

WESTON -- Inland Northwest Musicians Music in the Park, with all five ensembles, will present "All American," the final concert of the 2010-2011 season, at 4 p.m. June 19 in Weston Community Park.The ensembles will be under the direction of R. Lee Friese.

Blue Mountain Lavender Farm opens 10th season

LOWDEN -- Blue Mountain Lavender Farm is opening Friday for Lavender Daze 2011, its 10th lavender season. The French-style farm comprises rolling hills of lavender, a boutique that brims with artisanal lavender products and unforgettable fragrances. In ce

Century Farm tour to be held June 18

PENDLETON -- Pendleton Historical Society's 2011 Century Farm tour will be held June 18.Umatilla County is recognized as having the most active Century Farm and Ranch program in Oregon. This year's tour focuses on the west side of the county, including si

Challenger emerges in Port of Walla Walla Commission District 2 race

A challenger has emerged in the Port of Walla Walla Commission District 2 race, according to the latest results from the Walla Walla County Elections office.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Young on hook for Social Security IOUs

The political elites put out a statement saying that America's Social Security Trust Fund is funded through 2035. This is regurgitated by the media as fact and picked up by the American public who feel pretty dawn good about it.

In the minutes - WESTON CITY COUNCIL

Members of the council are Bill Boyd, Lynn Delph, Juan Avila and Dennis Snider. Mayor is Duane Thul. With all present Wednesday the council:

Superior Court - JUVENILE CASES

Tanelle K. Hayes, 15, 121 N.E. Fifth Ave, No. 9, Milton-Freewater, was sentenced June 3 on one count third-degree theft.

Superior Court - DISSOLUTIONS

Laurie and Juan Marin.

WAITING FOR A SIGN

Nestled together among an array of signage, a couple sits on the trunk of their Toyota Camry Thursday morning waiting for a sign of life outside a row of businesses off Isaacs Avenue.

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Michael L. Adams, 44, 119 E. Sumach St., Apt. 1, was charged June 6 with second-degree assault -- domestic violence. Adams is accused of intentionally assaulting a person on June 4.

A Wing and A Prayer's barbecue sales Friday to benefit Relay for Life

Pit masters from A Wing and A Prayer Barbecue + Catering will be serving up fare Friday during the opening of Relay for Life.

Party aims to bring cheer, help to ailing boy

Mr. Ed's will hold a celebration and fundraiser Sunday afternoon for Devin Bailey, who is being treated for leukemia.

WALLA WALLA -- Devin Bailey will be 10 on Sunday and he'd like nothing better than to attend his own birthday party in his own hometown.

Walla Walla wines take awards at Seattle competition

Walla Walla Valley wines took home about three dozen awards at the 2011 Seattle Wine Awards, which were announced last week.

Emergency Services - 06/09/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Waitsburg man hospitalized after Wednesday motorcycle crash

WAITSBURG -- A Waitsburg man was listed in good condition this morning at Walla Walla General Hospital following a late Wednesday afternoon motorcycle accident on private property off Jasper Mountain Road.

Festivals set for this weekend in Pomeroy

POMEROY -- A car show, wind festival, fun run, flea market, parade, golf tournament and Sausage and Rifle Shoot are activities in store for those attending the Pioneer Day/Tumbleweed Festival and Washington Wind Festival this weekend.

Tips offered to help conserve electricity during summer

As the heat of summer approaches -- or so the calendar would have us believe -- Pacific Power offers consumers a few tips to help save electricity and cash:

Funding gives boost to city of Walla Walla programs

A grant and a bequeathal give the infrastructure program and Mountain View Cemetery new money.

WALLA WALLA -- Two city departments announced they will each receive a healthy dose of funding, one for the Infrastructure Repair and Replace Program and the other to help pay for operations at Mountain View Cemetery.

Cracking down on drivers using cellphones is good policy

Distracted driving is an illegal and dangerous behavior.

The Washington State Patrol is now strongly enforcing the law that bans driving while talking or texting on a cellphone. Troopers have issued five times more tickets than before it became a primary offense. That works out to 6,850 citations in the past 12

Sweets' offense reappears in win over Toros

Walla Walla strings hits together to hand the Portland Toros a 7-1 non-league defeat Wednesday at Borleske Stadium.

WALLA WALLA — The Sweets closed out their opening homestand with a 7-1 victory over the nonleague Portland Toros Wednesday night.The victory completes a mini-sweep of the Toros and sets Walla Walla up at 4-1 overall with their first road trip of the seaso

Wa-Hi pitcher Ambler WIAA Athlete of Week

WALLA WALLA — Wa-Hi softball pitcher Alyson Ambler has been selected WIAA/Seattle Times Class 4A Female Athlete of the Week for May 22-28 after leading the Blue Devils to the state championship.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Focus is on profit, not safety

Can driving ever be made safe?

Congressman's poor judgment reason enough to resign

Rep. Weiner would be doing his constituents a favor by leaving Congress.

Rep. Anthony Weiner's lousy judgment and sleazy behavior are certainly concerning.

Horse owners' swift action stopped disease

A potentially lethal virus was quickly dispatched when horse owners did not travel with their animals.

It was supposed to be a dangerous summer for horse owners.

In the minutes - POMEROY SCHOOL BOARD

Pomeroy School District Board members are Paul Ruark, Lori Slaybaugh, Steve Carlson, Bart Gingerich and Ed Sullivan. With Carlson absent Monday the board:

In the minutes - GARFIELD COUNTY

Garfield County Commissioners are Dean Burton, Wynne McCabe and Robert Johnson. With all present Monday commissioners:

In the minutes - COLUMBIA COUNTY

Columbia County commissioners are Chuck Reeves, Dwight Robanske and Dick Jones. With all present Monday:

FDA announces Kashi recalling frozen pizzas

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today that the Kashi food company is recalling approximately 11,000 cases of frozen pizzas, including 'Mediterranean Thin Crust Pizza,” 'Roasted Vegetable Thin Crust Pizza,” plus 'Mushroom Trio and Spinach T

In the minutes - WW SCHOOL BOARD

Board members are Jim Lehmann, president; Max Carrera, vice-president; Anne Golden, Cindy Meyer and Dan Hess. With Carrera absent Tuesday, the board:

In the minutes - WW County

Walla Walla County commissioners are Perry Dozier, Gregg Loney and Greg Tompkins. With Tompkins absent, the board voted as follows Monday:

In the minutes - POMEROY COUNCIL

Pomeroy City Council members are Dennis Gillis, James Fuchs, Stephanie Newberg, Paul Miller and Donna Hunt. Mayor is Alan Gould. With all present Tuesday:

On the agenda - Port of Walla Walla

When: Regular session at 6 p.m. Thursday, following a 5 p.m. work session and site tours that begin at 4 p.m.Where: Regular session at the Port office, 310 A St.; work sessions at Dominick's on the Runway; tours begin at Ash Hollow Winery and Fire House L

On the agenda - ATHENA COUNCIL

When: Thursday, 7 p.m.Where: City Hall, 215 S. Currant

On the agenda - WAITSBURG SCHOOL BOARD

When: Tonight, 8 p.m.Where: Preston Hall

M-F street fair to offer food, live music, arts, crafts

A Milton-Freewater Street Fair this weekend will offer live music, food and an array of items from vendors.

Woman injured in crash on US Highway 12 in Dixie

DIXIE -- A crash at the west edge of Dixie injured one person Monday.

Fire district commissioner positions up for election

A number of fire district commissioner positions are open in Walla Walla, Columbia and Garfield counties. Full terms for positions is six years.

Five W-M grads awarded Ferguson scholarships

ATHENA -- Five graduates of Weston-McEwen High School have been awarded Ferguson Scholarships.

Professor, lacrosse coach honored with service award

WALLA WALLA -- Whitman College history professor and lacrosse coach David Schmitz has won the Sam Sadtler Service Award, presented by the Men's Collegiate Lacrosse Association/United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association.

Whitman dean presents talk at leadership symposium

WALLA WALLA -- Tim Kaufman-Osborn, provost and dean of the faculty at Whitman College, last week delivered an invited presentation at the 2011 Symposium on Leadership,

Veteran Walla Walla police sergeant to retire

WALLA WALLA -- Another veteran Walla Walla Police officer has announced his retirement.

Walla Walla man pleads guilty in home invasion

A light sentence has been offered for testimony against another suspect.

WALLA WALLA -- One of two defendants accused of a home invasion robbery on Southeast Fourth Street in College Place this spring pleaded guilty Tuesday to reduced charges in exchange for his cooperation in the case.

Sweep nets dozens of seat belt, cellphone violators

Nighttime patrols resulted in 108 traffic stops and more than four dozen citations, police said.

WALLA WALLA -- Dozens of drivers recently discovered that leaving off their seat belts or breaking cellphone rules isn't a good idea.

Emergency Services - 06/08/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Milton-Freewater metal theft part of 'epidemic'

Officials say addicts sell stolen metal to finance their habits.

A metal theft over the weekend in Milton-Freewater has added to a growing regional "epidemic," law enforcement officials said Tuesday.

Officials nab suspect in September bank robbery in Walla Walla

Bradley W. Monical allegedly robbed a Banner Bank branch in September.

WALLA WALLA -- A man suspected of holding up a local bank last fall has been arrested in Oregon.

Grant paves way to added faculty at Whitman

Eight positions will be converted from temporary to tenure-track over two years, the college said.

WALLA WALLA -- Whitman College has been awarded a $644,000 grant by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation that will be used to convert eight faculty positions from temporary to tenure-track over the next two years. The faculty positions will come from the human

CURVING FAN KATA

On a curve in the railroad tracks behind her father's bakery on Main Street, Sage Kline, 10, practices through a fan kata martial arts routine Tuesday afternoon. Kline said she practices the piece she calls "Sinty" almost everyday, sometimes even in the rain. Kline is one of 3-4 girls working on fan kata exercises through the Karate Center.

Buzzards abound at Malheur Wildlife Refuge

BURNS, Ore. — We rose early and hustled out of town without breakfast.We had P-Ranch buzzards on the day's menu.Actually, Darlene and I snacked on cups of orange juice and mini-bagels smeared with cream cheese in our motel room.Nora the Schnauzer ate kibb

GALLERY: Dramatic eighth cues Sweets' 6-4 win

The Sweets have a three-run eighth inning to pick up the win over Portland.

WALLA WALLA — The Sweets already have a flair for the dramatic.Two days after winning on a walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth, Walla Walla scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth to defeat the Portland Toros, 6-4, Tuesday night at Borleske S

M-F Invitational to close course to this weekend

MILTON-FREEWATER — The Milton-Freewater Invitational golf tournament will close Milton-Freewater Municipal Golf Course to public play Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.The tournament begins at noon Saturday with a shotgun start, so all public players

W-P players, coaches host football camp for boys

WAITSBURG — Waitsburg-Prescott is hosting a Youth Football Camp for boys entering grades 3-8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday at the Waitsburg football field.Registration begins at 10:45 a.m.W-P football coaches and players will conduct the camp, which will

Wa-Hi boys basketball camp still accepting applications

WALLA WALLA — Sign ups for the annual Blue Devil Boys Basketball Camps are still being accepted.The elementary camp will be from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. June 13-16 at the Wa-Hi gym and open to any boy who will be entering grades 3, 4 or 5 next fall.The middle scho

Death Notice - Isabel MacDonald

June 6, 2011

Death Notice - Joyce Hunter

March 27, 1950 - June 7, 2011

Leonard Kenneth Christensen

June 1, 1924 – June 5, 2011

Thomas Butler

Oct. 19, 1935 - June 3, 2011

Donald Blair

Dec. 28, 1926 - June 4, 2011

ETCETERA - Doctor leads medical mission to Eastern Zambia

Some persistent badgering — uh, make that avid encouragement from a friend — finally convinced Dr. John B. 'Jack” Hoehn to put fingers to keyboard to record his recent medical mission trip to Eastern Zambia.A member of the American Academy of Family Physi

VIEW FROM THE PORCH - C'mon, put me in your column

He's a nice guy. I see him at the YMCA all the time. He's told me his name several times. I'm supposed to know it, but I have a terrible memory. I can't remember his name a

YOUR GARDEN - It requires Special Forces tactics to control weeds

The nemesis of every gardener is of course, 'the weed.” If you're going to garden, you're going to have weeds. To put it another way, it was easier for U.S. Special Forces to get rid of Osama Bin Laden than it will be for you to free your yard of weeds.A

HOME PLACE - Death leaves dirty work – mail duty

It began back in January.Let me preface this by saying I still hate getting the mail. Dead guy was assigned (by choice) to the mail-bills-nasty-phone-calls duty at our house.Over the past two years, the crud I have to mess with after the mai

THE WEEKLY - Take a summer reading trip

Local bibliophiles offer their picks for vacation reading.

By the backyard pool, along a river, on the beach or riding in a car or airplane heading to someplace else, a solid summer companion to bring along is a book. Or maybe two or three or more.And even if you don't plan to physically travel someplace while on

Officials nab suspect in September bank robbery in Walla Walla

Bradley W. Monical was arrested after a bank robbery in April in Coos Bay, Ore.

WALLA WALLA -- A man suspected of holding up a local bank last fall has been arrested in Oregon.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Should spreading of Islam be a concern?

How the left supports Islam and sabotages America was the introductory sentence in a recent letter to the editor. That concept came to mind when reading the Los Angeles Times article, "Fighting mosques in the name of freedom," which was in the May 22 Wall

Bipartisan approach to budget good for Washington

Local lawmakers, all members of the minority party, had more input into the process. That's a welcome change.

Local legislators -- Sen. Mike Hewitt, R-Walla Walla, Rep. Maureen Walsh, R-College Place, and Rep. Terry Nealey, R-Dayton -- are generally pleased with the results of the recently concluded legislative session.

On the agenda - WESTON COUNCIL

When: Wednesday, 6 p.m.Where: W-A Memorial Hall, 210 E. Main

On the agenda - PORT OF COLUMBIA

When: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.Where: 1 Port Way

On the agenda - WW Council

When: Wednesday 7 p.m.Where: 15 N. Third Ave.

Emergency Services - 06/07/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Orange Julius drinks blend with other Plaza Way DQ fare

Walla Walla's Dairy Queen: home to Blizzards, Peanut Buster Parfaits and Orange Julius. Wait, Orange Julius?

Walla Walla Community College classes foster a love of lapidary

Classes at Walla Walla Community College introduce students to the art of cutting, polishing and engraving stones.

WALLA WALLA -- A lapidary is defined as someone who cuts, polishes or engraves precious stones. Warren Rood is a self-made lapidary who is now sharing the craft of studying and manipulating rocks and stones with the community.

Trial set for August in Burbank marijuana grow

Timothy G. Casey is accused of manufacturing the drug and possessing it with intent to deliver.

WALLA WALLA -- The trial for a Burbank man suspected of growing marijuana on his property is scheduled for Aug. 2 and 3.

Chief Smoke sells for cool $55,000, to remain in WW

The Indian statue stood at Lutcher's Cigar Store for nearly a century.

WALLA WALLA -- Chief Smoke lit up the auction block last weekend.

Air war aims at wheat rust

The cool, wet spring has made for great growing conditions for wheat -- and one of its major enemies.

WALLA WALLA -- Great growing conditions have turned into a two-edged sword for wheat farmers this year.

Walla Walla region's wayfinding sign plan gains steam

The Donald & Virginia Sherwood Trust has chipped in $44,000 for design of the new system.

If a grant allocation is a sign of things to come then Walla Walla's new regional wayfinding system will soon be in the design stage.

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Sierra Flores, 21, 1540 Truman St., was charged June 3 with two counts of violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. Flores is accused of unlawfully delivering hydrocodone within 1,000 feet of a school bus route stop on March 31 and April 4.

Leonard Kenneth Christensen

June 1, 1924 – June 5, 2011

William Reid

Sept. 13, 1919 - June 4, 2011

Richard Roth

Aug. 15, 1946 - May 31, 2011

Sex predator's commitment trial pushed to fall

John W.J. Keeney was convicted of a variety of sex crimes in the 1990s.

WALLA WALLA -- A sex predator who committed a series of local sex crimes in the 1990s will have to wait awhile longer for a jury to determine if he should be released from civil commitment. A new trial for John W.J. Keeney had been scheduled to begin June

Walla Walla woman's assault trial moved to mid-July

Vanessa M. Drake is accused of stabbing a man outside her residence in April.

WALLA WALLA -- A local woman is scheduled to stand trial next month for allegedly stabbing a man outside her residence in April.The trial for Vanessa M. Drake, 29, of 261 Newtown Road, initially was scheduled to begin in Superior Court this Thursday, but

Walla Walla man pleads innocent to gang killing

Benito Gomez, charged with killing a rival gang member, is scheduled for trial in July.

WALLA WALLA -- A Walla Walla man has pleaded innocent to killing a rival gang member and shooting at others in a confrontation last month.Benito Gomez, 18, entered the not-guilty pleas Monday afternoon in Superior Court to charges of first-degree murder a

Pools open around Walla Walla area

Swimmers will have another option this summer, with the reopening of the Prescott Pool planned for June 10 at 1 p.m.The Prescott pool was dry last year, due to lack of funding. The Prescott Joint Park and Recreation District operates the pool and adjacent

Equine herpes outbreak appears contained

State veterinarians say quarantines limited the spread of the potentially deadly disease.

WALLA WALLA -- A highly contagious disease that put horse owners on high alert last month appears to be winding down.State veterinarians in Oregon and Washington have said the outbreak of equine herpes virus appears to be contained. The disease, which can

Abajian's journey

Rich Abajian follows an unexpected football career at Wa-Hi and WWCC by coaching the sport, and his life's turns now find him at a Las Vegas car dealership.

WALLA WALLA — Growing up in Walla Walla in the 1960s, Rich Abajian never thought of himself as a football player.Baseball was his first love, and he dreamed of one day playing in the majors.And even though his father, John Abajian, was for many years a pa

Black Sox drop four summer baseball games over weekend

WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla Black Sox 14U baseball squad dropped four games over the weekend, losing twice to Tri-Cities and Spokane. On Saturday, the Black Sox lost 10-0 in five innings via the 10-run rule game to Tri-Cities Riverats.

Sweets' first Kids Day comes against Toros

The Sweets complete a season-opening homestand with games against the Portland team tonight and Wednesday.

WALLA WALLA — Fresh off their dramatic 1-0 victory in the ninth inning on Sunday, the Walla Walla Sweets will complete a season-opening, five-game homestand when they host the Portland Toros tonight and Wednesday at Borleske Stadium. First pitch is schedu

Columbia board to interview potential student representatives

BURBANK -- The Columbia School Board will hold a regular meeting Monday at 7 p.m. An executive session will be held at 5 p.m. to interview student School Board representatives.

Wa-Hi alumni to be recognized as graduates of distinction

WALLA WALLA -- Four Walla Walla High School alumni will be recognized Tuesday as this year's graduates of distinction.

Corps of Engineers worker decorated Sunday for service

A local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers worker was decorated Sunday during an awards ceremony at the Afghanistan Engineer District-North's Qalaa House Compound in Afghanistan.

Three Walla Walla School Board seats up for election

WALLA WALLA -- Three of the five Walla Walla School Board positions are up for election.

One injured in U.S. 12 collision today

DIXIE — A collision at the west edge of town injured one person today.According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred at 12:33 p.m. when a pickup eastbound on U.S. Highway 12 crossed the center line and struck an unoccupied car parked on the

Court challenge to I-1053 is needed -- and welcome

But if the courts rule it is constitutional to restrict the Legislature's ability to increase taxes, then lawmakers should accept the will of the voters.

Washington state voters have, on four occasions, approved ballot measures requiring the Legislature to obtain a two-thirds majority to authorize tax increases.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Questions to ponder

Some questions for future votes in the next "big" election:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Mr. Calzaretta is a great teacher

Nate Brewer, Malcolm Gabbard and I are 8th graders at Pioneer Middle School. We want to say how much we appreciate one of the greatest teachers ever, Mr. Calzaretta.

May a soaker of a month in Walla Walla

How wet was it? The third-wettest on record, just shy of 1962 but far behind 1991's mega-rains.

WALLA WALLA -- There was no springing into summer last month.

Laws can help sort order from chaos

'Laws" have all kinds of implications. They're onerous if they represent seemingly arbitrary restrictions. They're unfair if not equally applied. They're an imposition if enforced by a capricious authority.

Emergency Services - 06/06/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

On the agenda - Pomeroy Council

When: 7 p.m. TuesdayWhere: City Hall

On the agenda - WW SCHOOL BOARD

When: Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. An executive session will be held at 5 p.m., and a special ceremony at 5:30 p.m.Where: District board room, 364 S. Park St.

Etcetera - 06/06/11

Former College Place resident Harley Green received his master's in computer science with a specialization in computer security on May 13 from the University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering.

For Walla Walla soldier, a warm welcome home

Dozens of people were on hand Saturday night to greet Army Pfc. James Yancey, who has spent most of the past year in Afghanistan.

WALLA WALLA -- After more than a year overseas, most of it in the Maiwand district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province, Pfc. James Yancey came home Saturday night to a welcome party of close to 50 people at the Walla Walla Regional Airport.

Borleske Stadium gets new sound system

WALLA WALLA — Historic Borleske Stadium, entering its 85th season of use by Walla Walla sports teams, will now have a sound system to match the upgrades and renovations that have taken place at the stadium since 2009.

Griz split with Diamondjaxx, Bees over weekend

YAKIMA — Octavio Preciado's third hit of the game, a two-run double in the seventh inning, lifted the Walla Walla Griz to a 10-9 victory over West Valley's Bees here Sunday in the second game of a Junior American Legion baseball doubleheader.West Valley c

Sweets celebrate walk-off win over Knights

Kalani Brackenridge's ninth-inning hit brings in the game's lone run as Walla Walla edges Corvallis, 1-0, Sunday night.

WALLA WALLA — Kalani Brackenridge ripped a 1-0 fastball down the right-field line, scoring Alex Bonczyk in the bottom of the ninth inning and sending the Walla Walla Sweets into a frenzy as they walked off with a 1-0 win over the Corvallis Knights on Sund

Tom Field

The Family of Tom Field

Whitewater Kayaking Basics class coming to Whitman

WALLA WALLA — Whitman College's Outdoor program and Walla Walla Parks and Recreation are offering a Whitewater Kayaking Basics class June 20-24. This class will focus on teaching the basics of whitewater paddling strokes, technique, rolls and paddling gea

Parks and Rec to offer summer golf lessons

WALLA WALLA — Get into the swing of things this summer with Walla Walla Parks and Recreation golf lessons. Lessons are offered at the Veterans Memorial Golf Course, 201 E. Reese Ave.Lessons for ages 16 and over, offered on June 14-16 from 6-6:45 p.m. Cost

Death Notice - Thomas Butler

Oct. 19, 1935 - June 3, 2011

Death Notice - Donald Blair

June 4, 2011

Death Notice - Leonard Christensen

June 1, 1924 - June 5, 2011

Death Notice - Hazel Root

Aug. 1, 1915 - June 3, 2011

On the agenda - Columbia County

When: Monday, 10 a.m.Where: Commission Room, Courthouse.

On the agenda - WALLA WALLA COUNTY

When: Monday and Tuesday. Monday meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. Afternoon session begins at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday workshop begins at 9 a.m.Where: Walla Walla County Public Health and Legislative Building, 314 W. Main St.

Fire District 4 auxiliary to check bridges' strength

WALLA WALLA - Fire District 4 auxiliary will begin a survey of bridges in the district this week to make sure they can support tankers in an emergency.Three auxiliary members will be visiting bridge sites to identify spans that may not be able to support

Group to hold yard sale to raise scholarship money

WALLA WALLA - The Walla Walla Chapter BI of P.E.O. will hold a yard sale to raise money for scholarships on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the home of Bill and Marian Taylor at 786 Wauna Vista Drive.Some of the scholarships will go to nursing students

Testing set for deputy sheriff, jail officer candidates

Testing for applicants for deputy sheriff and officers at the Walla Walla County Jail will be held in Pasco beginning at 9 a.m. on June 12. This is the only testing scheduled east of the Cascades through mid-October.The written exam and physical aptitude

Chip sealing on county roads to start Wednesday

WALLA WALLA - Chip sealing season will begin this week.Walla Walla County road crews will start chip sealing roads Wednesday and will continue through the end of July. Motorists can expect delays from five to 15 minutes in work areas.

Beatty's beauty holds up in Knights' 3-2 win over Sweets

Errors are costly for Walla Walla as Corvallis builds a 3-0 lead and Max Beatty's stellar outing holds off the Sweets bats in the 3-2 victory Saturday night.

WALLA WALLA — A pair of unearned runs and three errors cost the Walla Walla Sweets the middle game of a three-game West Coast League baseball series with Corvallis Saturday night at Borleske Stadium.The Knights built a 3-0 lead after seven innings and hel

Youth Track and Field Clinic June 13-17 at Martin Field

WALLA WALLA — Whitman College cross country and track athletes and Walla Walla Parks and Recreation are offering a Track and Field Clinic June 13-17. Participants ages 4-7 will meet at 10:30-12:00 p.m. and ages 8-12 will meet from 1:00-2:30 p.m. at Marti

BDAD slated this summer for youth grades 5-12

WALLA WALLA — Blue Devil Athletic Development (BDAD) is coming this summer for boys and girls grades 5-12 Mondays through Thursdays from June 28 to Aug. 4.

DeSales' golf tournament set June 12 at Wine Valley

WALLA WALLA — DeSales' golf team tournament is set June 12th at Wine Valley Golf Course.The two-man Scramble will have teams playing three holes from the red tees, three from the white tees and three from the gold tees on each nine.

Sweet West Coast League opener for Walla Walla

The Sweets score six third-inning runs en route to the season-opening 8-0 win over Corvallis Friday.

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla put up a six spot in the third inning and got shutout pitching to send 1,742 Sweets fans home happy here Friday in the West Coast League baseball season opener.The Sweets added on to that six spot and Ryan Richardson, Daniel Jewe

Weston-McEwen to host girls basketball camp

ATHENA — Weston-McEwen is hosting a basketball camp for girls in grades 3-8.The camp is also senior Jaymie Zimmerman's senior project.

Artist turns grass into art for the Sweets

Tom Pettoello turns the grass into art for the Walla Walla Sweets.

WALLA WALLA - Somewhere between a career in the semipros and coaching high school ball, Tom Pettoello had dreams of being a big-city fashion illustrator.On Friday he illustrated the big field."I think I am the only guy in the Northwest who does this," Pet

Pilots, planes fly in to Martin Field

COLLEGE PLACE — More than 50 planes from across the Pacific Northwest took part in Martin Field's Learn To Fly Day on Saturday. The annual event is an opportunity for pilots to meet, show off their

COLLEGE PLACE - More than 50 planes from across the Pacific Northwest took part in Martin Field's Learn To Fly Day on Saturday.The annual event is an opportunity for pilots to meet, show off their planes and even put up a for-sale sign in some cases.For

Relay for Life is annual campaign

Relay for Life is the annual signature fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. It takes place in more than 5,000 communities nationwide and more than 18 countries.It begins in Walla Walla on Friday at 6 p.m. and ends Saturday at 4 p.m.

Relay touches woman's life in personal way

Glenda Thompson will walk as a cancer survivor, but she will do so in the memory of her sister-in-law.

WALLA WALLA — Glenda Thompson has always supported the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life event.Thompson, an insurance agent in her day job, has served as a Relay team captain a number of times and walked the track at Borleske

Four Walla Walla Council seats up for election

The incumbents have indicated they plan to file for re-election.

WALLA WALLA — All four City Council members whose terms expire this year said they will run for re-election, and at least one will have some competition.Council members Jerry Cummins, Dominick Elia, Fred Mitchell and Mayor Barbara Clark sa

Auditions get contestants jazzed for festival

This is the second year for the talent contest at the Muddy Frogwater Festival.

MILTON-FREEWATER — The Muddy Frogwater Festival is many things to those who attend, eating fried elephant ears and roasted corn on the cob as kids scamper everywhere.Frogs, of course, are abundant.Last year, the festival added a tal

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crimes may request through law enforcement agencies that their names not be released to the media.

Entering a new phase of life

The Walla Walla High School Class of 2011 went through commencement ceremonies Friday.

Blending of art and wine creates ‘sculpture garden'

The outdoor gallery provides a taste of art while visitors sip wine.

WALLA WALLA - The ultimate pairing of art and wine has been masterfully coordinated in an enclosed courtyard at Foundry Vineyards.On a calm warm day artist Squire Broel pushed open the towering metal gate that leads into the "sculpture garden," welcoming

SPECIAL TO THE U-B: Troops build relationships in Afghanistan

A Walla Walla native, Lt. Col. Eric Zimmerman, is now the stability transition team chief.

KUNDUZ, Afghanistan - On a red carpet lightly coated with dust, men sat slightly hunched over a wooden table wearing different, multi-patterned uniforms. One after another they squinted toward an Afghan leader presenting his daily briefing in his native l

Spirited seniors

Walla Walla wasn't all about wine over Memorial Day weekend.

ETCETERA - College Place quilter's work makes national contest semi-finals

Bordered Beyond the Block, a quilt crafted by Marlene Baerg Oddie of College Place, will be displayed in the American Quilter's Society Show & Contest July 13-16 at the Knoxville (Tenn.) Convention Center. Her quilt made the contest semi-finals, the AQS w

PASTOR COLUMN - Change offers growth in God

Quite a few years ago, as I left home to serve a church mission in Japan, I was facing more changes in a shorter space of time than I had ever experienced up to that point in my life.I was leaving home on my own for the first time, at least for an extende

$n$ CELEBRATIONS

Long-Tshappat

Walla Wallans David M. Tshappat and Ashley M. Long announce their engagement.

CHURCH BULLETIN - 06/05/11

Martie Quistberg to speak at Unity Church of PeaceWALLA WALLA - Unity Church of Peace, 810 C. St., will present Martie Quistberg, speaking on "A Quiet Man Named Carl," at 10 a.m. today. Call 509-520-1915 for information.Church of God, Seventh Day, will pl

SENIOR CENTERS - 06/05/11

Activities and weekly lunch menus at area senior centers

Activities and weekly lunch menus at area senior centersActivities offered daily at The Center at the Park, 720 Sprague Ave., include pool and cards from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. A complete listing of current center activities, classes and health and welfare prog

Student's success in addressing real-life problems is an inspiration

A high school student figured out a way to boost wheat yields using diaper material.

School - from kindergarten through college - is ultimately about teaching students to live full, productive lives. That is often done best when students are given challenges that focus on addressing real-life concerns.However, doing so can be very time co

OUR READERS' OPINIONS - 06/05/11

WW not big enough for two high schoolsThe community is being asked to give input on a proposal I have studied and support to remodel/expand Walla Walla High School. People have recently written asking about having two comprehensive high schools or suggest

Rachel Hinchliffe-Hara

July 2, 1972 - June 3, 2011

Ryann Hiscock

Nov. 4, 2009 - May 29, 2011

Death Notice - Louise Getchell

July 31, 1927 - June 3, 2011

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Each person is someone's loved one

I am writing to praise Julia D. Leavitt for her letter in Sunday's paper. Her letter serves to remind us that most of us love someone who has made at least one bad choice.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Columnist wrong about foul language by police

I have never before felt so compelled to respond to a column on the editorial page as I am to Seattle Times columnist Danny Westneat's commentary on the disciplining of Seattle police officers for their use of unprofessional and foul language.

Play ball! The Sweets are back in action

Borleske Stadium will be alive tonight as the Sweets begin their second season.

It's opening day for the Walla Walla Sweets!

Superior Court - JUVENILE CASES

Brandon K. May, 16, 610 Sprague St., was sentenced May 27 on one count contempt-truancy.

Superior Court - DISSOLUTIONS

Keith and Cassi Pommerening.

HEALTH & FITNESS - Pluses seen in going meatless

When I was beginning to follow a vegetarian diet in the early 1940s, it wasn't considered a very smart way to eat. I was told that some folks called vegetarians "peanut eaters."

In the minutes - Garfield County Public Hospital District

Garfield County Public Hospital District commissioners are Roger Dumbeck, Jenness Evanson, Jim Maves, Pat Richardson, and Vonni Mulroney. With all present Wednesday the board:

Feature this: Summer nights with films al fresco

Summertime in Walla Walla: Sunscreen by day, movie screens at night. A couple of local businesses are planning big-screen events under the stars.

Clock running for Inland Octopus appeal

A formal judgment against the mural was filed this week in Superior Court.

WALLA WALLA -- A formal judgment has been filed in Walla Walla County Superior Court denying an attempt by Inland Octopus owner Bob Catsiff to keep his giant octopus mural.

Storm drops nearly a June's worth of rain in a day

Thursday's total of 1.14 inches was just a smidgen below the typical total for the month.

WALLA WALLA -- June has made a real splash so far.

State budget preserves prison funding

The funds will be used to build new housing units and expand kitchen facilities.

WALLA WALLA -- About $42.5 million for new facilities at Washington State Penitentiary are in the operating budget the state Legislature passed last month.

Volunteers sought for Mill Creek trail work

WALLA WALLA -- Volunteers are being sought for repair work Saturday on the Whitetail Trail new Mill Creek Storage Dam.

Emergency Services - 06/03/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Pioneer Picnic kicks off today in Weston

The fun continues all day Saturday and includes a parade, contests and food.

WESTON -- Coronation of the 2011 Pioneer Picnic Queen, introduction of the parade grand marshal, and annual meeting of the Weston Pioneer Association will kick off the 119th annual Pioneer Picnic beginning at 6 p.m. in the Weston Memorial Hall.

Tickets on sale for upcoming circus in Dayton

DAYTON -- Advance tickets are now on sale for the Carson & Barnes Circus, scheduled for two shows here June 30.

Naked truth: Shutting blinds easier than arguing details

Dear John, I like to walk around my house naked. Recently, I was having breakfast at the same time the neighbor behind me was mowing his lawn. I could see him seeing me. We kinda joked about it the next day when I was (clothed) out back gardening. Howeve

Program 'a foundation for everything'

AVID helps underserved students lay the groundwork for success.

WALLA WALLA -- Advancement Via Individual Determination is a federal program that seeks to reach and support underserved students who have the potential to reach and succeed in college.

For Wa-Hi AVID students, no bridge is too far

For Jose Beleche and Janella Bermudez, the journey is just beginning.

WALLA WALLA -- The strum of a ukulele flows from the speakers of the Walla Walla High School commons, as Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of "Over the Rainbow" begins to play.

Death Notice - Sylvia Douglas

Aug. 20, 1919 - June 3, 2011

Sweets open WCL season with Corvallis tonight

The experienced Corvallis Knights have won four straight West Division titles.

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Sweets West Coast League collegiate baseball is back and the second season kicks off at 7:05 p.m. today when the Sweets host the Corvallis Knights at Borleske Stadium.Opening Night begins a three-game weekend series between the S

YMCA to host several summer sports camps

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla YMCA is having a number of sports camps this summer.Pro instructors at the Walla Walla Country Club will be teaching a tennis camp, which will run from June 13-24 for ages 4-18 at 8, 9 or 10 a.m.Equipment will be provided, fee is

Wa-Hi's Davisson, Glaeser recognized for contributions

WALLA WALLA — Two Wa-Hi athletes won the National Electrical Contractors Association and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers NECA/IBEW Columbia Basin Big Nine Award after the spring season.Track standout Kailee Davisson and soccer goal kee

12U Xplosion wins third place in softball tourney

WENATCHEE — The 12U Xplosion softball team took home the third-place trophy in the Silver Bracket at the Wenatchee Sterling Invitational last weekend.The Xplosion opened Saturday pool play with a 12-3 win over the Crushers Combat, then took a 2-0 loss aga

WWCC, Whits host Hoopstars for girls basketball players

WALLA WALLA — Hoopstars Basketball Camp 2011 is coming to Walla Walla Community College's Dietrich Dome July 25-28.Girls entering grades 2-6 will have camp from 9 a.m. to noon, grades 7-12 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.It is $60 if postmarked by July 15, $70 after tha

New group to explore renewable energy industry

WALLA WALLA -- A new economic development partnership will explore whether the area's renewable energy industry has the power to bring ancillary businesses and jobs to the Valley.

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT ?: June 2011

Renovations at the new location of LeFore's Skin Care & Health Spa, 2 E. Poplar St.

According to Manager Vikki Foxe, the multi-phase project is really upgrading the building inside and out.

Phone apps designed with wine country in mind

WALLA WALLA -- A couple of new smartphone applications released recently were designed with Walla Walla wine country visitors in mind.

Advisor compensation comes in different forms

Financial advisor compensation is a topic with many opinions. In our investment practice we do not use the same compensation arrangements with every client because there is not a one-size-fits-all method.

Fitting new home for Key Tech's customer center

WALLA WALLA -- It seems fitting that the 31,500-square-foot home of Key Technology's new customer visitor center got its start as a furniture store.

Andy's Market founder Anderson dies at age 81

Walter M. Anderson, the founder of Andy's Market who grew a one-time corner store into a College Place destination for health-conscious consumers, has died.

Waiting on the Weather

From onions to asparagus, winter's late grasp has slowed growth of area produce.

A cold winter started early and held on for all it was worth this year. And weather, good or bad, affects agriculture, but sometimes you just have to wait and hope for the best.

Anonymous donor another example of Valley's generosity

The donor gave $7,000 to cover a shortfall in funds to keep Helpline helping those in need.

The recession that hit the nation a couple years back seems to have settled in like the February fog. Sure, we know it's going to lift, but when?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - How about a handout for WW?

Hey! Let's forget the entry ports for Walla Walla.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - 'Zoot Suit' at WWCC is wonderful!

Heartfelt congratulations to the directors and cast of Zoot Suit at WWCC. Written for the stage by Luiz Valdez, the play was originally performed on Broadway (the first Chicano play performed there) in 1979.

In the minutes - DAYTON SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Dayton School Board are Steve Martin, Marchand Hovrud, Tamara Fritze, Joe Huether and David Bailey. With all present Wednesday:

Tickets remain for Friends of NRA banquet, auction

WALLA WALLA -- Tickets remain available for the annual fundraiser banquet and auction hosted by the Walla Walla Valley Committee of the Friends of the NRA, according to its current presiding official. The event starts at 5 p.m. on June 10.

Etcetera - 06/02/11

In preparation for the big shift this fall, students and staffers at Central Middle School hosted Milton-Freewater School District fifth graders for a tour and lunch in May.

School, theater open path to brighter future for Lincoln senior

For Lincoln High senior Reyn Hodgson, theater -- and his soon-to-be alma mater -- has opened a path to a brighter future.

Reyn Hodgson has played a small town bad boy. He personified a trickster spider from African folklore living in modern, urban times. And for his latest theatrical venture, Hodgson will be "One of the Nicest Kids in Town," dancing and singing in "Hairspray

Emergency Services - 06/02/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

Superior Court - CRIMINAL CASES

Alejandro Morales, 23, 815 N. Ninth Ave., was charged May 27 with three counts of violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

College Place airfield to host Learn to Fly day

Lessons in powered aircraft as well as gliders will be on offer for a fee.

COLLEGE PLACE -- A local airfield will host a "Learn to Fly" day Saturday with aircraft displays, introductory lessons and a free seminar on how to become a pilot.

Piece of Walla Walla history on the block

Chief Smoke, who stood at Lutcher's Cigar Store for 90 years, is up for sale.

WALLA WALLA -- Chief Smoke, the cigar store Indian statue that greeted customers for nine decades at Lutcher's Cigar Store and became a symbol of local history, will cross the auction block this weekend.

Burbank man charged in marijuana grow

Timothy G. Casey is charged with manufacturing drugs on his Burbank property.

WALLA WALLA -- Formal charges were filed Wednesday afternoon in Superior Court against a Burbank man suspected of growing marijuana on his property.

Local mega open house slated for this weekend

The doors to more than 80 Walla Walla area homes will be open to the public this weekend as part of a mega open house event taking place all over the country.

Walla Walla High School graduation to be broadcast online

WALLA WALLA -- Family and friends far and near will get a chance to see the class of 2011 graduate from Walla Walla High School Friday night thanks to a new online feature.

Walla Walla County to share in tax cash from nuclear plant

A productive year for the nuclear power plant near Richland means more money for Mid-Columbia governments.

Rebuild of section of Reser Road nears start

WALLA WALLA -- A major rebuild of a section of Reser Road is getting close to starting.

All About Nutrition opens at Many Waters Wellness Center

A new business has opened at the Many Waters Wellness Center, 800 Sprague Ave. Owned by registered dietitian Diane Benfield, All About Nutrition opened in mid-April.

It's almost time to Sweeten up summer

The Walla Walla Sweets begin their second season Friday night, hosting the Corvallis Knights at 7:05 p.m.

WALLA WALLA — On a cool Wednesday afternoon, Borleske Stadium was all but empty.A few young men practiced their batting and fielding, but the 85-year-old blue stands stood silent, waiting. Only a few diehards milled around them on Wednesday's media day an

Weston-McEwen hosts kids volleyball camp

ATHENA — Weston-McEwen's varsity volleyball team is hosting a volleyball camp for ages 5-14.The camp is June 13-16, with both boys and girls ages 5-10 rom 8-9:30 a.m. and girls ages 11-14 from 10-noon.It is part of Morgan Entze's senior project.The camp i

Marguerite Ballard

Sept. 5, 1924 - May 29, 2011

Janice Lewis

Oct. 17, 1942 - March 23, 2011

Penelope Rodighiero

Oct. 18, 1940 – May 31, 2011

Burbank pot bust shows problems with medical marijuana law

The voter-approved law isn't working. A federal law to better regulate medical marijuana is needed.

The recent raid on what appears to be a marijuana growing and selling operation in western Walla Walla County brings home -- literally -- the point we have been making for years about Washington's voter-approved medical marijuana law.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - 'Zoot Suit' is play worth seeing

It's spring and time for the final production from the Walla Walla Community College theater department. It's "Zoot Suit", a play by El Teatro Campesino founder and playwright, Luiz Valdez.

A SEASON OF CONTRASTS

With spring continuing to show itself as a season of contrasts, a bicyclist moves down a patch of sunlight along Cottonwood Road late Tuesday afternoon while behind him the Blue Mountains loom large in a shroud of darkness from the shade of gathering clouds.

Whitman names new chief information officer

WALLA WALLA -- Dan Terrio, currently chief technology officer for Lewis & Clark College in Portland, has been appointed Whitman's new chief information officer, effective July 18. He replaces Keiko Pitter, who retires June 30 after 13 years at Whitman.

Milton-Freewater School Board budget panel cancels Thursday meeting

MILTON-FREEWATER --The Milton-Freewater School Board Budget Committee has cancelled a budget meeting tentatively scheduled for Thursday evening.

Trial date set for man in Walla Walla meth case

But although Clifford E. Chew was in court Tuesday, the manager of the motel, who also has been charged, missed the date.

WALLA WALLA -- A man charged with operating a large methamphetamine lab at the Walla Walla Vineyard Inn pleaded innocent Tuesday afternoon in Walla Walla County Superior Court.

Emergency Services - 06/01/11

Information is compiled by the Union-Bulletin staff from the official logs and records of the agencies listed below. Readers with any information on these or other crimes should call the local police or county sheriff's department. By law, victims of crim

In the minutes - GARFIELD COUNTY

Garfield County Commissioners are Dean Burton, Wynne McCabe and Robert Johnson. With all present Monday and Burton absent May 23 commissioners:

In the minutes - WW County

Walla Walla County commissioners are Perry Dozier, Gregg Loney and Greg Tompkins. With all present Tuesday, the board voted as follows:

Chase, gun convictions net man nearly six years in prison

Elliott W. Barnes will undergo a long term in community custody, too.

WALLA WALLA -- A man who pleaded guilty to leading law enforcement officers on two vehicle pursuits in past months and having a stolen handgun was handed a nearly six-year prison term Tuesday afternoon.

Etcetera - 06/01/11

Casey Richard Worth, Walla Walla, graduated cum laude with a bachelor of science degree from Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Mont.

Geneva Smith-Roberts

May 13, 1922 – May 27, 2011

Death Notice - Charles Abraham

June 1, 2011

Death Notice - Marilyn Waggy

March 12, 1923 - May 31, 2011

Death Notice - Muriel Fairchild

Nov. 12, 1934 - May 26, 2011

Death Notice - Virgil Durand Jr.

July 26, 1930 - May 23, 2011

Erma Patterson

Feb. 2, 1924 - May 29, 2011

Karen E. Brinkman

Aug. 20, 1956 - May 4, 2011

Rabbits make quick distraction in Malheur Wildlife Refuge

Editor's Note: This is Part 2 of a three-part series from the Malheur Wildlife Refuge and other sites in Harney County, Ore. Part 3 will appear here on June 8.BURNS, Ore. — Darlene saw the jackrabbit at the Buena Vista Overlook turnoff and pointed.As I sw

Trilogy sponsors Run for Recovery

This Sunday's walk/run is the first event of its kind for the fledgling nonprofit Trilogy Recovery Community.

Run for RecoveryTrilogy's first Run for Recovery, a four-mile walk/run for all community members to benefit the Trilogy Recovery Community, a center for youth addicts.8:30 a.m.Sunday, June 5Rooks Park$20 to participateWALLA WALLA — Runners, walkers, amble

Ellis, Matson win Men's Best-Ball at Wine Valley

Nick Ellis, from East Wenatchee, and Rob Matson, from Wenatchee, win the tournament by three strokes.

WALLA WALLA — Nick Ellis of East Wenatchee and Rob Matson of Wenatchee pulled away from the field to win the 55th Annual Washington State Men's Best-Ball Championship at Wine Valley Golf Club in Walla Walla.Kirk Galbraith and Chris Indall, both of Richlan

Walla Walla

Thursday, June 30

Walla Walla Community College will present its summer musical, 'Hairspray,'Thursday through July 23.

Secretary of State Reed is calling it a career when his term ends in 18 months.

The historic building got a $1.7 million makeover from top to bottom.

'Whether or not you do the annexation, to survive you need a consolidated model,' a consultant said.

A consultant found that while the Rural Library District takes about $40 per person, the city takes an amount in the $20s.

Police Guild manages to snarl it up in the third inning, but Exchange pulls away for the 15-3 victory.

Wednesday, June 29

An unusual number of hikers are encountered along the South Fork Walla Walla River Trail.

A spill from a commercial truck stunk up the town Tuesday afternoon.

A deal between Columbia REA and the Port would put the electric co-op on Melrose Street.

And remember, high-flying, loud fireworks are not legal in the city of Walla Walla.

Walla Walla ends an eight-game losing streak in 10 innings with a 6-2 win against Kelowna Tuesday.

Tuesday, June 28

The report's recommendation to impose a property tax to fund the library services is not likely to be embraced by city residents.

Christian Lebon Ruiz died Saturday after a pellet gun accident, an official said.

A Burbank-area writer serves up origins of 'the perfect burger' in his debut book.

A container detonated by law enforcement officials in Walla Walla turned out to be a big can of legumes.

Phillip S. Ingram pleaded guilty Monday to charges related to crimes New Year's Day.

Larry R. Mackler faces 6 1/2 to 8 1/2 years in prison but may receive an alternative sentence involving treatment.

Exchange Club downs Walla Walla Transmission, 9-4, and Police Guild handles Banner Bank, 14-6, in the All-City semifinals.

Monday, June 27

We would have liked President Obama to bring troops home at a faster pace.

A recreational program at the Farm Labor Homes teaches parents to carry out science lessons with their children.

Walla Walla outhits Kirkland, but five errors lead the Merchants past the Bruins for the championship Sunday.