As of June first, the Cities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, in conjunction with the Ports of Benton, Kennewick, and Pasco have nearly completed installing thirteen kiosk maps along the Sacagawea Heritage Trail.

Each of the kiosk maps are location-specific so trail users can determine their exact location along the 23-miles of paved pedestrian trail and the distance to the next trailhead. An aerial photograph of the location where they are standing are on each of the kiosk maps as well.

“We are so fortunate to have such a valuable resource within our community. The Sacagawea Heritage Trail is unique in that it allows local residents and visitors access to our shorelines, where they can walk, run, bike, or rollerblade along the Columbia River and throughout all three cities. The installation of the kiosks is a key component in making the experience more user friendly,” stated Kris Watkins, President and CEO of the Tri-Cities Visitor & Convention Bureau. “We greatly appreciate the corporate sponsors who have stepped forward to provide financial support of the kiosk maps. Without their support, we would not have been able to incorporate this important amenity to our trail.” Continue reading this post…

Because the Tri-Cities Washington real estate market has seen such growth over the past few years, the result has been an interesting mix of available homes for sale in one of the most beautiful places in Washington. However, that can be both a blessing and a curse for those that have made the decision to buy a new home but are then faced with the prospect of picking one out from the vast stock of great houses on the market at any given time.

On April 24, the Capitol Theatre in Yakima will present the only people in Washington, D.C., who are actually funnier than the politicians. “The Capitol Steps” will perform one night only at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Pantages-style theatre that is considered the jewel of Central Washington.

By targeting the funny, silly, crazy and bizarre antics of politicians, “The Capitol Steps” never runs short of material. The ever-evolving repertoire of this comedy troupe jabs at the headlines and pokes at the politicians through lively lyrics set to familiar tunes.

These satirists and former congressional staffers travel the country lampooning the very people and places that once employed them. Most cast members have worked on Capitol Hill - some for Democrats, some for Republicans, and others for politicians who firmly straddle the fence.

No matter who holds office, there’s never a shortage of material. “Typically the Republicans goof up and the Democrats party, then the Democrats goof up and the Republicans party. That’s what we call the two-party system,” says Elaina Newport, a founding member of the cast.

“The Capitol Steps” was born in 1981 when three staffers for Senator Charles Percy were asked to provide entertainment for a Senate Christmas party. Ronald Reagan was president, so Newport and co-founders Bill Strauss and Jim Aidala figured that if entertainers could become politicians, then politicians could become entertainers!

Their first idea was to stage a nativity play, but they said they couldn’t find three wise men in Congress. So they drew their material from headlines and hot topics of the day, creating new lyrics for familiar tunes. What emerged was a special brand of satirical humor that played as well in Peoria as it did on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Over the past two decades of lampooning the Bush family, Bill Clinton, Martha Stewart, Saddam Hussein and Enron executives - not to mention the entire Congress - “The Capitol Steps” has enjoyed ever-larger audiences.

Although the troupe is based in the nation’s capital, 90 percent of the performances are for out-of-town audiences. People across the country love to laugh at the foibles of public figures.

With the musical number “A Leader Like Barack” (to the tune of “The Leader of the Pack”), you’ll laugh at the Democrats’ current infatuation with Barack Obama. The conservative opinions of Ann Coulter are lampooned in “Loonies of the Right.” And on the international side, President Bush and the Prime Minister of Japan reconcile their differences in the touching number, “Stand By Japan.”

No matter who’s in the headlines, “The Capitol Steps” cast members are equal-opportunity offenders, and no issue is left untouched. It seems that even the politicians have a sense of humor about it, as about the only complaints the cast receives are from politicians and personalities who are not included in the program!

Thanks to the fact that the cast has ignored the conventional wisdom (”Don’t quit your day job!”) for the past 25 years, they’ve been able to record 27 albums, including their latest, “Springtime For Liberals.” They’ve been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard four times a year on National Public Radio’s “Politics Takes a Holiday” specials.

As humorist P.J. O’Rouke said, “The Capitol Steps is what Washington would be if everyone were funnier and could sing.”

For tickets to the April 24 performance, call (509) 853-ARTS or, toll-free, (877).330-ARTS. You can also order tickets online at www.capitoltheatre.org. Article Source Attribution

Our local newspaper reports, “Tri-City educators are working hard to ensure students are meeting and exceeding learning standards and are prepared for life beyond high school. That’s what the Kennewick, Pasco and Richland school superintendents said Wednesday during the annual Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce State of Education address in Richland.” Kudos for the education system in place for Tri Cities Washington students. Certainly the reason why our community stands above the rest.

However, apparently spelling is not high on the list for some. A local school announcing a WASL celebrtaion, er, celebration:

Tri Cities Wa sports has seen a year like no other. Congratulations to the Tri-City Americans players and staff for the most amazing season in franchise history. They amassed 52 wins, 108 points and most importantly for the fans their first U.S. Division title. The Ams also captured the prestigious Scotty Munro trophy for the best record in the Western Hockey League as a whole.

Along with that award the Ams earn home ice throughout the playoffs. Just a few short years ago we almost lost this team. In fact, not too long ago Americans co-owner and general manager Bob Tory told me there was a window as small as a half an hour to keep the team here. Thanks to Bob, Olie Kolzig, Stu Barnes and Dennis Lohman, along with the efforts of our U.S. Division rivals/friends, the team stayed and now we have a Division title to celebrate.

We have never seen a 12-month period like this in the Tri-Cities. The Fever made the playoffs last summer, the Dust Devils won their first East Division title and played in the Northwest League Championship Series, and now the Americans have won their Division and hold home ice through the playoffs. Enjoy the success sports fans, you are in rarified air.

Here’s to the Tri-Cities Fever in their continued pursuit of excellence. In the team’s three years of existence we have been blessed with three playoff appearances and one championship. The Fever will look to continue that streak behind new head coach Cedric Walker and returning star wide receiver J.R. Thomas and one of the gutsiest guys I’ve seen on that field and a big spark plug for last year’s squad, Emery Beckles. Source

The Les Schwab Classy Chassis Parade in East Wenatchee has become a family favorite during the Apple Blossom weekend, so you’ll want to claim your spot on the parade route early for this 6:30 p.m. event on Friday, May 2. Then just sit back to enjoy the view and you’ll see everything from old to new cars, including the customary “classy chassis,” race cars, motorcycles, tractors and even apple bin racers!

Then, if you want to get a closer look, the car show is the place to be on Saturday, May 3, in Eastmont Community Park at the corner of Grant Road and Georgia Street. Activities begin with check-in at 10 a.m., and the festivities will be in full swing by noon. In addition to good food and great music, you won’t want to miss the Apple Bin Races at 2 pm or the awards ceremony at 4.

Pre-registration for participants is strongly encouraged and appreciated, but on-site registration will be allowed. To register, or for more information, call the East Wenatchee Events Board at (509) 886-6108 or visit www.east-wenatchee.com/classychassis. Source

Tri Cities Washington Crime Stoppers and the Lions Club are at it again. Fighting crime and providing a public service. The above poster is their latest work in providing the public information as a deterrent to crime. The poster is being distributed around our communities in the next several days and weeks to come. Apparently, the efforts of Tri Cities’ finest are working, as the Tri City Herald reports lower crime rates from the previous year. The Herald reports Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco being the safest cities in the State of Washington to live in.

A safe community. That is why Colleen and I enjoy providing real estate services to the community. Good job TriCitiesCrimeStoppers, and other Tri Cities peace officers, - keep up the great work!

In the recent newsletter from Washington REALTORS®, this article caught my attention regarding multi-cultural clients. Knowing the unique needs of our multi-cultural country is critical in keeping with the competition. I’ve included the introduction to the article, as well as the link to the entire article:

“Over 60% of all homebuyers in America today are minorities according to the National Association of REALTORS®. There are over one million people from overseas coming into the United States every year and they all want to show friends and family they are successful by buying an American home. In addition, there are 80 million multicultural Americans already here. As a result, minorities are currently one-third of the population and by 2038 will be half. This is a huge market for real estate agents all across the country, if you know how to meet the unique needs of the fastest-growing group of homebuyers…[more Multi-Cultural Clients]“

The City of Richland reminds dog owners of their responsibility to pick up after their dogs.  Residents are encouraged to carry their own bags, pick up and safely deposit dog droppings in garbage receptacles.  The City has placed courtesy bag stands in parks and along bike paths to aid in the prompt removal of droppings.

Under the City code, title 7, “It is unlawful for any owner to permit any dog, cat or other animal to deposit fecal matter on any property not that of his owner, and the same is declared to be a nuisance.”  Responsible pet owners help keep our parks and community healthier, which improves the quality of life for those enjoying the outdoors.

A monthly bulletin that highlights local and nationwide environmental issues is being produced and offered to the public by the City of Richland’s Environmental Education Office.  This month’s short, easy to read bulletin includes information on Benton Conservation District’s Weedseeker project, event recycling, donating garden produce to food banks, mosquito control information, bottled water facts and hikes offered by the Intermountain Alpine Club. In addition, it promotes a monthly environmental segment that airs on cable television.

The newsletter is available via email, on the city’s website, or as a handout at City Hall and the Richland Public Library. Previously, Richland’s Environmental Education Office provided “Environmental Tips” each month to employees and a small number of recipients.  Over the years, the distribution list has increased and was recently reformatted and titled, Environmental Update. For more information, log onto www.ci.richland.wa.us/richland/enviro, link to current news.  To subscribe to the bulletin, send an email to geverett@ci.richland.wa.us or call 942-7730.  

Gail Everett, Environmental Education Coordinator | Public Information Office - City of Richland | www.ci.richland.wa.us/RICHLAND/enviro | P.O. Box 190; Richland WA; 99352 | 509-942-7730

“Live your life through conviction - not convenience”

Tri City Herald reports:

“The Port of Pasco may soon be able to attract private investments to develop its riverfront properties. A provision introduced by Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., in the 2007 Water Resources Development Act exempts certain parcels of the Columbia River shore from potentially being flooded by the Army Corps of Engineers.

The bill has passed the House. The Senate is expected to pass it soon without any changes, said Jessica Gleason, Hastings’ spokeswoman. The bill also includes Hastings’ recommendation to allow the Port of Sunnyside to get credit from the Corps for the funds the port invested in developing wetlands on the Yakima River.

The Water Resources Development Act is a biennial piece of legislation to help the Corps study and plan water projects and implement policy changes…[more]“

The 9th Annual Blue Mountain Council Boy Scouts of America Golf Tournament, sponsored by CH2MHill Hanford Group, will be held Monday, August 27, 2007 at Meadow Springs Country Club in Richland, Washington.

This annual fund raising event directly benefits the Blue Mountain Council’s Scoutreach program, aimed at serving rural youth who might not otherwise have access to Scouting. The tournament also honors the memories of Distinguished Eagle Scout Sam Volpentest and former Council President Martin J. Wistisen for their unmatched service to our communities. Both had a great interest in serving rural youth with quality Scouting programs.

The Blue Mountain Council proudly serves nearly 10,000 youth, adults, and families in Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, and Columbia Counties in Washington and Baker, Umatilla, Wallowa, Grant, Union, Wheeler, Gilliam, and Morrow Counties in Oregon, providing a foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training.

This annual golf tournament offers opportunities for sponsorship and an afternoon of fun and fellowship for those who enjoy a game of golf. The tournament starts at 1:00 p.m. with a shotgun scramble start followed by dinner for participants and awards.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to register a team, contact the Council Service Center at 509-735-7306 or email lkmiller@bsamail.org.

Kennewick is in full swing with the yearly hydroplane racing event. Tri-Cities Washington stops for the Columbia Cup in Kennewick. Lots of news from the Tri-City Herald regarding the Water Follies. See our Kennewick Water Follies page for more information and resources.

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Seattle Seahawks, is proud to host the 4th Annual “Tri-Cities Day with the Seattle Seahawks” on Sunday, September 9, 2007. Ticket sales begin Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 8:00 am for the season opener versus the Tampa Buccaneers.

Due to the incredible 2005-2006 season and winning the NFC Championship title, Seahawk season ticket sales have skyrocketed. The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce has only 296 tickets to be sold for this opening home game. They will be sold on a first come basis.

Ticket prices are $50.00, which includes a commemorative t-shirt. The ticket order form is attached and also available on the Chamber website at the Chamber offices. Completed forms may be faxed to 509.783.1733 or delivered to 3180 W. Clearwater, Suite F, Kennewick or 710-A George Washington Way, Richland.

Join CREHST for a big screen showing of the City of Richland’s Newest CityView Cable Channel 13 production, “Atomic Fortress B-Reactor and Its Legacy.”   Director and producer Michael Charboneau will provide an inside look at the process of documenting the world’s first plutonium producing reactor.  Atomic Fortress offers an historical look at how Hanford’s B-reactor changed the history of Richland and the world.  Recollections from retired Hanford workers and historians provide “hands-on” descriptions of life at the world’s first nuclear reactor.

Mattawa, Washington ~ After a two-year absence, Mattawa Community Days will make a return on Saturday, August 25. The all-day event will be a time for the community to come together and celebrate everything that makes Mattawa great!

Morris Schott Middle School Social Studies teacher Andrew Harlow is co-director of the event.  “We were initially looking in to having a booth at Community Days to help raise money for our student trip to Washington, D.C. & New York next summer.  When we found out Community Days wasn’t happening, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to bring back this outstanding event.”
Community Days will kick off at 6:45 a.m. with a non-denominational prayer at the Hund Park and conclude with the Community Days Harvest Dance at the Desert Aire Senior Center (starting at 7:00 p.m.).  Most of the events will take place in Hund Park and will include a community breakfast, a 10K and 1-mile run, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament; a 5-on-5 indoor soccer tournament; community parade; pie-baking, salsa making, chili baking, and hot dog-eating contests; classic car show, bingo game, a variety of food venues, rock wall, carnival games, and live music and entertainment throughout the entire day.

“It has been so exciting, as we go through the process of planning Community Days, to see people’s willingness to help, their incredible generosity, and the wide variety of talents and interests that exist in the area,” Harlow explains.  “I think people will go away from the day with an outstanding time and a better sense of community.”

To find out more information about Community Days, or one of the many events, you can contact Andrew Harlow at (509) 831-7529 or Keith Edie at (509) 830-8519.

AWC join the REALTORS® in their concern that the lack of affordable housing is a barrier to our quality of life. Because “housing was a major topic in the 2007 session” (and “likely to be addressed by the Legislature over the next few years”), AWC will conduct a workshop at their Annual Conference this week to provide input into housing policy needs for the 2008 legislative session and glean ideas for enhancing affordability at the local level. REALTORS® will serve on the panel of speakers with Representative Larry Springer (45th District), and representatives from Futurewise and the Cascade Land Conservancy.

The Tri-City Dust Devils are pleased to announce the addition of Mike Boyle as the new Voice of the Dust Devils for the 2007 season.  Boyle comes to the Dust Devils from Spokane, where he is a sports anchor and reporter for KREM TV and covers prep sports for the Spokesman-Review.  He has also served as the radio voice for the Spokane Chiefs hockey team since 2002. “It’s an absolute thrill to be calling Dust Devils games this summer,” says Boyle.  “Calling baseball full-time is a dream come true.” All 76 Dust Devils games will be broadcast on ESPN 960 (formerly KJOX).  Games can also be heard live at www.dustdevilsbaseball.com.

Former Dust Devils radio broadcaster Tom Barket has accepted the position of Sports Director for ESPN 1280 in San Luis Obispo, where he will be the radio voice for the Cal Poly baseball, men’s basketball, and football teams.“My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our time in the Tri-Cities, and we’re going to miss it a ton” says Barket. The Dust Devils open the 2007 season at Vancouver on June 19th before returning to the Tri-Cities for the home opener versus Everett on the 24th.  Opening Night festivities include a magnet schedule giveaway courtesy of Gesa Credit Union and post-game fireworks presented by Connell Oil.  Individual game tickets for Opening Night and the rest of the season are on sale now and can be ordered by phone, online at www.dustdevilsbaseball.com, at the stadium box office, and at all TicketsWest locations. Season tickets, mini-plans, and group tickets are also on sale at the box office, by phone, and online. 

Within each home there are private, service and communal living spaces. Use some drawing paper to map out a flowchart that interconnects rooms that are related in these rooms when considering a home purchase. The kitchen and dining area are often near each other as they both function to provide sustenance. However, people tend to keep bedrooms away form service areas due to their tendency to have higher noise levels. Who wants a bedroom next to a pool area?

On your diagram list the activities that you and your family engage in regularly. This will give you an idea of the ambiance to give to your home that will reflect your lifestyle and values; for example, vibrant and open or secluded and peaceful. Now for each room in your flowchart repeat the process to determine the best atmosphere that reflects that space in relation to your family’s needs and values.

It is important that the diagram and suggestions be inclusive of all family members in order for it to “fit”. Be as creative as you like and then edit back, some of those whacky-off-the-wall ideas can lead to inspiring innovations that can become a distinctive feature for your family home. Remember, this is your home – enjoy making it so.

CREHST Museum is partnering with Columbia Kayak Adventures to offer the chance of a lifetime. Join us for a full day guided kayak tour of the Hanford Reach.

Enjoy the serene beauty of the Hanford Reach, the last free flowing stretch of the Columbia River. Witness the 300-foot tall white bluffs surrounded by shrub-steppe habitat. Learn the history of our Native Americans and pioneers and how the Hanford Nuclear Reservation changed their lives, and the world, forever.

No prior experience is needed and all equipment will be provided. Pre-registration is required. | Date: Saturday June11th, 2007 | Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Location: Hanford Reach, meeting place TBA | Fee: $109.00 per person | For more information, call 943-9000

During April’s Mid-Columbia Earth Month and Community Clean-up, 1,750 volunteers and 66 teams completed a total of 156 beautification projects. 107 projects in Richland, (71 were storm drains that were stenciled with information regarding the importance of keeping our storm drains clean.) 20 in Kennewick, 9 in Connell, 8 in Benton City, 5 in Pasco, 2 in West Richland, 2 in Finley, 1 in Benton County, 1 in Kahlotus and 1 in Prosser. The public was invited to attend 60 earth related activities and 421 cell phones were collected at area libraries and given to Domestic Violence Services of Benton and Franklin counties.

The winner of Tapteal Greenway’s Conservationist of the Year was Andy Plymale. Andy has been a long-time volunteer for Tapteal Greenway and a highly successful fundraiser. Reuse-A-Shoe contest brought in 540 pairs of used athletic shoes from 13 area schools with Badger Mountain Elementary receiving first place with 155 pairs. The winner of the Aluminum Can Contest was Marcus Whitman Elementary School who collected 400 pounds of cans. A total of 715 pounds of aluminum were recycled during the school contest.

In March, Sharefest Organizers completed 121 yard projects, previously done by Earth Month volunteers.

A more detailed report is available on http://www.earthmonthmc.org/ and a slideshow will be complete in mid-June. Gail Everett, Environmental Education Coordinator, Public Information Office - City of Richland

Tri-City Dust Devils individual game tickets will be going on sale Friday, June 1st, at 9 a.m.  Tickets can be purchased at the stadium box office, by phone at (509) 544-8789, online at http://www.dustdevilsbaseball.com/, or at any TicketsWest outlet.  TicketsWest outlets in the Tri-Cities can be found at the Red Lion Hotels in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland.

Opening Night at Dust Devils Stadium will be June 24th at 7:15 versus the Seattle Mariners-affiliate Everett AquaSox. The festivities will include a magnet schedule giveaway courtesy of Gesa Credit Union and a post-game fireworks show presented by Connell Oil.  A large crowd is expected, so fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. 

Opening Night will also feature the debut of the $1.3 million sun shade, which will put every seat in the shade at game time and reduce temperatures by up to 20 degrees.

In addition, through advance ticket package sales, lower box seats are sold out for the 18 nights that are included in Dust Devils mini plans, such as Opening Night and the six other Fireworks Nights.  With fewer seats available to walkup fans, purchasing tickets prior to the day of the game will be even more important in 2007.

“With the new sun shade and record crowds, we are looking forward to another fun and exciting summer of Dust Devils Baseball,” says President/General Manager Brent Miles.  “The 2007 season will indeed be ‘Cooler than Ever!’”

Ticket prices remain unchanged from 2006 and are as follows: $9 for lower box, $6 for upper reserved, and $5 for general admission.  Also, general admission tickets for seniors, children 12 and under, and military are $4.

The Dust Devils open the 2007 season at Vancouver on June 19th before returning home on the 24th.  Season tickets, mini-plans, and group tickets are still on sale at the box office, by phone, and online.  Plans start at just $30.

2007 Dust Devils Baseball…”Cooler than Ever!”

For all those parents or other adults living in the region of Richland Wa Real Estate, or are already residents in this fabulous area, take not that an opportunity exists for you to contribute time and skills as a youth basketball coach.

The City of Richland youth basketball program ha put out the call for potential coaches in the Tri-City area. During the week there is one practice session, and on average, there is one game a week.  Grades 2-3, 4-5 and 6 teams are in dire need of coaches – if you can help, jump on board the community contribution program.

Outdoor sports are a must for kids in 21st century urban living, and what better way for them (and you to work up a sweat and to obtain a sense of achievement then through an adrenalin pumping game of basketball? Take part in aiding the next generation to develop their social, physical and personal discipline skills.

Interested parties can contact the Recreation Office of the Richland Wa Real Estate area Community Center on 942-7529. No previous experience at basketball or coaching is required. So what are you waiting for!

Environmental awards and Earth Month contest winners were announced at the Earth Month Finale and Alternative Energy Expo on Saturday, April 28 at Columbia Basin College in Pasco. The winner of the Tapteal Greenway’s Conservationist of the Year was Andy Plymale. Andy has been a long-time volunteer for the Tapteal Greenway and a highly successful fundraiser. He played a key role in organizing concerts to benefit the Amon Basin Community Project in 2006 and 2007, and is a willing on-call volunteer, helping with various special projects.

School contests include a Reuse-a-Shoe and Aluminum Can Contest. The school that collected the most athletic shoes for the annual Reuse-a-Shoe Contest was Badger Mountain Elementary School with 155 pair. They received a check from Washington State University Tri-Cities for $200. Thirteen schools collected a total 540 pair during the Earth Month Contest. The winner of the Aluminum Can Contest, sponsored by Pacific Recycling, was awarded to Marcus Whitman Elementary School for collecting 400 pounds of cans. Second place was awarded to Sunset View Elementary and third to Burbank Elementary.

Clayton Ward Recycling and Basin Recycling also awarded .10 over market rate for each pound collected. A total of 715 pounds of aluminum were recycled.  Gail Everett, Environmental Education Coordinator City of Richland Mid-Columbia Earth Month Chair ~ www.ci.richland.wa.us/RICHLAND/enviro ~ http://www.earthmonthmc.org/

RICHLAND, Wash. — Advanced Technologies and Laboratories International has donated two freshman scholarships to Washington State University Tri-Cities.

One of the $6,000 scholarships is for the 2007 incoming class. The second $6,000 scholarship is the first donated for the Richland campus’ second wave of freshmen — the class that starts in fall 2008.

“Our resources are limited, but we see this as a good value to the community — to the Tri-Cities and to the Department of Energy workforce,” said Jou Hwang, ATL president. His wife, Alice Hwang, is the ATL chief executive officer.

“ATL is looking to the future of continued analysis and broadened horizons in nuclear and technological fields. But we’ll need a resource pool to draw from as our needs for technological expertise increase,” Hwang said. “This partnership with WSU Tri-Cities is a first step in acquiring necessary technical resources for the future.”

Since beginning full operations in 1995, ATL has grown to about 150 employees with offices in Richland, New Mexico, Ohio, and headquarters in Maryland. ATL provides customer support in the areas of health, safeguards and security, safety, environmental compliance and assessment, radiochemistry and radioanalysis, and information technologies.

“This investment by ATL — a small, woman-owned business — is especially noteworthy,” WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor Vicky Carwein said. “With applications still coming in for the fall 2007 freshman class, ATL’s pledge of a 2008 freshman scholarship shows forward-thinking and a very welcome commitment to being part of the campus’ future.”

(Kennewick, Wash.) – Prom night just got a whole lot easier for local high school students thanks to Steve and Shirley Simmons, owners of Kennewick’s family-owned Country Gentleman restaurant. The couple will host two special dinner events May 5 and May 12 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for students attending the proms of Kamiakin, South Ridge, Kennewick, Pasco, Richland high schools.

The entire restaurant will be reserved for students. A prix fixe meal includes salad, choice of entrée, dessert, sparkling cider, tip and tax for $15 per person. Country Gentleman can accommodate groups of up to twelve students. Reservations must be made by calling (509) 783-0128.

“Going out for a nice dinner is expensive for most high school students and prom brings added anxiety,” said Steve Simmons. “By offering an all-inclusive dinner experience with the tip included, we’re taking away all of the stress of dining out.”

Simmons says he’s doing this to ensure the students start the prom night off right. When his own kids went out for prom night, they weren’t treated as well as they should have been. Simmons’ catering team will be serving dinner these two nights and are excited about making this a special experience for the kids.

In addition, there will be a photographer on site. Students looking to avoid long lines at the school may get their pictures taken early in the evening. Photography prices range from $10.00 to $15.00.

The County Gentleman is a well-known family-style restaurant, serving the Tri-Cities area since 1979, now located at their new restaurant at 9221 W. Clearwater in Kennewick.

Steve Simmons is an active member of the Washington Restaurant Association and president of the WRA’s Southeast Chapter The Washington Restaurant Association, in its 78th year, is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which is the largest private employer in the state with a workforce of 186,000 employees. In Washington, the 12,000 restaurants annually contribute $9.4 billion to the state economy, generate $555 million in state taxes, and pay employees more than $2.6 billion each year. Washington restaurants are the cornerstones of the economy, community and careers.

OLYMPIA… Sen. Jerome Delvin, R-Richland, spoke out against passage of Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6001, the so-called “climate change” bill, passed last night by the House of Representatives.

The measure would essentially prevent Washington utilities from signing new long-term contracts for coal power – a move that could dramatically raise the cost of energy for ratepayers and businesses.

“Washington produces less greenhouse gas than any state in the nation,” said Delvin, a member of the Senate’s Water, Energy and Telecommunications Committee. “And only 16 percent of those gases come from electrical power generation – far more carbon dioxide is released by the state’s motor vehicles. Yet in the name of ‘climate change,’ this bill will cost us jobs, raise electricity rates, hurt the poor and elderly, and hit our businesses hard.”

Senate Bill 6001 requires the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2035 and 50 percent below by 2050. It also demands that the state reduce total spending for foreign fuels 25 percent by 2020.

“You can only do so much with wind power and solar. Only two primary sources of power generate no greenhouse gases or carbon dioxide – hydropower and nuclear power,” said Delvin. “Thanks to hydropower, Washington has some of the cleanest electricity in America, but we’ve reached the limit of our hydropower capabilities.  Amazingly, our own Initiative 937 doesn’t count hydropower as a renewable energy source, so we sell it to California, which wisely does. Soon, the only answer remaining will be clean, cheap, safe nuclear power. Europe is flourishing with it, and many states Generate much of their power from nuclear plants. But the majority party in Washington won’t even open the discussion.”

Delvin explained that even Greenpeace co-founder Patrick Moore has changed his mind about expanding the use of nuclear power as a clean, safe source of energy. Currently in the U.S., 103 nuclear power plants provide 20 percent of America’s electricity. Another 60 percent comes from coal and non-renewable sources. Studies show that 80 percent of the people living around nuclear plants – even excluding those who work in the industry – approve of them.

“If Washington wants to avert climate change, let’s convert to nuclear power,” Delvin said. “If the U.S. had 60 percent of its electricity from nuclear power and just 20 percent from coal, not only would we comply with Kyoto, it would be like taking 100 million cars off the road! Instead, they pass a bill that will raise costs, burden the poor and elderly and hurt business – it’s wrongheaded and will do more harm than good.”

A spring household hazardous waste collection event for Benton County residents will be held on Saturday, April 14, from 8 a.m. to noon behind the Toyota Center in Kennewick. Unneeded household hazardous waste products can be brought to this location for safe disposal.

Acceptable items include paints, waste oil, solvents, batteries, antifreeze, pesticides, aerosols, pool chemicals, and cleaners. Items that are not acceptable include explosives, radioactive materials, asbestos and solid waste. No fee will be charged during this mobile collection event, but proof of Benton County residency is required. No commercial waste will be accepted.

For more information, call the Benton County Moderate Risk Waste Facility at 942-7387.

Chambers will now face competition for tourism promotion dollars

After an attorney general’s opinion last year put in doubt whether chambers of commerce could use “hotel-motel” taxes for tourism promotion, Rep. Barbara Bailey decided to clarify the issue through legislation. Bailey introduced House Bill 1254 that would have allowed chambers to continue to receive a portion of the 2 percent lodging tax from cities and counties for tourism efforts.

The House of Representatives decided to forgo Bailey’s legislation Thursday in favor of Senate Bill 5647. The measure would expand the use of the lodging tax far beyond what was originally intended. Bailey urged lawmakers to reject the proposal.

“This broadens the ability for these lodging tax dollars to be spent in ways that were never intended. It actually opens this up to many activities, festivals and events that were not designed to bring outside visitors into communities. Some of these would be festivals that are simply for that community and not for tourism promotion,” said Bailey, R-Oak Harbor.

“I’m most concerned that this bill would allow for operational costs of these special events. This would not be in direct promotion of tourism,” added Bailey. “Even worse, our chambers of commerce that have been doing a very good job of tourism promotion will now have to compete with other entities in our small communities for these very limited funds. This has the potential to cripple local tourism promotion.”

Bailey offered an amendment to limit the use of the lodging tax to chambers of commerce and nonprofit 501 (c)(6) organizations contracted for tourism promotion by municipalities that collect the tax — the same language as her bill. The amendment was rejected.

“This is very disappointing. It was never my intent to open up this revenue for other entities to use for other purposes. This is a very specific tax on a very specific industry to promote tourism efforts in a community. The Senate bill will force our chambers of commerce to now compete for these funds and that’s very unfortunate,” noted Bailey.

Senate Bill 5647 was approved in the House, 73-25. It now goes back to the Senate for further consideration.

Dr. W. Hugh Maloney, current president of the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), has been named president of Kadlec Clinic, the new ulti-specialty physician practice being developed by Kadlec Health System in the Tri-Cities. Dr. Maloney is currently a practicing internal medicine physician in the Seattle area, and will begin his new role at Kadlec this summer.

“We are thrilled to attract a physician executive the caliber of Dr. Maloney,” said Dr. Matthew Szvetecz, chair of the Kadlec Clinic board of managers. “Kadlec Clinic is an evolving group of physician specialists which is led and governed by doctors. Dr. Maloney brings a tremendous blend of expertise and leadership to the Tri-Cities.”

Dr. Maloney is currently with the University of Washington’s Kent/Des Moines Clinic in suburban Seattle. He is on the medical staff at Swedish Medical Center, the University of Washington and Harborview Medical Center. “I greatly look forward to coming to Kadlec and the Tri-Cities,” said Maloney. “Kadlec has an excellent reputation around the northwest, and I look forward to working with the physicians in the Tri-Cities.” Dr. Maloney will continue to serve as the President of the WSMA through the end of his term this Fall. In addition to his duties leading the WSMA, Dr. Maloney is on the board of governors of the American College of Physicians.

Kadlec Clinic, a subsidiary of Kadlec Health System, is a multi-specialty physician group serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding region. Current specialties represented in Kadlec Clinic include Ob/Gyn, Internal Medicine/Geriatrics, Plastic Surgery (beginning in July, 2007), and Family Medicine (beginning in the spring of 2007). The governing board of managers of Kadlec Clinic is comprised solely of physicians in various specialties including Ob/Gyn, Medicine/Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine and Occupational Medicine.

Mid-Columbia Region, WA – The deadline for receipt of nomination packets for the 12th Annual Small Business of the Year Awards is Friday, April 13th at 5:00 p.m. The Three Rivers Alliance of Chambers recognizes small businesses in Benton and Franklin Counties for their exceptional customer service, outstanding commitment to employees, and superior community relations. The awards are presented to small businesses (fewer than 60 FTE employees, locally owned & operated, and for-profit) that best exemplify the qualities of honesty, fairness, ethical business practices, and concern for employees and customers. This year, a new category has been added: Micro-Business of the Year. These companies must meet the same criteria, but may only have 10 or fewer full-time employees.

Nominations can be taken from any citizen of Benton or Franklin Counties who is an employee, customer, supplier, or regulator of the nominated business. Businesses are also encouraged to self-nominate. Application packets are reviewed and scored by the Small Business Awards Judging Committee, and companies are evaluated on their customer, employee, and community relations. Awards will be presented during the May 17th celebration banquet at the Three Rivers Convention Center.

Nomination forms may be obtained from any local Chamber of Commerce, TRIDEC or by calling ImagineThat! at 967.1063.

Fluor employees participated in a Fluor hosted reception Thursday, March 29 at Washington State University (WSU) Tri-Cities for incoming Chancellor Vicky Carwein, faculty, and staff. Fluor Foundation President Bob Fluor presented two checks to the university to fund programs at WSU Tri-Cities sponsored by Fluor.

The first check was for $5,000 to support this summer’s WSU Tri-Cities Science Camp.  The second check was for a Fluor scholarship in the amount of $6,000 — $3,000 this fall and $3,000 in the fourth year for an incoming freshman.

In addition at WSU Tri-Cities, Fluor will provide four internships: two for incoming freshman and two for participants in the Columbia Basin College Bridges Program for students attending CBC and planning to complete their four-year degrees at WSU Tri-Cities. Fluor also announced that the company will provide mentors as well.

Another important donation program offered by the Fluor Foundation and discussed by Bob Fluor at the reception is the Foundation’s dollar-for-dollar match for donations by Fluor employees to support academic programs at any eligible college, university, and technical school up to $5,000 per employee per year. This means, for example, that if 100 Fluor employees donate $1,000 each to WSU Tri-Cities, then the Foundation will donate its own $100,000 to the University. For more information on this program contact John Umbarger in Fluor Hanford’s Community Programs office.

RICHLAND, Wash. — EnergySolutions today announced the gifting of 10 scholarships to incoming freshmen at Washington State University (WSU) Tri-Cities as part of the company’s commitment to education.  Each scholarship will provide a student with $3,000 during the 2007-08 freshman year and another $3,000 in the senior year.

“We are thrilled to have EnergySolutions involved through its scholarship program as we launch our campus expansion,” said Vicky Carwein, WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor. “EnergySolutions has proven to be a strong supporter of education at the high school level, particularly in the fields of math, science and engineering and we look forward this partnership.”

“EnergySolutions believes in higher education and is committed to doing its part for those pursuing a college degree,” said Carla Hages, director of community relations in Hanford. “We feel it is important to be involved in the community and the scholarship program is just one more way to give back. In addition, we will also provide internships to some of the WSU Tri-Cities students and make available EnergySolutions technical staff members in the regional campus’ new freshman mentoring program.”

WSU Tri-Cities still is accepting freshman and transfer applications for the 2007-08 academic year that starts in late August. Call 509-372-7250 or see http://www.tricity.wsu.edu/ for more details on being part of the incoming freshman class.

OLYMPIA…Senate Bill 5202, a bill allowing police officers to carry spring-blade knives in the line of duty, has passed the House of Representatives. Sen. Jerome Delvin, R- Richland, sponsored the bill in response to a request by Kennewick Police Chief Ken Hohenberg.

“Under Washington law, it’s a gross misdemeanor to carry a spring-blade or switchblade knife,” said Delvin, a former Richland police officer and ranking Republican on the Senate Higher Education Committee. “This switchblade law is a good one, but it had an unintended consequence: police officers often need to use knives in the line of duty, for example, to cut a seat belt off of an injured person in an automobile accident. This bill makes an exception for police officers in the line of duty.”

Senate Bill 5202 is expected to be signed by the governor and becomes active law 90 days after the end of the legislative session, which is scheduled for April 22.  “I am so grateful for Senator Delvin’s work on this bill,” Hohenberg said. “Bomb squad and SWAT team officers often use knives to pry something open quickly. This bill gives our police officers a tactical tool to keep themselves safe and keep our citizens safe.”

Sen. Delvin represents the 8th Legislative District, which includes Richland, Kennewick, Benton City and Prosser.  For more information contact Pat Albright (360) 786-7519 or albright.pat@leg.wa.gov  For the latest news and nformation from the Senate Republican Caucus visit the Senate Republican Media Center at http://www.src.wa.gov/

The Kennewick General Hospital board of commissioners announced today a financing package for construction of a new $128 million hospital at Southridge that includes $86 million in voter-approved tax obligation bonds, with the remainder coming from revenue bonds repaid with future hospital revenues. “This financing plan is the result of months of hard work aimed at making certain we have a responsible and sound financial package that relies as much as possible on the hospital’s own resources,” said KGH Board President Wanda Briggs. “We have done everything we can to keep the cost to district residents to a bare minimum while providing a modern hospital that will allow us to continue to deliver top quality healthcare for our district residents into the future.”

“We had strong marching orders from the hospital commissioners to pay for as much of the new hospital as possible with KGH’s own money and credit,” said CEO Glen Marshall. “I feel comfortable that we have lived up to that mandate. We look forward to introducing this package to our community.” The hospital’s leadership team developed KGH’s financing proposal with input from its Planning Committee, which includes several citizen members and physicians. The hospital’s Community Advisory Council also gave the financing plan its stamp of approval.

“For the past several months, the KGH board and administration have reached out to district residents through many avenues and heard what citizens are telling them, which is: We understand we need a new hospital, but make it as affordable as possible,” said Skip Novakovich, a local business owner and a KGH Community Advisory Committee member. “Our community should feel confident that KGH is bringing our hospital facilities up to date for the best price possible.”

“The tax rate to finance an $86 million bond would be about 63 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, to be paid by residents of the public hospital district. For the owner of a home assessed at $100,000, that amounts to $63 per year. It is important to remember that the assessed value of your home is usually quite a bit lower than the market value, or what you might be able to sell it for today,” said Briggs. According to the Benton County Assessor’s office, the average assessed value of a home in the KGH hospital district is $140,000. To meet lenders’ minimum requirements, KGH is building its cash reserves to 50 to 70 days of cash on hand, equivalent to $11 to $15 million. The hospital sold its Dialysis Center in 01/2007 for $4 million and is considering other potential sales of non-core assets. “Just like someone who’s buying a new house, KGH has to show we’ve got our financing in order and that we’re a good credit risk,” said Briggs. “KGH is an important part of our local economy, one that we need to value and nurture by reinvesting in the hospital to keep it strong,” said Kennewick City Councilman Tom Moak. “The proposed new hospital at Southridge is the right way forward for KGH and for our community.” “The investment we are asking our community to make in KGH is significant, but absolutely necessary,” said Marshall. “KGH is delivering 21st century healthcare but we’re doing so in a small, patchwork facility that is more than 55 years old at its core and hasn’t seen a major expansion in 14 years. We need 75 percent more space than we have today just to meet our current patient load, but we have no room to expand on our current campus. A new facility at Southridge will lock in our ability to provide quality care to our community for years to come.”

If voters support the bond measure, it will be the first time since KGH opened its doors in 1952 that residents of the hospital district have financed bonds to support the hospital’s growth. “It’s vital that we bring KGH’s facilities up to date and add more space to serve our growing community. Without a good facility with modern infrastructure and the latest technology, we will struggle to attract and retain the number and caliber of physicians and nurses our patients need,” said Briggs. “The proposed new hospital at Southridge will solve those problems and give us room to grow in the future.”

KGH has undertaken an intensive planning process over the past two years to calculate its space needs and plan for the future. Last summer it launched a “Community Conversation” to discuss the future of the hospital with residents of the public hospital district. In the fall, KGH announced its preference for a major hospital expansion near Southridge high school, where it already owns 40 acres of undeveloped land. Although there is no more room to expand on KGH’s current campus, the hospital is committed to keeping some clinical and nonclinical services at its current 900 S. Auburn location.

“Our commitment from day one has been to be open with the public about our pressing space needs, transparent in our communications, and to keep the public informed every step of the way,” said Briggs. “We need the public’s support and trust, and we continually work hard to earn it.”

As part of the Community Conversation, KGH has given presentations to community groups, held employee forums, and made information available on its web site, in HealthBeat Magazine, and through print and television ads. In January, the hospital hosted three community meetings and subsequently mailed a report to all households in the district to let them know what feedback KGH was hearing from the community and to provide residents with another way to ask questions and give input.

Booked Business
Thanks to Aaron Stevens for bringing the Richland Regatta to the Tri-Cities. This inboard powerboat race will be held at Howard Amon Park. The planner anticipates 500 people from around the region will attend this exciting event.
$95,000

The Guest House Inn, Quality Inn Kennewick, Red Lion Kennewick and Super 8 will host participants in the 2007 Gather 4 Him this April. The three-day event will take place at the Three Rivers Convention Center. This event is expected to draw 5,000 delegates.
$2,025,000

Kudos to the Tri-Cities Girls Fastpitch Softball Association (TCGFSA) for bringing in five tournaments scheduled for the upcoming season April through September. Combined, the tournaments will bring in approximately 1,250 visitors to Columbia Playfield in Richland.
$237,500

The Clover Island Inn will host participants in the Shoemaker Golf Group this May. The attendees learned of local golf courses and wineries by attending Seattle’s Golf Show last year and receiving the Tri-Cities Golf & Wine Brochure.
$3,240

The Northwest District Honorbound Men’s Conference is returning to the Tri-Cities for the sixth straight year. This event will be held May 18-19, 2007, and is expected to draw more than 1,500 delegates.
$405,000

The Red Lion Hotel Richland will host the 2007 Evergreen Leadership Conference May 18-20, 2007. The attendees are political leaders from Washington State with the majority traveling from the west side of the state. They will be discussing political issues related to the 2008 Presidential Campaign. The two-day event will attract 120 delegates.
$32,400

The Pacific Northwest Mustang Club has selected the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center in Richland to host their 27th Annual Spring Show & Shine May 25-26, 2007. The purpose of this two-day event is to raise money for organizations in the Tri-Cities such as Second Harvest, The ARC of the Tri-Cities, Dive & Rescue, etc. This event will bring 125 out-of-town guests.
$33,750

Congratulations to the Red Lion Hotel Richland on being awarded the 2007 Pacific Northwest Waterways Association Mid-Year Meeting, which will take place this June. The group works with the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and regional leaders on policies related to transportation, energy, trade, and environmental policy. They also work on behalf of the ports, public utilities, consultant firms, businesses, and tourism to enhance the economy and vitality of the Pacific Northwest. They will be meeting for three days.
$40,500

Thank you to Officer Wayne DuBois with the Richland Police Department for “Bringing Your Meeting Home.” The Washington State Tactical Officers Association will host a 300 delegate conference in Richland, August 22-24, 2007. The three-day event is titled the 2007 Training, Competition and Conference and will be held at the Red Lion Hotel Richland.
$121,500

The Tri-Cities Shooting Association is hosting their Fifth Annual Rattlesnake Round-Up at the Shilo Inn Rivershore in Richland this September. The event was held in Bend, Oregon for the past three years. Attendees competing in the event will be coming from Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
$111,375

Thanks to the FLW Western Series for including the Tri-Cities in their 2007 tournament circuit.  For the first time, this televised event will be held at Columbia Point Marina in Richland, September 19-22. It is expected to bring in approximately 800 people, including 200 professional anglers and 200 amateur anglers.
$228,000

Thank you Richland Councilman Dave Rose for “Bringing Your Meeting Home.” TRAC Center and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Pasco have been selected to host the 2007 Northwest Rental Conference November 5-7, 2007. The planning committee is interested in adding the Tri-Cities to a three-year rotation pattern for this conference.
$81,000

Total Economic Impact: $3,414,265

RICHLAND, Wash. — Learn how to earn a Washington State University Master’s in Business Administration degree at upcoming information meetings.  The MBA program is offered on the WSU Tri-Cities campus in Richland plus through interactive videoconferencing at the WSU Learning Centers learning centers in Yakima and Wenatchee.

Information meetings are scheduled for:
- Wenatchee — 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, in the WSU North Central Washington Learning Center on the Wenatchee Valley Community College campus, 1300 Fifth St., Suite 1060, in Wells Hall, Room 1033. Call (509) 662-2660 ext. 24.- Tri-Cities — 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, WSU Tri-Cities, 2710 University Drive, Richland, in the Consolidated Information Center, Room 120. Call (509) 372-7360.

- Yakima — 6 p.m. Thursday, March 29, in the WSU South Central Washington Learning Center on the Yakima Valley Community College campus, 1000 S. 12th St., in the Deccio Higher Education Center, Parker Room. Call (509) 574-6897.  Each session will last about an hour. WSU Tri-Cities College of Business Professors and MBA program graduates will be on hand at each information meeting to describe the program and answer questions.

The WSU Tri-Cities MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The up-to-date curriculum is taught by nationally recognized faculty members with industry experience. All faculty members in the MBA program hold doctorate degrees in their specialties. The resident faculty members are doing leading research in their fields of study. The adjunct professors are business leaders and executives with the practical expertise that’s critical for a successful career in the business world.

The next semester of MBA classes starts in late August 2007. For information online, go to www.tricity.wsu.edu/business.

Ten-year-old Connor Nielsen and his family will be accepting a $5,000.00 check Thursday, March 28th, 2007 at The UPS Store located at 8524 W. Gage Blvd. Kennewick, WA at 9:30am.  The check will be presented to the Nielsen family by Ken Tysor, the area representative for The UPS Stores.

This donation comes from the We Deliver Dreams Foundation, a non-profit corporation to deliver dreams of children who are significantly impacted by abuse, neglect, violence or illness. Dream requests are sponsored by The UPS Store and Mail Boxes Etc.  Franchisees (such as the one owned by Ryan and Christine Nielsen).

This donation will go toward the creation of a puppet with Tourette syndrome for the “Count Me In” puppet program)an affiliation of The Arc of the Tri-Cities). The program is designed to dispel myths and fears regarding disabilities to children thru skits used with the puppets.

Thus far, the “Count Me In” program has puppets, scripts and skits to educate youngsters about Blindness, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, ADHD, Learning Disabilities and Autism.

For the Nielsen’s, however, this dream request holds great personal significance. Their ten-year-old son Connor has Tourette syndrome. Most people associate Tourette’s as the cursing disability. Although Tourette’s is a neurological disability and is characterized by involuntary tics both vocal and in movement, less than 30% of those with Tourette;s have that particular part of the disability.

Connor’s dream is that a puppet and skit explaining Tourette syndrome will help educate not only his peers, but all children here in the Tri-Cities, as well as those nationwide. The “Count Me In” program is a national program and recently has gone international.  This donation from the “We Deliver Dreams” foundation will help Connor accomplish his dream.

Connor’s mother, Christine, quoted “Please know that this dream request touches more than just one child’s life. It teaches all of us about those with visible as well as hidden disabilities, and that we all matter. Whether you are a star athlete, or in a wheelchair, we all want the same thing: to be “Counted In”.

Contact person: The UPS Store @ 783-5900 or Christine Nielsen @ 531-0152.

Pasco, WA – At a recent annual Employee Banquet sponsored by Lourdes Employee Relations Committee, Lourdes Health Network announced the recipients of the five (5) 2007 Mission Awards. Living the Mission of Lourdes is a way of life for Lourdes’ employees and volunteers, and each year five (5) outstanding employees are recognized. This year, 61 people were nominated by their peers as exemplifying the mission by making a difference every day.

A special committee had the difficult job of narrowing that number down to the following five people:
Dana Flowers, OB Tech, Lourdes Medical Center Birthplace
Diann Foster, Social Service Case Manager, Lourdes Counseling Center Adult Inpatient Unit
Joanne, Logman, Cashier/Clerk, Lourdes Riverview Medical Group
Ruby McFarland, LPN, Lourdes Medical Center Rehabilitation Unit
Mark Rogers, Clinical Lead, Lourdes Medical Center Cardiopulmonary
Lourdes employees were nominated based on the following criteria:
􀂃 Show respect and compassion for coworkers, patients and their families
􀂃 Embrace excellence in all aspects of their work
􀂃 Radiate a gentle, healing and joyful manner
􀂃 Work for the common good (a team player fostering a sense of community)
􀂃 Value the spiritual dimensions of life and of the workplace
􀂃 Respond generously and sensitively to the vulnerable in our midst
􀂃 Make efforts to facilitate understanding and reconciliation
􀂃 Respect and value diversity
􀂃 Inspire others to live the mission and values by support, encouragement and challenges.

Rep. Larry Haler is pleased that the 2007-09 state capital budget proposed today by the House of Representatives would allocate $3 million toward design and construction of the Hanford Reach National Monument Heritage and Visitor Center.

In all, the House capital budget proposal contains more than $12 million for construction projects and other capital-related investments in Benton City, West Richland and Richland, which are in the 8th Legislative District represented by Haler.

“The Hanford Reach has a fascinating heritage, and its status as a national monument is well deserved. I’m glad the House of Representatives is interested in preserving and promoting it,” said Haler, R-Richland.

Haler is also glad to see $1 million proposed for building a complex of four Babe Ruth baseball fields along State Route 240 near Horn Rapids.

“Our area already is a magnet for athletic events, and this would only enhance that reputation,” said Haler.

Republicans joined Democrats to unveil the capital budget proposal today. It’s contained in House Bill 1092, which received a public hearing this afternoon before the House Capital Budget Committee and is scheduled for a committee vote on Wednesday morning.

Rep. Shirley Hankins, R-Richland, serves on the committee and is a strong voice for Mid-Columbia projects, said Haler.

Other projects proposed for funding include:

Benton City Aquatic Park — $500,000
Benton City Food Bank — $200,000
Badger Mountain Water Park spray improvements (Richland) — $155,675
Amon Creek land acquisition (Richland) — $404,780
Claybell Park expansion (Richland) — $195,960
Bombing Range Sports Complex, phase 4 (West Richland) — $300,000

Also receiving funding in the House proposal is the proposed $13.7 million, 256-bed expansion at Connell’s Coyote Ridge Corrections Center, and $666,000 for improvements to the Tri-Cities Stadium in Pasco.

OLYMPIA…Today the House Higher Education Committee held a public hearing on Substitute Senate Bill 5002, a bill that would provide free tuition for spouses and children of killed, missing, captured or severely disabled military members Sen. Mike Hewitt, who announced his intention to sponsor the legislation last summer and dropped it on the morning of the first day to introduce Senate bills, spoke in support of SSB 5002 at today’s hearing.  “This bill says thanks not only to our veterans, but to their families as well, for the tremendous sacrifices they have made on our behalf,” said Hewitt, R-Walla Walla. “Veterans’ family members should not have to worry about being unable to fulfill their education dream because they’ve lost a parent or spouse. We should help them out in every way we can, including this very practical way to give them the future they would have had. This is all about priorities, and this is a priority for us.”

Also testifying on the bill was Nicole Smith, whose father was killed in Iraq in 2003, during her junior year in high school. Smith’s dream was to attend Central Washington University and become a marine biologist.  She applied for financial aid, and was approved for $2,000 a year toward the $15,000-a-year tuition costs.  However, without her dad to help, the remaining tuition costs proved too high for Smith, who withdrew and gave up her dream of attending a four-year-college, registering instead at a local community college.  Smith said she was distraught that people think that once a soldier dies, his or her family’s every need is taken care of – including college tuition. That suspicion was confirmed after a recent Seattle P-I story on Smith’s loss.

“(After the Seattle P-I story) there were over 100 comments about ‘a pathetic American looking for another handout,’” Smith said. “They think we’re looking for a handout, because everyone thinks that when a soldier passes away their family is taken care of in every sense of the word, and it’s not true.  “The community college I go to right now, they don’t offer anything, and my books cost anywhere between $75 to $200 each, and you need two books per class – it adds up a lot.”  Smith’s mother did receive a settlement amount upon her husband’s death, but Smith was concerned that her mother, who has been ill, will need the funds to live on and pay her medical bills. “I’d rather have her spend that money on herself rather than me,” she said.

Under SSB 5002, spouses would qualify for the tuition waiver up to 10 years after the date of the death, disability, or MIA or POW status as long as they do not remarry. Eligible children would be between the ages of 17 and 26, and could receive a tuition waiver regardless of marital status. The military member and child or spouse must have been a resident of Washington at the time of the military member’s death, capture or disability.

Currently, Washington’s colleges and universities may waive all or part of tuition and fees for the child or spouse of eligible veterans or National Guard members – but it is only optional. Hewitt’s bill would make it a requirement for colleges and universities to waive all tuition and fees for the children and spouses of eligible veterans.

Funding for the program would come from the state’s general fund, and would be separate from other types of tuition waivers, so veterans’ families would not have to compete for funding with other students who might qualify for different programs.

The bill was not voted on in committee today, but Hewitt said he hopes it will come out of committee and onto the House floor soon. The deadline to get Senate bills out of House committees is March 30, with the exception of bills with a fiscal impact – those bills have until April 2. The deadline to pass Senate out of the House is 5 p.m. on April 13.  Twenty-eight other states have already passed similar tuition waiver bills.

http://www.crehst.org/ ~ Family Science
To celebrate the beginning of Spring Break Week CREHST will present an afternoon of hands-on family science activities from 2-4 pm Monday, April 2 2007.  Held in the Connections Exhibit hall, students and their families will participate in hands-on experiments illustrating the connection between gears, knees, spark plugs, wheelchairs, softball bats and more to their scientific and technological roots at Hanford.  Date: Monday, April 2, 2007, Time: 2 – 4 PM.  Location: CREHST Museum 95 Lee Blvd. Richland.  Cost: This program is offered free with regular museum admission.  For more information call CREHST at 943-9000.

Geology Special
Wrapping up Spring Break week on Friday, April 6, 2007 CREHST is offering a special Geology class to students in the 4th grade and up. Join us for a hands-on lab about rocks and minerals using the same techniques geologists use!  This session meets the badge requirements for Boy and Girl Scouts!  The class meets form 2:00 – 4:00 pm and is limited to 20 students.  Date: Friday, April 6, 2007, Time: 2 – 4 PM.  Location: CREHST Museum 95 Lee Blvd., Richland.  Program Fee: $3.00 per student Advanced reservations are required.  For more information call CREHST at (509) 943-9000.  This program may also be booked as a group activity for classrooms, scouts or other interested youth groups

The smell of pizza wafted through the halls of Washington State University Tri-Cities on Friday, accompanied by the chatter and laughter of 50 sixth-graders.

The children clustered around J.R. Gomez, the branch campus’ Latino outreach coordinator, and they were fidgeting and bouncing with the kind of energy common in someone their age.

“Are you ready to go to college?” he shouted.  “Yeah!”

The children are students at Pasco’s Stevens Middle School and Mabton’s Artz-Fox Elementary. Most are Hispanic, although the college readiness program Gomez runs is open to any sixth-grader…[more]

Pasco, WA – Erin Tomlinson recently joined Lourdes Health Network and Lourdes Foundation as a grant writer. Tomlinson was formerly with Kennewick General Hospital.

Connie Gillispie, Lourdes Chief Development Officer and Executive Director states, “I have  known Erin for many years. She has a proven track record with grant research, development and implementation. She brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to Lourdes. Her kind spirit and motivation will serve the network and our community.”

Tomlinson said about her new position, “I am thrilled to be part of an organization whose values are so closely aligned with my own and whose mission calls out to me personally. The Leadership at Lourdes Health Network is phenomenal and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a positive team of people on behalf of healthcare in our community.”

Since her arrival, Tomlinson has already secured more than four grants totaling more than $39,000.

Pasco, WA – Enriqueta Cartagena Mayuga, MD will host a book signing and poetry reading for the public at Lourdes Medical Center, Tuesday, April 19th from 12:15 pm – 1:30 pm in Farrelly Auditorium. Lourdes Medical Center is located at 520 N. 4th Avenue in Pasco.

Mayuga’s latest release, titled Outspoken and Mute: American Life – Poems of political satire and commentary is her third published book, and sells for $16.95 with 20% of book sales at the April 19th signing going to Lourdes Foundation. Mayuga’s former books are titled Immigrant at Peace – a Woman Physician Reflects and Spring, Autumn, Sunset – a Collection of Inspirational and Compassionate Poetry. All books will be available at the signing, with 30% of proceeds from her former works at the April 19th signing going to Lourdes Foundation.

“We’re excited Dr. Mayuga has decided to find a creative way to support the Mission of Lourdes Foundation. Dr. Mayuga has long been supportive of Lourdes and Lourdes Foundation, and we are pleased that she is continuing her dedication, Connie Gillispie, Chief Development Officer and Executive Director of Lourdes Foundation said.

The public is invited to the book signing and poetry reading and the event will be catered by The King of Siam.