Peninsula Daily News -- Local News Feed

Car plows into west Port Angeles grocery

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Police today arrested a 25-year-old man after the car he was driving plowed into the front of Grandview Grocery at the corner of C and Eighth streets.
The 7:15 a.m. incident left extensive damage to the wall behind the checkout and coffee bar area. The inside of the store was strewn with debris from the wall as well as food and merchandise, the Port Angeles Police Department reported.

PENINSULA POLL BACKGROUNDER: Facebook prepares public stock offering, raises price

By Barbara Ortutay The Associated Press — Wed, 16 May 2012

NEW YORK — Already expected to be the largest-ever initial public offering for an Internet company, Facebook is making its IPO even bigger.
The world's largest online social network on Tuesday increased the planned price range for its stock to $34 to $38 per share in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. That's up from its previous range of $28 to $35. At the upper limit of $38, the sale would raise about $12.8 billion.

MICHAEL CARMAN’S GOLF COLUMN: Charity tournament for boys and girls set for Friday

By Michael Carman — Wed, 16 May 2012

IT’S LATE IN the game but golfers can still support a good cause by registering to play in the 21st annual Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula Golf Tournament.
The four-person shotgun scramble will tee off at Sequim’s SunLand Golf & Country Club at 1:30 p.m. Friday.
To get in the game, phone Janet Grey at 360-683-8095 or email jgray@bgc-op.org.

SPORTS: Quilcene softball team a win away from state playoffs; other prep reports

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

ARLINGTON — Sammy Rae tossed her first no-hitter of the season to lift the Quilcene Rangers to a Sea-Tac League softball win over the Highland Christian Knights.
The Rangers blanked the Knights 10-0.
Highland Christian batters struggled to even make contact as Rae struck out 13 over six innings.
On offense, Rae contributed to her own cause with a home run.
Kelsy Hughes got the biggest hit for Quilcene when she blasted a grand slam in the Rangers’ eight-run sixth inning to break the game open.

Fallen officers honored at ceremony

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

The bell at Veterans Memorial Park in Port Angeles was rung solemnly 21 times Tuesday to honor those officers who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
Dozens of law-enforcement officers attended the 21-Salute Bell Ringing Ceremony after a barbecue for Clallam County law enforcement and dispatchers — current and retired — and their families at the Clallam County Courthouse.

SPORTS: Port Angeles takes on undefeated Tumwater in 2A state boys soccer playoffs

By Brad LaBrie Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles boys soccer team begins its journey into the state playoffs tonight against the undefeated Tumwater Thunderbirds.
The Roughriders (10-4-4) have been on a roll themselves of late, and will go into state completely healthy and a full roster for the first time in a few games.
But they will be going against a determined and solid team that is 15-0-2 with a history of bad luck in state.
The game starts at 7 p.m. at the Tumwater High School stadium, 700 Israel Road in Tumwater.

Protesters march to Sequim council meeting to seek rescheduling of biomass forum

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

SEQUIM — A dozen biomass protesters gathered at the corner of Washington Street and Sequim Avenue before marching to the City Council chambers to seek rescheduling of a public forum on biomass cogeneration burning.
The protesters, organized by the citizens group Clallam County Healthy Air Coalition, carried placards and urged the council to take a stand against the $71 million expansion of biomass facilities at the Nippon Paper Industries USA Inc. plant in Port Angeles.

Sequim ‘dilemma’: Fixing streets to cost $8.5 million over 5 years

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

SEQUIM — Repairing all of Sequim’s streets to get to the point where all the city needs to do is inexpensive routine chip-and-seal maintenance would cost $8.5 million over five years.
That’s what Paul Haines, city public works director, told the Sequim City Council this week.
Capitol Asset & Pavement Services Inc. was contracted by the city to evaluate the condition of the city’s 54 miles of streets and alleys.

JENNIFER JACKSON'S PORT TOWNSEND NEIGHBOR COLUMN: Boaters pick pocket yachts for kicks

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

TWO YEARS AGO, Laingdon Schmitt and Kirk Gresham came to Joshua Colvin, publisher of Small Craft Advisor magazine, and asked if he wanted to help start a new group.
Both experienced sailors, Schmitt and Gresham wanted to meet with other people who shared their love of sailing small boats.
“It wasn't specifically a club,” Colvin said. “It was just a get-together of people who wanted to talk about boats.

More candidates file in Clallam County, state

By Paul Gottlieb Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

Candidates vying for Clallam County, regional and statewide elective public office continued to file Tuesday for positions for the Aug. 7 statewide primary and Nov. 6 general election.
New filers included Republican Maggie Roth of Port Angeles, who filed early Tuesday afternoon for the Port Angeles-area District 2 county commissioner seat held by three-term incumbent Mike Chapman, an independent and former Republican who has said he intends to run for re-election.

Two announce intentions to run for judge in Jefferson County

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND— Two local attorneys have announced their candidacy for the Jefferson County Superior Court position made open by the retirement of two-term judge Craddock D. Verser.
Court Commissioner Peggy Ann Bierbaum and Port Townsend attorney Michael Haas both said this week they will run for the seat that became vacant after Verser, who is under going treatment for pancreatic cancer, declined to seek a third term.
Bierbaum filed her candidacy just after noon Tuesday. Haas had not yet filed.

Clallam County Commissioner McEntire won’t be put on Natural Resources board

By Rob Ollikainen Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Clallam County Commissioner Jim McEntire announced Tuesday that he was not selected to represent timber counties on the state Board of Natural Resources.
McEntire, a first-year county commissioner from Sequim and a former Port of Port Angeles commissioner, said he was notified by the Washington State Association of Counties that Lewis County Commissioner Lee Grose was chosen to replace the departing Jon Kaino on the influential board.

Clallam board directs forming of security panel

By Rob Ollikainen Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Rather than forming an ad hoc committee to examine courthouse security, Clallam County commissioners have directed an existing security panel to appoint its own subcommittee to study the issue.
The security committee — which consists of the county sheriff, human resources director and facilities manager — will consider the costs of enhanced courthouse security and make its own recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.

Stand-up paddling topic of talk today

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — Stand-up paddling enthusiast and author Rob Casey will discuss “What's Up for Surfing the Sound?” today.
The talk, which will be free and open to the public, will be at noon at the Wooden Boat Chandlery at the Northwest Maritime Center, 431 Water St., Port Townsend.
Author of book
Casey is the author of Stand-Up Paddling: Flatwater to Surf and Rivers.

Port Angeles poet returns to roots with free reading

By Diane Urbani de la Paz Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — The internationally known poet and Port Angeles native Tess Gallagher is home again to give a free reading Thursday of her acclaimed book Midnight Lantern.
The poems here “partly seduce, partly overwhelm,” critic Fran Brearton of The Guardian wrote.
Listeners can decide for themselves just how seductive and overwhelming during Gallagher's appearance at 12:35 p.m. Thursday in the Little Theater at Peninsula College, 1502 E. Lauridsen Blvd.
Admission is free to the public.

KAREN GRIFFITHS' HORSEPLAY COLUMN: Junior rodeo riders win big in region

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

IN THE FAST-PACED sport of junior rodeo, participants quickly learn to live by the adage “If you climb in the saddle, be ready for the ride.”
At the second regional National Junior Rodeo Association rodeo of the season, our local Peninsula Junior Rodeo members proved themselves top contenders.
Results
Peewee Division:
■ Amelia Hermann — Poles, fourth; barrels, second; goats, fourth; dummy roping, fourth; trail, third.
■ Sierra Ballou — Goats, third.

Peninsula not affected by wood stove burn bans, business owner says

By Rob Ollikainen Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Burn bans for fireplaces will not affect the North Olympic Peninsula, Everwarm Hearth & Home owner Terry McCartney told Port Angeles business leaders Monday.
“Basically, there’s four areas in the state that are in real trouble of being in non-attainment [for fine particulates],” McCartney said at the chamber’s weekly luncheon at the Port Angeles Red Lion Hotel.
“That’s in south Tacoma, Darrington, Yakima, and there’s some areas in Vancouver.

Upper Dungeness watershed plans mulled

By Jeff Chew Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

SEQUIM — A collaborative group with interests in the Upper Dungeness watershed’s habitat restoration, road and trail access, and recreational uses will consider next week putting its mark on a final list of project recommendations to Olympic National Forest officials.
The group meets at 9 a.m. Wednesday, May 23, in the Jamestown S’Klallam tribe’s Red Cedar Hall at the tribal center on Old Blyn Highway in Blyn.

Seven recognized in Jefferson County with Heart of Service Awards

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — Seven people were recognized with Heart of Service Awards on Tuesday, representing the largest number of honorees in the award’s seven-year history.
The Heart of Service Awards are sponsored by the Rotary Club of Port Townsend (noon club), the Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary Club, the East Jefferson Rotary Club and the Peninsula Daily News.

Things To Do from Wed, 16 May 2012

Peninsula Daily News — Wed, 16 May 2012

Today and Thursday, May 16-17, in:
■ Port Angeles
■ Sequim-Dungeness Valley
■ Port Townsend-Jefferson County
■ Forks-West End
PORT ANGELES
Today
Ballroom Dance lessons by appointment — Phone Carol Hathaway at 360-460-3836 or email Hathaway00@gmail.com.

PENINSULA POLL BACKGROUNDER: Facebook prepares public stock offering, raises price

By Barbara Ortutay The Associated Press — Tue, 15 May 2012

Seven receive Jefferson County Heart of Service award in ceremonies today

Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — The 2012 Jefferson County Heart of Service award will be bestowed today (Tuesday, May 15) on seven recipients whose lives, careers and volunteer activities embody outstanding public service.
The awards will be presented during a luncheon at the Northwest Maritime Center, 431 Water St. in downtown Port Townsend, beginning at noon.
The luncheon and award ceremonies are open to the public, and admission is free.
Lunch costs $12 for soup, salad and a sandwich, and about $10 for soup and a salad.

Tharinger brings copy of state budget to Chamber of Commerce speech

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND— State Rep. Steve Tharinger said he is satisfied with this year’s state budget but thinks that some legislators made it harder to write than it had to be.
“I think some of what was holding us up is what I call ideological ego flexing,” Tharinger said.
“One of the things these people brought up was a balanced budget amendment, which wasn’t practical.

Hopefuls toss their hats in Clallam ring; statewide candidate filings brisk, too

By Paul Gottlieb Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

Several aspiring Clallam County candidates who announced their intentions to run in the Aug. 7 primary and Nov. 6 general election made good on their pledges Monday, the first day of the weeklong filing period for office-holder hopefuls.
On the statewide front, former Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels filed for the state Secretary of State position being vacated by Sam Reed.

Jefferson filing period opens with no surprises

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — There were no surprises Monday morning with the opening of the candidate filing period, as four of the five announced county office seekers made their formal declarations of candidacy.
Superior Court judge candidate Keith Harper was the first to file his candidacy at 8:19 a.m., 11 minutes before the auditor’s office opened to the public.

Suspect in Forks stabbing enters plea deal

By Paul Gottlieb Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Moises Ramirez Matias, 25, pleaded guilty last week to second-degree murder in the Jan. 8 stabbing death of 18-year-old Laranda Konopaski of Forks.
He agreed in a plea deal that will see him spending 250 months — more than 20 years — in prison for the killing, which was witnessed by the couple's 4-year-old daughter.
Ramirez Matias had been charged with first-degree premeditated murder with a deadly weapon in the death of Konopaski in their Forks home.

SPORTS: High school playoff games, tournaments heat up this week

Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

High school district and state playoffs and tournaments heat up this week just as the weather does its own heating up.
For the first time in 12 years, the Port Angeles boys soccer team is playing a state game Wednesday.
The Roughriders play at Tumwater High School in do-or-die action.
Before that, though, the area boys and girls golf teams are playing in district tournaments today for the final shot at qualifying for state.

Debris possibly from Japanese tsunami floating up Strait of Juan de Fuca

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

DUNGENESS — Debris apparently from the March 2011 Japanese tsunami is now riding the tides up the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The biggest collection of fishing floats — many bearing Asian writing and logos — has been found on Dungeness Spit, which juts into the Strait north of Sequim, said Dave Falzetti, refuge officer for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which oversees the lengthy spit.
“We’ve never seen anything like these before,” he said.

Master Gardeners, WSU halt support for Sequim garden

By Jeff Chew Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

SEQUIM — The Master Gardener Foundation of Clallam County and Washington State University county extension are ending support of the garden at Sequim's Water Reuse Demonstration Park.
Financial constraints forced the move, representatives said.
With a half-acre landscaped since 2008, a new crew of volunteers is expected to take on at least maintaining the terraced flower garden, which was proposed to span 4 acres.

Port Angeles junior leads school orchestra in excellence

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — When concertmaster Erin Hennessey picks up her bow, she commands more than just her violin.
The 17-year-old Port Angeles High School junior also commands the respect of her fellow members of the Port Angeles High School Chamber Orchestra — and of the state of Washington.
Earlier this month, Hennessey was named the top high school violinist in the state at the 2012 Washington Interscholastic Activities Association's State Solo and Ensemble Contest.

Public safety board seeks applicants

Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Applicants are sought for the city of Port Angeles Public Safety Advisory Board.
Eleven positions are open on the board of 12 members, said Teresa Pierce, city spokeswoman.
The term for the one person now on the board ends February, she said.
The deadline to submit applications is 3 p.m. Friday.
The board meets at
6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Port Angeles Fire Hall.
It makes recommendations to the city manager, police chief and fire chief concerning public safety services.

Port Angeles panel pares down utility discount plan

By Paul Gottlieb Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Low-income discount rates for city utility users should be available to more ratepayers — but only to electricity customers, not users of water, solid-waste collection, wastewater and stormwater utilities — the city Utility Advisory Committee has decided.

Things To Do from Tue, 15 May 2012

Peninsula Daily News — Tue, 15 May 2012

Today and Wednesday, May 15-16, in:
■ Port Angeles
■ Sequim-Dungeness Valley
■ Port Townsend-Jefferson County
■ Forks-West End
PORT ANGELES
Today
Violin players — Come join us in our intermediate weekly class held at the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 E. Seventh St. This is an opportunity to play, learn, and have fun with other violinists. There is a class fee. For more information contact Phyllis at 360-417-3688. (Til July)

Crescent Water Association health advisory ends

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

JOYCE — A boil-water advisory for customers of the Crescent Water Association has ended.
Lab tests show the water meets safe drinking water standards, the state Department of Health said today.
The advisory was issued Thursday after water samples from the Crescent Water Association’s distribution system tested positive for E. coli bacteria.
The advisory affected about 900 homes and businesses in Joyce.

Toxin levels skyrocket at Anderson Lake

By Leah Leach Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — The level of toxins in Anderson Lake skyrocketed more than 46 times last week.
The popular trout-fishing lake, which was closed May 3 — only days after it was opened for the fishing season April 28 — remains closed to recreational use while the 410-acre state park around it stays open.
The level of anatoxin-a, a potent and quick-acting nerve poison, was measured at 70.0 micrograms per liter in Anderson Lake last week.
The safety threshold for the toxin is 1 microgram per liter.

Reception set Tuesday for Jefferson County Heart of Service award recipients

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — Friends, admirers and business associates are invited to a reception this week where seven community heroes will be honored with the Jefferson County Heart of Service award for 2012.
The award honors the “dedication, sacrifice and accomplishments” of community leaders and volunteers “who have made a difference in Jefferson County, who have made our communities a better place by doing extraordinary things for their neighbors, their community or the environment.”

Duck derby comes to surprising finale (with list of winners)

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — A deluge of 28,085 yellow rubber ducks hit the pond at Lincoln Park promptly at 2:30 p.m. Sunday as the 23rd Annual Great Olympic Peninsula Duck Derby got under way.
But after a pileup at the finish, the first three luckiest duckies ended up being owned by people who work for the companies that donated the top three prizes.
LIST OF WINNERS, BELOW
A duck registered to Jason Herbert of Port Angeles was the first to enter the winner's tube.

SPORTS: Port Angeles, Sequim flies high at sub-district track meet in Port Angeles

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Cameron Braithwaite of Port Angeles continues to rule the jumps events as he was the only multiple-event winner at the 2A West Central sub-district track and field championships.
Braithwaite easily won both the long and triple jump events Saturday at Port Angeles High School.
The Roughrider boys won four individual events with Brendan Dennis claiming the 800-meter run title and Nick Shindler capturing first in the 3200.

SPORTS: Chimacum baseball team wins first-ever tri-district championship; other playoff reports

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

BELLINGHAM — The defending state champions flung off that lone monkey that has been clinging on their backs during the past five magical years.
Chimacum’s baseball team, 1A state champs in two of the last five years and first, second and third in state the past three seasons, has never won a tri-district title.
Until Saturday.

Assistant principal named at Stevens Middle

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Renee Lancaster, current assistant director of the North Olympic Peninsula Skills Center, has accepted a part-time assistant principal position at Stevens Middle School for the 2012-2013 school year.
Lancaster also teaches Spanish at Port Angeles High School and will continue in that position, said Superintendent Jane Pryne in an announcement Friday.
Lancaster's assignment was approved by the School Board last Monday.

Bowling event strikes $1,662 for park

By Rob Ollikainen Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — The Shane Park Playground Committee raised $1,662 toward the installation of new playground equipment during a bowling party at Laurel Lanes on May 5, committee chairwoman Janet Young said.
The committee and its supporters now have raised about $53,000 to go along with the city of Port Angeles' $81,000 investment in a state-of-the-art play set for the park in west Port Angeles.
The disassembled equipment was shipped to a city storage site in April.

Shaking their moneymakers to help Rhody Royalty

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — A dozen men strutted their stuff in ladies' fashions Saturday, raising hoots, hollers and $2,500 — and the Port Townsend Rhody Festival is just heating up.
The “Dude Looks Like a Lady” event featured 12 “dudes” who, with the assistance of wives or girlfriends and some liquid courage, had money stuffed down their bras and a few other places as they strutted, pranced and danced down the catwalk set up at the Elks Lodge.

Sequim musicians to appear tonight on ‘America's Got Talent'

By Diane Urbani de la Paz Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — It looks to be a promising summer for three young men from Sequim, who'll appear on “America's Got Talent,” the reality show airing on NBC tonight.
The band Emblem3 — composed of 15-year-old Keaton Stromberg, his 18-year-old brother, Wesley, and their friend Drew Chadwick — made its way through the tryouts to the show, whose season premiere is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Seattle's KING-5.

Man stable after crashing motorcycle near Neah Bay

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

NEAH BAY — A Snohomish man was flown to Harborview Medical Center on Saturday afternoon, after a one-vehicle wreck split his motorcycle in half.
Emmanuel E. Tereshchenko, 20, was ejected from his motorcycle and received moderate injuries.
The wreck happened 4 miles east of Neah Bay on State Route 112, when Tereshchenko lost control of his 2007 Suzuki motorcycle, said Trooper Alan Nelson in an accident report.
Nelson said the motorcyclist failed to negotiate a curve to the left.

Candidate filing period begins in Clallam County today

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — On the eve of the weeklong candidate filing period for the Aug. 7 primary and the Nov. 6 general election, which begins today, 10 people have announced intentions to run so far for five open county positions.
Two races for county posts — Clallam County commissioner and a Superior Court judge position — have shaped up.

Five toss announce for Jefferson County positions so far

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — As the weeklong candidate filing period for the Aug. 7 primary and the Nov. 6 general election begins today, five people have announced intentions to run for four positions.
One race has shaped up.
Candidates for public office in Jefferson County can file for their positions Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the auditor’s office in the Jefferson County Courthouse, 1820 Washington St., Port Townsend.

Things To Do from Mon, 14 May 2012

Peninsula Daily News — Mon, 14 May 2012

Today and Tuesday, May 14-15, in:
■ Port Angeles
■ Sequim-Dungeness Valley
■ Port Townsend-Jefferson County
■ Forks-West End
PORT ANGELES
Today
Tai Chi class — 7:15 a.m. to 8 a.m. Inspire Medical Clinic/Clini Care, 621 E. Front St. Tax-deductible donations accepted for nonprofit Washington Institute of Natural Science. Sponsored by Washington Institute of Natural Science.

List of winners of Great Olympic Peninsula Duck Derby in Port Angeles today

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Here are the winners of Sunday's 23rd annual Great Olympic Duck Derby, as released by Bruce Skinner, executive director of the Olympic Medical Center Foundation:
Main race
1. Grand prize, winner's choice, 2012 Toyota Tacoma pickup or 2012 Toyota Corolla from Wilder Toyota-Scion, value $15,000 — Jason Herbert, Port Angeles.
2. $1,000 in cash from 7 Cedars Casino — Ron Allen, Jamestown S'Kallam tribe. (Allen will donate the money to the Duck Derby, Skinner said.)

Parkinson’s dance class offered today

By Diane Urbani de la Paz Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Dance classes tailored to people with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders, including stroke patients, are offered once a month now at the Sons of Norway hall, 131 W. Fifth St.
Corrie Befort, who teaches adapted dance classes around the Puget Sound region, will start her next Port Angeles session at 2:30 p.m. today.
The fee is $10, while participants are encouraged to bring spouses, friends and other caregivers for free.

Ex-U.S. surgeon general talks of sex education, health care reform

By Diane Urbani de la Paz Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Joycelyn Elders' brand of frankness drew fire before, during and after her time as U.S. surgeon general, but she found a hero's welcome here Friday night.
A crowd of some 215 greeted Elders with a standing ovation and then clapped, cheered and, in the case of one woman, said “Amen!” as she gave her speech.

Duck Derby races start in Port Angeles at 2 p.m. today. Ready, start, quack!

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Some 30,000 ducks will be dumped in the Lincoln Park pond for the 23rd annual Duck Derby today.
If need be, they will propelled to the finish line with the help of a fire hose.
Festivities will begin with family entertainment at 1 p.m. at the pond at Lincoln Park at 1900 W. Lauridsen Blvd.
The main duck race will begin at 2:30 p.m., preceded at 2 p.m. by the Bub and Alice Olsen Very Important Duck Race.
Duck tickets can be purchased at the park pond up until the start of the race.

Petition-signing at Sequim church draws both sides of same-sex marriage issue

By Jeff Chew Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

SEQUIM — Both sides of a controversial issue came face to face Saturday when more than 50 sign-waving protesters lined up along North Sequim Avenue in front of Sequim Bible Church to challenge the church's support of Referendum 74 while church members solicited signatures on a petition seeking to place the measure on the November ballot.
The proposed referendum would ask voters to overturn legislation supporting same-sex marriage, referred to as the marriage equality bill, that was signed by Gov. Chris Gregoire in February.

Reception set Tuesday for Jefferson County Heart of Service honorees

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

Welcoming group takes stock of business loss from cruise ship’s cancellation

By Rob Ollikainen Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — It was supposed to be a day for Port Angeles to strut its stuff for more than 1,000 cruise ship passengers.
Instead, the cancellation of Friday’s scheduled stop of the ms Zuiderdam left a community welcoming party high and dry.
The Holland America Line cruise ship bypassed a sun-splashed Port Angeles on its way to Vancouver, B.C., because of weather delays earlier in its voyage.

Dual ferry service returns to Port Townsend for first time in five years

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — Port Townsend has two-boat service beginning today, which starts the first complete summer of two-boat service since 2007.
The MV Salish returns to the Port Townsend-Coupeville route to provide two-boat service with the MV Kennewick.
Single-boat service will resume in the fall.
Washington State Ferries’ summer schedule doesn’t begin until June 17, so the spring schedule remains in effect, with the first ferry departing Port Townsend at 6:30 a.m. and the last boat leaving Coupeville at 9:15 p.m.

Port Townsend aims to finish new Taylor Street sidewalk in time for weekend Rhododendron Festival

By Charlie Bermant Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — A ditch on the south side of Taylor Street was covered with corrugated steel this week, paving the way for the pouring of concrete and the completion of the new sidewalk.
The concrete pouring will begin this week, and the sidewalk will be ready to use Friday in time for the 77th annual Rhododendron Festival’s events Friday, Saturday and next Sunday, said City Engineer Dave Peterson.
The festival begins Monday and has events Wednesday through next Sunday, with the Grand Parade on Saturday.

Sequim licensing office gets reprieve

By Jeff Chew Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

SEQUIM — Karen Shewbert's often-busy vehicle and vessel licensing services at her office on East Washington Street have been given a reprieve through Wednesday after Clallam County Auditor Patty Rosand sought to shut her down, claiming breach of contract.
Superior Court Commissioner William Knebes granted a six-day temporary restraining order after hearing a motion from Shewbert's Sequim attorney, Craig Miller.

SPORTS: Crescent captures North Olympic League track sub-districts; Chimacum and Port Townsend do well at Nisqually sub-districts

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — The Crescent boys and girls both finished first at the North Olympic League’s sub-district track meet.
The girls finished with a team score 74, nearly double second place Neah Bay, finished with 40 points.
Clallam Bay was third with 26.
Kellie Belford took home four crowns for the Loggers, including three relay wins and the 300-meter hurdles.
Mike Zapien and Joel Williams led the Crescent boys.
Zapien won all three throwing events.

4�-day ordeal in the Olympics: Hiker found by infrared device in helicopter

By Leah Leach Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK — A hiker who had been trapped in a steep ravine off the trail near Irely Lake Loop in the Quinault area since a Monday day hike was hoisted out early Saturday morning.
David Snider, 55, of Union on Hood Canal “was dehydrated, slightly hypothermic and tired, but otherwise appeared in good condition” when he was lifted out of Olympic National Park at about 7:30 a.m. by a King County sheriff’s rescue helicopter, said Rainey McKenna, Olympic National Park spokeswoman.

Annual Esprit transgender convention opens today

By Arwyn Rice Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — Men paying women the compliment of imitation will begin arriving in town today for the weeklong Esprit 2012 convention.
Called “the Pacific Northwest's premiere transgender convention,” about 100 people are registered for the annual gathering of cross-dressers.
Based at the Red Lion Hotel, Esprit will extend through next Sunday.
The convention provides a place for transgender individuals to wear their identity openly, to learn to be ladies and to live it up a little.

PENINSULA PROFILE: Passions keep businesswoman moving ahead

By Diane Urbani de la Paz For Peninsula Profile — Sun, 13 May 2012

Becky Northaven’s recent posting on Facebook spells out her feelings.
It’s a motto, superimposed on a photo of a sunlit horizon: “No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and fight for your dreams.”
Northaven’s dreams are big and small, indoor and outdoor. And though she has faced a serious illness and a difficult recovery, this single mother of two is unwavering in her aim.

SPORTS: Port Angeles second at its own Duke Streeter boys golf invitational

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES �— Shelton shot a 211 to win its third consecutive Duke Streeter Memorial Invitational at Peninsula Golf Club on Friday.
The 18th annual tournament, hosted by Port Angeles, was played with a three-team, two-man scramble format.
“It’s true team golf,” Roughriders coach Mark Mitrovich said of the format.
Port Angeles was second with a combined score of 221 while Chimicum and North Mason tied for third with scores of 225.

SPORTS: Sequim knocks Port Angeles out of baseball bi-district playoffs; Chimacum plays for tri-district championship

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

BREMERTON — Third time was the charm for the Sequim baseball team.
The Wolves scored six runs in the top of the ninth inning to knock rival Port Angeles out of the bi-district playoffs Saturday at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds.
The eruption in the ninth spoiled an eight-inning pitchers’ duel between Cole Uvila of the Roughriders and Sequim’s Nick Johnston and Jake Hudson all pitched a gem.

North Olympic Peninsula home sales increase, but prices fall

Peninsula Daily News and The Associated Press — Sun, 13 May 2012

Sales of existing homes in Jefferson County surged in the first three months of the year, while prices fell.
Sales were up 25.6 percent over the last quarter of 2011 and up that same percentage from the first quarter of 2011, according to a report by the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Washington.
Clallam County’s sales were less impressive — up only 1 percent in the first quarter of the year from the last quarter of 2011 and virtually unchanged from the first quarter of 2011.

Carnival, arts and crafts show today on last day of Sequim Irrigation Festival [ * GALLERY AND VIDEO * ]

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

SEQUIM — Moms ride for free today on Mother's Day at the Sequim Irrigation Festival carnival at the Sequim High School playfields north of West Fir Street.
For everyone else who didn't buy advance tickets, the armband tickets are $25 at the gate of the carnival, which will run from noon to 5 p.m.
A downtown arts and crafts show also will be open today on the last day of the final weekend of the 117th Sequim Irrigation Festival.

Called-off biomass forum prompts Monday protest in Sequim

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

SEQUIM — Clallam County Healthy Air Coalition plans to conduct a protest Monday.
The gathering will be at 5 p.m. at the corner of Sequim Avenue and Washington Street in response to the Sequim City Council’s cancellation of a planned public forum on biomass burning, said Diana Somerville, spokeswoman for the coalition.
Leaflets will be passed out while people hold signs, said Rose Marschall, an organizer of the protest.

July trial set for alleged abductors

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — A July 9 trial date has been set for two parents charged with the April 27 abduction of their two young children from their Sequim-area grandmother.
The father, Paul V. Brawner, 27, and the mother, Robin D. Sather, 30, have been charged with two counts each of felony first-degree custodial interference.
Superior Court Judge George L. Wood on Friday also reduced Brawner’s bail from $10,000 to $2,500.
By late Friday afternoon, Brawner was no longer listed on the Clallam County jail roster.

Free whooping cough shots in Port Angeles, Port Townsend, Forks

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

Public health officials will offer free pertussis vaccinations in Port Angeles, Port Townsend and Forks later this month.
About 1,280 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, have been reported in Washington this year, and health officials believe the state could see as many as 3,000 cases by year’s end.
Twenty-six cases have been confirmed on the North Olympic Peninsula — 21 in Jefferson County and five in Clallam County.

Things To Do from Sun, 13 May 2012

Peninsula Daily News — Sun, 13 May 2012

Today and Monday, May 13-14, in:
■ Port Angeles
■ Sequim-Dungeness Valley
■ Port Townsend-Jefferson County
■ Forks-West End
PORT ANGELES
Today

Video from today's Sequim Irrigation Festival Grand Parade

Peninsula Daily News — Sat, 12 May 2012

Click on the link at right to see video clips from today's 117th Sequim Irrigation Festival Grand Parade by PDN photojournalist Keith Thorpe.

UPDATED — Overdue hiker found in Olympic National Park

Peninsula Daily News — Sat, 12 May 2012

(Map by Keith Thorpe/PDN)" title="

(Map by Keith Thorpe/PDN)" float="right" />PORT ANGELES — Olympic National Park officials on Saturday found a hiker who had been missing for days in a steep and rugged area of the Quinault portion of Olympic National Park.
David Snider, 55, was hoisted from a drainage near the Irely Lake Loop trail at about 7:30 a.m. by a King County Sheriff's Rescue Helicopter.
He was dehydrated, slightly hypothermic and tired, but otherwise appeared in good condition, park officials said. Snider was taken to a local hospital for a more thorough examination.

Crescent Water customers urged to boil tap water

Peninsula Daily News — Sat, 12 May 2012

OLYMPIA — The state Department of Health has issued a boil-water advisory for the Crescent Water Association system.
The advisory was issued Thursday after E. coli was detected in water samples from the system, which serves about 900 homes and businesses in Joyce.
The potentially harmful bacteria were detected in a routine monitoring sample, and follow-up testing confirmed the presence of E. coli in the water, the state said.

NOAA designates Port Angeles to be ‘tsunami-ready'

Peninsula Daily News — Sat, 12 May 2012

PORT ANGELES — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has recognized the city of Port Angeles as “tsunami-ready.”
Ted Buehner, warning coordination meteorologist from the National Weather Service forecast office in Seattle, presented TsunamiReady road signs to city officials earlier this month.
“The city of Port Angeles is proud to be recognized as a TsunamiReady community,” said Mayor Cherie Kidd.

Peninsula Daily News -- Local News Feed

Car plows into west Port Angeles grocery

PENINSULA POLL BACKGROUNDER: Facebook prepares public stock offering, raises price

MICHAEL CARMAN’S GOLF COLUMN: Charity tournament for boys and girls set for Friday

SPORTS: Quilcene softball team a win away from state playoffs; other prep reports

Fallen officers honored at ceremony

SPORTS: Port Angeles takes on undefeated Tumwater in 2A state boys soccer playoffs

Protesters march to Sequim council meeting to seek rescheduling of biomass forum

Sequim ‘dilemma’: Fixing streets to cost $8.5 million over 5 years

JENNIFER JACKSON'S PORT TOWNSEND NEIGHBOR COLUMN: Boaters pick pocket yachts for kicks

More candidates file in Clallam County, state

Two announce intentions to run for judge in Jefferson County

Clallam County Commissioner McEntire won’t be put on Natural Resources board

Clallam board directs forming of security panel

Stand-up paddling topic of talk today

Port Angeles poet returns to roots with free reading

KAREN GRIFFITHS' HORSEPLAY COLUMN: Junior rodeo riders win big in region

Peninsula not affected by wood stove burn bans, business owner says

Upper Dungeness watershed plans mulled

Seven recognized in Jefferson County with Heart of Service Awards

Things To Do from Wed, 16 May 2012

PENINSULA POLL BACKGROUNDER: Facebook prepares public stock offering, raises price

Seven receive Jefferson County Heart of Service award in ceremonies today

Tharinger brings copy of state budget to Chamber of Commerce speech

Hopefuls toss their hats in Clallam ring; statewide candidate filings brisk, too

Jefferson filing period opens with no surprises

Suspect in Forks stabbing enters plea deal

SPORTS: High school playoff games, tournaments heat up this week

Debris possibly from Japanese tsunami floating up Strait of Juan de Fuca

Master Gardeners, WSU halt support for Sequim garden

Port Angeles junior leads school orchestra in excellence

Public safety board seeks applicants

Port Angeles panel pares down utility discount plan

Things To Do from Tue, 15 May 2012

Crescent Water Association health advisory ends

Toxin levels skyrocket at Anderson Lake

Reception set Tuesday for Jefferson County Heart of Service award recipients

Duck derby comes to surprising finale (with list of winners)

SPORTS: Port Angeles, Sequim flies high at sub-district track meet in Port Angeles

SPORTS: Chimacum baseball team wins first-ever tri-district championship; other playoff reports

Assistant principal named at Stevens Middle

Bowling event strikes $1,662 for park

Shaking their moneymakers to help Rhody Royalty

Sequim musicians to appear tonight on ‘America's Got Talent'

Man stable after crashing motorcycle near Neah Bay

Candidate filing period begins in Clallam County today

Five toss announce for Jefferson County positions so far

Things To Do from Mon, 14 May 2012

List of winners of Great Olympic Peninsula Duck Derby in Port Angeles today

Parkinson’s dance class offered today

Ex-U.S. surgeon general talks of sex education, health care reform

Duck Derby races start in Port Angeles at 2 p.m. today. Ready, start, quack!

Petition-signing at Sequim church draws both sides of same-sex marriage issue

Reception set Tuesday for Jefferson County Heart of Service honorees

Welcoming group takes stock of business loss from cruise ship’s cancellation

Dual ferry service returns to Port Townsend for first time in five years

Port Townsend aims to finish new Taylor Street sidewalk in time for weekend Rhododendron Festival

Sequim licensing office gets reprieve

SPORTS: Crescent captures North Olympic League track sub-districts; Chimacum and Port Townsend do well at Nisqually sub-districts

4�-day ordeal in the Olympics: Hiker found by infrared device in helicopter

Annual Esprit transgender convention opens today

PENINSULA PROFILE: Passions keep businesswoman moving ahead

SPORTS: Port Angeles second at its own Duke Streeter boys golf invitational

SPORTS: Sequim knocks Port Angeles out of baseball bi-district playoffs; Chimacum plays for tri-district championship

North Olympic Peninsula home sales increase, but prices fall

Carnival, arts and crafts show today on last day of Sequim Irrigation Festival [ *** GALLERY AND VIDEO *** ]

Called-off biomass forum prompts Monday protest in Sequim

July trial set for alleged abductors

Free whooping cough shots in Port Angeles, Port Townsend, Forks

Things To Do from Sun, 13 May 2012

Video from today's Sequim Irrigation Festival Grand Parade

UPDATED — Overdue hiker found in Olympic National Park

Crescent Water customers urged to boil tap water

NOAA designates Port Angeles to be ‘tsunami-ready'

Carnival, arts and crafts show today on last day of Sequim Irrigation Festival [ * GALLERY AND VIDEO * ]