A Heart for the Holidays: Yakima Gives Back

by Christine Corbett Conklin on Nov 9, 2011

A volunteer thanks a patron for giving money to the Salvation Army outside of the Safeway in Sunnyside. Photo from Yakima Herald-Republic file.

As the holidays approach, we’ll soon hear the sound of bells throughout the Yakima Valley. No, it’s not Santa (quite yet), or even the sound of cash registers ringing. It’s a call to remember those less fortunate in our community. And in keeping with a long tradition, Valley residents are expected to answer the call with enthusiasm.

Hundreds of “bell ringers” will take their posts between Nov. 18 and Dec. 24 at grocery stores, department stores and post offices in Yakima, Selah and Grandview for the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Campaign, said Major Thomas Morrow, commanding officer of the Salvation Army in Yakima.

Style Freak: Come as you are

by Robin Salts Beckett on Sep 8, 2011

Chopped tomatoes tossed with vinaigrette in a pretty blue bowl make a gorgeous side dish.

By Pam Edwards • Photos by Jennifer Dagdagan

It’s time to show off all your hard work before the vestiges of summer are past, to throw a casual dinner party outside in your yard, deck or patio.

The Ripple Effect: Liberty Bottleworks

by Robin Salts Beckett on Sep 8, 2011

Ryan Clark and Tim Andis display a few of their custom Liberty Bottles. Photo by Jennifer Dagdagan.

By Heather Caro

What can a water bottle hold?

If it’s crafted by Liberty Bottleworks, a new manufacturing company based in Union Gap, a bottle can hold more than just 24 or 32 ounces. It can hold vision, work ethic and art.

Back-to-the-Future Remodel

by Melissa Labberton on Sep 8, 2011

Karen and Jim Gilbert raised the ceilings on their new kitchen, installed skylights, and replaced dark cabinets with white cabinets, brightening a formally dark room. (by Sara Gettys/Yakima Herald-Republic)

By Melissa S. Labberton

How do you transform a 1970s house, complete with a rabbit warren of dark paneled rooms, in order to suit a 21^st century lifestyle? That was the question that confronted Karen and Jim Gilbert in 2008 when their Realtor showed them just that in Terrace Heights. The home, while dated, was close to the Yakima Country Club, where Jim works as the golf pro.

Bill Brennen Captures Yakima’s Beauty

by Heather Caro on Jul 8, 2011

Yakima artist Bill Brennan paints in his backyard...

By Melissa S. Labberton

Photos By Gordon King

When people ask Yakima’s Bill Brennen how long it takes him to paint one of his Eastern Washington landscapes, he answers with enthusiasm, “40 years!” His reply might sound like a joke, but this master painter is quite serious. He says it’s taken him 40 years to hone his artistic talent that so perfectly captures the beauty of the Yakima Valley and surrounding area.

A River Runs Through It

by Heather Caro on Jul 8, 2011

Canyon River Ranch

By Heather Caro

Photos courtesy of Canyon River Ranch

At first glance, the Lodge at Canyon River Ranch, tucked along the Yakima River south of Ellensburg, is reminiscent of any number of luxury destinations. Sweeping architecture and an attentive staff welcome visitors to accommodations loaded with modern amenities. But subtle hints — such as a front-entry reminder to “please remove waders” — suggest this is no ordinary resort.