11/13/10 Letters to the Editor

Awesome Zillah play

To the editor -- This week I took some of the residents of the Ponderosa Assisted Living Community to Zillah High School to see its production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." It was awesome.

I think we really need to applaud the youth of our Valley for their dedication and talent. The hours that are spent rehearsing and building their own stage settings and props should be appreciated as well as the volunteer hours by community members and Drama Mamas. The residents thoroughly enjoyed watching the play and meeting the cast. When asked who their favorite character was or their favorite scene, none could pick just one. I was partial to the spunkiness of Puck.

This is truly an experience I'm glad we didn't miss. We would recommend you take the short drive to Zillah to see this play.

ANNIE OORD

Yakima

Support appreciated

To the editor -- Thank you to all of those who supported me during the campaign. Without your help, my election to the Yakima County District Court bench would not have been possible.

A special thanks to my campaign committee and crew of tireless volunteers. From the parades to the signs and everything in between, your help was invaluable and greatly appreciated.

I am grateful to the Yakima Farmers Market for what it provides our community and for allowing me to participate every Sunday.

I am grateful to the volunteers who put on the many parades, events, fairs and voter forums throughout Yakima County. Your commitment makes our Valley a better place to live.

A special thanks to my wife and children for their love, support and sacrifice. Everybody learned that my wife, Melanie, is truly my better half and one heck of a campaign manager.

And finally, thank you to the citizens of Yakima County. I promise to respect the trust you have shown in me and will work hard for you.

BRIAN SANDERSON

Yakima

Get your mammogram

To the editor -- On Jan. 18, I received the gut-stomping, breath-robbing diagnosis of breast cancer. Ten days later, I had surgery, closely followed by 38 days of radiation. We are so very blessed to have North Star Lodge. Every single medical person with whom I came in contact was professional, knowledgeable, compassionate. The volunteers are cheerful, informative and kind. Each day I met some remarkable women in the waiting room. Oddly, I choked up when my treatment ended; I was leaving behind what had become my second home and very dear friends.

My point in telling this personal story is I had no appearance or feel of a lump. It was only through a mammogram that my cancer was discovered. I passionately urge all women to be diligent with their breast health. Don't let the fact that you don't have insurance delay this test. There are resources available for people who don't have the funds. Contact North Star, 'Ohana or Wellness House for information.

Don't let fear of the outcome keep you from getting a mammogram. Go with a friend; do whatever it takes to take care of you. You matter. Now, get that appointment made.

TWILA LEADON

Wapato

Thank you, voters

To the editor -- Thank you to the voters of Yakima County for electing me to the position of Yakima County District Court judge. My family and I have enjoyed the opportunity to make many new friends up and down the Valley during the campaign. We appreciate the encouragement and support we received throughout this year.

Now, I promise to work hard on your behalf.

DOUG FEDERSPIEL

Yakima

Standing up for Stand Down

To the editor -- I would like to extend a personal thank you to all of the volunteers who helped made the veterans' Stand Down on Oct. 30 a success.

These people give so freely of their time and to be of great help to the veterans of our armed forces.

I salute you all and thank you all again

PATRICK KEEF

Yakima