This week the Hermiston Herald had a story take off on social media about the Hermiston High School marching band. Our freelance reporter Everett Wicks wrote the story while he and I shot photos for it. My daughter is part of the band as a clarinet player, and I want to congratulate the band for winning several awards along with its division at the Cavalcade of Bands in Kennewick on Saturday, Oct. 7. I also want to thank those who help the band on a daily basis such as parents and staff. 

I also covered a story about Morrow and Umatilla counties getting $1.7 million in federal funds to, in part, help identify people who have domestic wells in the Lower Umatilla Basin that may be better suited for alternative water systems such as municipal water systems.

I also got to write a nice feature about an Irrigon woman who has made nice side business as an artist, specifically painting faces and body parts at area events. Laurie Ellis hopes to soon open a studio and begin teaching people how to paint as well as other ventures.

Reporter Daneli Atilano also had some good stories this week. She finished her final story of three highlighting the programs the Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 was honored for during an international conference of fire and rescue personnel back in August. The three stories dealt with the UCFD1’s resident intern, community paramedic and mental health awareness programs. The final story covered the mental health awareness aspect.

She also covered a return visit of Hermiston native Anna Lee Landin, who is now an author/illustrator. She returned to her hometown to share her first book, “The Little House Saw,” to Hermiston’s elementary schools this past week.

We also published a story from freelance reporter Laura Kostad about how Threemile Canyon Farms in Boardman is helping get the younger generation into the dairy business with the help of local 4-H programs. 

It’s all part of the Hermiston Herald’s efforts, both in print and online, to keep you informed about the latest happenings throughout Umatilla and Morrow counties. As always, if you have a news tip to share or want to ask a question about our news coverage, drop a note to me at tsnell@hermistonherald.com.

And, finally, let me take this opportunity to thank our subscribers: We simply would be unable to do this vital work without your support. 

Travis Snell is the editor for the Hermiston Herald.