Kids take over as 'Chief for a Day'

EPHRATA - In one short sentence, Jolie Gregoire stole the show, truly appreciating what it means to be "Chief for a Day."

"This the happiest moment of my life," 10-year-old Jolie said to her family and the crowd outside the Grant County Courthouse Thursday. Her comment struck a cord with Grant County Undersheriff Dave Ponozzo.

"That's a nice reminder to us (law enforcement) exactly why we do this. Can you put a price on that, ladies and gentlemen?" Ponozzo said.

Ponozzo has worked tirelessly each year to help put the event together, honoring eight children from across the county who have endured and overcome physical and developmental challenges.

Jolie was honored as "chief" for the State Patrol by Lt. Scott Martin. Martin, who learned Jolie likes to collect coins, presented her with a special coin from Chief John Batiste.

Moses Lake Police Chief Dave Ruffin honored 10-year-old Johnny Chandler, a student at Park Orchard Elementary School.

"We were a little worried today, he's afraid of sirens," Ruffin said. "But I tell you what, he burned that siren box up."

Kevin Segovia, 10, of Ephrata, was honored as "Sheriff for the Day" by Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones. Kevin was joined by his dad, Jesus.

Ephrata Police Chief Mike Warren recognized 9-year-old Harley Brown and surprised him with a model Ephrata patrol car.

Sophia MacNeil, 8, served as "Chief for the Day" for the Ephrata Fire Department, honored by Chief Jeremy Burns. Sophia is a student at Grant Elementary School.

For the first time, the Mattawa Police Department participated in the program, with Chief John Turley honoring Carlos Madrigal, who was also honored at the Mattawa City Council meeting Thursday night.

Quincy Police Sgt. Paul Snyder recognized 13-year-old Clara Valencia, who said the first thing she wanted to do as chief was to "arrest a bad guy with lights and sirens."

Last, but not least, Capt. Chris Anderson, of the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, honored 17-year-old Katy Leavitt, of Warden. Katy likes to play the piano and helps teach other children sign language.

Grant County Superior Court Judges Evan Sperline, John Antosz and John Knodell swore in the new members of law enforcement for the day.

The event is sponsored by the Thomas A. Boruff Foundation based in Ephrata. The non-profit organization assists special needs children throughout the U.S. and Mexico.