Ellington

Carlos Gonzalez finds his stride at Othello High School Athletics

OTHELLO — Clear skies and the morning sun had set over the Basin on May 23 as the first pitch was thrown for the Othello Huskies state baseball game. For the first time in program history, the Huskies were hosting a state tournament game on their home field. For Carlos Gonzalez Jr, the athletic director at Othello High School hosting a state baseball regional wasn’t just a logistical triumph—it was proof that his hometown community would rally around its kids when given the chance.

Jaeda Gonzalez continues multisport growth as Viking in sophomore season

MOSES LAKE — For Big Bend Community College sophomore and Ephrata native Jaeda Gonzalez, the work never ceased in the offseason as she prepares to return to volleyball and softball for the Vikings. With a strong athletic career behind her and a year of collegiate experience, the sophomore has her eyes set on improving alongside the BBCC programs. “As a team, we definitely want a winning season and also fun to watch,” said Gonzelez. “We want be fun to watch for everyone else and show that we can bring it.” Her athletic career began at home as she grew up in a family that has a strong passion for sports. Gonzalez said her early years of competing were on the pitch in soccer, the hardwood of basketball and the softball diamond.

Othello Adult Co-Ed softball on track to start this fall

OTHELLO — The city of Othello Parks and Recreation is holding registrations for the 2026 Fall Adult Co-Ed Softball League. Registrations are open until Aug. 18, with a cost of $350 per team at a maximum of 16 players. “It’s really exciting to have (a softball league) here in Othello and giving families something to do on Monday nights,” said Valerie Hernandez, Othello Park and Recreation Coordinator.

Desert Green Turf in Moses Lake installs logo for Mariners 50th Anniversary

MOSES LAKE — When Nathan Cox started Desert Green Turf in 2006 at a farm in Moses Lake, the initial plan was to sell to local landscapers and homeowners. Fast forward 20 years and his business has grown into a consistent turf producer for major sports franchises – including the installation of the Seattle Mariners 50-year anniversary logo at T-Mobile Park on Friday. “I thought it turned out great,” Nathan said. “I was able to tune in (Friday), and results came back very positive from the Mariners management and Kevin (Dvorak), the groundskeeper there, I think everybody was happy.”

Moses Lake Roundup returns to Grant County Fair

MOSES LAKE — The 83rd Moses Lake Roundup is just over a week away from kicking off at the Grant County Fairgrounds Aug. 20-22. However, community members don’t have to wait until the 20th for the fun to start, as the demo derby will take place Aug. 18-19.

MLCA athletics enters new era under Todd Gregory

MOSES LAKE — Todd Gregory was named the new Athletic Director at Moses Lake Christian Academy earlier this summer. As he heads into his first year in the role, things are already expected to look different this school year. For instance, the Lions will not have a football team this season. “We did not renew our contract with Covenant (Christian School), so we lost some athletes this year,” Gregory said. “I think in the long run we'll end up getting some of those families that want to do athletics but stay in the Christian school atmosphere. I'm hoping that happens and we're able to get football going again.”

Grid Kids expands opportunities this season

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Grid Kids football program is gearing up for the start of its 26th football season this fall. This year, alongside their tackle football program, the Grid Kids have expanded their flag football options. “It’s one of those things that you just don’t really know how well it’s going to go, but right now we’re looking pretty strong,” said Brian Gwinn, the Gird Kids administrator and communications contact. The tackle opportunities remain the same for third through sixth grade with third and fourth graders playing together and fifth and sixth graders separately from the younger players. The format for third and fourth grade will remain at a regular 11-man game, but for fifth and sixth grade there is consideration for moving down to an eight-on-eight format.

Building a community at Desert City Fitness

EPHRATA — The city of Ephrata welcomed its newest athletic club earlier this summer with Desert City Fitness setting up along Basin Street. Since their grand opening June 6, the club has worked to become a strong contributor to the community in Ephrata. “We just opened our doors and whoever comes in, that’s how we do it,” said Bryan Boney, owner of Desert City Fitness. Boney, who owns the club alongside his wife Tracy Fillion, decided to open Desert City Fitness to keep himself active after retiring six years ago. Boney said he has invested all his money from retirement into purchasing the property, remodeling and getting the equipment necessary to open his fitness center.

From Maverick to Warrior

Paige Richardson rises to first year challenges

MOSES LAKE — When former Moses Lake Maverick Paige Richardson first arrived at Walla Walla Community College, she did not anticipate getting to play as much softball as she did in her freshman season, she said. “I didn't know what to expect just because it's a whole different world once you step into college softball compared to high school softball,” Richardson said. “I was used to playing, pitching a lot for the Mavericks. My coach pretty much depended on two of us pitchers, and it just worked out that way, and we worked really well as a pair, and we were able to back each other up in certain scenarios, so I wasn't expecting it, but I'm glad it worked out the way it did.”

Sushik comes full circle ahead of first season at BBCC

MOSES LAKE — The next step in Liana Sushik’s athletic journey has led her to play for the Big Bend Community College Vikings volleyball team this fall after a successful career with the Soap Lake Eagles. Joining the Vikings is something she feels has deepened her love for the sport, she said. “I fell in love with the fact that there’s more than just high school volleyball; there’s another level,” said Sushik. “It’s like a whole new chapter and I’m so excited to see what I have next because there’s a lot that I’ve been through to get here.” Despite her success on the court, Sushik said she didn’t initially start out as an athlete.