Ellington

A place to stay: Moses Lake continues to tackle shelter challenges

MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake continues to work to help those facing shelterlessness, but getting a consensus in the community and from city council seemed challenging after council members tabled a request from city administration Tuesday to hire a consultant to plan a transitional campus, which may be on West Central Drive.

Quincy boys to battle for district title

QUINCY – The Quincy High School boys basketball team bounced back from a more than 20-point deficit to defeat Chelan High School on Tuesday – another step toward its first league championship in more than 20 years.

Voters to decide on educational program and operations levies

ROYAL CITY, MATTAWA — Voters in two local school districts will decide on replacement educational program and operations (EP&O) levy proposals in a special election Feb. 8.

Births for Jan. 31, 2022

Samaritan Hospital

Two students face possible charges after school lockdown

The Lind-Ritzville High School was in lockdown Thursday morning after a 16-year-old boy made threats against another student, according to an Adams County Sheriff’s Office social media post.

Vintage variety: Car repair shop is a walk into the past

MOSES LAKE — Walk in the door at Shade Tree Customs and there is a full-size 1920s-era gas pump straight ahead. It’s a reproduction, but there it is – 6 feet tall, glass dome and all, and a price sticker of 17.6 cents per gallon.

Construction company fined in connection with Beverly bridge death

A Bellingham construction company could be fined nearly $284,000 for not ensuring safeguards were in place to keep workers from falling off the Beverly Railroad Bridge spanning the Columbia River in Beverly, according to a release Thursday from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

Two injured in collision on state Route 26

Two people were injured Friday afternoon in a collision on state Route 26 at Lucy Road, east of Othello, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Legals for January, 31 2022

WSP identifies woman who died in pedestrian-vehicle collision

A pedestrian – who died early Thursday morning when she was struck by a car on Interstate 90, east of George – was identified Saturday as Christina M. Schmelling, 44, of Moses Lake, by the Washington State Patrol.

MLPD supports bill on reasonable suspicion, use of force

The Washington State Senate is hearing a bill on Tuesday that reverts the standard for law enforcement making a stop to reasonable suspicion rather than probable cause.

MLCA/CCS fights hard against Sunnyside Christian

The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School (MLCA/CCS) basketball teams went up against Sunnyside Christian School on Tuesday.

Unincorporated Grant County building permits for Jan. 30, 2022

Dec. 18-Jan. 7

Winter Fury: Marine training exercise coming to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — If it’s a little louder around the Grant County International Airport (GCIA) next week, it’s because the United States Marine Corps is back for a week-long military exercise.

Inslee signs bills to delay, expand exemptions in WA Cares

Gov. Jay Inslee signed bills Thursday to delay the WA Cares payroll tax on Washington workers and expand the number of people who can seek permanent exemptions to avoid paying into the first-of-its-kind long-term care program.

Herald leadership changes hands

MOSES LAKE — She helped renovate a community newspaper that’s been around since 1941.

Sowing seeds: Winter gives time to plot garden

MOSES LAKE — It’s a sad fact unless the garden is somewhere like Australia or Argentina, January is not a gardening month. But it’s not to say there’s nothing for a gardener to do.

Words in pictures: Warden artist tells stories from old 35mm film

WARDEN — Vinnie O Bannon has been a photographer for most of his adult life, and has the 35mm film negatives to prove it.

Loyd Junior Crow

Loyd J. Crow, 92, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away at home Saturday Jan. 22, 2022.

Robert (Bob) William Beisel

Robert (Bob) William Beisel was born Thursday, May 9, 1946, to Charles William Beisel and Laurietta (Loretta) May Hart in Port Townsend, Washington.

Legals for January, 28 2022

Woman dies in pedestrian-vehicle collision

A pedestrian died early Thursday morning when she was struck by a car on Interstate 90, east of George, in Grant County, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Possible return: Warnick bill aims to help REC start up again

OLYMPIA — Legislation proposed by Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, and currently being considered by the Washington State Senate Committee on Business, Financial Services and Trade, could make it possible for REC Silicon’s Moses Lake plant to resume production.

Grand Coulee Dam SD talks native policies, levy

Grand Coulee Dam School District Superintendent Paul Turner said the district’s board of directors reviewed the upcoming levy election, enrollment and tribal policies during its Monday meeting.

MLSD prepares to test kids for NOVA

As February ap­proach­es, the Moses Lake School District is preparing to test students for eligibility for its highly capable program, dubbed NOVA.

I once met a unicorn

In 1 Corinthians 12: 4-7, Paul says: “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

Hanging in there: Wrestling team shows determination

OTHELLO — If one word can be used to sum up the girls wrestling program at Othello High School, it’s probably perseverance.

Eleanor Hoople (Hopkins)

Eleanor was born July 16, 1927, to Edward and Margaret Hopkins of Reardan, Washington. She passed away Jan. 23, 2022.

Shirley McGee Stewart

Shirley Adele McGee Stewart, 92, passed on Jan. 21, 2022, in Othello, Washington at the Coventry House where she had resided for the past 15 months.

Mona Phelps

It is with deepest love and sorrow the family of Mona Phelps announces her passing. Mona went to be with the Lord on Jan. 12, 2022.

Blessing the waters

Father Paul Moses Jaroslaw, the priest overseeing the Moses Lake Orthodox Fellowship, prepares to hurl a cross into the frigid waters of Moses Lake on Saturday as part of the Orthodox Church’s annual blessing of the waters ceremony. The blessing is normally done on Jan. 6 on Epiphany, the day marking Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, but was delayed this year because of snow, cold and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Letter: Coaches impart important life lessons to kids

I’d like to thank the coaches for our high school and middle school students. They put a lot of time and effort into working with our children, for very little monetary reward.

Legals for January, 27 2022

Water rules: MLIRD asks state to amend law

MOSES LAKE — If you can’t beat the law, then change it.

ML City Council postpones decision on transitional campus

Moses Lake City Council voted unanimously to postpone a vote that would have allowed city staff to move forward with hiring a planning consultant for a proposed $13-17 million transitional campus for the shelterless on West Central Drive during its Tuesday meeting.

Lawmakers mull catalytic converter bill

Bipartisan legislation intending to cut the demand for stolen catalytic converters will increase fines for violators and limit the ability to buy and sell the part if passed.

Moses Lake Wrestling Club’s Little Guy registration open

MOSES LAKE – The Little Guy season of the Moses Lake Wrestling Club is fast approaching.

Joy Lynn Bakker

With deep sorrow we announce the death of our mom, Joy Bakker. She passed away peacefully on Jan. 18, 2022, at Confluence Health Hospital in Wenatchee after a brief, yet brave, fight with cancer.

Creating opportunity: Voters to decide on Wahluke School District levy

MATTAWA — Wahluke School District voters will decide the fate of a two-year educational programs and operation (EP&O) levy in a special election Feb. 8.

Othello takes third at Lady Huskies invitational

OTHELLO — The Othello High School girls wrestling team finished third in its own tournament, the Lady Huskies invitational, Friday and Saturday in Othello.

Royal girls finish fifth at Lady Huskies invitational

OTHELLO — The Royal High School girls wrestling team finished fifth at the Lady Huskies invitational in Othello on Friday and Saturday, and Wahluke High School wrestlers competed.

Quincy wrestling tournament packs gym

QUINCY – The Quincy Mat Animal Invitational saw more than 20 teams from around Washington on Saturday.

Wilson Creek girls basketball goes one for three

In the last couple of weeks, the Wilson Creek High School girls basketball team has been working hard to improve its skills and be a tough contender in its league.

Gloria Jean Villegas

Gloria Jean Villegas passed Jan. 20, 2022, at 8:28 a.m. at the age of 62. Gloria was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.

Beverly Mae Lutskas (Berreth)

Beverly Mae Lutskas (Berreth), our loving mother, sister and friend, went home to our heavenly father on Jan. 10, 2022.

Three injured in alleged DUI-caused collision

Three people were injured Monday night in an alleged driving under the influence-caused collision on state Route 28 at Martin Road in Ephrata, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Every hat a story: Moses Lake man’s collection spans decades

MOSES LAKE — Every hat on the wall in Mike Cobb’s Moses Lake shed, about 140 of them, is a reminder of a person or a place. So are the 150 or so hats in storage.

Legals for January, 26 2022

Winged history: Ephrata company to offer repair, space for vintage aircraft

EPHRATA — It’s a lot easier to find an older airplane in the sky than it is to find a classic car on the road.

Cancellations continue for ML school bus routes due to COVID-19

The Moses Lake School District canceled eight bus routes Monday morning in response to bus drivers and bus driver assistants who had COVID-19 or reported close contact with positive cases of the disease.

Moses Lake basketball teams push past Sunnyside

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake High School boys and girls basketball teams squeaked by league opponent Sunnyside High School with wins Saturday night.

Soap Lake girls fall to Waterville/Mansfield

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake High School girls basketball team took a tough loss from Waterville/Mansfield High School on Friday, while the boys game was canceled.

Chiefs return to mat with one loss, three victories

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School Chiefs boys wrestling team returned to the mat last week for the first time in nearly a month, a hiatus head coach Jaime Garza attributed to COVID-19-related cancellations and delays.

Proposed bill aims to combat retail theft

Amendments to the definition of theft could help deter high-value retail crimes if the state legislature passes a bill, which was proposed in the Washington State House Public Safety Committee on Friday.

Calling the shots: Moses Lake referee keeps games on the straight and narrow

MOSES LAKE — Fifty-six-year-old Scott Strom is a face many basketball fans or players may recognize around the Columbia Basin, especially those who do not agree with his calls.

Avista asks for rate increases

SPOKANE — Avista Corporation is seeking permission from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) for a two-step rise in electricity and natural gas rates for its customers beginning in December 2022.

Charles Leroy Selfridge

Charles Leroy Selfridge, 80, of Warden, Washington, passed away from Alzheimer’s Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022, at home with family by his side.

Legals for January, 25 2022

Off the road: MLSD forced to cancel bus routes due to COVID-19, seeks substitute drivers

The Moses Lake School District was forced to cancel 13 bus routes on Wednesday, 15 Thursday and another dozen on Friday after bus drivers and bus driver assistants were in short supply due to having COVID-19 or being exposed to someone with the virus.

MLSD moves forward with search for a superintendent

The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors on Thursday heard an update from Bill Jordan regarding the district’s ongoing search for a superintendent.

MLHS swim team shuts out Eastmont; Quincy keeps up

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School boys swim and dive team members came out on top in every event during a home meet against Eastmont High School on Thursday.

Quincy boys basketball team outdoes Cascade

CASCADE – The Quincy High School boys basketball team thumped Cascade High School on Friday, 90-43.

Eugene Hanson

Eugene (Gene) Ewing Hanson, 90, of Clackamas, Oregon, died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022.

Ephrata boys, girls fall to Ellensburg

EPHRATA — Ellensburg High School seemed to run circles around Ephrata High School Friday night during its league basketball games.

Births for Jan. 24, 2022

New arrivals at Samaritan, Othello Community hospitals

Flying field: Aviation maintenance technology offers high opportunity

MOSES LAKE — Christine Kelly said she was looking for training opportunities when she found some online information about the aviation maintenance technology program at Big Bend Community College.

Ephrata native joins police force

Ephrata Police Department Chief Kurt Adkins, right, swears in new EPD Officer Chandler Gribble, 26, at a meeting of the Ephrata City Council on Wednesday.

Ephrata boys trump Grandview

EPHRATA — The Ephrata High School boys wrestling team overtook Grandview High School at a dual meet on Thursday.

Sunnyside senator introduces bill in state legislature to fund water projects

OLYMPIA — A Yakima Valley state senator has introduced legislation to create a $5 billion program to fund water projects across the state.

Legals for January, 24 2022

City of Moses Lake building permits for Jan. 23, 2022

December 2021

Homes needed: Grant County housing market still contends with low inventory

MOSES LAKE — The housing market in Grant County is a seller’s market as 2022 moves in, although supply chain issues may be slowing down the selling.

Spreading out: Grant PUD is expanding its fiber-optic network to every corner of Grant County

Most business owners knew it already, but one of the lessons learned over the course of the coronavirus outbreak is that fast, reliable communication is a necessity.

GC Fairgrounds to add new events this year

Grant County Fairgrounds is set to host a variety of events this year, including the annual Grant County Fair and the first annual ’90s Tribute Fest, said Grant County Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan.

Salmon recovery bill sparks plenty of testimony

OLYMPIA — Highly contested legislation designed to drive up salmon populations could also devastate Washington farmers.

Prep roundup: Moses Lake girls outbowled by Eisenhower

Top bowler for Moses Lake High School was Sarah Carpenter with 174 and 155.

Country for a cause: Cancer fundraiser to (hopefully) return in person

MOSES LAKE — After a year online, the annual Country Sweethearts cancer benefit auction, sponsored by the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation, will return in person Feb. 5.

Debbie June Meseberg

Debbie June Allan was born in Kirkland, Washington, March 21, 1953, to parents John F. and June A. Allan.

Elwin Dean Morris

Elwin Dean Morris, beloved husband, father and mentor, passed away early in January of 2022 at the age of 80.

Othello Unified basketball team bests Ephrata, 63-45

EPHRATA – The Unified Sports teams of Ephrata High School and Othello High School went head-to-head Wednesday night at Ephrata High School, and Othello came out on top with a nearly 20-point victory.

Ephrata takes narrow win over Othello

OTHELLO — The Ephrata High School boys basketball team took a tight victory over Othello High School on Tuesday.

Legals for January, 21 2022

Taking flight: Business incubator to open in downtown Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — You can still smell fresh paint and newly cut wood.

Grant County faces problem of catalytic converter thefts

A catalytic converter was reported stolen from a transit bus at the Meditech Mobility facility at 630 E. Broadway Ave. in Moses Lake over the weekend, one theft of dozens like it already this year in Grant County, according to law enforcement authorities.

New bill could reduce prices for insulin, other medications

Insulin prices and other drugs could drop in 2023 if the state passes two bills, which had public hearings by the Washington State Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee on Wednesday.

Giving voice: MLHS Chamber Choir members discuss their experiences, competition

MOSES LAKE — The chamber choir broke apart into smaller groups, working on the music, trying to get the sound right.

A surprising lesson learned through the habits of cats

Mark 1: 16-17 says, “As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fish for people.’”

Othello girls basketball team sprints past Ephrata

OTHELLO — The Othello High School girls basketball team saw a big victory over the Ephrata High School Lady Tigers Tuesday night.

Legals for January, 20 2022

Business in Mattawa to hold a grand opening

The Port of Mattawa this week announced it its newest tenant, Studio 21, in a press release from the port’s executive director, Lars Leland.

Close to home: Radiation treatment facility to break ground this year

Between 300 and 350 area residents won’t have to drive to Spokane or Wenatchee for radiation treatment after August 2023.

Medical treatment options expanding

Medical treatment options in the Moses Lake area continue to expand, and will keep expanding, adding to the health care services available for residents and employers in a broad region.

GCSO responds to two possible drive-by shootings

The Grant County Sheriff’s Office responded to two possible drive-by shootings in Moses Lake on Sunday and Tuesday morning, both in the 1000 block of Vandenburg Loop Northeast, near the intersection with Doolittle Drive, according to GCSO Lt. Ricardo Char.

Moses Lake police respond to shooting on Vince Road Northeast

Moses Lake Police Department officers responded to a report of gunfire in the 8600 block of Vince Road Northeast shortly after 10 p.m. Friday.

Reginald Eugene Whitehurst Jr.

His father was Reginald Eugene Whitehurst Sr. and his mother was Valeria Lee Rhodes Whitehurst. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia, but called South Mills, North Carolina home.

Betty Noel Bensal (Betty Sue)

Betty Sue was welcomed home by the Lord on Monday, January 10, 2022, after a short illness.

Mattawa P.O. boxes will be removed; Postal window to remain open

MATTAWA — Mattawa residents won’t have access to post office boxes after Jan. 31 at the U.S. Postal Service contractor in Mattawa.

Royal High School boys win two games; Wahluke boys lose two

MATTAWA — The Royal High School boys basketball team came away from Mattawa with a 50-45 league win Friday over Wahluke High School in a wild and hard-fought game that had the WHS gym rocking.

Legislators discuss officer pursuits, catalytic converter tracking program

Legislation loosening law enforcement’s restrictions to vehicular pursuit and hampering catalytic converter theft passed through the Washington State House Public Safety Committee on Tuesday.

Senior night: Wahluke students have a chance to look back – and forward

MATTAWA — The senior year of high school is, in part, a recognition of change. High school will be done; kids will be moving on.

Ready to play: Royal High School celebrates new gym

Office, counseling center, classroom also added

ROYAL CITY — Royal School District officials will mark the halfway point of construction at Royal High School and Royal Middle School with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 7 p.m. Saturday in the rebuilt RHS gym.

Royal High School girls basketball team splits games; Wahluke girls lose two

MATTAWA — The Royal High School girls basketball team split a pair of games, defeating Wahluke High School 57-18 Friday, but losing to College Place High School 46-40 Saturday.

Ralph B. ‘Pie’ Medrano

In the early hours of Jan. 12, 2022, in the care of his loving daughter and granddaughter, Ralph Medrano left his earthly home to meet his savior.

Legals for January, 19 2022

Quincy man dies in rollover collision

A Quincy man died Tuesday morning in a rollover collision on state Route 28, west of Quincy, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Part of King's legacy: March, program in Moses Lake celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day

MOSES LAKE — The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was commemorated Monday with a march through a part of downtown Moses Lake and a service at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Legislators, citizens discuss two bills on firearms

Two controversial bills, which could prohibit assault rifles and allow local governments to restrict open-carry of firearms, passed through the Washington State Senate Law & Justice Committee on Monday.

MLHS boys swim and dive bests Wenatchee

WENATCHEE — The Moses Lake High School boys swim and dive team bested Wenatchee High School on its own turf on Thursday.

Fire destroys home south of Ephrata

Grant County Fire District 13 firefighters responded to a house fire Saturday night near Road A Northwest and Road 12.3 Northwest, south of Ephrata, according to a social media post.

MLCA/CCS boys basketball team goes three for three

The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School (MLCA/CCS) boys basketball team had a busy several days, taking three consecutive victories.

Heading for the top: Moses Lake wrestler aims for state championship

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake High School junior Brianna Martinez is a third year wrestler with the girls wrestling program.

Donation to Serve Moses Lake helps another person in need

MOSES LAKE — Serve Moses Lake Director Brandon LaBonte said the donation of a truck was unexpected.

Legals for January, 18 2022

Interested residents want engagement: MLSD meeting on hiring a new superintendent is sparsely attended; search underway

MOSES LAKE — Whoever the Moses Lake School District hires as its next superintendent needs to be more involved in the community and do a better job of communicating with parents, students and taxpayers.

MLSD board members to decide how to accommodate growth

Phil Crocker of Teater-Crocker, Inc. – a planning consultant for the Moses Lake School District – delivered a presentation during the school board’s Thursday meeting on needs the district is facing in the next few years as the district’s student body continues to grow.

Man jailed for alleged shooting in Moses Lake

A 31-year-old man is in jail for allegedly shooting another man in the leg Jan. 7 outside of McDonald’s on Stratford Road in Moses Lake, officials said.

Legislators discuss state holidays, data, environment-friendly products

If passed, House Bill 1485 would bring a new holiday to Washington celebrating Women’s Suffrage Day and the federal 19th Amendment, and was one item on legislators’ agenda on Jan. 10.

To fix, or not to fix: When it comes to cell phones, that’s often the question

MOSES LAKE — It can happen in a flash. The cell phone slips and crashes on a concrete floor. Or it’s safely stowed in a purse – except the purse gets slammed in the car door, and that crunching sound isn’t good.

Justino ‘El Gatillero’ Hernandez

Justino “El Gatillero” Hernandez, longtime Moses Lake resident and patriarch of one of the largest farm-labor families of Eastern Washington, was peacefully serenaded home through the lyrics of his favorite song, “Que Me Entierren Con La Banda,” whilst surrounded by the unconditional love of all his family.

Quincy tournament sees huge turnout of schools

QUINCY — The Quincy Bring Home Da Beef tournament saw 26 schools from around Washington on Saturday.

Wilson Creek boys dominate in home game

WILSON CREEK — The Wilson Creek High School boys basketball team blew Cascade Christian Academy (CCA) out of the water at its game Wednesday at Wilson Creek.

Quincy boys basketball team beats Cashmere

CASHMERE — The Quincy High School boys basketball team took on the Cashmere High School Bulldogs on Friday.

Ephrata High School boys basketball team falls to Selah

SELAH — The Ephrata High School boys basketball team suffered a close loss to league opponent Selah High School on Friday.

Legals for January, 17 2022

City of Ephrata building permits for Jan. 16, 2022

December 2021

Commentary: Time to replace long-term care law

The first order of business for Washington’s Legislature in Olympia is replacing the state’s new long-term care law. It is fatally flawed.

The unexpected sometimes happens: Homeowners can protect against snow, water

MOSES LAKE — The snow falling upon central Washington can be beautiful.

Sens. Warnick and King criticize response to Kittitas County offer to help clear snow on state highways

Sens. Warnick and King say they are shocked and very disappointed that the state Department of Transportation refused Kittitas County’s offer to help clear snow off key highways because county employees are not required to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

A new way to do school: Leaders of Moses Lake’s Vanguard Academy greet prospective students

MOSES LAKE — Elijah Brown and Dawniella Castleton are focused on the task at hand.

Ephrata to get standalone Starbucks

EPHRATA — Coffee-drenched Ephrata is going to have its own standalone Starbucks.

Inslee activates Washington National Guard due to omicron

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced during a Thursday afternoon press conference he is activating 100 Washington National Guard troops to help in hospitals and taking other measures to help hospital workers slammed with an overload of patients during the current surge of the omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Martin Luther King Jr. to be commemorated in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. will be commemorated in Moses Lake with a march and a service, featuring a recital of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, beginning at 1 p.m. Monday.

MLCA/CCS girls fall to Odessa, 37-51

ODESSA — The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School (MLCA/CCS) fell to Odessa High School, 37-51, in a basketball game Wednesday in Odessa.

Letter: Moses Lake School Board worthy of recognition

By proclamation of the governor, January is School Board Recognition Month. It’s a great time to recognize our elected community members who selflessly give their time and energy in support of high-quality public schooling for our youth.

‘Healing music’: Violinist to perform benefit concert in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — An upcoming violin concert will help further Christian ministry and complete a local church.

Legislators consider bill to crack down on hazing

New legislation may require higher education institutions to double down on the practice of hazing, as a bill on it got immense support in a public hearing with state legislators on Thursday.

Walk the talk

1991, south Georgia: A 13-year-old white boy goes to a Black girl about his age crying in the grocery store.

MLCA/CCS boys take early lead, slide past Odessa

ODESSA — The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School (MLCA/CCS) boys basketball team took a close game, 60-51, with Odessa High School on Wednesday in Odessa.

Legals for January, 14 2022

Moving toward permanence: Moses Lake identifies new site for Open Doors Sleep Center

Moses Lake City Manager Allison Williams provided an update on the city’s plans to address the needs of those facing shelterlessness in the city during Tuesday’s Grant County Board of Commissioners meeting.

Hankins named Moses Lake mayor; Myers deputy mayor

The city of Moses Lake has a new mayor, as city council members voted to elect Dean Hankins to the role during their Tuesday evening meeting.

Bills could improve extreme weather response

A bill requiring the Washington Military Department to create and implement an extreme weather response grant program moved through a public hearing with state legislators without opposition on Wednesday.

Quincy girls basketball team falls to Omak, 24-53

QUINCY – Tuesday night was a rough night for the Quincy High School Lady Jacks, as the basketball team took a tough loss of 24-53 against league contender Omak High School.

Marilyn Joan Hallberg

In the very early hours of Jan. 9, 2022, under the care of her daughter and several grandchildren, Marilyn Joan Hallberg left this earth to meet her precious Savior.

Keeping up: Sticking with exercise has benefits for body and mind

MOSES LAKE — Bob Ray, who was doing upper body work at the South Campus Athletic Club in Moses Lake Friday morning, said regular workouts are important to him for his physical well-being, but more than that.

Three local representatives, other lawmakers back bill to replace WA Cares Fund program

Washington state’s new long-term care program and payroll tax got immediate attention from lawmakers as the Legislature opened its session.

Why I am more of a cat person than a dog person

Genesis 1:26 says: “Then God said, ‘Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.’”

Dolores Irene Martinez

Dolores Irene Martinez, 82, of Warden, died in her sleep on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, following a short bout with cancer.

Quincy boys basketball team scores 72 in win over Omak

QUINCY – The Quincy High School boys basketball team took a big win over Omak High School Tuesday night.

Prep roundup: ACH edges out Davenport

The ACH High School Warriors narrowly defeated the Davenport High School Gorillas Wednesday Tuesday.

Legals for January, 13 2022

MLSD to hold open house for Vanguard Academy

The Moses Lake School District will host an open house for potential students interested in attending its latest campus, Vanguard Academy, from 6-8 p.m. today at Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center, 900 Yonezawa Blvd. in Moses Lake.

Construction company fined over Moses Lake operation

SPOKANE — The Washington State Department of Ecology on Thursday announced it was fining construction giant Granite Construction $36,000 for air pollution released from the company’s Moses Lake asphalt plant.

House Public Safety Committee discusses use of force bills

Testimonial debate over the proper use of force rattled legislators again as House Bills 1735 and 1726 reached the Washington State House Public Safety Committee Tuesday morning.

Othello boys basketball team deals with postponed, canceled games

OTHELLO — Bad weather and the COVID-19 pandemic have combined to make it a bumpy season so far for the Othello High School boys basketball team.

Lorenzo Alvin Chaffee

Lorenzo Alvin Chaffee went to be with the Lord suddenly at the age of 29 on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2021.

Mable Francis (Talbert) Chandler

Mable Francis (Talbert) Chandler left her earthly home and passed into the arms of her loving Savior on Jan. 1, 2022.

Illa ‘Jean’ Muscott

Illa Jean Muscott, loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend entered eternal rest Jan. 6, 2021, at the age of 92, where she joined her loved ones who have gone on before her.

Making room: Royal City to consider permit-only parking

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City City Council will discuss an ordinance to allow city officials to establish permit-only parking zones.

Bobbie Jo Peters

Bobbie Jo Peters was born Dec. 10, 1970, and passed away on Jan. 5, 2022, surrounded by her loving family.

‘A voice for citizens’: Wanke reflects on 32 years on the Ephrata City Council

EPHRATA — Mark Wanke first ran for the Ephrata City Council in 1989. “I wanted to be a voice for the citizens,” he said.

Legals for January, 12 2022

WSP identifies man in fatal collision

A Mattawa man who died Jan. 1 in a collision on state Route 243 near Mattawa, was identified Tuesday as Diego A. Diaz Sorto, 39, by the Washington State Patrol.

Two arrested in Spokane after ML shooting

Two men were arrested Tuesday afternoon in Spokane in connection with a drive-by shooting Monday in Moses Lake, officials said.

The rising cost of eating

MOSES LAKE — The sticker price read $250.

Port of Moses Lake ends social media comments

MOSES LAKE — People will no longer be able to post a comment to any of the Port of Moses Lake’s social media sites.

Clearing the way: Soap Lake police officer enjoys plowing snow on the side

SOAP LAKE — White Buffalo Drone Services owner and operator Jeff Gallaher is a man of many hats. In addition to the drone service he started in early 2021, he recently expanded into snow plowing, in time for a winter with plenty of snow needing to be moved.

Prep roundup: ACH holds early lead over Odessa

The Almira/Coulee-Hartline High School Warriors took an early lead over the Odessa High School Tigers Friday, finishing the first quarter 15-2, and stayed ahead the rest of the game.

Man arrested in connection with alleged rape in Othello

A Connell man was arrested Friday in connection with an alleged rape near Othello.

Ephrata boys basketball falls to Grandview in 4th quarter

EPHRATA – A tough match between boys basketball team league contenders Ephrata High School and Grandview High School on Saturday resulted in Ephrata falling short by only two points.

Bobbie Jo Peters

Bobbie Jo Peters, 51, of Quincy passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022.

Legals for January, 11 2022

Moses Lake police investigate drive-by

Moses Lake Police Department officers are investigating an alleged drive-by shooting, which occurred at about 2:45 p.m. Monday on Gumwood Street, between Broadway and Third avenues.

Back to work: State lawmakers talk about goals, issues

Repairing holes in last year’s legislation and preventing future issues was atop legislators’ concerns during the annual Associated Press Legislative Preview on Thursday for the upcoming legislative session.

Bergman next chief of Quincy public schools

QUINCY — At a special meeting late Tuesday, the Quincy School Board named Assistant Superintendent Nik Bergman the district’s new superintendent.

Two arrested in connection with drive-by near Othello

Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a drive-by shooting in the 2100 block of West Shelly Road in the Othello area Wednesday evening, according to the ACSO.

Heading east: Moses Lake student receives full ride to Vassar College

MOSES LAKE — For Moses Lake High School senior Samuel Rebuelta, it started with a postcard.

Christine Isabelle Delgado

Christine I. Delgado was born to Joe P. Delgado and Elvita Delgado, longtime Royal Slope farmers, on Aug. 1, 1964, and passed away at Samaritan Hospital on Dec. 16, 2021.

Births for Jan. 10, 2021

Samaritan Hospital, Dec. 17-22

Back to the basics for MLHS boys wrestling

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake High School boys wrestling team is going back to the basics to build a strong foundation for this wrestling season and to prepare for future seasons.

ACSO officers help recover vehicle; 3 arrested

Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a recovered stolen vehicle call Jan. 3 in which the vehicle reportedly was followed by the caller, according to an ACSO social media.

Two teens injured in possible DUI rollover

Two teenage boys were injured Sunday morning in an alleged DUI-caused rollover collision on state Route 17, southeast of Othello, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Royal boys ready to hit the basketball court

ROYAL CITY – Royal High School boys basketball team head coach Ray Valle said this season has been a little difficult, with more than half of the team catching COVID-19 in December and having a late start to the season because RHS went to the state football tournament.

Grant County Republican group to host U.S. House candidate

The Grant County Washington Federation of Republican Women will host speaker Jerrod Sessler, who’s running for election this year in the U.S. House to represent the state’s 4th Congressional District, at its January meeting.

Legals for January, 10 2022

City of Othello building permits for Jan. 9, 2022

December 2021

Thousands of pounds of ground beef recalled

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture late Thursday announced a recall of 28,356 pounds of pre-packaged ground beef believed to be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 delivered to stores across the western United States.

Buying furniture complicated by market conditions

MOSES LAKE — Maybe Santa didn’t deliver that new couch and chair after all. Or maybe Santa brought a couple of new chairs. Now that couch just has to go.

Snow business: Know the rules when clearing driveways, walks

MOSES LAKE — Yes, it is January. And yes, that is snow out there. There’s the potential for snow as late as mid-March. So the time has come to consider getting in and out of the driveway – after all, it won’t clear itself.

Winter blast: Snowstorm causes closures, delays, traffic snarls

MOSES LAKE — Ronda Vance had a one-word estimate for the amount of snow in the Columbia Basin Wednesday night into Thursday morning. “Enough,” she said.

Grant County commissioners say no to county income taxes

The Grant County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to institute a ban on a county-assessed income tax for Grant County residents. In doing so, the county joins Moses Lake and several other Washington municipalities in opposition to such a tax.

INET seizes $2.08 million in illicit drugs; suspect makes bond

Officers with the Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team, also known as INET, seized about $2.08 million in methamphetamine and fentanyl pills on Dec. 24.

Soap Lake fire destroys home, displaces family

SOAP LAKE — A house fire Wednesday night left a family in Soap Lake homeless and with limited financial resources.

Going big: ML girls wrestling team has high expectations

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School girls wrestling team is a small, but mighty group laying a firm foundation to build the girls wrestling program in Moses Lake

Three for the show: Country trio Taylor Red to perform in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Three-part harmony comes to the Moses Lake Alliance Church at 7 p.m. Jan. 13 when the trio Taylor Red performs in concert.

Inslee talks COVID-19 rates, precautions

Gov. Jay Inslee updated the state on rising COVID-19 infection rates and the availability of at-home testing kits in coming weeks during a virtual press conference Wednesday afternoon.

Legals for January, 7 2022

Clearing danger: County, cities have priorities in keeping roads safe in winter

EPHRATA — Winter might not be so annoying for some people if it didn’t mean snowy and icy roads – which the Basin has faced and will deal with more before spring.

NWS issues storm warning

The National Weather Service on Wednesday afternoon issued a winter storm warning for the Basin, including Grand Coulee, Coulee City, Quincy, Wilbur, Ephrata, Ritzville, Harrington, Othello, Odessa, Moses Lake, and Creston.

Quincy Police Department chief does much swearing in

QUINCY — Quincy Police Department Chief Kieth Siebert has done a lot of swearing in over the last three weeks.

Selina Katherine Vazquez

Selina Katherine Vazquez, 41, of Quincy, Washington, passed away Dec. 23, 2021, in Moses Lake.

Denise Anglin

Denise (Denny) Anglin, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving husband and children on Friday, Dec. 31.

Lessons learned from Betty White and the Apostle Paul

"Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

New year, new hopes: Community members look back – and look forward

MOSES LAKE — Every year brings the unexpected, and 2021 brought more than its share.

Quincy Recreation plans winter cornhole league

QUINCY — The Quincy Recreation Department announced that they will be holding a winter cornhole league starting Jan. 19.

One found dead in structure fire

An unidentified person was found dead Friday inside a structure after the fire burning the building was controlled, according to an Adams County Sheriff’s Office social media post.

Man robs Safeway pharmacy in Ephrata

An armed man walked into the Safeway at 1150 Basin St. SW in Ephrata on Christmas Eve and walked out with hundreds of pain pills, according to Ephrata Police Department Capt. Erik Cook.

Ephrata boys basketball team skirts past East Valley, 38-34

EPHRATA — The Ephrata High School boys basketball team beat conference contender East Valley High School Tuesday night, 38-34.

Legals for January, 6 2022

Grand Coulee Dam overhaul ensures 30 more years of service

The Bureau of Reclamation and the Bonneville Power Administration recently announced a long-running overhaul of three generators at the Grand Coulee Dam was completed in September 2021, according to a press release from both agencies.

Othello School District voters to consider capital projects bond

OTHELLO — Ballots will be mailed to Othello School District voters this month and will include a proposal for a $51 million capital projects bond. Ballots should be mailed about Jan. 24. and must be returned by Feb. 8.

Serious about service: Elks work to support community

MOSES LAKE — Bill West said the Elks service organization and its members are focused on service to community.

Rodeo royalty: Othello PRCA Rodeo queen reflects on two unique years

OTHELLO — Brianna Kin Kade rode in as many parades, went to as many rodeos, attended as many events as she could in 2021, and didn’t mind at all.

Sandra (Sandee) Estoos

After long-standing chronic illness, Sandee was peacefully ushered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Dec. 28, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.

Three injured in head-on collision south of Quincy

Three men were injured Tuesday morning in a collision on state Route 281, just south of Quincy, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Othello library expands hours

OTHELLO — The Othello branch of the Mid-Columbia Libraries, 101 E. Main St., extended its hours starting Monday.

Legals for January, 5 2022

White Trail Road roundabout on tap: Traffic circle construction will affect major route in region

QUINCY — Construction is scheduled to begin in late summer or early fall 2022 on a new one-lane roundabout at White Trail Road/Road U Northwest and state Route 28, about four miles west of Quincy.

Up to 4 inches of snow forecast; libraries close

EPHRATA — Keep that snow shovel, snow blower or snow plow handy, because more snow is coming, with up to 4 inches forecast by Friday.

70-year-old Quincy man identified as person who died under ‘suspicious circumstances’

The identity of a man – found dead under “suspicious circumstances” in the 300 block of H Street Southwest in Quincy Dec. 28 – was released Monday.

Grant County commissioners seek two civil service commissioners

MOSES LAKE — Grant County commissioners are looking for two county residents to fill open positions on the civil service commission.

Prep roundup: Tigers defeat Knights in OT

The Ephrata High School Tigers narrowly beat the Royal High School Knights in overtime Wednesday.

Rolling tribute: Truck convoy gives Moses Lake teen a send-off on wheels

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake family put together a semi-truck convoy Friday as a final send-off for their son who died just before Christmas.

Legals for January, 4 2022

‘Still pretty chilled’: Winter weather advisory, snow forecast this week

MOSES LAKE — In the first week of January, snow is one of those things that can happen. And it looks like snow will occur most of the first week of January 2022.

Moses Lake doctor’s scrapbook details early Scouting trip

Robert Ruby was a pioneering surgeon in Moses Lake and an enthusiastic collector of autographs. He studied Native American culture and wrote a number of books about his research, including a biography of Chief Moses.

Basin community donates to woman’s end-of-life care

The Columbia Basin community stepped up for a neighbor in need and donated to cover end-of-life expenses, plus more.

Man dies, another injured in collision near Mattawa

A Mattawa man died from injuries in a collision Saturday evening on state Route 243 near Mattawa, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Quincy girls fall to Tenino in Yakima tournament

YAKIMA — The Quincy High School Lady Jacks basketball team took on Tenino High School in the Wilbur-Ellis Sundome Shootout on Tuesday in Yakima.

Parks, pets and police: Othello council approves $19.5 million 2022 budget

OTHELLO — Othello City Council members on Dec. 13 approved a $19.5 million budget for 2022.

Legals for January, 3 2022

Due caution: Mindfulness can prevent fraud in repairs, remodeling

Winter weather, the start of the new year and a plethora of home improvement shows may see Columbia Basin homeowners eyeing repairs or improvements to their homes.