Ellington

Big Bass Tournament Trail makes way to Othello

OTHELLO — A Big Bass Tournament Trail event will be making its way to Potholes State Park next weekend, hosted by Limit Out Performance Marine. The Shootout at Potholes competition, entering its fifth year, will pin anglers in a team where they shoot to catch the five biggest fish of the day...

Washington population continues to grow

OLYMPIA — There are 7,864,400 people living in Washington as of April 1, 2022 — an increase of more than 158,000 since the 2020 census, according to estimates compiled and published by the Washington State Office of Financial Management...

WSP seeks witnesses to Mattawa hit and run

GRANT COUNTY — The Washington State Patrol is seeking witnesses or anyone who might have information about a hit and run accident south of Mattawa early Wednesday. ...

Moses Lake man booked in association with Okanogan Co. burglary

OKANOGAN — A Moses Lake man has been booked into the Okanogan County Jail in connection with a burglary near Oroville where more than $20,000 in cash was stolen...

Fire chief grateful for mutual aid after Tuesday fires

SOAP LAKE - June 28 was a busy day for Grant County firefighters. At least five different wildfires broke out around the country prompting responses from local departments and mutual aid from throughout the county. Grant County Fire District 7 Chief Kirk Sheppard said he was on vacation and out of the state when the fires broke out but he appreciates all the mutual aid partners who responded to the call for support. “I want to throw my heartfelt thank you out to all the support from the community but more importantly all of the other firefighting agencies that came to provide us mutual aid,” said Sheppard. “You know, without the bond between all the fire departments, there's no way that small agencies like mine would be able to handle these things.”...

State high court condemns former Grant Co. prosecutor’s conduct

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously overturned the 2017 conviction of a Moses Lake man charged with assaulting police officers, ruling that then-Grant County Prosecuting Attorney Garth Dano engaged in prosecutorial misconduct by by asking jurors their opinions of illegal immigration during jury selection. “We conclude that the prosecutor’s questions and remarks apparently intentionally appealed to the jurors’ potential racial or ethnic bias, prejudice, or stereotypes and therefore constitute race-based prosecutorial misconduct,” wrote Associate Chief Justice Charles Johnson in the court’s majority opinion. “I haven’t had time to review it,” Dano said Thursday of the ruling. “And I don’t want to say anything without reviewing the ruling.”...

Othello man dies from wounds sustained in June 26 shooting

OTHELLO — Charges are pending against two Othello boys in connection with the death of an Othello-area man following a shooting June 26...

Grant Co. unemployment falls, pandemic job losses recovered

GRANT COUNTY — Unemployment in Grant County has fallen to 5.7%, the lowest level since November 2021, with non-farm industrial employment recovering all the jobs lost since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, according to a report from the Washington State Department of Employment Security. ...

Japanese ag students arrive at Big Bend

MOSES LAKE — Thirty-one Japanese exchange students arrived at Big Bend Community College this week to start their 19-month-long studies in the United States as part of the Japanese Agricultural Training Program...

Jack Thomas

Jack Thomas, 93, longtime resident of Royal City, Washington, passed away on June 25 2022.

Jazz Silva: Life experiences lead to career in law enforcement

Jazzlyn Silva had some bumpy times when she was young. The help she got to get through those times influenced her choice of career.

City, school to jointly build Nelson Road walking path

MOSES LAKE — The City of Moses Lake has established an agreement with the Moses Lake School District to jointly build a path along Nelson Road to help students walk safely to and from Groff Elementary School.

Seattle Mariners’ season thus far

SEATTLE - The Seattle Mariners came into the 2022 season after winning 90 games the previous year, finishing one game outside of the final wildcard playoff spot in the American League. Now sitting at 35-41 nearly halfway through the 2022 season, Seattle has a quickly fading chance to turn their season around if they hope to make the postseason for the first time since 2001...

A hobby that’s becoming a business

MOSES LAKE — Jereme Roy makes a lot of things out of leather.

Legals for June, 30 2022

Quincy School District superintendent contract extended

QUINCY — Quincy School Board members have extended the contract of Superintendent Nic Bergman through June 2025. Board members approved the new contract unanimously at their regular meeting Tuesday. “Implementing the strategic plan is going to be my work,” he said Wednesday...

MLPD to get new bodycams, plate readers

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake police officers are going to get new body cameras as older models begin to wear out. “We got these body cameras in 2016, they are six years old, and we’re starting to see failures,” Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr said. At a regular city council meeting on Tuesday, Fuhr told city council members the body cameras currently used by the MLPD are beginning to show their age. Fuhr also said a new state law requires police officers to record all interviews, and current camera equipment simply does not allow the MLPD to comply with the new law. Council members unanimously approved a request from Fuhr to spend slightly more than $48,000 to buy 52 new cameras and 7 docking stations to charge them, with the money coming from a $100,000 state grant to help the MLPD comply with the new law. Council Member Deanna Martinez asked Fuhr if the request would provide a body camera for every MLPD officer, including the new mental health specialist from Renew — formerly Grant Integrated Services, Grant County’s behavioral health agency — expected to join officers this fall. “Yes, that includes animal control, but not the mental health person. They will not be our employee,” Fuhr said. Council members also approved a request from Fuhr to spend $75,000 on cameras that can read license plates. Called automated license plate readers (ALPR), Fuhr said the MLPD already has one mobile camera in a patrol vehicle and would like to equip more cars with mobile cameras and deploy a few stationary cameras across the city. Fuhr said the city of Yakima recently set up a number of stationary cameras, which use text recognition software to discern a license plate that can then be compared with a database of stolen vehicles or vehicles owned by wanted suspects, and within a 30-day period detected 68 stolen vehicles and arrested six people. He also told council members about a recent incident of vandalism in which a vehicle driven by suspects in the crime was caught on video. Had the city had an ALPR system in place, it is likely the vandals could have been apprehended. “ALPR is the next big thing in law enforcement since DNA testing,” Fuhr said. “It helps out not just with stolen vehicle recovery but also with criminal activity.” Fuhr said the money for the license plate readers will come from a separate state grant given to the MLPD under a program to assist police departments in high-crime communities. Council Member Dustin Swartz, however, wondered just how long videos, images and license plate numbers of vehicles would remain on the MLPD’s system. “It’s only effective if the equipment is recording traffic,” Swartz noted. Fuhr responded that while the system takes images of all license plates and officers can save images for as long as they need to, by default the ALPR system only keeps those license plate images stored for 60-90 days. “They’re not just sitting out there, always,” Fuhr said. Charles H. Featherstone can be reached at cfeatherstone@columbiabasinherald.com. ..

ML student makes Wheaton College dean’s list

WHEATON, ILL. — Moses Lake High School graduate Zach Henninger made the Spring 2022 Wheaton College dean’s list, according to a college press release. To earn a spot on the Wheat College dean’s list, an undergraduate must maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale and carry a full course load of 12 or more credit hours, the press release said.

Quincy student graduates from the University of Findlay

FINDLAY, OHIO - Kaitlyn Coleman, of Quincy, has graduated from the University of Findlay. Coleman received her Bachelor of Science in Echocardiography and graduated from the university with the academic designation of magna cum laude.

USDA’s tips to avoid foodborne illnesses

The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a release on June 28 advising the public how to prevent foodborne illnesses. “Wherever you go this summer, don’t forget to bring your safe food handling practices along for the adventure,” said USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Sandra Eskin. “As temperatures rise, the risk for foodborne illness does too. Always remember that whether you’re grilling for the Fourth of July, camping, or boating, you should wash your hands before and during food prep.” ...

Basin students make UW dean’s list

COLUMBIA BASIN - More than 20 students from the Columbia Basin have been named to the dean's list at the University of Washington for Autumn 2021 Quarter. To qualify, a student must have completed at least 12 graded credits and have a grade point average of at least 3.5...

Story Corps comes to Moses Lake

No story left untold

MOSES LAKE — Basin residents have a chance this month to tell their stories for posterity.

Fires banned at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, Hanford Reach

OTHELLO — All activities likely to start a fire have been banned on national wildlife refuges in the Mid-Columbia region, effective through Sept. 30. The region includes the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge near Othello. The order also applies to the Hanford Reach National Monument...

Kenneth A. 'Kenny' Schnirring

Kenneth A. "Kenny” Schnirring was born on March 20, 1952, at Sac City, Iowa to Vernon “Wheezer” and Dorothy “Dottie” Schnirring.

Nolen Gene Merkley

Nolen Gene Merkley, 78, of Moses Lake, Washington, took his last flight on June 26, 2022.

Sports schedule June 29 - July 5

COLUMBIA BASIN - Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local, regional and national events and camps.

Hope for Hanford

Groups come together to lobby for Handford cleanup

MATTAWA- The second annual Hanford Journey was held June 24 at the Vernita Boat Launch. The event familiarizes people with the area, educates them on the history of the Handford site and lobbies for people to take action for change.

Police records for June 29, 2022

EPD, OPD, MLPD, jail

Legals for June, 29 2022

Inmate, deputy injured in AC jail fight

RITZVILLE — An Adams County Jail inmate and an Adams County Sheriff’s Office corrections deputy were both injured in a fight at the Adams County Jail early Tuesday, according to an ACSO press release posted on the agency’s Facebook page.

Rectenwald appointed as interim Grant County Sheriff

EPHRATA — Grant County Undersheriff Ryan Rectenwald has been appointed as the interim Grant County Sheriff. Grant County Commissioners approved the appointment Tuesday.

CWU basketball camp brings in high schools

ELLENSBURG — The courts at the Central Washington University recreation center were full of the sounds of cheers and squeaking shoes this weekend, as the Wildcats coaching staff hosted a camp for high schools on campus.

Fire near Soap Lake prompts evacuation order

SOAP LAKE — A major fire east of Soap Lake on Tuesday prompted Grant County Emergency Management to issue a Level 3 evacuation order for residents living along Road D.5 Northeast south of state Route 28 and north of Road 20 Northeast, according to an announcement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Wineries to hold ribbon cutting in Kennewick

KENNEWICK — The Port of Kennewick, along with the city of Kennewick, Benton County and the Hanford Area Economic Investment Fund Advisory Committee, is inviting the public to come and celebrate the completion of the Columbia Gardens Phase Two project with the Gordon Estate Winery and the Muret-Gaston Winery.

Fire ban implemented at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, Hanford Reach

OTHELLO — All activities likely to start a fire have been banned on national wildlife refuges in the Mid-Columbia region, effective through Sept. 30. The region includes the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge near Othello.

Nominations open for state diversity award

OLYMPIA — Nominations are open through Aug. 25 for the Governor’s Employer awards, sponsored by the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment.

Quincy Valley Medical Center officials to meet with prospective architects

QUINCY — Quincy Valley Medical Center officials will meet July 6 with three architectural firms to select one to design a new Quincy hospital.

Sheriff, Patrol urge caution when using fireworks this July 4

EPHRATA — With the Independence Day holiday coming up, the Washington State Patrol and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office are advising everyone to buy their fireworks legally and to use them safely.

Moses Lake port buys more land for railroad project

MOSES LAKE — With the approval of a second land deal on Monday, the Port of Moses Lake continues to buy the land needed for its Wheeler Corridor railroad project.

Soap Lake man arrested after standoff

SOAP LAKE - Joseph Loan, 67, of Soap Lake is in custody after a six-hour standoff with law enforcement in Soap Lake. Loan is facing four charges after barricading himself inside his trailer in Soap Lake Monday night. Loan has been charged with two counts of attempted assault 1 on law enforcement and two counts of felony harassment threats to kill...

GALLERY: Weekend in sports

COLUMBIA BASIN - This weekend saw many sporting events take to the Basin, from golf tournaments to cutting and more. Check out some photos from this weekend’s events.

Zags’ ace named to All-American list

SPOKANE - Right-handed pitcher Gabriel Hughes was named to the D1Baseball.com All-American list on Friday, earning a nod on the second team.

‘This is going to take some getting used to’

Migrant program initiative helps students see better

MOSES LAKE — Nallely Escobedo said she didn’t realize for a long time that her vision wasn’t really that good. “I thought everyone just saw how I saw,” she said.

Legals for June, 28 2022

Zags’ ace named to All-American list

SPOKANE - Right-handed pitcher Gabriel Hughes was named to the D1Baseball.com All-American list on Friday, earning a nod on the second team...

ACSO seeks 2 in relation to Othello-area shooting

RITZVILLE — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on the whereabouts of a pair of teenagers wanted in connection with a shooting near Othello late Sunday. In a statement, the ASCO said deputies are looking for Arturo Pineda-Feliciano, 18, and Gustavo Pineda-Feliciano, 16, for possible knowledge of or involvement in a shooting late Sunday on Charla Road, in an unincorporated neighborhood west of Othello...

‘Pieced Together’

Fairgrounds mural is completed

MOSES LAKE — The last piece of a project to add art at and around the Grant County Fairgrounds has been completed.

Organizers say airshow draws more than 7,000

MOSES LAKE — More than 7,000 people attended this year’s Moses Lake Airshow — many of them from far outside the area — and hotels across Moses Lake were sold out...

Melcher appointed to Charter Commission

OLYMPIA – House Minority Leader J. T. Wilcox, R-Pierce County, recently appointed Vickey Melcher to a 4-year term on the Washington State Charter School Commission...

GCSO donates to Behind the Badge Foundation and John Bernard Scholarship

Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones presented a check for $83,000 to Behind the Badge Foundation Executive Director Brian Johnston on Monday.

Corner Street Donuts now open in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - Danielle Bailey, owner of Corner Street Donuts, cuts the ribbon on her new business at the corner of Broadway Avenue and Alder Street on Monday surrounded by employees and member of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce. Despite only formally opening on Monday, Bailey said she was sold out by noon, with staff scrambling to make more donuts.

GESA seeks applications for local heroes grants

RICHLAND — Gesa Credit Union is seeking applicants for its 2022 Local Heroes Grants Program. The program, which will award grants of up to $50,000 to community nonprofit groups and organizations that serve what the credit union calls local heroes — police, firefighters, healthcare workers, teachers and veterans — is in its second year, and is expected to offer around $250,000 in grants in communities served by Gesa, according to a press release...

Gamble Sands Golf Resort

Columbia Basin links style golfing

BREWSTER — Gamble Sands Golf Resort is a direct descendant of golf courses of old - and a worth-the-trip destination for Columbia Basin golf enthusiasts. “It’s a true links-style design,” said Brian Benitz, director of sales and marketing for Gamble Sands. “It’s a throwback to the original design of golf courses.” The course is located at 200 Sands Trail Road near Brewster. It was designed by golf architect David McLay Kidd, also known for his design of the first course at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Bandon, Oregon. “(Kidd) is a genius. Everything he does is good,” Benitz said...

Pride run colors the streets of Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - Two miles of Moses Lake streets were colored with the shades of the rainbow on Saturday, with more than 100 participants showing for the Pride Color Run hosted by New Hope/Kids Hope.

First aid for pets

When a friend or significant other gets hurt we generally have a good idea of how to take care of them, but what do you do when your pet is in an emergency? Unfortunately, most pet owners do not prepare themselves for these tragic incidents until it is too late. “It is absolutely necessary to know if your veterinarian has an after hour emergency service and if not, who they recommend calling in case of an emergency,” said Dr. Mark Stickney, Clinical Associate Professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “It is also imperative that you can call your veterinarian for advice on what to do to help your pet until you can get it to a clinic.” ...

Basin steps out to support Warden wrestlers on the course

OTHELLO - The Warden wrestling team hosted its inaugural Please Hit Straight golf tournament in Othello on Saturday, raising money for an upcoming summer camp the team will be offering.

Wahluke baseball coaches host summer camp in July

MATTAWA - Wahluke High School will be hosting a baseball camp in July, in cooperation with the U.S. Baseball Academy as part of the USBA’s Summer Training Program.

Legals for June, 27 2022

Local clubs host 12th annual joint charity golf tournament

MOSES LAKE - The Kiwanis Club of Moses Lake and the Moses Lake Rotary Club put on their 12th annual Golf Scramble Friday, giving back to the community they reside in. “We should net somewhere around $12,000 today, which will go all to Kids Hope for helping those kids,” said Moses Lake Rotary Club member Dave Campbell...

NCHA Weekend comes to Grant County Fairgrounds

MOSES LAKE - The National Cutting Horse Association hosted its NCHA Weekend event at the Grant County Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday, bringing in riders from across the Western United States and Canada. “Cutting is an old tradition from ranches many years ago, in order to get cows to where they needed them it was basically a form of cutting (individual cows away from their herds),” Washington Cutting Horse Association President Bruce Pinkerton said. “Now it’s refined to a very large sport in the United States.” ...

MLSD board approves walking path agreement

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District will pay up to 50%, to a maximum of $50,000, of the cost of building a walking path along East Nelson Road on the approach to Groff Elementary. “Last year, the school district and the city were working together to partner on a walking path to (Groff Elementary). For some reason that fell apart last year, even though we had met with a contractor. We walked the property, the city has the space to do it on the right of way, but it fell through,” MLSD Board Chair Kevin Fuhr said. “I am proposing this year that we get it done - we can get it done this summer.” ...

'It Feels Amazing’

Open Doors graduates receive diplomas

MOSES LAKE — Kekuni Robello-Dorsey expressed a common feeling of the students who earned a high school diploma or GED, or both, through the Open Doors Program sponsored by the Moses Lake School District. “It feels amazing,” Robello-Dorsey said. More than 40 students donned caps and gowns for the graduation ceremony at the Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center Thursday. Family and friends filled almost every seat. “I’m blown away right now at the number of people that have come to support these kids,” said Open Doors counselor Annie Hindman in her speech during the ceremony...

VA health records bill signed into law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden on Thursday signed into law a bill sponsored by Sen. Patty Murray designed to improve transparency in the way the Veterans Administration handles electronic medical records. According to a press release from Murray’s office, the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act was passed with significant bipartisan support and would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit regular reports to Congress on the costs, performance standards and outcomes of the VA’s electronic health record system.

Deane case still active, pending lab results

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Prosecutor’s Office has yet to file charges against Eric Deane, who was arrested Tuesday in Moses Lake on suspicion of drug possession. “We’ve not filed charges yet. There are a couple of things we need from the investigators,” said Ed Owens, chief criminal deputy prosecuting attorney for Grant County...

Roe overturned: State by state impacts

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that had provided a constitutional right to abortion. The ruling is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states. In anticipation of the decision, several states led by Democrats have taken steps to protect abortion access. The decision also sets up the potential for legal fights between the states over whether providers and those who help women obtain abortions can be sued or prosecuted. Here is an overview of abortion legislation and the expected impact of the court's decision in every state...

Buying still the best option

Despite market challenges, area agents still suggest purchasing over renting

COLUMBIA BASIN - Jennifer Kron a broker with Moses Lake Realty Group said it still makes more sense to purchase rather than rent, despite the increase in mortgage rates, a housing shortage and rising home prices throughout the Columbia Basin. “It’s our job to educate the community and educate the buyers and remind them that it is still the best investment of your life to purchase real estate,” said Kron...

MLFD gets grant for hazardous response team

MOSES LAKE — it’s a Thursday afternoon in the Safeway parking lot, and a trio of Moses Lake Fire Department firefighters stands around an old white Cadillac. There’s the smell of gasoline in the air, and the firefighters have scattered coarse diatomaceous earth — basically cat litter — to contain a spill caused by a drip from the car’s gas tank. “We’re not the hazardous materials team,” one MLFD firefighter says. “We’re still working on that.” ...

Levi Bisnett

Keeping Moses Lake a place people want to live

MOSES LAKE - Levi Bisnett wants Moses Lake to be recreationist and pedestrian-friendly. As a project surveyor with the city, he gets a chance to make that vision happen. “It kind of plays into what I’ve been talking about for many years,” Bisnett said of his position. “Which is the need to do things other than just streets, water, sewer, (stormwater drainage) and sidewalks.” ...

Legals for June, 24 2022

Wash. AG announces retail crime task force

OLYMPIA — Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced the creation of a statewide Organized Retail Crime theft Task Force Thursday to improve collaboration and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to address organized retail theft responsible for an estimated $2.7 billion in losses statewide in 2021. “Coordination is key to combating this growing, and sometimes dangerous problem,” Ferguson said in the press release. “These organized crimes cross jurisdictions and cause significant economic harm. I’m committed to working together with law enforcement and retail partners to help combat this significant and growing problem.” ...

WSDA offers more grants for Farm to School program

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture announced on Thursday it is now accepting grant applications from local districts to buy locally grown farm commodities for breakfast and lunch...

Deception Pass celebrates a century

OAK HARBOR - Deception Pass State Park turns 100 this year and in celebration, Washington State Parks will be holding free concerts and community events throughout the summer. “In honor of this momentous birthday, the Deception Pass Park Foundation is hosting several events across the summer culminating in the revival of a lost tradition older than the park itself: a free community picnic at East Cranberry Lake!” a statement from WSP said...

Ham radio event scheduled for this weekend

Ham radio operators from the Central Washington Amateur Radio Club in Grant County will be participating in a national amateur radio exercise from noon on Saturday until noon on Sunday, June 25-26 at the White Trail Grange, located at 3392 Road 5 NW...

CWU to host high school basketball camp starting this weekend

ELLENSBURG - Central Washington University will be hosting a basketball camp on its courts this weekend, hosting varsity, junior varsity and freshman teams from around the state. Wildcat head coach Brandon Rinta said the camp - which runs Saturday through Tuesday - is a great way to build relationships with the area athletes and coaches. “What I love is the relationships that are built between our staff and all the high school coaches across the state,” Rinta said. “That’s what we put a lot of effort into throughout the camp, is just building those relationships, getting to know them.” ...

Golf tourney set to raise money for Warden wrestling

WARDEN - Warden wrestling assistant coach Alan Martinez talked with his fellow coaches and thought back to when they were in high school, and how the teams had challenges with bringing in top-tier clinicians to the school for camps. “We could never bring top-tier clinicians to our area to give our kids camps, and even when camps were available in the area that we're in they're usually too expensive, and a lot of our kids couldn't go to them. So we got together as coaches and just kind of decided how do we make something like this happen for our kids,” Martinez said...

Carlos Elpideo Castro

Carlos Elpideo Castro entered through the gates of heaven on June 19, 2022.

Ye Olde Pub

Flying fortress highlights innovation and rigors of warplanes

MOSES LAKE — There’s a rather famous story behind the name painted on the side of the B-17 Flying Fortress bomber, “Ye Olde Pub,” that sat on a runway at Grant County International Airport for the Moses Lake Airshow on Saturday. “The crew of the airplane, they were on a bombing run over Germany,” said Shawn Mulligan, a professional pilot who flies the elderly bomber in his spare time for air shows. “The aircraft was so badly damaged from anti-aircraft fire, and I think some fighters were after it at one point. They ended up struggling to return to England.” ...

Legals for June, 23 2022

Top NBA Draft prospects have ties with Washington

BROOKLYN, NY - Ahead of today’s 2022 NBA Draft, the state of Washington has ties to two of the top prospects - Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren and Duke’s Paolo Banchero. Banchero committed to the Blue Devils in August of 2020, choosing Duke over finalists Washington, Gonzaga, Tennessee, Arizona and Kentucky. He was the No. 1 power forward in the class of 2021 according to 247 Sports, and the No. 3 overall player in America...

Sports schedule June 23-28

Below is the sports schedule for the Columbia Basin.

Rancher groups poised to fight proposed legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The passage of a pair of bills designed to improve regulation of U.S. cattle and beef markets has prompted concerns among some national and state cattle ranchers organizations. On Wednesday, the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry passed the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2022 and the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act of 2022, sending both measures on to the full Senate for consideration...

Forecast raises state revenue $1.46 billion

OLYMPIA — A new report from the Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council estimates an increase of $1.46 billion in tax collections for the state’s current two-year budget, which was passed in 2021. In a forecast released on Wednesday, the council attributed the increase in tax revenue to the continued strong housing market in Washington, low levels of unemployment, and more spending prompted by rising rates of inflation...

Quincy looks to rebuild parts of 8th Ave.

QUINCY — Quincy city officials will advertise for bids on a project to rebuild a section of Eighth Avenue SE, also known as Bob Jacques Way. Quincy City Council members approved a request to advertise for bids at the council’s regular meeting Tuesday. No price estimate was attached to the request...

McDonald’s seeking Washington Workers

OLYMPIA — McDonald’s is looking for a few good workers to staff its restaurants in Washington. In fact, in a press release, the company said it is inviting 4,300 job seekers looking for summer work to apply for part-time and full-time jobs at restaurants across the state...

Moses Lake man arrested on drug charges

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man is in custody following his arrest on Tuesday for selling drugs in the Northshore neighborhood of Moses Lake. According to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department, detectives with the MLPD’s street crimes unit arrested Eric Deane, 58, at his home in the 200 block of W. Northshore Drive following numerous complaints from neighbors of short-term traffic at the home and suspicions of criminal activity...

State laws force change in Samaritan financial assistance rules

MOSES LAKE — Samaritan Healthcare will change some of its patient financial assistance provisions July 1 in response to changes in Washington law. The changes will affect the number of patients receiving treatment at the hospital who qualify for full assistance, as well as patients who qualify for some assistance. Jen Charlo, director of patient financial services and patient access for Samaritan, said hospital officials were, and are, committed to helping patients find ways to pay the bills. “If there’s an avenue (for assistance), we will help them,” Charlo said. “It all comes down to people applying. We will help them if we can.” ...

Gerald E. Plank

Gerald E. Plank, 72, of Ephrata, Washington, died May 20 in Castro Valley, California after a brief illness.

Joanne Louise Syre

Joanne Louise Syre lived a grace filled life as a loving wife, devoted mother and Oma (grandmother).

Taking back the town

ML church works to take back town from gangs

MOSES LAKE — One Moses Lake church is working to reclaim the town and build community in the middle of an area struggling with gang violence.

Booked! Schedule full for 2022 Grant County Fair

MOSES LAKE — The 2022 Grant County Fair will have a lot of things for people to do. “The fair schedule is full. We are absolutely packed,” said Grant County Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan. McKiernan gave an update on fair preparations in a report to Grant County Commissioners Tuesday. The fair is scheduled for Aug. 16 through 20...

Legals for June, 22 2022

Local students make George Fox University dean’s list

NEWBERG, ORE. - Three local students were among those who earned Dean's List recognition at George Fox University for the spring 2022 semester. In order to earn a spot on the Dean’s List at George Fox, students must earn a 3.5 grade point average or above on 12 or more hours of graded work...

Man found dead in car in Othello-area drainage canal

OTHELLO — An autopsy is pending in the case of a man found dead in his car in an irrigation drainage canal about four miles north of Othello. Steven Ray Priddy, 55, was dead at the scene; the car was in the canal in the 1900 block of West Foley Road, according to a social media announcement from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. Local farmers working in the area found Priddy’s body, the announcement said. The cause of the accident is still under investigation, it said.

AFA clinic travels to Ritzville

RITZVILLE - Mario Adams has been helping young athletes grow their game since 2006, when he was a player at De La Salle High School in Concord, California. Now, he has founded Adams Fundamentals Academy, an organization that helps young athletes focus on the intricacies of basketball to help them make their high school teams, and even go on to play college ball. One of these camps will be making its way to Ritzville in July. “My varsity coach was a very big, influential person in my life, and he's one of my mentors to this day, and I remember back in 2006, he asked me if I would be willing to help him run a basketball camp. Being in high school at that time, you know, I kinda want to have my own vacation. ‘You know, we play basketball year-round coach …,’ (I said). But he says, ‘You know, you have an opportunity to make an impact,’” Adams said ...

Former Gonzaga volleyball player to play in Finland

SPOKANE - Former Bulldog Cara McKenzie is heading to Finland to start her professional career with Polkky Kuusamo, the reigning champions of the top Finnish volleyball league, according to a press release. "It's always been my dream to play professionally overseas, and I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity and the support I've received along the way," McKenzie said. "I'm very excited to play with and against some incredible athletes and I'm excited for the growth from competing at this level." ...

Warden SD to offer free meals

WARDEN — The Warden School District announced on Tuesday that it will serve free meals to all children 18 and younger from the end of June through early August. In an announcement, the WSD said two meals each day will be served in the district’s cafeteria at 101 W. Beck Way in Warden on weekdays beginning Tuesday, June 28 through Thursday, Aug. 4, with breakfast served at 7:50-8:20 a.m. and lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Funding for the summertime meal program is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under the National School Lunch Program. For more information, contact WSD Food Service Director Paulie Wixom at 509-349-2366, ext. 1450.

Fiber installation prompts Warden-area traffic restrictions

WARDEN — Drivers can expect delays along the first two miles of State Route 170 near Warden this week as crews install fiber optic cable. A press release from the Washington Department of Transportation said contractors working for the Grant County PUD will be installing cable along the road from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through Thursday. Drivers can expect closures of the road shoulder and intermittent flagger-controlled traffic with some delays, the press release said...

Kraken affiliate hires first head coach

PALM DESERT, CA - The Coachella Valley Firebirds, an American Hockey League and Seattle Kraken affiliate team, announced the hiring of Stanley Cup-winning Dan Bylsma as the first head coach of the team on Tuesday. “We’re excited to name Dan Bylsma the first head coach in Coachella Valley Firebirds history,” Seattle Kraken General Manager Ron Francis said. “The head coach of our AHL affiliate plays a critical role in developing future Kraken players...

Dakota Michael Tapio

Dakota Michael Tapio passed away on May 21, 2022, at age 29.

Sergio Moreno

On the morning of June 10, 2022, Sergio Moreno bid adieu to this world, wishing a fond adios to those he loved.

Roger Scott

On Thursday, Aug. 11, 2021, Roger Scott, husband, father and papa, passed away at the age of 86.

Area colleges set soccer schedules

WASHINGTON - Conferences announced full schedules for the upcoming collegiate soccer season last week, with Gonzaga, Central Washington and Washington State all seeing their finalized matchups.

CWU to have new helmets this season

ELLENSBURG - Central Washington will be donning new football helmets this season, shifting from the black helmets that the Wildcats have worn the previous six seasons, the school announced last week.

Field day returns to WSU wheat farm

LIND — Washington State University wheat researcher Mike Pumphrey said that after last year’s drought and heat wave, he simply did not expect it to rain as much as it has this year.

Local residents make Gonzaga Dean’s and President’s lists

SPOKANE - Nine local residents have been named to the Gonzaga University President’s and Dean’s lists for spring semester 2022.

Del Red Hydro Races held in Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — The Del Red Hydro Races took to the waters of Soap Lake this weekend, with boats from across the country making their way to Central Washington for the competition. Race Director Lenny Baker said that they had boats from Washington, California, Michigan, Maryland and more.

Legals for June, 21 2022

Man injured in Washtucna park shooting

WASHTUCNA — A Washtucna man was booked into the Adams County Jail on suspicion of first-degree attempted murder after he allegedly shot a man in the Washtucna park early Monday morning.

Jean Olson Ames

Jean Olson Ames passed away peacefully on June 15, 2022, at the age of 96.

William 'Bill' Huff

William “Bill” Huff, 86, our loving and kind father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed away June 9, 2022, in Spokane, Washington surrounded by his children.

Mattawa council rejects annexation moratorium

MATTAWA — Mattawa City Council members decided not to impose a moratorium on annexation proposals. The vote was 4-2 at the regular council meeting June 16.

Time for a summer cut? Tips for warm weather dog grooming

While people tend to dress differently depending on the season, most pets “wear” the same coat year-round. Shaving off this hair during the hot summer months may seem like a good idea to keep a dog cool, but it can actually have the opposite effect for some animals. Dr. Ashley Navarrette, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, discusses summer grooming and other techniques for helping pets beat the heat...

Just part of the family

Practice pays off with first in state for local musician

MOSES LAKE — Eli Legault said music is just part of the family. Legault, a freshman in the Moses Lake High School music program, took first in his division in the guitar category at the State Solo and Ensemble Competition in Ellensburg earlier this spring. Legault said his interest in music and in guitar started at home...

GALLERY: Weekend on the court

QUINCY - The Dru Gimlin 3-on-3 tournament made its return to the streets of Quincy this past weekend, allowing children and adults to play in an outdoor tournament. There were 61 teams that participated in the 2022 tournament, organizer Stephanie Boorman said.

Meals on Wheels holds fan drive

SPOKANE - Meals on Wheels Spokane said they are holding their annual fan drive to help keep seniors cool this summer, according to a press release.

Legals for June, 20 2022

3rd Moses Lake Airshow a bit breezy, but a whirlwind of fun

MOSES LAKE — A cool wind blew in from the south on the first day of the 2022 Moses Lake Airshow on Saturday, which made for some interesting conditions both in the air and on the ground.

Light of Larson taking back Moses Lake

Pick up a copy of Wednesday’s Lifestyle to read about how Light of Larson is working to ‘take back’ Moses Lake. One way they are doing so is by covering up gang graffiti.

Dru Gimlin tournament returns to Quincy

QUINCY - The streets of Quincy were full of music, food, energy and - most importantly - basketball on Saturday, as the Dru Gimlin 3-on-3 tournament made its return to the streets of the city. “[The Dru Gimlin Foundation] started as a golf tournament, and then the next year they merged to a 3-on-3 tournament,” said Tournament Chair Stephanie Boorman. “2004 was the first year of the 3-on-3 tournament.” ...

Hydro races return to Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE - The Del Red Hydro Races were held Saturday and Sunday on the waters of Soap Lake. The event weathered a little bit of rain, wind and sunshine over the weekend as the whirring of the boats could be heard throughout the town. Dozens of spectators watched from the shore while some braved wading out into the water to get a closer look as the boats sped through the course.

Royal SD to get first school officer

ROYAL CITY — The Royal School District will get its first school resource officer in early 2023. An agreement from January 2023 through August 2025 was approved by the Royal City City Council at its June 7 meeting; Royal School Board members approved it May 23. “The expectation would be that the SRO is on campus every day,” Royal SD Superintendent Roger Trail said via email. “They will also be involved in safety training. While the SRO’s office will be at the high school, it is a district-wide position.” ...

Pride Color Run set for Saturday in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - New Hope/Kids Hope, an organization based in Moses Lake that assists survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, will be hosting a Pride Color Run through downtown Moses Lake on Saturday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “We were trying to just think of something that would be fun for the community,” Kids Hope Administrative Specialist Celina Garcia said. “Something that would get kids involved, kids excited.” ...

‘A champion for Moses Lake’

Dick Deane honored at park dedication

MOSES LAKE - The Dick Deane Family Historical Park was dedicated Saturday, nearly two years after its initial inception. “I thank you (God) that you have given this community, well, a man like Dick Deane who’s given his heart and soul to serving in this place and in a way that makes this community better,” said Pastor Eric Frey in his invocation. “He is a champion for Moses Lake, and Lord, we have been better for it.” ...

Othello park project likely delayed to 2023

OTHELLO — Construction of a new playground and additional basketball courts in Othello’s Lions Park probably will be delayed until 2023. Both projects are being funded through grants, and Othello Mayor Shawn Logan said finalizing the grant process is taking some time. “There are so many stipulations with a grant like that,” Logan said...

Car stolen in Seattle recovered in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE - The Grant County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on June 17 that a stolen car out of Seattle had been recovered in Grant County and resulted in the arrest of two individuals. The release stated that on June 14, Moses Lake Police Department had received a call that a stolen Audi out of Seattle was being tracked by GPS to a location in Moses Lake...

Ephrata hosts aerobatic airshow

EPHRATA - Last weekend, the Ephrata Municipal Airport was buzzing with the sound of propellers as the Apple Cup Contest was underway....

Then and now

Veteran Moses Lake Realtor reflects on the changing market

MOSES LAKE — Alan Heroux has seen Moses Lake’s real estate changes at first hand.

‘Attitude and effort’ stars of the show as Warden hosts basketball exhibition

Warriors take 2 Ws in mini-tourney

Only a few days after classes finished, summer basketball has already arrived in the Basin. Warden was host to an exhibition for three local high schools’ summer teams....

Legals for June, 17 2022

Ag World’s Golf Classic raises money for Ronald McDonald House

MOSES LAKE - Now in its ninth year, Ag World Support Systems’ annual Golf Classic has been benefitting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Inland Northwest. At this year’s event in Moses Lake, Ag World President and CEO Bryan Henninger said the competition had raised over $95,000 for the Ronald McDonald House in Spokane. “When a family is in distress and all of a sudden their kid is in the ICU, the Ronald McDonald House offers a place to stay and be around them and support them when their world has been changed overnight,” Henninger said. “For me and my family, I had a son who had a lot of medical issues early on, and I was able to use the respite space in the Ronald McDonald House.” ...

Silver Mountain hosts off-road race this weekend

KELLOGG, ID - Silver Mountain Resort will host an off-road motorcycle race this weekend, June 18-19. The event will host 500 dirt bikes on Silver Mountain in the Silver Kings Hard Enduro as part of the 2022 AMA West Extreme Off-Road Regional Championship Schedule. The enduro also serves as a qualifier for the grand championship in Tennessee...

PBR to host event in Kennewick in September

KENNEWICK - The Professional Bull Riders will return to Kennewick from September 9-10 in the Challenger Series’ PBR Tri-Cities Classic at the Toyota Center. This is the second time the PBR has had an event in Kennewick, and this year attendees will bear witness to the finest riders that the PBR has to offer...

Seattle’s X League team debuts next Saturday

KENT - The Extreme Football League’s Seattle Thunder will have their first game next weekend, playing the Denver Rush at the accesso ShoWare Center in Kent. The league, also known as the X League, is a women’s tackle football league owned by NFL Hall of Famer Mike Ditka. The X League began as the Lingerie Football League and was rebranded to the Legends Football League in 2009. They rebranded again 10 years later to the X League. This is the Thunder’s lone home game of the season, and those interested in attending can purchase tickets on the accesso ShoWare Center’s website.

BBCC names new wrestling coach

MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College has hired a new wrestling coach, as Mark Geary prepares to take over the men’s and women’s wrestling programs. “I am incredibly excited, honored, and humbled to become part of the Big Bend Academic and Athletic Community,” Geary said. “Coaching wrestling is something I have always loved doing, and to get to do that as my full-time job is a dream come true. I look forward to making the most of the opportunity.” ...

Fire Marshal encourages boating fire safety

OLYMPIA – According to a release by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, there are several ways to be responsible and safe while boating this summer. The release states the best defense against fire is prevention because fires that occur on boats can spread quickly and present unique response challenges due to hazardous conditions and limited access...

“It’s lovely”

Senior picnic draws big crowd

MOSES LAKE — After two years of drive-thru events, the annual Senior Picnic returned in person to the Grant County Fairgrounds Wednesday. “I don’t cut loose very often,” saaid Betty Schafer, a resident of McKay Healthcare and REhab Center in Soap Lake between dances. Betty Schafer danced and sang along with the band. Schafer said she came to the picnic to have fun - maybe a lot of fun...

Grant Co. commissioners set to select interim sheriff

EPHRATA — Grant County Republican party leaders will submit a list of three applicants Aug. 3 to fill the position of Grant County Sheriff. Grant County Commissioner Danny Stone said commissioners will appoint an interim to the position for July and early August. “(The announcement of the interim appointee) definitely has to be done within the next two weeks,” Stone said...

Paying last respects

Ephrata American Legion conducts flag retirement ceremony

EPHRATA - In honor of Flag day on Tuesday, American Legion Post 28 held its annual flag retirement ceremony. “It is not just a piece of cloth,” said Jane Montaney, Unit 28 Americanism Chairman. She explained that the flag represents the nation,what our nation stands for and every single person who serves for the nation...

MLSD selects new elementary principals

MOSES LAKE — Two principals have been hired for elementary schools in the Moses Lake School District according to press releases from the district. “I have already worked alongside many of the Sage Point staff,” newly-selected Sage Point Elementary Principal Robin Kimbro wrote in the press release. “These teachers and support staff do the best work for our students.” ...

“Why not Big Bend?”

BBCC softball coach talks recruiting in the Basin

MOSES LAKE - After a first season where she was thrust into the head coaching role, Big Bend Community College head softball coach Kylee Brulotte has spent her offseason scouting the area talent in the Basin. “I want to help those ladies get recruited,” Brulotte said. “Because it's our hometown, and right now it's my hometown. And I was always told to leave something better than you found it.” ...

Goodbye Billy

SLPD sends K-9 officer back to trainer

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Police Department no longer has a police dog. Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox told the Soap Lake city council at a regular meeting on Wednesday that the department had to get rid of K-9 Billy, a Belgian Tervuren who joined the department in late 2020 after his handler was recently let go by the SLPD. “Billy’s original trainer came up to get him,” Cox said...

Joyce E. Boyer

Joyce Elaine Boyer was the eldest of five children, born Oct. 9, 1933, to Fred and Beth Cook in Wilbur, Washington.

New MLHS principal selected

MOSES LAKE — Sheila Kries has been selected as the new principal at Moses Lake High School. Currently, Kries is an MLHS assistant principal. “I look forward to commencing with the 2022-23 school year, welcoming new and returning ‘Mavericks’ to the high school,” Kries wrote in the press release...

Little Big Show fills Wilson Creek with classics

WILSON CREEK — The streets of Wilson Creek were full on Saturday as locals and visitors alike turned out for the 10th annual Little Big Show.

Legals for June, 16 2022

Moses Lake council talks traffic safety, adopts road plan

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council spent much of its regular Tuesday meeting talking about both the current conditions and future plans for the city’s streets. “Skyline Drive has turned into a racetrack,” resident Rich Swanson told council members during a citizens comment period at the beginning of the meeting...

Moses Lake Air Show set for this weekend

MOSES LAKE — With Father’s Day coming this weekend, it’s time for the annual Moses Lake Airshow as well. This year’s air show will be held at the Grant County International Airport on Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19, and will include aerial acts Kyle Fowler of Go EZ Aerobatcis, Tom Larkin of Mini Jet Airshows, the flying aerobatic duo of Undaunted Airshows, Mike Tryggvason of 10G Aerosports and Brad Wursten in his MXS-R stunt plane, as well as demonstration flights by Mark Peterson in an old A-37 Dragonfly once flown by the South Vietnamese air force and the Erickson Aircraft Collection’s B-17 Flying Fortress....

Basin fastpitch teams take home trophies at the Phil Schultz Memorial Tournament

MOSES LAKE — Three local fastpitch teams took the Inaugural Phil Schultz Memorial Tournament in Moses Lake this past weekend in their respective age groups.

NCW Libraries system announces summer hours

WENATCHEE — Officials of the NCW Libraries system, which includes libraries in Grant County, have announced summer hours. All public libraries in Grant County are closed on Sundays during the summer, with the exception of the Quincy branch...

Lillian Marjorie Lucke

Lillian Marjorie Lucke, 92, passed away on Thursday evening, June 9, 2022, with family by her side.

Ephrata couple creates tartan to support Ukraine

EPHRATA — An Ephrata couple is combining their heritages in a unique way to support Ukraine by creating an official Scottish-inspired tartan in support of Ukraine. “The response from the kilt community has been incredible,” Kelly said. “People are raving about it. They love the design, they love how it looks and, of course, they love that it's for a good cause.” ...

Police records for June 15, 2022

Ephrata Police Department May 27 Report of attempted theft of a catalytic converter on C Street Southeast. Report of a galvanized steel shelf stolen in the 200 block of G Street Northeast...

Three Basin essayists take first at state

EPHRATA - The American Legion Auxiliary, Art Semro Unit 28, announced on June 10 that three local students not only placed first in the Americanism Essay Contest at the local level but have gone on to be first place winners at the state level...

Mesan Felix Ekoue-Totou

Mesan Felix Ekoue-Totou was born in 1996 in Boston, Massachusetts and tragically passed away in Moses Lake June 10, 2022.

Legals for June, 15 2022

NBC camps train young athletes for the future

SPOKANE - Beginning in 1971 as the Northwest Basketball Camp, NBC Camps have been serving the needs of young athletes across the Pacific Northwest through different levels of basketball training. In the 51 years since its founding, the name of the program has shifted from Northwest Basketball Camps to Nothing Beats Commitment camps and has expanded to include several programs in volleyball, lacrosse, soccer and more. The program is based out of Spokane and hosts several different camps for different sports...

College World Series set, eight teams sent to Omaha

OMAHA, NEB - Eight Division 1 teams punched their tickets to Omaha, Nebraska for the 2022 College World Series this weekend, including half the field being represented by the Southeastern Conference. Stanford, Arkansas, Notre Dame, Texas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Auburn and Ole Miss all claimed victories in the Super Regional round, which lasted from last Friday to Monday night...

Othello School Board discusses security

OTHELLO — Othello School District officials and Othello Police Department officers detailed some of the measures they’re taking to enhance school security following several recent mass shootings across the country. Board member Lindsy Prows said the Uvalde, Texas shooting affected her differently than earlier incidents. “I know I’m not the only parent,” she said. “It’s been a topic of conversations at the baseball field and after graduation, and any time parents are together with their kids. They’re concerned. This last event hit a little bit different. It looked like our community, and maybe that’s why it felt different.”

'It's fun'

New county engineer brings lifelong passion to work

EPHRATA — Grant County Engineer David Bren said he has some vivid memories of watching roadwork when he was a child.

Grant PUD crews fix Cascade Valley outages

MOSES LAKE — Grant County PUD crews appear to have found the underlying problem that caused multiple outages in Cascade Valley from June 3 to last weekend. Christine Pratt, PUD public affairs officer, said in a statement that the culprit tentatively has been identified as a jumper wire on one of the power poles in the area...

Overdose resources available to area residents

According to a statement from Kayla Isaacson, Community Coalition Specialist for the Soap Lake Prevention Coalition, overdose prevention and response resources are available to community members. The resources according to the email include: Statewide Naloxone Mail Order Program - A statewide mail order Naloxone (Narcan) program, facilitated by the People’s Harm Reduction Alliance (PHRA) People’s Harm Reduction Alliance (PHRA) allows any Washington state resident that has a mailing address outside of King County to request up to two free nasal naloxone kits on an as-needed basis. The statement indicates that Naloxone is given when an opioid overdose happens or has possibly happened. It can reverse an overdose and provide crucial time for emergency medical responders to arrive and provide further support. More information is available on the PHRA website at phra.org including training, FAQs, and how to order. Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute (ADAI) provides a website on responding to and preventing opioid overdose at StopOverdose.org. Stopoverdose.org provides resources, education, training videos, and technical assistance for individuals, professionals, and communities in WA State who want to learn how to prevent and respond to overdose, and improve the health of people who use substances.

Moses Lake's Boyd named to BSC President's Honor Roll

BISMARCK, N.D. - Shannon Boyd of Moses Lake has been named to the President's Honor Roll for the Spring 2022 semester at Bismarck State College according to a release by the college....

MLSD’s The Summit gets new home

Program growth leads to improved facilities for local youth

MOSES LAKE — The Summit - Moses Lake School District’s program for learners with special needs - has a new home.

Mesan Felix Ekoue-Totou

Mesan Felix Ekoue-Totou, 25, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away on June 10, 2022.

Victoria Raya-Jones

Victoria “Tori” Raya-Jones, 41, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away at home surrounded by family on Friday, June 10, 2022.

Shawn Martin 'Marty' Eddings

Shawn Martin "Marty" Eddings, born Oct. 12, 1955, has passed on June 10, 2022.

Books by the box

Warden library sale raises funds for literary program

WARDEN — The Warden Friends of the Library held its first book sale since the pandemic Thursday and raised about $300 in the process. “We were able to move a lot of books so we're thankful,” said Warden Friends of the Library President Toshi Nitta. She wasn’t sure how many books had actually sold, though...

Washington No. 1 in catalytic converter theft

OLYMPIA – Washington state is number one in the nation in catalytic converter theft, according to a new report on national crime statistics, and Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview, says the Legislature must continue the crackdown in the next legislative session. “The statistics we just got from BeenVerified ought to shock all of us,” said Wilson in a release. “A 10,000 percent increase? Holy cow. That’s too big to ignore.” ...

Legals for June, 14 2022

CWU women’s soccer player heads to England

ELLENSBURG - After completing her fifth and final season with the Wildcats, Central Washington’s Sophia Keenan will continue her career on another continent. Keenan will be playing for Solent University in Southampton, England. Back in 2020, Solent was a finalist for the British Universities and Colleges Sport league before the season was canceled early due to the pandemic...

Moses Lake hosts 2nd Annual Pete Doumit baseball tourney

ML Thunder take first in Babe Ruth

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Youth Baseball Association hosted its second-annual Pete Doumit Memorial Tournament this weekend, hosting youth baseball teams from around the Pacific Northwest. The tournament hosted 33 teams across fields in its hometown of Moses Lake, and could have hosted more if they had the facilities. “We got a pretty big turnout,” said MLYBA Vice President and Sponsor Chair AJ Escamilla. “I would say probably one of the better tournaments in the Basin at this time. So, we look forward to next year and having it again.” ...

MLSD sells land back to Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE — Grant County officials will be buying back a piece of property from the Moses Lake School District. Moses Lake School Board members approved the sale during the regular meeting Thursday. Grant County Commissioners had already approved the agreement. The votes by both the school board and the commissioners were unanimous...

Conquering colic in horses

No one enjoys the queasy feeling of a stomach-ache, which can turn eating into a chore, while leaving most of us slightly, if not extremely, irritable. A horse dealing with colic is no stranger to these feelings or symptoms...

First kindergarten class graduates at Groff Elementary

MOSES LAKE — The Vicki Groff Elementary School gym was brimming with adorability as 65 kindergartners held a graduation program Friday, joined by an audience of about 150 family members. “We are so proud of all the work our students did this year,” said Counselor Jannette Serrano-Vasquez in her introductory remarks, standing in for Principal Nikki Mackey. “They have fun learning together, doing math, reading, science and writing, art and so much more.”

REC, Ferroglobe announce supply chain partnership

MOSES LAKE — REC Silicon announced on Monday that it has reached an agreement with UK-based Ferroglobe, which provides metals and materials for high-tech electronics, to create a U.S. solar supply chain. “It is imperative that the solar manufacturing industry grows and diversifies,” said James A. May II, CEO of REC Silicon, in the press release.

Quincy motorcyclist killed in weekend accident

QUINCY — A Quincy motorcyclist was killed Saturday when his motorbike clipped the rear of a truck, according to a statement from the Washington State Patrol. Eduardo Acevedo, 24, was riding a 2007 Honda CBR600 eastbound on S.R. 28 not far from the juncture with Road U NW when he attempted to pass a vehicle in front of him. He reportedly clipped the end of a 1997 Dodge Dakota pickup truck driven by Cameron Nelson, 37, of Ellensburg. Acevedo, who was wearing a helmet, and his bike came to a rest in the ditch paralleling the westbound side of the road. Acevedo was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the WSP, and there were no other injuries reported.

Ellensburg man sentenced for child sex trafficking

YAKIMA — A Yakima County Superior Court Judge has sentenced an Ellenburg man netted in a nationwide child sex trafficking sting to nearly six years in prison, according to an announcement from Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson...

Avian Flu continues to spread across state

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Health on Friday announced that it has confirmed two cases of avian influenza in two backyard flocks in Yakima County, bringing to 10 the number of counties in Washington where the highly contagious disease has been found. “The virus continues to be present in all corners of our state,” said Washington State Veterinarian Amber Itle in a press release. “It’s so important we remain vigilant.” ...

Forecasters issue flood watch for Columbia River

VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP) — Unusually heavy rain and a melting snowpack have pushed the Columbia River to near flood stage from Vancouver to Longview, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters issued a flood watch early Sunday for areas along the Columbia in the greater Vancouver and Portland metro areas, as well as along the lower Columbia and Interstate 5 corridor in Cowlitz County, the Columbian reported.

George Joseph Guzman

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of George Joseph Guzman, 54, on May 16, 2022.

Lillian Marjorie Lucke

Lillian Marjorie Lucke, 92, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away June 9, 2022.

Keeping them safe: ACPR works to help the four-legged residents of Adams County

OTHELLO — While there’s usually a full house at Adams County Pet Rescue, some days are fuller than others. May 12 turned out to be a very busy day. “We got in 15 animals this morning,” ACPR employee Anita Plancarte said. The intake included dogs reported running loose just outside Othello, out by the canal. “We got a call about seven pups, and it ended up being a mom and six puppies. So we went out and caught them,” Plancarte said...

Sage-N-Sun brings family fun

EPRHATA - The Sage-N-Sun Festival brought family fun to Ephrata for the weekend. There were a couple of parades, music concerts and booths bringing to life the downtown area.

Legals for June, 13 2022

Rain or shine

Ephrata celebrates the class of 2022.

EPHRATA - Ephrata High School graduates and their families braved the rain Friday night as they held the 108th commencement of the school.

‘We didn’t think it would come this soon’

Excitement, reflection at Quincy High School graduation

QUINCY — As they waited to walk into the Quincy High School stadium Saturday, QHS class of 2022 graduates Sergio Cordova and Rafael Ruiz were asked how it felt to get to this day . .

Zags win men's WCC all-sports award

SAN MATEO, CALIF. - The West Coast Conference announced several conference awards at its annual awards banquet last week, with the Bulldogs taking home the 2021-2022 Men’s All-Sports Award according to a press release by the school. The men’s sports program was highlighted by the Gonzaga basketball team, who made it to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament for the seventh consecutive season. The Zags were a No. 1 seed for the fourth time in the last five tournaments and ended the regular season ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and coaches polls...

Ag World hosts 9th annual Golf Classic for charity

Teeing off supports Ronald McDonald House

MOSES LAKE - Now going into its ninth year, Ag World Support Systems has been raising money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Inland Northwest through its annual Golf Classic. The tournament has made its yearly return, beginning Tuesday in Kennewick and continuing on Thursday in Moses Lake...

WSU, Zags reach All-American status at NCAA Championships

EUGENE, ORE. - Athletes from both Washington State and Gonzaga participated in the NCAA Track and Field Championships, with athletes from both schools reaching All-American status. Gonzaga’s James Mwaura finished 15th in the men’s 10,000m run, and WSU had three athletes finish in the top-16; Mitch Jacobson finished fifth in the men’s high jump; Colton Johnsen finished 11th in the steeplechase; and Valentina Barrios Bornacelli finished eighth in the women’s javelin. All four athletes earned All-American honors for their top-16 finishes. ...

Moses Lake hosts youth baseball and softball tournaments

MOSES LAKE - Two tournaments were held around Moses Lake this weekend, the Phil Schultz Memorial Tournament - a girls fastpitch tournament - and the Pete Doumit Memorial Tournament hosted by the Moses Lake Youth Baseball Association. Stay tuned to tomorrow’s paper for a story on the Pete Doumit Tournament.

Construction continues on local highway projects

MOSES LAKE — Most of the work on a paving project in the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 is expected to be completed by the end of this week. Drivers can expect lane closures and speeds reduced to 55 miles per hour in the construction zone, which is east of Moses Lake to the Adams County line. Construction crews are working from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to a press release from the Washington State Department of Transportation.

MLSD board approves Chief Mo mascot and name change

MOSES LAKE — Chief Moses Middle School will become Columbia Middle School at the beginning of the 2022-23 school year, and the mascot will be changed from the Braves to the Red Hawks. Moses Lake School Board members unanimously approved the recommendation of a district committee at the regular meeting Thursday. Jeremy O'Neil, the district’s chief operating officer, said the process of renaming CMMS took a little longer than choosing new mascots for Moses Lake High School and Frontier Middle School. “There’s been an ongoing process many months in the making,” O’Neil said. “The impetus being, our partners at the (Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation) said that we needed to make some changes, and we’ve done that with the high school and Frontier. The wrinkle with Chief Moses Middle School is that the school name also needed to be addressed.” ...

Farewell but not goodbye

ACH graduates reflect on successes and the future

COULEE CITY - The Almira/Coulee-Hartline High School graduation saw graduates say farewell but not goodbye to each other as they received their diplomas Saturday, ready to take the next step in their lives. The class of 2022 had two valedictorians, cousins Marianna Isaak and Reece Issak. “When Reece and I were thinking about writing our valedictorian speeches, we figured since we have done almost everything in our life together so far, why not do the last thing we will do as high school students together,” said Marianna...

A close-knit family

Cougars overlook rain to celebrate 2022 grads

WARDEN — Warden High School’s class of 2022 simply was not going to let a little rain keep them from graduating. “It’s great. We get to watch our best friend graduate,” said Genesis Ozuna as she sat underneath an umbrella in the back of a pickup truck parked outside the Warden High School football stadium. “It adds more spice to Warden.”

State regulators charge PacifiCorp with failure to plan

LACEY — The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, the body that regulates the state’s utilities, has filed a complaint against Oregon-based utility PacifiCorp for failing to consider the social cost of greenhouse gas emissions as it crafted its clean energy implementation plan, according to a commission press release.

‘Never grow up’

Soap Lake graduates cross the stage

SOAP LAKE - Decked in gowns of blue and white, the seniors of Soap Lake High School gathered in the gym, this time to take a trip down memory lane. “In my opinion, I would say we had a very hard route for our class,” salutatorian Julia Zubritskiy said during her speech. “Sophomore year we had COVID hit, and we all went online. I don’t know about you guys, but it was definitely hard for me to stare at a screen all day doing assignments, and for sure, paying attention to those zoom meetings.”

‘Awesome journey’

Wahluke seniors look to the future after an unusual four years

MATTAWA — It was a rainy, drippy day outside, but that failed to dampen the spirits of 152 Wahluke High School seniors as they prepared to face the adult world Friday evening. “I know we can all say that these past four years definitely passed by in the blink of an eye,” said Class President Maritza Cruz in her address at the graduation ceremony, held in the high school gym...

Terry Anderson

Terry Anderson, 62, of Pocatello, Idaho passed away June 4, 2022.

Serve Quincy Valley

Helping others help themselves

QUINCY — The goal at Serve Quincy Valley is not only to help people with their immediate crisis, or their immediate need

Sun in the Basin

Sage-N-Sun Festival returns to Ephrata this weekend

EPHRATA — Live music, the Wenatchee Youth Circus, an early-morning run and the annual parade are among the attractions at the annual Sage-N-Sun Festival tonight and Saturday. “I just think we need to get out there and start living again. And what a great way to do it, with a parade and a festival,” she said...

‘Small town feel’

Warden sees an influx of new homes

WARDEN — Development is coming to Warden that may put the small town of just under 2,500 on homebuyers’ radar in the days to come.

Legals for June, 10 2022

'Work ethic' pays off

Moses Lake soccer player signs with Ottawa University

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake’s Shaylee Miacolo has signed to play collegiate soccer with Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas. “First and foremost her work ethic,” Ottawa women’s soccer coach Candice Fabry said on what stood out about Miacolo. “You know, at any level, especially at the collegiate level though, there’s certainly an expectation that you have players that are willing to do the extra [work]. That certainly stood out about Shaylee.” ...

Across the pond: Ephrata basketball player to play in the U.K.

EPHRATA - Ephrata High School sophomore Bruce Yurian has been playing basketball competitively since he was in the sixth grade. Now that work is paying off, as he prepares to travel to play basketball overseas. “I’m really excited,” Yurian said with a laugh...

GCPUD performing maintenance near Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Contractors hired by the Grant County PUD will be testing power poles and performing preventive maintenance from Soap Lake north to the Grant County line. The work started June 6 and will continue through the end of 2022...

Community and tech colleges executive director announced

OLYMPIA — A press release by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges on June 7 stated that Paul Francis had been selected as the board’s next executive director...

Home health care worker charged with unprofessional conduct

MOSES LAKE — A Grant County home health care aide has been charged with unprofessional conduct by the Washington Department of Health. Alison Sedlacek allegedly took a hydrocodone pill from the facility where she worked, according to a DOH statement of charges. Sedlacek was employed at Penny’s Adult Family Home in Moses Lake in 2021. She is accused of taking the medication from a resident in March 2021. Operators of the facility conducted an investigation and Sedlacek admitted taking the medication, according to the statement of charges. Sedlacek did not respond to a DOH request for information by the Sept. 16, 2021, deadline.

Frenchman Hills Road rebuild nearly done

March canal breach leads to

QUINCY — Grant County road crews have nearly finished repairing stretches of Frenchman Hills Road that were washed out when a canal failed in March. “The only thing left is to brush the chip sealing,” said Grant County Engineer Dave Bren, adding the repaired portions of the road will also be striped...

WA fire marshal offers grilling safety tips

OLYMPIA — The State Fire Marshal’s Office issued a release on Tuesday about outdoor grilling safety as the Pacific Northwest begins to warm up. “Although safe when used correctly, barbeque related fires are significant factors for both property damage and burn injuries,” the release said. It goes on to say on average 10,600 home fires are started each year and 19,700 patients are sent to hospital emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills, according to the National Fire Protection Association...

Chinook season extended in North Fork Nooksack River

NOOKSACK - A section of the North Fork Nooksack River has been opened for hatchery spring Chinook fishing and retention. The action took place yesterday, and continues to June 30, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Last song of the year

The Chief Moses Middle School eighth-grade choir performs under the direction of choir teacher Nelson Green Wednesday in the school gym. The concert was the last of the school year and included awards for three outstanding students in each grade.

Moses Lake's Greenpoint honored for aircraft design

BOTHELL — Greenpoint Technologies, which creates customized luxury business jets for corporate executives and heads of state in Moses Lake, said Wednesday it has won the Private Jet Concept Award for an interior design at this year’s International Yacht and Aviation Awards. According to a Greenpoint press release, the company won for a design called “Retreat” for a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) MAX 8, an aircraft based on the Boeing 737 MAX 8, according to Boeing...

Soap Lake shuts down personal fireworks

SOAP LAKE — The City of Soap Lake issued a press release on June 6 stating that the use of fireworks would be drastically reduced this year. “With the large crowds and vendors gathering for the Suds-N-Sun event planned this July 2 and 3, there is an increased danger to the public from accidents created by the personal use of fireworks,” the release stated. “Therefore, personal fireworks will not be allowed in the city from 5 p.m. July 1 through noon on the Fourth this year.”...

An ‘ecstatic’ climb

Ensuring safety and fun at Frenchman Coulee

QUINCY - Just off the Old Vantage Highway, between the Columbia River and Interstate-90 is Frenchman Coulee. It is a spot popular for rock climbers and hikers throughout the summer months but can be a tricky place to navigate when an injury occurs. “Frenchman Coulee is a unique area especially to rock climbing in Washington state and attracts a lot of people to the area for camping, hiking and rock climbing which results in a more technical type of rescue calls,” said Grant County Fire District 3 Chief Tony Leibelt...

WA apple scholarship awardees include 33 locals

WENATCHEE — Five students from Adams County and 28 from Grant County are among the 318 recipients of scholarships awarded this year by the Washington Apple Foundation, according to a press release. According to the press release, the foundation is giving out over $1 million in new and renewed scholarships to students whose families have ties to the growing, harvesting and packing of apples, pears and cherries, with most employed in orchards and packing houses...

Legals for June, 9 2022

Moses Lake police warn of scam calls

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake police are warning residents of a scam that’s making the rounds in the area. Several local residents have reported receiving phone calls purporting to be from the city, according to a social media post from the MLPD. The caller ID shows as City of Moses Lake 509-764-3701, and the caller reportedly demands money in payment for damages done to a local business...

Eagles named top 25 in preseason poll

CHENEY - Eastern Washington University was ranked No. 15 in the 2022 Athlon Sports Preseason Top 25 Poll. This is the second preseason poll that has the Eagles listed in the top-25, as they were ranked No. 18 by the HERO Sports Preseason Poll released on May 18...

Five Wildcats named All-Americans by CRAA

ELLENSBURG - Central Washington University had five women’s rugby players selected to the D1 Elita All-American lists by the College Rugby Association of America, the university announced Tuesday...

WSU introduces new women’s golf coach

PULLMAN - Washington State introduced new women’s golf coach Sofie Aagaard Wednesday as the seventh women’s golf coach in the program’s history....

Construction crews begin repaving Valley Road

MOSES LAKE — Traffic has been reduced from four lanes down to two on a section of Valley Road as construction crews begin grinding up the existing surface.

Forest Service offers fee-free access to day-use rec areas for National Get Outdoors Day

The U.S. Forest Service announced on Tuesday that June 11 is National Get Outdoors day and they will waive fees at designated day-use sites. The announcement states National Get Outdoors Day, or "GO Day", is an annual event that encourages healthy, active outdoor fun by introducing citizens to outdoor recreation opportunities close to home...

ML museum to host drum circle

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Museum and Art Center will host a drum circle Saturday, according to a press release from the museum. The drum circle will take place at Civic Center Park if the weather is good, and move to the Civic Center auditorium, 401 S. Balsam St., if it’s not....

Heavy fire season predicted for state

OLYMPIA – The upcoming wildfire season could yield higher-than-typical forest fire activity in parts of Washington state. An above-average wildfire season in eastern Washington is anticipated due in large part to drought, according to a press release from The National Interagency Fire Center...

Carriann Gray

Carriann Gray, 48, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on June 6, 2022.

Hugh James Baker

Hugh James Baker died in his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 5, 2022.

Quincy downtown plan public hearing rescheduled for June 21

QUINCY — Quincy residents will be asked for their opinions of the proposed downtown revitalization plan at a public hearing during the regular Quincy City Council meeting June 21. The meeting begins at 7 p.m.

Jeremy Leigh Walker

Surrounded by his loved ones, Jeremy Walker, 44, peacefully passed away on June 4, 2022.

News roundup: Sheriff to retire, wolf board, MLHS students keep running

Our Grant County Sheriff is hanging up his spurs, there’s still time to get on the WAG, and a pair of Moses Lake teens are on the fast track. Here’s what’s happening in the Basin today:

Othello council approves school resource officer contract

OTHELLO — The Othello Police Department will continue to provide two school resource officers to the Othello School District.

Legals for June, 8 2022

This week's sports schedule

Despite summer break around the corner and high school sports winding down, there are still a handful of local, regional and national events going on this week including the WDFW’s Free Fishing Weekend...

Moses Lake duo to run with Spokane Speed Academy over summer

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake High School sophomores Paige Perkins and Noah Bingham will be running with the Spokane Speed Academy this summer, training with the goal in mind to raise their performance level in track and field. “I had recently decided that I wanted to focus on track,” said Perkins, who also runs cross country and plays basketball, “so my dad contacted the coach and they told us where things were and the procedure.” ...

WSU’s Bayerlova named All-American

PULLMAN - For the first time in program history, Washington State University has an All-American in tennis. Fifth-year Cougar Michaela Bayerlova was named an All-American in women’s singles by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. She was one of 30 Division 1 players named to the 2022 list...

Moses Lake service dog in the running for national award

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake service dog Sherman Gepherd is one of 21 semifinalists out of more than 400 candidates across the country in the 2022 American Humane Hero Dog Awards. According to a June 6 press release from American Humane. “The Hero Dog Awards shines a bright light on man’s best friend and celebrates the strength, hope and beauty that dogs bring to our lives,” said Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane in the announcement...

Police records for June 8, 2022

EPD, MLPD, jail

Deadline to apply for Wolf Advisory Group extended

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has extended the deadline for members of the public interested in applying to serve on the citizen committee that advises WDFW’s Director on wolf conservation and management until June 13, according to a release by the WDFW...

WA Free fishing weekend returns June 11-12

Washington’s Free Fishing Weekend is back this weekend, June 11 and 12, allowing resident and non-resident anglers from around the state to fish and harvest shellfish with or without a license, according to a release from the Washington Department of Fishing and Wildlife. “If you’ve ever wanted to try fishing or any of the other unique opportunities Washington offers, Free Fishing Weekend is the perfect time,” said inland fish program manager Steve Caromile. “It’s easier than ever to get started fishing, and it’s also a great time to introduce someone to fishing without the need to buy a license.” ...

Births for June 10, 2022

Samaritan, Othello Community hospitals

Michael Dean Treadwell

Michael Dean Treadwell, 81, of Othello, Washington, passed away in his home in Othello on June 3, 2022.

Larry Charles Anderson

Larry Charles Anderson, 82, passed away May 27, 2022, with his wife Jean and son Brian by his side.

Francisco Alvarez

Francisco Alvarez, better known to friends and family as Frank Alvarez Sr., passed away peacefully on Monday, May 23, 2022, in Shoreline Washington, where he was living with his daughter, Dr. Alma Alvarez-Smith.

Jones announces July 1 retirement

EPHRATA — Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones announced on Tuesday that he will retire effective July 1. “After some soul searching, a lot of discussion and support of my family and thoughts about the ‘next phase’ of my life, I have made the decision to retire from my position as elected sheriff and from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office,” Jones wrote in a formal statement issued to GCSO deputies and staff Tuesday morning...

Erratics to host program on kayaking the Columbia

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Erratics of the Ice Age Floods Institute will host a Zoom program June 14 at 7 p.m. entitled “Kayaking down the Columbia River: Evidence of the Missoula Flood from the Perspective of the River,” presented by Bill Burgel, according to a press release from the Erratics.

45 years and counting

The Taco Shop has become a fixture in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — In Moses Lake on June 1, 1977, Columbia Basin Machine defeated Zip Trucking in Little League, Japan Airlines held a model airplane contest for kids and new potatoes were 10 cents a pound at Thriftway. While “Star Wars” was breaking box office records across the country, Lake Theater was still showing “King Kong” from the year before. Oh, and a little taco stand opened up downtown near the swimming pool.

Operation Teddy Bear Lift to aid children in Ukraine

SEATTLE - Warm 106.9 and Ukraine Association of Washington State, or UAWS, have teamed up for Operation Teddy Bear Lift, a campaign to send over 10,000 teddy bears to children affected by the war in Ukraine, a release stated.

Legals for June, 7 2022

Kershaw to lay off 125 in Yakima

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Employment Security announced Monday that Kershaw Fruit and Cold Storage is laying off 125 employees at its Yakima facility beginning June 10. In a notification issued under the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act - also known as WARN - ESD’s website said notification of the impending layoffs was made on Monday, and that the layoffs are permanent. Under federal law, companies are generally required to give 60 days of notice prior to mass layoffs or plant closings that will require the dismissal of more than 50 employees. However, the same law states that companies are exempt from the 60-day notice requirement if they are facing financial difficulties or dealing with a natural disaster. ESD did not provide any details on what prompted the layoffs.

Ephrata schools sponsor free meals for children

EPHRATA - In a press release on June 6, the Ephrata School District announced that they will provide free meals for children 18 and under throughout the summer...

Erratics to host program on kayaking the Columbia

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Erratics of the Ice Age Floods Institute will host a Zoom program June 14 at 7 p.m. entitled “Kayaking down the Columbia River: Evidence of the Missoula Flood from the Perspective of the River,” presented by Bill Burgel, according to a press release from the Erratics. The Columbia River was the pathway for many of the Ice Age floods that occurred repeatedly between 18,000 and 15,000 years ago. This hour-long presentation will show evidence of the power of these floodwaters at various points along the Columbia River, between the Grand Coulee Dam to the mouth of the Willamette River in Portland. The author has kayaked nearly the entire length of this stretch of the river taking hundreds of photos as he drifted along downstream. To join the program, go to https://bit.ly/3xoGG5t. The webinar ID is 84812873290, and the passcode is “erratics” (without quotation marks). For more information, contact chapter president Brent Cunderla at cunderla@nwi.net or (509) 860-6067.

Former Cougar Ryan Leaf added to college HoF ballot

IRVING, TEXAS - Former Washington State quarterback Ryan Leaf was among 80 ex-players from the Football Bowl Subdivision Selected for the 2023 College Football Hall of Fame induction ballot, the National Football Foundation and College Football Hall of Fame announced on Monday...

Roundabout at SR 17 and Grape Drive starts to take shape

MOSES LAKE — The traffic signal at Grape Drive and state Route 17 has been removed, and some of the roadbed already has been torn out and repaved.

Social media threat causes modified lockdowns at four Othello schools Monday morning

OTHELLO — Four Othello schools were placed on a modified lockdown Monday morning after a social media message allegedly threatened McFarland Middle School. Othello School District officials instituted a modified lockdown at McFarland, Othello High School, Desert Oasis High School and Lutacaga Elementary. In a modified lockdown students and teachers stay in the classroom while classes keep going, and all doors are locked and monitored. “A high school kid made a social media threat,” said Othello Police Chief Phil Schenck...

Buckets in the Basin tournament 2022

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School hosted its Buckets in the Basin Summer Tip Off tournament this past weekend, hosting several varsity and JV teams from around the area. The teams competed throughout the weekend, with Lake Roosevelt winning the varsity bracket and Almira/Coulee-Hartline winning the JV bracket.

CWU Dining Services garners award for Fresh Bar

ELLENSBURG — Central Washington University Dining Services recently earned a Loyal E. Horton Dining Award for its Fresh Bar concept, according to a press release from the company...

Sand Scorpions have a blast at the Off Road Bash

MOSES LAKE - The Sand Scorpion Off Road Vehicle group was at it again tearing up the sand at the Moses Lake Sand Dunes with their annual Memorial Day Off Road Bash. “The ORV area is an important asset to our community, drawing tens of thousands annually and providing family-friendly fun to all,” said Sand Scorpion board member Brandon Douglass....

Aerobatic pilots coming to Ephrata

EPHRATA - Chapter 67 of the International Aerobatic Club, or IAC, will be conducting its Apple Cup Contest at Ephrata Municipal Airport on June 10-11. A press release by the International Aerobatic Club Ch. 67 states IAC pilots compete at different aerobatic skill levels. Some of the best aerobatic pilots in the nation will be flying their airplanes in loops, rolls, dives, stalls and turns. Each flight is thoroughly planned to ensure the highest levels of safety while testing the abilities of both pilot and airplane. The contest is free to the public to observe and starts at 9 a.m. each day. The airport is located at 1990 E. Division Ave.

Summer meal program set to begin

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction will offer its summer meal program again this year, according to a press release from the agency. The annual Summer Food Service Program provides children in lower-income areas with nutritious meals during the summer...

Masquers Theater presents thriller-comedy

SOAP LAKE — The curtain goes up Friday on a classic thriller rebooted to a comedy at the Masquers Theater, 322 Main Ave. E. in Soap Lake.

Parks Service announces Mt. Rainier open attractions

ASHFORD — Officials with the National Park Service announced on Monday said some portions of Mt. Rainier National Park remain closed and asked visitors to check before coming to the park to check the status of the roads, hours of operation and even the NPS’s webcams to get a sense of the current conditions at the park.

Grappling with Giardia

Tips for avoiding infection in pets

When pet owners think about protecting their animal from parasites, the first creepy creatures that come to mind are often fleas, ticks, and heartworms. But one less well-known parasite to watch out for is Giardia, which has strains that infect dogs, cats, and even people. Dr. Meriam Saleh, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers advice for protecting pets from this protozoan parasite. Giardia infections can cause diarrhea, gas, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting...

Wahluke elementary students release salmon into the wild

MATTAWA — One after another the children picked up a cup, each with its own salmon fry swimming around, and one after another they poured the contents into the Columbia River.

Othello, MLHS fastpitch players named to all-conference lists

COLUMBIA BASIN - Eight players on Othello’s state runner-up team and seven Moses Lake players were awarded all-conference awards in May, according to press releases from the Central Washington Athletic Conference and the Columbia Basin Big 9 Athletic Conference.

2 Vikings baseball players named All Americans

VANCOUVER - Two Big Bend Community College baseball players were named to All-American status by the American Baseball Coaches Association and Rawlings, with Austin Bunn and Brandham Ponce both earning All-American status in back-to-back years.

Legals for June, 6 2022

Ephrata hosts summer league basketball tournament

EPHRATA – Ephrata High School hosted its Buckets In the Basin Summer Tip Off tournament this past weekend, featuring boys varsity and JV squads from around the Basin. The summer league tournament gives coaches and players the opportunity to bond with each other before the regular season begins this winter. The bracket featured teams from 4A, 2A, 2B and 1B schools. “It’s early,” Ephrata basketball head coach Rick Walter said. “It’s just fun to be in the gym and excited to get started.” ...

Operation Teddy Bear Lift to aid children in Ukraine

SEATTLE - Warm 106.9 and the Ukraine Association of Washington State, or UAWS, have teamed up for Operation Teddy Bear Lift, a campaign to send over 10,000 teddy bears to children affected by the war in Ukraine, a UAWS press release stated. The release said in addition to Operation Teddy Bear Lift, Warm 106.9 and its promotional partners will be raising monetary donations for UAWS. Donations will be directed to www.uaws.org and will go toward purchasing neonatal incubators to replace those from destroyed medical facilities.

Health insurance providers request rate increases

OLYMPIA — Fourteen of the state’s major health insurance providers are asking Washington state regulators to approve an average 7.16% increase in health insurance premiums in Washington for 2023, according to a press release from the Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner...

Library reading program announced

WENATCHEE — Registration opens June 13 for the summer reading program sponsored by North Central Washington Libraries. The NCWL system includes all community libraries in Grant County. “Read Beyond the Beaten Path” is the theme for 2022. “Summer Library Program is designed to encourage reading among people of all ages, decrease summer learning loss for students (and) engage the community,” NCWL public relations specialist Michelle McNeil wrote in a press release. A variety of activities are planned at individual libraries as well as system-wide special programs, some of them online. Participants earn rewards for reading and completing activities, and will be eligible for prize drawings at the end of the summer.

Excited for the future

Royal High School recognizes 2022 grads

ROYAL CITY - The Royal High School graduating class of 2022 took their final steps as seniors Friday night at the Royal High School football field. Assistant principal Randy Miller started the program by recognizing parents in the audience who had graduated from Royal High School, then recognizing students who were the first in their family to graduate and those first in their family to go on to post-secondary education. He also recognized two graduating seniors entering military service. “We pray for each individual in the Royal High School Class of 2022,that they may accomplish all they're capable of. Give us the courage to face oncoming challenges of life with grace and compassion. May you guide us as it unfolds the next chapter of our lives and may we look back on the last 13 years with an appreciation for the time spent together.” senior Kate Allred said in her opening prayer.

Mind and heart on Othello

OHS graduates 241 seniors

OTHELLO — As he left Huskie Stadium, brand-new Othello High School graduate Miguel Diaz said he thought the class of 2022 could look back on a job well done. “I feel like, after all the hard times and the hard work, we all accomplished the one thing our parents wanted us to accomplish,” Miguel said. “We all did it. We did it as a class.” ...

The last of the Chiefs

MLHS class of 2022 celebrates long tradition of honoring mascot's heritage

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School class of 2022 was the first to gather for a graduation ceremony on Lions Fields since 2019, before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted social distancing, lockdowns and drive-by graduation ceremonies. It was also the last with the district’s current mascot. “This is the 98th and last class of graduating Chiefs,” said Laurel Knox in a short speech as the Class of 2022’s honor speaker at the commencement ceremony Friday. “We should hold pride in that.” ...

‘Into the arena’

MLCA graduates urged to do great things

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Christian Academy Class of 2022 was sent forth into the world Saturday afternoon, with a lot of prayer and thanks to God. “If MLCA has taught us anything, it is that God is constantly there with us as you prepare for a new chapter in your life,” said Associated Student Body class representative and MLCA senior Rebecca Starcher in her address. “Do not worry about the future, for only He knows what it is. So before you go out and celebrate your newfound freedom, take a moment to remember those who have helped you get there. Be overjoyed by the prospect of a new life. And as always, trust that God will guide you in the correct direction.” ...

Wilson Creek celebrates students

Grads at tiny school ready for future

WILSON CREEK — "If you don’t play to win, don’t play at all." That was the advice graduating senior and Wilson Creek 2022 valedictorian Kesiah Cook gave parents and teachers attending the Wilson Creek High School’s graduation ceremony on Saturday. “Our class was like that,” Cook said. “We had a very competitive spirit, we took things very seriously, and we had to show the rest of the school that we were the best.”

CB Tech students place in state competitions

MOSES LAKE — Clair Reed said competition baking requires precision. Noah Bingham and Eli Legault had to go forward on a completely unfamiliar project after a project partner moved away. The three Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center students finished in the top 10 at recent state competitions. Reed was third in the state SkillsUSA baking competition. Legualt and Bingham finished seventh in the state Future Business Leaders of America competition to build a video game, their first year in FBLA. “I’m mildly disappointed I didn’t get first,” Reed said. “Just me being competitive.” ...

Basin youth participate in sports

COLUMBIA BASIN - Youth throughout the Basin compete in athletic events both in and out of school. Here are a few highlights with photos submitted by community members. If you have a photo of a sporting event in the area that you'd like to submit for publication, please email our sports reporter, Ian Bivona, at ibivona@columbiabasinherald.com. Please include the names of those pictured in the photo as well as a description of the event and the results for those pictured.

Social media post leads to arrest

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Police officers arrested a 17-year-old gang member and convicted felon after the youth posted a video of himself on social media with a pistol.

David Martinez

David Martinez, musician and cowboy, died peacefully on Thursday, June 2, 2022, at approximately 8:05 a.m. in his home in Sulphur Springs, Texas.

Keith Easterly

Keith Ross Easterly, 80, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on March 29, 2022, one day shy of his 59th wedding anniversary.

Months of inventory

Housing market epitome of supply and demand

MOSES LAKE — There’s been a lot of talk about the housing market lately: pricing and scarcity, outgrowths of the reliable old Law of Supply and Demand. With real estate, that figure can be measured in months of inventory. “Months of inventory is an indicator of housing supply,” said Cara McNeil of Washington Realtors. “For example, when someone lists a home, it becomes counted as inventory. There is a formula for calculating months of inventory, but simply put, it refers to how many months it would take for the inventory on the market to sell in the current market. The less inventory we have on the market, the more we see housing prices increase.”...

Soap Lake students show off their artistic talents

SOAP LAKE - This past week, Soap Lake students showcased their many talents with a public art show. The Soap Lake Middle/High School Art Show was held at Notaras Hall on May 25 and 26. The event had dozens of handmade art from a variety of mediums. Some students even had prices noted on the pieces that they would be willing to part for.

Legals for June, 3 2022

Three EWU track & field coaches retire

CHENEY – Both track and field head coaches at Eastern Washington University have retired, with men’s head coach Stan Kerr and women’s head coach Marcia Mecklenburg calling it a career after 27 years each with the Eagles. Jumps and multi-events coach Dave Nielsen will also retire.

Cougs to open season against Texas State

The Washington State Cougars will open its 2022-2023 basketball season against Texas State on November 7 in Pullman, according to CBS Sport’ college basketball insider Jon Rothstein...

Inmate allegedly steals car after being given wrong car key

EPHRATA — A George man was rearrested and put back in the Grant County Jail after he was given the wrong car key while being released from jail, then allegedly stole the car.

First woman appointed as head of Coast Guard

WASHINGTON D.C. - Adm. Karl L. Schultz was relieved as Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard by Adm. Linda L. Fagan during a military change-of-command ceremony presided over by President Joe Biden, Wednesday at Coast Guard Headquarters, according to a Coast Guard press release. “The men and women of the Coast Guard deserve all the credit for what we have accomplished,” said Schultz in the release. “I’m humbled to have led the world’s best Coast Guard as Commandant during the last four years, which presented some unique challenges. Our collective resolve, bias for action, unrivaled devotion to duty, true grit and dogged determination burnished the Service’s brand and standing, both in the Homeland and abroad.” ...

Police reports for June 3, 2022

EPD, MLPD, jail

WA increases heat, wildfire smoke protections for outdoor workers

TUMWATER — Workers in Washington will be entitled to greater protection from heat and smoke this summer, under new rules filed by the Washington Department of Labor and Industries Wednesday. The new rules will be in effect June 15-Sept. 30, according to a press release from L&I. They require employers to monitor temperature and air quality, take steps to protect workers from heat and smoke hazards, and provide training and information, among other things...

Suspects in custody after high-speed pursuit near Royal City

ROYAL CITY — Three suspects are in custody following a high-speed pursuit Thursday afternoon near Royal City...

Soap Lake City Council appoints new member

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake City Council filled its vacant seat at the end of its regular meeting on Wednesday night. Kat Sanderson will take the Soap Lake City Council position 6 seat. “I’m honored that they chose me,” said Sanderson.

Newhouse hosts congressional dam tour

BURBANK, Wash. — There aren’t many hydroelectric dams in Iowa. So Rep. Marinnette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, said she’s glad she got an opportunity on Wednesday to visit the Ice Harbor Dam and see firsthand how important hydropower is to the Western United States.

WSU to hold dryland farming field day

PULLMAN — Washington State University will be hosting a field day at its Lind Dryland Research Station on Thursday, June 16, according to an announcement from the school...

Repaving on Moses Lake’s Valley Road begins Monday

MOSES LAKE — Traffic revisions will be in place on Valley Road beginning Monday as the road is resurfaced from Stratford Road to Paxson Drive. Construction crews will be working on the project from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with the first phase scheduled for completion Aug. 5, according to information from the city of Moses Lake. The project will include removing the existing pavement and underlying roadbed, rebuilding the roadbed and repaving. Curbs and gutters will replace the existing gutters on the south side of the road, and stormwater improvements are planned as well....

State fire marshal’s office urges campers to exercise caution with campfires

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office urges residents who enjoy Washington state parks and open areas this year to use extra caution when camping.

'Read beyond the beaten path'

Registration now open for summer reading program

OTHELLO — Registration is now open for the annual Mid-Columbia Libraries summer reading program. “Read Beyond the Beaten Path” is the theme for 2022...

‘The Ferraris of Horses’

Arabian horse show comes to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — There’s just something about a horse.

Legals for June, 2 2022

MLHS’s Tibbs signs for college basketball

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake High School senior Marshall Tibbs signed to Spokane Community College Bigfoot Basketball on Wednesday. Tibbs’ mom and dad, Kimberly and Trevor Tibbs, said they are really proud of their son. “He’s been playing basketball since he was this big,” Trevor said, holding up his thumb and pointer finger about an inch apart. “It’s his only sport and his only passion and it’s all he’s ever wanted to do. He’s risen up anywhere he’s ever went and we’re very proud of him.” ...

Two Quincy streets to be rebuilt, another gets repaved

QUINCY — Asphalt removal should begin sometime within the next couple of weeks on three blocks of B Street Northeast in Quincy. “A complete new road,” said Shawn Pierce, project supervisor for Hurst Construction LLC...

Six Cougars make trip to NCAA championships

Six representatives from the Washington State men’s and women’s track and field teams will represent the Cougars at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships after qualifying in the NCAA West Regional at the University of Arkansas. The championships will be held at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon next week from June 8 - 11...

AMBER Alerts come to Instagram

OLYMPIA - Starting this week, all Washington State AMBER Alerts will appear on users’ Instagram feeds. David Richey, Managing Director of the Western division for U.S. Scarlet Oak Strategies said in an email to the Columbia Basin Herald that this additional way of delivering AMBER Alerts will provide hundreds of thousands of daily users a way to help when a child goes missing in Washington...

Music at McCosh

Top-notch country talent performs at Springfest

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Spring Festival saw a star-studded lineup of three country music artists whose performances were completely free to the public. “The whole thing has been a great time,” said Paul Moore who came to Moses Lake from the Tri-Cities for the weekend to enjoy the Moses Lake Spring Festival.

Wash. Supreme Court orders sanctions in election lawsuit

OLYMPIA - On June 1, Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that the Washington Supreme Court had ordered $28,000 in total sanctions against a group and their attorney who filed a lawsuit falsely claiming voter fraud in the 2020 election. In the release, Ferguson said his office successfully brought sanctions against the group and the attorney who had filed the lawsuit for their “frivolous legal challenge of the 2020 election,” the release stated.

Kenneth Schnirring

Kenneth Schnirring, age 70, of Moses Lake Washington passed away May 30, 2022. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories.

Tony R. Barentine

Tony R Barentine, 84, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away May 30, 2022. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories.

Sandra Evelyn Frazier

Sept. 18, 1936 - May 10, 2022

Sandra Evelyn Frazier was born on September 18th, 1936 in Fort Ripley, Minnesota. This was during the time of the Great Depression, where nothing was taken for granted. That was something she carried with her all of her life. If Sandy came across something, she would find it a purpose or a multipurpose. She'd say, "Let's not be wasteful."...

Morning roundup: Spring Festival, casinos & Dollar General

Springfest draws ’em in, tribal casinos add to the pot and Soap Lake salutes the General. Here’s what’s happening in the Basin today:

Local high schools schedule graduation ceremonies

MOSES LAKE — The Columbia Basin’s class of 2022 will commemorate the end of an eventful high school career with graduation ceremonies at local schools over the next two weekends.

‘Pure imagination’

Ballet Academy of Moses Lake presents ‘Willy Wonka’

MOSES LAKE — Dancers will tap, swoop and spin their way across the Moses Lake High School stage as the Moses Lake Ballet Academy presents its “Willy Wonka” Thursday. The performance will draw on both the 1970 movie “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” with Gene Wilder in the title role and the 2005 movie “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp as the eccentric confectioner. Both films are adaptations of the 1964 children’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl. “I kind of took my own spin on it and developed a show based on those two movies,” said Rian Miles, co-director of the academy and the show’s choreographer. “There's gonna be jazz and tap, lyrical and hip hop in the show. It'll go through each character and give the story of the show.” ...

Legals for June, 1 2022