Ellington

Moses Lake council opts to keep comprehensive plan

MOSES LAKE — At a special meeting on Tuesday, the Moses Lake City Council voted unanimously to keep the city's comprehensive plan in place but withdraw the proposed changes from consideration by the county. The special meeting was held following a vote at the council’s previous meeting on May 24 to consider repealing the plan, which several council members said had unduly removed land from the Moses Lake urban growth area and failed to adequately consider the prospects of future growth for the city. “The motion I made was in light of announcements (of major business development),” said real estate agent and City Council Member Mark Fancher, who made the repeal proposal. “It was never my intent to repeal (the comprehensive plan).” ...

Priorities set for MLSD construction projects

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School Board will vote, possibly at its June 9 meeting, on whether to adopt a report that includes a priority list for capital projects that could be funded through the construction bond approved by voters in 2017. If the report is accepted, the first priority would be finding property to build the district’s 12th elementary school. Another priority would be fixing up Moses Lake High School. “Any reasonable observer of the condition of our high school would be able to tell you that that structure is failing,” MLSD COO Jeremy O’Neil said. “It’s definitely throughout the facility, and it’s more acutely in about two or three wings, where whole classrooms are missing ceiling tiles.”...

Basin tennis players compete at state

COLUMBIA BASIN - More than a dozen Basin athletes competed in tennis state tournaments this past weekend, held at several courts across the state. Read along below to see how these athletes fared in the first state competition since 2019...

Grant transit gets new buses

MOSES LAKE — Grant Transit Authority recently acquired three new clean diesel buses, according to a press release from the agency. The 30-foot coaches come with enhanced safety features including updated restraint systems for securing wheelchairs and other mobility devices, as well as automatic ADA annunciator systems that announce the bus’s location and the stops it is approaching, the release said. Except for the new buses, all of GTA’s fleet is 13-19 years old...

Moses Lake moves to annex homes on north side of city

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council voted to begin the process of annexing roughly 20 acres on the north side of town following a request from a developer to bring nearly five acres within the city limits as part of a major housing development. At its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 24, City Development Director Kirsten Sackett told council members that the 32 homes on Road 4.8 NE and Space Street off the northern extension of Grape Drive are currently served by a city sewer line. They are also in the city’s urban growth area, so annexation into the city proper makes sense...

Packed park: Moses Lake Spring Festival draws record crowds

MOSES LAKE — There were spots of rain, but that did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm – or the crowds.

Weekend on the field

In the last weekend of state tournaments for the Spring 2022 season, Basin athletes shined from the track to the diamond. Check out some photos from this weekend’s track & field and fastpitch events.

Indigenous-owned gaming contributes billions to WA economy

OLYMPIA — The Washington Indian Gaming Association said the state’s tribal casinos contributed $6.6 billion to the state’s economy in 2019 and $5.6 billion during pandemic-shuttered 2020, all while providing around 55,000 jobs for Washington residents. “Tribes are running gaming and other business not to generate private profits, but to fund critically needed government services for some of the poorest and most historically marginalized communities in Washington State,” said Rebecca George, WIGA executive director and an enrolled member of the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe...

Soap Lake Dollar General opens

SOAP LAKE – A press release on May 31 announced the official opening of the Soap Lake Dollar General. The new store, located at 79 Highway 28 West was constructed during the first few months of the year. The Soap Lake location is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m...

StoryCorps MobileBooth to visit Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Local residents will have a chance to tell their stories for posterity this summer. StoryCorps is a nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of people from all backgrounds and beliefs, according to a press release from the organization...

Bette Jean Minor Holihan

BJ Holihan, 77, passed away peacefully on Dec. 30, 2021, at Chandler Hospital in Chandler, Arizona.

Yemiko ‘Emi’ Rosenow

Yemiko "Emi" Rosenow reached the end of her incredible life on May 8, 2022, at the age of 95.

Aimee Hurst

Aimee Hurst of Moses Lake, Washington passed away on April 20, 2022.

Newhouse talks technology, law enforcement during Moses Lake visit

MOSES LAKE — Recent announcements by technology startups, like advanced battery makers Sila Technologies and Group14 Technologies, as well electric airplane work at AeroTEC, development of reusable rocket engines at Stoke Space Technologies and the restart of production at REC Silicon show a lot happening in Grant County, according to Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Yakima, during a visit to Moses Lake on Friday. “So much research and development of cutting edge technology in Central Washington and happening right in Grant County, it's pretty amazing,” Newhouse said. “It's always fascinating to me to come and learn just a little bit about the companies that are engaged here and the leadership work to make it all happen.”

Mitchell Dennis Zornes

Mitchell Dennis Zornes, 60, passed away on May 23, 2022.

Legals for May, 31 2022

Moses Lake locals honor Memorial Day

Raymond Roeder, right, and Kim Roeder neaten up the graves of Raymond’s parents Byron and Florence Roeder at Pioneer Memorial Gardens in Moses Lake. Byron Roeder, who passed away in 2000 at the age of 75, served as a mechanic in Germany in World War II. He moved to Moses Lake with his family in 1975 and worked at the Columbia Basin Job Corps Center.

Moses Lake, Othello, Ephrata compete at state track meet

Ephrata, Othello both pull silver medals

TACOMA - The 2A, 3A, and 4A state Track and Field meet was held at Mount Tahoma High School over the weekend with teams from Ephrata, Othello and Moses Lake participating. The Ephrata boys team tied for 7th in the 2A boys category. The Othello girls team took 29th overall in girls 2A, with the Ephrata girls following behind at 39th in the same category. The Moses Lake girls team took 33rd in girls 4A...

Soap Lake observes Memorial Day

SOAP LAKE - Ceremonies at the Soap Lake, Ephrata and Quincy cemeteries were held on Memorial day by members of the VFW Post 24, American Legion Post 28, VFW Auxiliary Unit 24 and American Legion Auxiliary unit 28. VFW Post 24 Commander Phil Anderson gave a small speech at each ceremony. In his speech he said he wanted people to enjoy their barbeques and days off from work but to simply remember why they have the freedom to do so; to take a moment and reflect on those that gave their lives for their freedom. The speech was followed by the laying of a few wreaths and the American Legion Colorguard.

Royal fastpitch ends season in first state game

RICHLAND - The Royal fastpitch softball team fell in the first round of the state tournament Friday ending their season and state run. “It was a tough loss but we've got a young team,” said head coach Lisa Lawrence. “They play with a lot of heart. We've got a lot to look forward to with only losing one senior.” ...

Moses Lake museum offers free Saturday event

Free seashell jellyfish craft event open to all

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center will hold its regular Free Family Saturday this weekend, according to a press release from the museum. The featured craft will be seashell jellyfish. The class begins at 12 noon at the museum. Registration is required and can be made online at https://bit.ly/3wZSUm0. Activities are first come, first served and continue until supplies run out. The museum offers Free Family Saturday the first Saturday of every month. There is no charge and all ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Quincy mayor terminates COVID-19 emergency order

QUINCY — Quincy Mayor Paul Worley has terminated an order dating from 2020 declaring a civil emergency. Worley issued the termination proclamation May 16, and a resolution approving Worley’s action was approved by the Quincy City Council May 17. The civil emergency order was issued March 16, 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and followed a proclamation of civil emergency from Gov. Jay Inslee. In the May 16 proclamation, Worley said with pandemic conditions improving, the order is no longer needed.

Columbia Basin traffic update for May 31

COLUMBIA BASIN — Travelers can expect some delays on North Central Washington highways this week as road construction projects continue...

Colville casinos to add sports betting

OMAK — Colville Gaming, which runs three 12 Tribes Colville Casinos in Central Washington, announced last week that it has signed a deal with slot machine, software maker and gaming specialist IGT to provide sports betting at the tribes’ casinos. “Thanks to IGT we feel confident in our ability to provide our guests with an exciting and secure sports betting environment, and we look forward to opening our doors to sports enthusiasts soon,” said 12 Tribes Colville Casinos COO Tony Posey in a press release...

Paving work to resume on I-90

MOSES LAKE — Paving in the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 from Moses Lake to the Grant-Adams county line is scheduled to begin June 1. ..

WA Fire Marshal’s Office tips for protecting homes from wildfires

OLYMPIA — The warmer spring and summer weather bring with them an increased risk of wildfires, and the Washington Fire Marshal’s office is recommending homeowners take precautions to reduce that risk. According to a press release from WFMO, the National Interagency Fire Center and the National Weather Service are forecasting a normal amount of precipitation for summer 2022. But summer east of the Cascade Mountains means dry weather...

Warden fastpitch falls in 2B state tournament

YAKIMA – After dominating opponents all season and entering the state tournament with a 24-1 record and the No. 2 seed, Warden fastpitch had state title aspirations at the Gateway Sports Complex in Yakima this past weekend.

Othello places second in 2A fastpitch state tournament

SELAH - The Othello Lady Huskies finished second in the 2A fastpitch state competition this weekend, winning three games before losing to Tumwater High School 13-3 in the state championship at Carlon Park in Selah. Othello finishes the season with a 24-2 record and a state runner-up title...

Columbia Basin athletes compete at state track meet

CHENEY - The State 1B, 2B and 1A track and field meet was held at Eastern Washington University in Cheney over the weekend. Several area schools competed and brought home awards for their efforts. There were six state championship medals and six runner-up medals given to athletes from the Columbia Basin...

Mariners blank Astros 6-0

SEATTLE (AP) — Kyle Lewis homered for the second straight game, Julio Rodríguez got three more hits and the Seattle Mariners defeated the Houston Astros 6-0 on Saturday night. Logan Gilbert tossed seven impressive innings of four-hit ball as the Mariners won consecutive games for the first time since a four-game winning streak from April 22-26. Two relievers finished a five-hitter, the first shutout this season for Seattle. Houston was held to three runs or less for the eighth time in 12 games...

Columbia Basin Memorial Day observances

COLUMBIA BASIN — People around the Basin will gather to honor fallen servicemen and -women on Monday, as is traditional for Memorial Day...

Mariners hammer Verlander for 4 HRs in 6-1 win over Astros

SEATTLE (AP) — After being shut down by Justin Verlander twice already this season, the approach by the Seattle Mariners this time around was to be overly aggressive. “I said it to the club before the game, ‘If it looks like you can hit it hard, swing at it. Take our chances,’” Seattle manager Scott Servais said. “And that's what we did tonight.” Rookie Julio Rodríguez hit the first of Seattle’s four home runs off Houston's ace, and the Mariners thumped the Astros 6-1 on Friday night...

REC Silicon to reopen Moses Lake plant

Full production expected in 2024

MOSES LAKE — REC Silicon is going to resume production of solar-grade polysilicon at its facility in Moses Lake, company CEO James May said during a conference call late Thursday to review the company’s first-quarter 2022 financial results. “We are going to restart in Moses Lake,” May said...

Will H. Latham

A celebration of life for Will H. Latham will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 11 at 4372 Road 3 Northeast, Mae Valley, Moses Lake, Washington. Lunch will follow.

Dennis Michael Cox

Dennis Michael Cox was born on April 2, 1945 to Woodrow Foy Cox and Georgia Viola Idler in his grandparents' home in Grandview, Washington. He passed away in his home in Othello surrounded by his family on May 25. He had been battling cancer and succumbed to sepsis.

A place to call home

Othello development focuses on affordable home

OTHELLO — It’s no secret that homes are in high demand right now. The median home price in Othello has risen almost 14% in the last year, according to real estate website Zillow.com. People are trying to move in, and they need some place to move in to.

Ready to walk

A small class gears up for graduation

WILSON CREEK — Even in the smallest of schools, graduation is a big deal. In fact, it may be that the smaller the school, the more important the graduation ceremony is.

Moses Lake man arrested after brief standoff

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man was arrested Thursday after a brief standoff with law enforcement on suspicion of second-degree robbery and felony eluding . Isaiah Martinez, 29, was arrested at about 2 p.m. after surrendering to Grant County Sheriff’s deputies and Moses Lake Police Department officers, wrote GCSO public information officer Kyle Foreman in a GCSO announcement...

Basin golfers succeed at state tournaments

COLUMBIA BASIN – Several Basin golfers competed in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association - or WIAA - state tournaments across the state on Tuesday and Wednesday, including the Warden Lady Cougars winning the 1B/2B state tournament...

Legals for May, 27 2022

Moses Lake All Stars receive donation for World Series trip

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Youth Baseball Association received a $10,000 donation from Hayden Homes, an Oregon-based company, to help assist the team financially in their upcoming trip to the Babe Ruth 10U World Series this summer. “When this came about and they made it as far as they did and all the effort that they put in, we’re just really proud of them,” Hayden Homes project manager Roger Silva said...

CWU grad students offer student counseling service

ELLENSBURG — Central Washington University psychology graduate students are getting some real-world experience providing much-needed support for nine Kittitas County youths this spring, supplying free mental health services that weren’t otherwise available to them, according to a press release from the university...

"I am small town"

Singer-songwriter Colt Ford to perform in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Singer-songwriter Colt Ford will be performing at the Moses Lake Spring Festival this weekend. The Georgia native currently calls Nashville, Tenn. home but is bringing his country charm to Moses Lake on Sunday. “Honestly, I am little old Moses Lake, I am small-town. It's where I feel the most comfortable. That's where I'm the happiest,” said Ford...

Othello fastpitch softball top seed in state tournament

OTHELLO — Othello High School fastpitch softball coach Rudy Ochoa said he was optimistic about the 2022 season, but it turned out even better than he expected.

Births for May 27, 2022

Samaritan, Othello Community hospitals

Suspect in Cedillos murder returned to Grant County

EPHRATA — A former Moses Lake man was returned to Grant County and booked into the Grant County Jail Thursday in connection with the death of a Moses Lake woman in early March...

Police records for May 27, 2022

EPD, MLPD, jail

Gov’t offices to remain open Friday, but closed Monday

COLUMBIA BASIN - All city and county government offices in Grant and Adams counties will maintain their regular hours on Friday, May 27, though they will be closed for the holiday honoring our fallen service members...

Moses Lake man arrested after brief standoff

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of second-degree robbery and felony eluding after a brief standoff with law enforcement.

Avian flu detected in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE — Avian influenza has arrived in Grant County, according to the Grant County Health District. According to Monica Mecham, a spokesperson for the Grant County Health District, four dead snow geese found in Grant County — one in mid-April, the other three in early May — have tested positive for the H5N1 influenza virus, which poses a significant risk to domesticated poultry and is being spread by waterfowl as they migrate...

Newhouse pens bill to keep China from buying US farmland

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Dan Newhouse announced Thursday that he is introducing a bill that would prevent individuals or organizations associated with the government of the People’s Republic of China from buying any public or private agricultural land in the United States, as well as from participating in any U.S. Department of Agriculture programs with the exception of food safety inspections...

No vaccine required for incoming BBCC students

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College students will no longer be required to have the COVID-19 vaccine when the fall quarter begins on Sept. 19, according to a press release from the college. The vaccine mandate will remain in effect for state employees...

Mt. Rainier Nat. Park partially open this weekend

ASHFORD – Many areas within Mount Rainier National Park will be accessible to visitors beginning Memorial Day weekend, despite 13 feet of snow on the ground at Paradise, according to a press release from the National Park Service....

Updated: Subject in police standoff in custody

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is asking people to avoid the area of Maple Drive between Alma Road Northeast and Stewart Road Northeast and for area residents to stay indoors.

The Busy Bean moves to new Soap Lake location

SOAP LAKE — The Busy Bean, a coffee shop in Soap Lake, got a new look and a new address this week.

Morning roundup: Spring Festival, Quincy athletes, stoplights

Springfest springs back, Jacks take all-league honors and traffic lights get a makeover. Here’s what’s happening in the Basin today:

Basin tennis players head to state

COLUMBIA BASIN – The Washington high school tennis state tournaments begin on Friday, and 16 players from the Columbia Basin are going to represent their schools in competition.

Federal grants available for zero-emission school bus purchases

SEATTLE — The Environmental Protection Agency announced last week that $500 million in grant funding is available to school districts to buy zero-emission buses, according to an agency press release.

Earle Bennett Essex

Earle passed away on May 18, 2022, at the age of 80 at his home after struggling with a heart condition.

Inslee tests positive for COVID-19, cases on the rise

OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee has tested positive for COVID-19.

How to save money in college

College can be a lot of things – fun, exciting, challenging, exhausting, rewarding – but “cheap” doesn’t usually make the list.

Robert Milford Martin Sr.

Robert Milford Martin Sr., 82, passed away peacefully on Jan. 15, 2022.

Joan Elaine Fox

Joan E. Fox, 77, of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away at her home on May 15, 2022.

Legals for May, 26 2022

Sports Schedule

Thursday, May 26 2:50 – 2A, 3A, 4A boys and girls state track and field at Mount Tahoma High School. 4 p.m. – 1B, 2B, 1A boys and girls state track and field at Eastern Washington University.

Bureau of Land Management fire restrictions go into effect Friday

PORTLAND — The Bureau of Land Management has announced a series of fire restrictions will go into effect beginning Friday on federal land throughout Washington and Oregon, according to a BLM press release.

QHS athletes garner all-league honors

QUINCY — Several Quincy High School athletes were recognized on the all-Caribou Trail League teams, including two Jackrabbits winning Player of the Year in their respective sports.

‘Busy, busy, busy’

Spring Festival returns in full force

MOSES LAKE — Springfest is back.

Quincy’s B Street Market adds more Saturdays

QUINCY — Quincy’s B Street Market is expanding its days of operation for summer 2022. The market will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday – with one exception – from June 4 through Sept. 24.

A better light

Traffic signals to be upgraded in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Traffic lights in Moses Lake are going to get an upgrade. But it’s not the kind you’re going to be able to see.

Hungry for Honor Flight

EPHRATA - The American Legion Post 28 Legionnaires and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 28 held a fundraiser on Saturday in Ephrata for veterans to get an opportunity to visit military memorials around the Washington D.C. area. The program, called Honor Flight, takes veterans from World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars to see the memorials around Washington D.C. built in honor of their service...

Ephrata hires new wrestling coaches

EPHRATA - In a press release on May 24, the Ephrata School District announced the hiring of two new coaches for the High School wrestling program.

Two men arrested after property owner holds them at gunpoint

MATTAWA — Two Mattawa men were booked into the Grant County Jail after a Mattawa-area property owner held them at gunpoint when he allegedly found them on his property early Tuesday morning.

Soap Lake appoints new mayor

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake City Council named Michelle Agliano as the city’s new mayor at its last meeting.

Wake For Warriors fundraiser brings in over $10,000

CRESCENT BAR — The Wake For Warriors fundraiser held at Crescent Bar on Saturday was a big success bringing in over $10,000.

Donald Frick

Donald Frick passed away peacefully on May 17, 2022 in Moses Lake, Washington.

Frances (Amy) Serpinas

It’s true what they say, the very best things come in small packages.

Anthony (Tony) Johnson

Anthony (Tony) Wayne Johnson, 56, passed away peacefully in his home on May 2, 2022.

Legals for May, 25 2022

Two Moses Lake athletes head to Special Olympics USA Games

MOSES LAKE — Two Moses Lake athletes have qualified to compete in the Special Olympics USA Games that will be held in Florida at the beginning of June.

Weekend on the field

Basin athletes have been showcasing their hard work and skills as district, regional and state competitions rage on. Here are some photos from some of the games that happened over the weekend.

Ephrata and Othello golfers tee off at state tournament

OLYMPIA – For the first time since 2019, the WIAA is hosting a state tournament for boys and girl golf.

Officials on lookout for Asian giant hornets

OLYMPIA — There have not been any confirmed sightings of the Asian giant hornet in Washington so far this year, according to Sven-Erik Spichiger, a managing entomologist with the Washington State Department of Agriculture.

Shooting fish in a lake

MOSES LAKE — Sean Manderville reached into the big, blue plastic barrel sitting in his boat and pulled out a carp.

Basin golfers scatter across Washington for state play

COLUMBIA BASIN – Several golfers across the Columbia Basin qualified for state golf tournaments which begin today on various courses across Washington. Ephrata leads the way with eight student-athletes qualifying for state, sending six boys to Olympia and two girls to Tumwater...

40 Basin track and fielders head to state

COLUMBIA BASIN – With the regular season and districts having come to a close, the time has come for the state competition in Washington track and field. Several schools from the Columbia Basin sent representatives to state in a wide variety of events. 40 athletes from 10 area schools will compete for a championship across the state....

Ready for summer

Moses Lake FFA, horticulture students plant downtown flower boxes

MOSES LAKE — Jacob Knight explained the layout - the ornamental grass in the middle of the flower container, with the sweet potato vines and petunias in opposite corners. Knight, a student at Moses Lake High School, was among the MLHS horticulture class and FFA members who worked their way down West Third Avenue and adjoining side streets planting flower containers Thursday morning...

Legals for May, 24 2022

Battling our deadliest predator

MOSES LAKE — Mosquitos are more than flying, buzzing and biting annoyances. They are, in the words of Colorado Mesa University history professor Timothy Winegard, humanity’s deadliest predator, responsible for many billions of deaths throughout the long history of human existence as they hunt for human blood and transmit bacteria, viruses and parasites in every bite...

COVID-19 boosters available for Washington children

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Health has announced that booster doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine are now available for children 5 to 11 years of age. The DOH is recommending a booster dose of vaccines for children who have received their initial vaccinations...

Quincy hospital district puts bond request out to voters

Funding could provide new hospital

QUINCY — Voters in the Quincy hospital district will be asked to accept or reject a bond proposal, up to $55 million, in the Aug. 2 primary. If the proposal is approved, the money would be used to build a new Quincy Valley Medical Center. If the bond is approved, property owners would pay an estimated 46 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. That means the owner of property assessed at $200,000 would pay $92 per year, and a property owner with land assessed at $300,000 would pay $138 per year...

Moses Lake fastpitch falls short of state

Lady Chiefs have 17 wins to be proud of this season

EAST WENATCHEE - The Moses Lake fastpitch team took two tough losses over the weekend to put them short of the state tournament. On Friday, the Lady Chiefs took on Eastmont High School in the district championship. They had played Eastmont in a doubleheader earlier this season, where they lost game one, 15-5, but tied 2-2 in game two. This time, however, the Lady Chiefs struggled to get on base and ultimately lost 10-0...

Candidate filing period produces challengers for some state, county offices

GRANT/ADAMS COUNTIES — The filing deadline to run for office in Washington at the county and state level was Friday. Several officials that represent Grant and Adams counties at the local and state level are running for reelection.

Third Thursday events return to downtown Moses Lake this summer

MOSES LAKE — The Downtown Moses Lake Association will join the Moses Lake Farmers Market to sponsor a series of downtown markets every third Thursday from June to September. The first Third Thursday is scheduled for June 16. The DMLA will sponsor “open mic nights” during Third Thursday. The market will be open from 4 to 8 p.m., with the open mic performances from 6 to 7 p.m. The remaining Third Thursdays are scheduled for July 21, Aug. 18 and Sept. 15...

Keep it cool for your pups this summer

Tips for taking dogs swimming

When the weather heats up, many people and pups love getting in the water to cool down. Whether a dog enjoys swimming or just splashing in the shallows, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure they stay safe this summer. While it’s a common belief that all dogs can swim, this is actually a myth, according to Dr. Lori Teller, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “Most dogs will make a paddling motion when in the water, but some are not able to propel themselves forward or even keep their heads above water,” she said.

Warden fastpitch heads to state

WARDEN - Warden fastpitch head coach Randy Wright has been confident in his team all season, knowing that the Lady Cougars had what it took to make it to state. Now, after defeating Kittitas 16-1 in the 2B District 5 final, Wright’s team is heading to the 2B state tournament in Yakima this Friday...

How to build a pump track

New East Park feature expected to draw visitors to Quincy.

QUINCY — Building a pump track starts with studying the lay of the land. Shawn Lorenz of the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, North Bend, designed the pump track currently under construction in Quincy’s East Park and said the design started with a picture of the park. “The design for the Quincy track was an overhead image set precisely to a 20-foot per inch scale. And then (the design process) is using an engineering ruler to measure off feature spacing and see what fits on the land,” Lorenz said. “The design kind of forms itself - I guess organically would be a good word to use.” ...

Grapes don't give up

COLUMBIA BASIN — Despite a cold spring, wine grapes are looking good, according to a couple of local growers.

New sports reporter seeks the drama behind the game

MOSES LAKE — What Ian Bivona really likes about covering sports is the drama.

Big Bend falls to Mount Hood in NWAC regionals

MOSES LAKE - The Big Bend Vikings were faced with every young baseball player’s dream – a game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning in a win-or-go-home situation.

ML airshow seeks volunteers

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Airshow is looking for a few good volunteers to help get this year’s air show off the ground.

And then there were three

Royal, Othello and Warden softball teams head to state

COLUMBIA BASIN - After a rough weekend of competition for high school sports teams in the Basin, only three softball teams are left to fight for the coveted state championship title. Those three teams are Warden, Royal and Othello.

ACH ties for third in state baseball tournament

MOSES LAKE - Almira/Coulee-Hartline finished tied for third in Saturday’s 1B state tournament, beating Mount Vernon Christian 5-2 before losing to Naselle 15-10 in the semifinals.

Jackrabbits fall in 1A state tournament

QUINCY - Under the bright lights of Quincy Jackrabbit Stadium on Friday, the home team faced a one-goal deficit against No. 14 seed Seattle Academy Cardinals in the 1A state soccer playoffs.

Hard work pays off for Quincy goalie

QUINCY - Romualdo Sandoval, the goalkeeper for the Quincy High School soccer team, is the perfect example that hard work pays off.

Legals for May, 23 2022

Othello earns top seed in state softball tournament

SELAH — The Othello Huskies softball team will open state tournament play against West Valley of Spokane at noon Friday at Carlon Park in Selah. Othello enters the tournament as the top seed.

Groff Elementary BBQ held Friday

MOSES LAKE - Brian King (left) and Tonya Landon (center, in red) serve hot dogs and hamburgers to students and families at the annual spring barbecue at Groff Elementary in Moses Lake Friday...

Biting dog sought by authorities

WENATCHEE - The public’s help is asked in identifying a dog that bit someone on Thursday in Wenatchee, according to a press release from Wenatchee Valley Animal Care & Control.

CWU Board of Trustees honor 2022 distinguished faculty

The Central Washington University Board of Trustees has selected their five honorees to be recognized as distinguished faculty. The ceremony for the annual awards started in 1977 to recognize faculty who have excelled in teaching, research/artistic accomplishment and public service. The honorees’ names will appear on a continuing plaque on campus, and each will receive a monetary award...

Royal fastpitch defeats Naches Valley 17-0

Lady Knights move on to state competition after weekend bout

The Royal High School Lady Knights led an offensive barrage on Thursday night, defeating Naches Valley 17-0 in the first round of the fastpitch 1A District 5 tournament. “We drove the ball pretty well,” Royal head coach Lisa Lawrence said. “Our pitcher – Madison Ortega-Sanchez – she really wrapped up well for us.” ...

Morning roundup: Principal promoted, WSU thumps Portland, bird flu hits Washington

Moses Lake’s chief Chief is movin’ on up, WSU is shining on the diamond and there’s something foul among the fowl. Here’s what’s happening in the Basin today:

Considering the ultimate DIY?

What to factor in when building a home from the ground up.

MOSES LAKE — It’s no secret that there’s a housing shortage in the Columbia Basin. One way some aspiring homeowners are dealing with this shortage is by buying the land and building the house itself, though even that has its limits, according to Tara Zerbo, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Mann Realty. “In general, right now, there’s not a whole heck of a lot to choose from, especially if you want something on the water,” Zerbo said...

A very purposeful accident

Seeds ‘n Stone Natural Therapeutic Products now open in Moses Lake.

MOSES LAKE — Amy Jean Winter didn't start out trying to make her dream come true. “I’m new to Moses Lake,” Winter said, explaining that she and her husband Marshal, who works for Boeing, moved here in late 2019 as part of the company’s expansion following the grounding of the 737 MAX...

USDA forecasts Higher Washington Wheat Harvest in 2022

PORTLAND — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is forecasting a major increase in wheat production in Washington in 2022, according to a report published by the department’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

MLHS golfer to compete at state

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake boys and girls golf teams both had achievements in district competitions earlier this week, with Caiden Gubler moving on to the boys state competition. “Caden improved his game,” Moses Lake boy’s assistant coach Kevin Whittall said. “It was good to see.”

CWU officially installs new president

ELLENSBURG - Jim Wohlpart was officially installed as Central Washington University’s 15th president on Thursday during a ceremony on the Ellensburg campus, according to a release by the university. Wohlpart assumed office in June 2021, but installation ceremonies were postponed...

AG settles poultry gouging lawsuit

OLYMPIA — Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced on Thursday that chicken producer Mar-Jac Poultry will pay the state $750,000 as the company seeks to settle its portion of a major state lawsuit against 19 poultry producers alleging improper business practices.

Scott Allen Adair

Scott Allen Adair passed away Friday, May 6, 2022, at his home in Moses Lake, Washington at the age of 52.

Ronnie Dale DeLay

Ronnie Dale DeLay was born May 9, 1957, to Roland and Adria DeLay as the second oldest of seven siblings.

Linda L. Smith

Linda L. Smith of Moses Lake, Washington peacefully passed away May 12, 2022, in Ephrata, Washington at Columbia Basin Hospital.

Legals for May, 20 2022

Officials urge precautions as avian flu hits state

OLYMPIA — As avian influenza continues to spread through backyard flocks across Washington, state agriculture officials are asking residents to delay live market poultry sales for the next 30 days in the hopes that warmer weather will bring an end to the outbreak. “Please don’t sell sick birds,” Washington State Veterinarian Amber Itle advised bird owners who wanted to market their animals. “Separate water fowl from poultry, and keep birds in individual boxes.”...

MLHS principal promoted

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District announced this week that Triscia Hoschstatter, the current principal of Moses Lake High School, has been named the district’s new executive director of elementary education and student support services. “It’s a new arena for me,” Hochstatter said. “I’ve spent some time with elementary, but the vast majority of my experience is with secondary education.” ...

Ephrata SD selects new Parkway principal

EPHRATA - The Ephrata School District announced via a press release that current Grant Elementary School Dean of Students Jeremy Vasquez has been selected to fill the role of principal at Parkway Intermediate School. “I am very honored and excited to assume the position of Parkway Intermediate School Principal. As a lifelong teacher, coach, community member and parent, I have a vested interest in the success of the Ephrata School District and the Ephrata community at large,” Vasquez said in the release...

WSU baseball shuts out Portland

PORTLAND - Washington State University starting pitcher Dakota Hawkins fired five shutout innings and Bryce Matthews homered in a 3-0 victory over Portland at Joe Etzel Field Tuesday afternoon. WSU (24-26) saw Hawkins strike out a career-high 10 and allow just two hits, while Matthews matched a season-high with three hits including an RBI-double and a solo homer. The Cougars put up a run in each of the first three innings before Hawkins and relievers Cam Liss, Chase Grillo and Caden Kaelber combined for 14 strikeouts and two hits in the win.

Morning roundup: Big Bend in second seed, hybrid aircraft, Warden shuts out Granger

Our local sports teams are making an impressive showing, and our aviation industry is gearing up to fly the electric skies. Here’s what’s happening in the Basin today:

To Address the Declining Fortunes of the Young, We Need to Go Upstream

For 33 years, my organization has been sounding the alarm about the declining fortunes of young adults. The words of the 1988 Forgotten Half report are eerie today: “One of the cruelest myths of contemporary American life is the claim that our economy is healthy because unemployment is relatively low.”

GALLERY: Ephrata touch-a-truck attracts a crowd

EPHRATA - The Ephrata Touch-A-Truck event saw dozens of families at the Splash Zone parking lot on Saturday. More than a dozen emergency, construction and military vehicles from around the county were lined up with staff ready to greet patrons. Children were able to climb aboard some, and even turn on the lights or sirens in some cases. Others had gear and tools to share and explain what they do.

Birds of a feather

An egret (foreground) and a great blue heron wander around the grounds of Basic American Foods on Friday just south of Moses Lake. According to allaboutbirds.org, the great blue heron - or Ardea herodias - inhabits marshes and stalks fish to feed itself, though it does nest in trees. Great egrets, such as the one shown here, follow the same pattern of feeding and nesting.

Legals for May, 19 2022

Wahluke fastpitch makes districts for first time

WARDEN - The Wahluke Lady Warriors made history on Tuesday, earning their first trip to district competition in fastpitch program history. A 14-1 play-in game win over Toppenish in the 1A District 5 tournament sets up a matchup with No. 1 seed College Place on Thursday. “Just all the girls,” Wahluke fastpitch head coach Jenna Wirtzberger said, crediting how they made it this far. “They’ve all worked so hard, they’ve become great competitors.” ...

Potato exports rise with mixed distribution

DENVER — U.S. potato exports rose in the nine months from July 2021 through the end of March 2022, according to data released Wednesday from producer group USAPotatoes.

Local firm to develop hybrid aircraft

MOSES LAKE — AeroTEC and electric aircraft motor maker MagniX announced on Wednesday a major deal with Los Angeles-based electric aircraft pioneer Surf Air Mobility to produce and certify a hybrid-electric Cessna Caravan aircraft usable by smaller airlines across the country. Under the arrangement, AeroTEC — which specializes in aircraft modification, testing and certification — will develop, engineer, test and certify the aircraft using MagniX electric motors and Surf Air Mobility’s proprietary technology to eventually convert as many as 100 Cessna Caravans to hybrid-electric power. “This is a very exciting program,” said AeroTEC founder and President Lee Human. “We’re going to produce a fully certified aircraft for use as a regional (commercial) aircraft.” ...

Big Bend prepared to host first regional in two decades

MOSES LAKE - After a program-best of 19 wins in the conference this season, Big Bend Community College earned a No. 2 seed in the Northwest Athletic Conference Super Regional - its highest seeding in two decades. Led by first-year head coach and Moses Lake native Chase Tunstall, the Vikings are eager to put on a good show for the hometown crowd...

District competitions continue

As district competitions move to the final stages, here are some of the most recent results of those competitions. May 16 results: Almira/Coulee-Hartline fastpitch lost to Inchelium High School 21-23. They take on Wilbur-Creston on May 20 at 1 p.m. at Franklin Park in the consolation bracket. May 17 results: Wahluke fastpitch beat Toppenish High School 14-1 during a play-in for the district tournament. They take on College Place on May 19 at 4 p.m. at College Place High School in the first round of districts. Othello fastpitch beat Selah High School 4-1 to take the District 5/6 Championship and move on to the state tournament. Ephrata fastpitch lost to Ellensburg High School 9-14 in the district tournament and is out of the competition. They finished the season with a 13-11 record. Warden fastpitch beat Granger High School 17-0. They will play River View at Kiwanis Field on May 20 at 4 p.m. in the district semifinals. Othello soccer moved on to state after beating Grandview High School 3-0 in the consolation bracket. They placed second in the District 5/6 competition. They beat Clover Park 2-0 on May 17, in the first round of state. They will take on Columbia River, time and place are yet to be announced.

Lady Cougars remain strong, defeat Granger 17-0

Warden set to battle River View Friday

WARDEN - The Warden High School fastpitch team stayed the course on Tuesday, defeating the Granger Lady Spartans 17-0 in two innings in the first round of the District 5 tournament. Warden Head Coach Randy Wright credited the win to the team’s defense, something that he believes will carry the Lady Cougars to a state title...

Soap Lake Suds N Sun planning underway

SOAP LAKE - The annual Soap Lake Suds N Sun Celebration is set for July 2-3 and planning is underway. The two-day event will include a soapbox derby, parade, beer garden, vendors, live music, kids activities, fireworks and the Seattle Cossacks, a motorcycle stunt and drill team.

Airshow pilot makes local connection

MOSES LAKE — Jacob Reindl remembers Kyle Fowler’s unique Long EZ airplane from last year’s Moses Lake Air Show. “Now, if I remember, on the wings there are a couple of patch kits on the tips,” he said, standing confidently on the ramp of the Grant County International Airport, Fowler’s bright yellow plane parked in front of him. “Those are fixed now, actually,” Fowler said, smiling, impressed that Reindl remembered. “There were a couple of repairs on the wings.”...

Inslee appoints Doyle to building code council

OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee announced on Tuesday he has appointed longtime building industry professional Daimon Doyle to the Washington State Building Code Council. Doyle is a builder, Life Director for the National Association of Home Builders and a former president of the Building Industry Association of Washington, with 30 years of experience in residential construction and a specialty in environmentally efficient, green building, according to a press release from Inslee’s office.

Samaritan expands Patton Boulevard clinic

MOSES LAKE — Samaritan Healthcare has added an occupational medicine service at its clinic on Patton Boulevard and relocated the urgent care department to a new and larger space in the building. . .

Moses Lake doubles team heads to state

YAKIMA - The Moses Lake High School tennis team will send its first representatives to the state competition since 2014 after Amelie Gregoire and Malika Warnick went undefeated in the district tournament. “It’s a pretty cool thing for kids from Moses Lake to make it to state,” Moses Lake High School Head Tennis Coach Richard Gregoire said.

Supporting vets

Wake For Warriors returns to Crescent Bar

CRESCENT BAR - A fundraiser to support Wake For Warriors will be held this Saturday at Crescent Bar. Money raised at the event will go towards the annual Wake For Warriors event held at Crescent Bar later this summer. “I have been a volunteer with Wake for Warriors for three years. This will be my fourth season with them and my fourth time at Crescent Bar. I cannot believe the love and support that we get from the Crescent Bar Community,” said Alyssa Phillips, assistant coordinator for the Pacific Northwest chapter of Wake for Warriors...

Police reports for May 18, 2022

MLPD, EPD, jail

Sports schedule May 18-24

Thursday May 19 4 p.m. - Royal fastpitch vs Naches Valley at Royal High School.

Margie Coleen Christian Schoessler

Margie Coleen Christian Schoessler was born in Shattuck, Oklahoma on Aug. 17, 1937, to Claude Jennings Christian and Naomi Aileen Kratz. Marge found eternal peace and comfort on Dec. 19, 2021, after she fought a courageous battle with breast cancer.

Vickie Mitchell (Brown)

Vickie Mitchell (Brown) passed away at Virginia Mason Hospital on May 9, 2022.

Job Corps recruiting new students

MOSES LAKE — Administrators of the federal Job Corps program have announced a recruitment drive, soliciting young people to fill open positions at Job Corps locations in Washington, including Moses Lake...

Legals for May, 18 2022

Royal fastpitch prepares for postseason

ROYAL CITY - The Royal High School fastpitch team is moving into the postseason and reflecting on the season so far and what lies ahead. “I am really excited,” said head coach Lisa Lawrence. “This is my first year coaching this team but I've been involved with volunteering in the middle school program. I know these girls well, so I'm excited to see the success we’ve had so far this season.” ...

Rotary Club of Quincy receives award

WENATCHEE — The Rotary Club of Quincy was recognized for its support of Quincy School District students with a Friend of Children Award from the North Central Education Service District. The award was presented by the NCESD board of directors during its annual awards program on May 12.

Moses Lake Sears Hometown location closing

MOSES LAKE — The Sears Hometown outlet in downtown Moses Lake is closing its doors, and everything in stock is discounted as part of a “blowout sale,” with large appliances all 25% off, according to postings on the outlet’s Facebook page. Store manager Elizabeth Davis said she could not comment publicly on the closure, but noted the closure will not affect repairs and maintenance on the brands sold. “We don’t handle that,” she said.

Bomb threat causes temporary evacuation at MLHS

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School was evacuated briefly Tuesday afternoon after a bomb threat was phoned into the school. No one was injured. A message from MLHS principal Triscia Hochstatter said an investigation by the Moses Lake Police Department determined the threat was not credible.

State immunization rates decline

OLYMPIA — Immunization rates - for vaccines other than COVID-19 - for children and teens in Washington declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data from the Washington Department of Health. Immunization rates dropped 13% in 2021 when compared with rates prior to the pandemic, said a DOH press release...

Othello & Adams County working on pool ownership transfer

OTHELLO — Othello city officials will work with Adams County Parks and Recreation District 1 representatives on an amendment to an existing agreement that would give the city title to the Othello Community Pool. “It’s a cooperative arrangement we’ve had for some time,” Othello Mayor Shawn Logan said in a subsequent interview. “Adams County Parks and Recreation District 1 owns the pool.” ...

Basin teams head to regionals on the diamond

COLUMBIA BASIN - Six local baseball teams have made the mark to advance to regionals. Regionals are set for May 21 in various locations around Washington. Winners move on in the competition while losers are out...

Basin sports weekend roundup for March 13-15

A roundup of the Columbia Basin's high school sporting events from this past weekend.

State officials urge poultry growers to take steps to mitigate avian flu

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture is asking owners of chickens, ducks and other domestic birds to be vigilant following an outbreak of avian influenza in six non-commercial flocks statewide...

USDA to issue aid to growers impacted by natural disasters

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Monday that it will make $6 billion in relief payments to commodity and specialty crop growers affected by natural disasters in 2020 and 2021. The goal is to offset losses from reduced yields and lower prices, according to the announcement...

Ephrata American Legion Auxiliary to kick off Evergreen Girls State 2022

EPHRATA - The Ephrata American Legion will host the upcoming 2022 Evergreen Girls State conference and kick off this weekend. “As a former Girls State participant and junior counselor, I’ve never forgotten my Girls State experience and I would highly recommend this program and the in-person kickoff on the 21st,” said Beth Burt, Evergreen Girls State Unit 28 project chair in the release...

Climbers rescued from Mount Rainier

MOUNT RAINIER - Two climbers were rescued from the Kautz Climbing Route on Mount Rainier on Friday after inclement weather forced them to halt their climb....

Clayton H. Dubey

Clayton H. Dubey passed away quietly at home on May 4, 2022.

Barry Lee Queen

The Queen family is sorrowful to announce that on May 9, Barry Lee Queen passed away in his home in Moses Lake surrounded by his family.

Catherine Elaine Rose

Cathy Rose passed away on April 30, 2022. She was born April 30, 1940, making her 82 years of age.

Legals for May, 17 2022

Body of Moses Lake resident found near Kennewick

MOSES LAKE — The body of a Moses Lake woman missing since early March was found late Thursday in a remote section of Walla Walla County not far from Kennewick...

Catalytic converter thefts impact local food banks

MOSES LAKE — Thieves stole a catalytic converter from a truck at the Moses Lake Food Bank on May 8, a theft that has consequences beyond the immediate damage, said food bank director Peny Archer. “(The theft) means we’re having it repaired, which basically means there’s less food we can buy,” Archer said...

A special delivery

Local mail carriers collect food to support those in need

MOSES LAKE -- It was a decent day for the mail on Saturday, according to Lindee Long, a supervisor at the United States Post Service branch in Moses Lake. Long explained that means the mail was light. "It makes it a little easier on the carrier," she said.

ACH receives grant

Funding will support STEM at ACH campuses

COULEE CITY - Isaak Brothers recently directed a $5,000 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation to the Almira/Coulee-Hartline Foundation which will use the grant for STEM activities within the school, according to a May 12 press release from the school district. “I’m really excited about receiving the grant. The money is going to go towards purchasing new technology that will help elevate our science curriculum throughout our district, and hopefully will encourage more of our students to pursue careers in STEM”, said ACH High School science teacher Hunter Lee in the release...

Sex offenders required forced into compliance with DNA requirement

OLYMPIA — Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced last week that his office has completed collecting DNA samples from over 370 registered sex offenders in Washington State as part of an effort to collect DNA from every registered sex offender who is required by law give a DNA sample...

Camping with canines

Things to consider when taking your pup to the wild

Spring presents a wonderful opportunity to spend time in the great outdoors with your pet. From long hikes to relaxing nights sitting around a campfire, there are many fun camping activities dogs enjoy being a part of. D'Lisa Hidalgo, a veterinary technician at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences’ Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, has several tips for owners who want to bring their furry friends camping. “Much like providing for your own basic needs, you're going to have to think about providing for your dog's basic needs while on a camping trip,” she said...

Phyllis Vianne Lowther

Phyllis Vianne Lowther passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at Brookdale Hearthstone Assisted Living.

Fresh is best

Local chef says experimentation, creativity among attractions of cooking careers.

MOSES LAKE — Sameh Farag said when making a dish, fresh is best. Farag is the head chef at the Pillar Rock Grill, the restaurant at the Moses Lake Golf Club located at 1373 Road F.2 NW in Moses Lake. The Pillar Rock serves an extensive menu, from eggs benedict florentine for breakfast to Cuban panini sandwiches for lunch or steaks and thai shrimp pasta for dinner. Farag’s favorite style of cooking, however, comes from Italy. “I love making fresh pasta, garden-fresh sauces and seafood. The reason I love it so much is infusing the quality of freshness into every dish and the idea of family-style dining,” he said via email...

L&I sues cannabis retailer for possible labor violations

TUMWATER — In a first, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and Washington Attorney General Bob Furguson’s office are suing a Spokane cannabis retailer for failing to pay overtime wages to their employees for the last three years.

Cynthia Mae Dodd

Cynthia Mae Dodd, 75, of Quincy, Washington, departed her loving family peacefully in her home on May 5, 2022.

Legals for May, 16 2022

Rollover briefly blocks highway south of Lind

LIND — The northbound lanes of State Route 395 were blocked briefly three miles south of Lind about midnight Thursday after a semi-truck was involved in a rollover accident. Washington State Patrol public information officer Greg Riddell said no one was injured. The northbound lanes were blocked for about 30 minutes, Riddell said. A detour route was established but traffic was minimal, he said. The cause of the rollover is still under investigation.

Wahluke track sends 42 to districts

WAHLUKE - Wahluke Track and Field Head Coach Joel Duggan announced in an email to the Herald that 42 WHS athletes have qualified for the district championship after a Thursday meet in Walla Walla. “They all now have a shot to qualify for the State Championship over Memorial day weekend in Cheney at EWU. They ran, jumped, threw and vaulted in the torrential downpour last night in Walla Walla at College Place High School to finish top four in the sprints, relays and hurdles or top eight in the field or distance events to advance to the District Championship,” Duggan said...

Sixteen Basin golfers qualify for 2A districts

The Central Washington Athletic Conference has16 boys golf competitors qualified for districts that will be held Wednesday at Black Rock Creek Golf Course in Sunnyside. Ten golfers qualified from Ephrata High School and six from Othello High School, according to the CWAC website...

Jacks take district soccer title

Quincy beats Kodiaks in one-goal game

QUINCY - The Quincy High School boys soccer team swooped in to take a last-minute victory from Cascade High School out of Leavenworth on Saturday at Quincy High. “It just felt like a game that was ours, for sure. And they were just hoping that they would get one goal and that we were gonna sit back, but you could just tell that we were on their heels,” said Quincy Head Coach Franciso Tafoya...

Stage front...

Guitarist wants music to be the focus of performances on tour through Basin

MOSES LAKE — Guitarist Pierre Bensusan will perform in concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Moses Lake for the first in a series of Columbia Basin appearances sponsored by the Learn from the Masters Music Outreach. Bensusan will perform in Moses Lake at the Civic Center Auditorium at 401 S. Balsam St. in Moses Lake, then in Ellensburg on May 19, in Wenatchee May 20 and at Cave B Winery near Quincy on May 21. All concerts are free of charge. Bensusan said his goal is to make the music, not the instrument or the player, the center of the performance. “I wouldn’t really want people to think about the guitar when I play, but about the music and what it evokes,” he said. “I’m telling a story with it, and after a while, player and guitar become invisible. People use sound and sonic images to go into their own inner self and dimension. Music is only a pretext for all of us to get there, player and listener.”

UPDATED: Fatality accident near George closes roadway

GEORGE - The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement that roads have been closed at the intersection of Adams Road and S. Frontage Road near Quincy. The collision involves a retired school bus that was transporting farmworkers. No school children were aboard the bus at the time of the accident. At least one fatality and multiple injuries are reported. GCSO spokesperson Kyle Foreman said those injured are being triaged and sent to area hospitals for treatment. The statement made by GCSO indicated that multiple vehicles were involved in the collision but did not specify how many or what types of vehicles were involved.

Grant PUD chief testifies before House

Streamlining dam licensing process beneficial to all stakeholders

WASHINGTON, D.C. — With demand for electricity in Grant County growing, federal energy regulators need to make it easier for hydroelectric generators like the Grant County Public Utility District to relicense dams and improve power production, PUD General Manager Richard Wallen told members of the House of Representatives on Thursday. “Our load is growing, and we are approaching outgrowing physical output in 2026,” Wallen said. “We need new generation or new ways to get it.”

Different experiences

MLHS exchange students reflect on a year in their temporary hometown

MOSES LAKE — Small. That’s how Oslo native Elén Lovas and Munich native Lena Hartmann, both exchange students at Moses Lake High School, describe their temporary hometown. “It’s definitely much smaller,” said Hartmann, 17, a native of Munich in the German state of Bavaria. “I kind of like it. It’s something different.” “You drive everywhere,” added Lovas, 18, and a resident of the Norwegian capital of Oslo...

Births for May 13, 2022

Samaritan Hospital, April 11-27

Creature comfort

Pet doors allow four-footed family members a bit more freedom

MOSES LAKE — We all know how it is with pets. When they’re inside, they want to be out, and when they’re out, they want to come in. But that pesky door keeps getting in the way, and sometimes there isn’t a human handy to open it. What’s a critter to do? ...

Legals for May, 13 2022

Forest health suffering after 2021 heatwave, fires

OLYMPIA — The exceptionally hot and dry year that was 2021 was the main cause of damage to many tens of thousands of the state’s trees, according to the Washington Department of Natural Resources annual forest health report. According to a DNR press release, state researchers working with U.S. Forest Service jointly surveyed 19 million acres of forest across the state and found 3% of those acres — around 555,000 thousand — were covered with dead, defoliated and diseased trees...

Campsite reservations available at some Grant PUD campgrounds

EPHRATA — People who want to use campgrounds operated by the Grant County Public Utility District can reserve campsites for some locations online. Reservations can be made at www.grantpud.org under the “recreation” tab, then by scrolling down to the “visit us” tab.

Quincy soccer guaranteed for state competition

WENATCHEE — The Quincy High School boys soccer team shut down Bridgeport 4-0 Wednesday and earned its ticket to state. In the first round of districts, the Quincy Jacks were pitted against Bridgeport. The winner of the game would move on to the district championship match which will send both the winner and loser on to state, guaranteeing the winner of the Wednesday game a spot in the state tournament. “We’re really excited; we knew this was gonna happen. We were confident,” said Quincy senior Ernesto Nunez...

Op-Ed: Governor’s veto of mental health proviso disappointing and unnecessary

Since the pandemic, livelihoods have been devastated, people have fallen behind on their mortgages and rents, students have been left behind in schools, foster kids have fallen deeper into crisis, businesses have been closed, and problems related to homelessness, substance abuse and domestic violence may have intensified. These problems must be addressed in comprehensive ways, but mental health ties to each and every one of them. Our investments through capital budget funding have increased significantly in recent budgets. However, we need to ensure mental health services are accessible and are operating efficiently and effectively, especially for our youth. So, this session I introduced House Bill 2053. It would have created a behavioral health workgroup to study the root causes of rising behavioral health issues in Washington communities. While the masks are mostly off and we are getting back to some normalcy in our communities, the mental health issues aren't going away...

Construction likely to complicate commutes in ML this summer

MOSES LAKE — Upcoming and current roadwork is going to make for interesting driving in part of Moses Lake this summer. At a regular meeting Tuesday, the Moses Lake City Council unanimously approved awarding a $2.9 million contract to Wenatchee-based Selland Construction to tear up and redo the surface of W. Valley Road from N. Stratford Road to N. Paxson Drive. “They are excited to get started and give us a good product,” said City Engineer Richard Law...

Warden fastpitch defeats Royal in doubleheader

WARDEN - The Warden High School fastpitch team took a big victory over the visiting Royal High School girls in a doubleheader on Tuesday. Warden took the games 10-0 and 13-3...

ML council considers repeal of comprehensive plan

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council is considering repealing the city’s comprehensive plan only months after passing it. At a regular meeting Tuesday, the council voted 5–2 to ask city staff for an ordinance that would repeal the plan, which was passed last November...

Quincy students may start school later on Mondays this fall

QUINCY — Quincy schools may start a little later on Mondays in the 2022-23 school year. Quincy School District administrators have requested that school start at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, beginning next school year. “The teachers and leaders said we really need more time to collaborate in order to get the work done that we need to do,” QSD Director of Teaching and learning Alicen Gaytley said during QSD Board of Directors regular meeting on Tuesday...

Cellarbration!

Fundraiser banquet raises about $168,000 to support BBCC students

MOSES LAKE — It was an especially celebratory evening Saturday at Big Bend Community College, as Cellarbration! For Education returned in person after two years as a virtual event. This is the 21st year for the annual fundraiser banquet and auction, which raises money for scholarships given by the Big Bend Community College Foundation to BBCC students. A total of about $168,000 was raised through the event, according to BBCC spokesperson Tiffany Fondren. “My husband and I have been to all 21,” said BBCC Foundation board member Vickey Melcher. “Both of our children attended BBCC. I have been a board member for many years and have enjoyed it very much. It is important to me that all students receive an appropriate education based on their needs and goals.” ...

Dru Gimlin 3 on 3 seeks volunteers

QUINCY — Organizers of the Dru Gimlin 3 on 3 basketball tournament designed to benefit Quincy athletics are looking for volunteer help for the 2022 tournament. The tournament returns June 18; team check-in begins at 8 a.m. There are brackets for children and youths from third grade through high school, an open tournament and a tournament for adults...

Walla Walla native makes rodeo world finals

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - Walla Walla native Derek Kolbaba earned his spot at the 2022 Professional Bull Riders World Finals in Fort Worth Texas scheduled to start May 13. Only 40 riders have qualified to compete at the international competition and only two come from the Pacific Northwest, Kolbaba being one...

Cow Path Bakery opens in Othello

Never giving up leads to sweet and savory successes

OTHELLO — Less than two years after she started selling baked goods at a stand at her home, Cow Path Bakery owner Janice Baginski cut the ribbon on her new downtown location in Othello Friday morning. “This wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the support of the community,” Baginski said. ...

SLSD selects superintendent finalist for negotiations

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake School Board has offered the superintendent position to Kim Casey. The position was left open unexpectedly earlier this year after the resignation of former Superintendent Sunshine Pray. “We honestly really believe we've got a real solid candidate and we're really pleased to get Kim and at least offer the job and have the opportunity to do it,” said Board President Curt Dotson...

Three injured, one airlifted in Quincy collision

QUINCY — A three-year-old child was airlifted to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane after suffering injuries in a two-car traffic collision about four miles south of Quincy Tuesday at about 6 a.m.. The child was a passenger in a car driven by Elza Cisneros Gonzalez, 43, Mattawa, according to a press release from the Washington State Patrol. Pedro Zavala Gomez, 31, Quincy, was driving south on State Route 281 near White Trail Road when his car left the road, according to the WSP statement. He overcorrected and his car traveled back across the road, into the northbound and southbound lanes. Cisneros Gonzalez was driving north, and ran into Zavala Gomez’s vehicle. Zavala Gomez rolled and came to a stop blocking both lanes of SR 281, the WSP release said. Cisneros Gonzalez’s car rolled and came to rest in the ditch, catching fire. Cisneros Gonzalez was transported to Confluence Health-Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee. Zavala Gomez was transported to the Quincy Valley Medical Center.

Joani McCort

Joani McCort of Othello, Washington, passed away at the age of 71.

Legals for May, 12 2022

Charles 'Chuck' Leonard Kaledas

Charles “Chuck” Leonard Kaledas, 68, passed away peacefully in his apartment.

Tigers take split on the diamond

EPHRATA - Ephrata High School baseball team took a split over the weekend in the second and third round of districts. On Saturday, the Ephrata Tigers took on Ellensburg High School and fell 0-4. Despite what looks like a shutout by Ellensburg, neither team had any runs for the first seven innings of the game. It wasn’t until inning eight that Ellensburg was able to score four runs over the Tigers and keep them off home plate to take the game. That same day, the Tigers also took on East Valley (Yakima) High School and won 11-0, turning the tough first game of the day into a distant memory...

Ephrata SD buys land for future campus

EPHRATA - The Ephrata School District has purchased just more than 40 acres of land for about $423,000 near the Port of Ephrata for future school construction according to a May 10 press release from the district. “We’ve been watching residential construction boom in the area,” said Ephrata School District Superintendent Tim Payne. ...

Basin community steps out to help Ukrainians

Teacher organizes drive to aid refugees

SOAP LAKE - It all started with a teacher who saw a need. Marni Wilks, a Soap Lake Elementary School teacher had a new kindergarten student a few weeks ago come in with little to no personal belongings. That elementary student was one of soon-to-be many Ukrainian refugees relocating to the area. Wilks said she knew she wanted to do something to help so she turned to Facebook simply asking if any of her online connections had anything they could donate to help the child and his family. From there it snowballed...

Robert Trask retires after more than 40 years selling insurance

Four decades of service

MOSES LAKE — The staff at Trask Insurance/Robert M. Trask Agency had custom cookies made for Robert Trask’s retirement party, including some picturing a tie and white shirt. . .

Film made in Yakima to be screened in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — A movie filmed in Yakima and directed by a Yakima native will have its Moses Lake screening at 7:30 p.m. May 19 at the Fairchild Cinemas, 233 N. Block St. “All Sorts,” directed by J. Rick Castaneda, was filmed in Yakima in 2018. It had its festival premiere at the Seattle International Film Festival in 2021. “All Sorts” follows the story of Diego (Eli Vega), a data entry clerk and the new guy in the office at a company in Yakima. He meets a girl named June (Greena Park) - and man, can she file things away. She’s fast. Her skills lead the two on a series of adventures. Castaneda said the story was prompted by office jobs he had after moving to Los Angeles. It’s his second feature film, following “Cement Suitcase,” his 2011 film that followed the life of a wine salesman in Prosser. The film will be released via video on demand and DVD later this year.

Police records for May 11, 2022

EPD, jail

Kevin Roy Cannon

Kevin Roy Cannon, 56, of Moses Lake, Washington passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at his home.

Lady Chiefs’ Redford places 6th on the green

MOSES LAKE - The results of Monday’s golf match are in and Moses Lake High School saw a top 10 finish by sophomore Jayda Redford. Redford scored 104 - her season best - and came in tied for 6th place overall...

Bonneville Power announces 2nd quarter revenues

PORTLAND — The Bonneville Power Administration on Tuesday announced that net revenue for the organization’s second quarter of fiscal 2022 hit $566 million, far in excess of the $178 million originally forecast. The BPA, which starts its fiscal year on Oct. 1 of each year, attributed the growth in sales to higher wholesale power prices and a strong surge in electricity sales...

Sports schedule May 11-14

Wednesday, May 11 4 p.m. Quincy boys and girls track at Caribou Trail League meet at Cascade High School, Leavenworth

REC Silicon announces stock sale

OSLO, Norway/MOSES LAKE — REC Silicon announced on Tuesday that South Korea-based Hanwha Solutions has purchased or has agreed to purchase 89.7 million shares of REC stock. Hanwha, which makes the Q Cell solar panel, formally completed the purchase of 70.1 million shares formerly held by Norway-based Aker Horizons Holding company and has agreed to buy another 19.6 million shares currently owned by Aker Horizon. Once completed, the deal would give Hanwha control of 21.3% of REC’s outstanding stock. In both deals, Hanwha agreed to pay 20 Norwegian kroner per share — $2.06 — well above the closing price for REC stock on Tuesday of 16.47 Norwegian kroner — $1.70 — per share on the Oslobørs, Norway’s stock exchange, up 1.7% from the Monday’s closing price.

Federal internet access aid available

SEATTLE — A new program announced Tuesday by Sen. Patty Murray could help as many as 1.4 million low-income Washington resident afford internet connections and the equipment needed to get online...

Tuesday fire strikes encampment of homeless Moses Lake residents

A man shovels dirt with the help of a Moses Lake Fire Department firefighter to douse a fire that broke out in an encampment of homeless people Tuesday morning at around 8:30 a.m. in a large field of reeds and trees near E. Wheeler Road and S.R. 17. Units from Grant County Fire District 5 as well as MLFD firefighters responded, and the fire was doused quickly. It is not known if anyone was injured.

Cougars take on Royal

WARDEN - The Warden High School Lady Cougars took on the Royal High School Lady Knights on Tuesday in a doubleheader. The two fastpitch teams each only have one loss so far this season before going head to head. The Lady Cougars seemed to get the jump, taking a 6-0 lead by the middle of the third inning of game one...

Legals for May, 11 2022

Sage words

Basin author weaves faith and a deep love of the Coulee into her writing

SOAP LAKE — Lyn D. Nielsen loves the Grand Coulee, and that love shines through in her work. Nielsen, who grew up on Vashon Island, is the author of three novels set in the Coulee City area, the “Place of Sage” trilogy...

Basin athletes stay strong in state standings

COLUMBIA BASIN - With the final weeks of the season wrapping up, Basin teams are notching their final games in hopes of keeping or improving their standings. Several teams are ranking in the top 10 in the state in their respective sports and classifications.

MLHS girls golf wraps up season

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake High School girls golf team took on their final Pod of the season at the Moses Lake Golf Club on Monday. Pod 7, the final Pod, saw the Big 9 come together for one final golf competition before the district competition that will be held on May 16 at Wenatchee...

Local candidate filing looms

EPHRATA — Filing week begins May 16 for people who want to run for offices on the ballot in the 2022 general election at the county level in Grant and Adams counties. All candidates wanting to run for office must file by 4 p.m. May 20...

Port of Moses Lake buys land using eminent domain

Land to be used for CBR expansion

MOSES LAKE — Benjamin Franklin said that nothing in life is certain except death and taxes. However, for landowners selling their property to the Port of Moses Lake for the extension of the Columbia Basin Railroad along Wheeler Road, a quirk in the law will allow them to avoid paying real estate excise taxes...

James E. Jacobs

Dad was called home on April 26, 2022. He was an amazing man, father, husband, brother and friend.

Merce Rocha

Merce was born in October 1960 in Pearsall, Texas.

Legals for May, 10 2022

Pedestrian killed in Ephrata accident

EPHRATA — A man died Sunday evening when he was hit by a car while walking in the road on the 500 block Alder Street NW in Ephrata. Kevin Gudde, 31, no address listed, was walking east on Alder Street at about 9:15 p.m., according to a press release from the Washington State Patrol. He was struck by a car driven by Aaron Koski, 23, Moses Lake. Gudde was pronounced dead at the scene while Koski was not injured, the press release said.

Ephrata SD seeks new Parkway principal

EPHRATA - The Ephrata School District announced today that Parkway Intermediate School Principal Dawn Turley will be leaving the district at the end of the school year, which leaves Ephrata SD looking for a replacement. “I have loved and appreciated my time in Ephrata these last 15 years. The Ephrata School District is truly a remarkable place to work. The community is supportive, the students are fun, and the staff is exceptional. It is with mixed emotions that I leave a place as special as Parkway and move on to my next chapter in life,” Turley said via an Ephrata SD press release...

Grants help everyone at Wilson Creek schools be educators

WILSON CREEK — There aren’t a lot of school districts in Washington state where $15,000 will go very far, but Wilson Creek happens to be one of them. “We got two grants for this year,” said Anna Thomas, dean of students at the Wilson Creek School. “Both of them went to support STEM and computer science technologies at the elementary school.” ...

Quincy seeks input on downtown revitalization plan

QUINCY — Quincy City Council members will hold a public hearing during the May 17 council meeting to get public opinion on the city’s proposed downtown revitalization plan. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. A draft of the plan is available on the city’s website, www.quincywashington.us. ...

Community steps out to support Soap Lake students

Boots and Bling auction raises money SLSD

EPHRATA - The Soap Lake Parents for Kids organization held their sixth annual Boots and Bling Auction on Saturday at the American Legion Post 28 in Ephrata. “(The event was) an amazing display of student support,” said Kandice Hansen, Soap Lake Elementary School Principal. ...

Moses Lake goes two for two on senior night

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School baseball team took two big victories over Sunnyside High School while celebrating senior night at Larson Playfield on Friday. In game one of the doubleheader, Moses Lake took the game 10-0. In the first inning, the Moses Lake Chiefs held Sunnyside back 2-0...

MLCA/CCS baseball falls to Waterville-Mansfield

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School senior Jacob Robertson makes it safely to second base, surrounded by Waterville-Mansfield opponents on Saturday. The MLCA/CCSbaseball team took a tough loss on Saturday to Waterville-Mansfield. The MLCA/CCS Lions lost 27-7. This was their last league game of the season. Their overall record is 7-7. This was the first baseball season for their program in five years.

Wayne Daniel Puckett

Wayne Daniel Puckett was born Dec. 9, 1927, in Allen, Nebraska to Cyril and Eleanor Puckett. He was third in a family of 10 children.

Feline nutrition: What to know about feeding your cat prescription food

With so many different cat foods on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best option for your feline friend. When it comes to cats with illnesses and chronic conditions, prescription foods are a great option for giving your cat the tailored diet it needs. These diets can be prescribed by a veterinarian for a variety of conditions, like chronic kidney disease and diabetes, and other medical needs, like weight loss and dental care.

Bureau forecasts sufficient water supply for Yakima

YAKIMA — The Bureau of Reclamation announced Wednesday that there is enough water to meet demand from all senior and junior holders of water rights in the Yakima Project. ...

Legals for May, 9 2022

Package prompts evacuation at Grant County Courthouse

EPHRATA — A suspicious package that was determined to be a gift for someone forced the evacuation of the Grant County Courthouse Friday morning.

Letter carriers to hold May 14 food drive

MOSES LAKE — Letter carriers across Grant County will be gathering boxes and cans of food on Saturday, May 14, as part of the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive. “We’re inviting the community to participate by just leaving canned goods at their mailbox,” said Gary Schleppenbach, a 27-year veteran of the U.S. Postal Service and head of the local letter carrier’s association. “Throughout the day we will pick up non-perishable items, canned foods and different things that people leave near their mailbox or on their front porch,” he said. At the end of the day, Schleppenbach said mail carriers in the Moses Lake area will gather up all the donations and take them to the Moses Lake Food Bank. According to a press release from the National Association of Letter Carriers, the food drive was first held in 1983, and is timed for mid-May to help local food banks replenish stocks that have typically been reduced over the winter. Like a lot of regularly-scheduled events over the last few years, Schleppenbach said, letter carriers were not able to collect food donations in 2020 and 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there was enough in the way of new membership dues for the union to donate cash instead of food. “We’re not able to do that all the time,” he said. “So it’s exciting that the public has an opportunity to participate.” Charles H. Featherstone can be reached at cfeatherstone@columbiabasinherald.com.

Soap Lake considers superintendent finalists

SOAP LAKE - The Soap Lake School Board is considering two candidates for the open position of Soap Lake School District Superintendent. Over the course of two days, the Soap Lake School Board held a series of open meetings to allow members of the community to meet the two candidates and ask questions. There were index cards for attendees to write questions on and submit throughout the meetings as well as review sheets for the board to get the opinion of the community on each candidate...

3 MLHS baseball players sign to play college ball

MOSES LAKE - Three Moses Lake High School seniors signed to play college baseball on May 5. The three athletes, Seth Olson, Carson Janke and Jackson Purcell, are all captains on the Chiefs baseball team this year...

‘The Sound of Music’ takes the stage in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The hills – and the Moses Lake High School theater – are alive with “The Sound of Music.” “It's not the movie version, it is the actual play,” said Marion Wyman, the show’s producer. “So it varies a little bit. There's a couple of musical numbers people probably won't recognize. But most of them, they will.” ...

Hanford mitigation report released

RICHLAND — United States Department of Energy officials have released the latest five-year report on the environmental response and compensation at the Hanford nuclear site. The report, released this week, covers the years 2016 to 2020, according to a press release from the department. Now known as the Hanford Site, the Hanford Nuclear Reservation was the site of plutonium production for nuclear weapons for about 40 years. During that time, the site was contaminated and cleanup has been ongoing for about three decades. The reports review implementation and performance of mitigation efforts at the site, and identify any issues that are found during the review period. “Examples of cleanup actions at the Hanford Site include removal, treatment and disposal of contaminated soil, pumping and treating of contaminated groundwater, binding of contamination in soil to prevent migration into the Columbia River and extensive groundwater testing,” the press release said.

SGL Carbon posts sales rise

WIESBADEN, Germany — SGL Carbon, which has a major carbon fiber production plant in Moses Lake, announced that sales in the first three months of 2022 rose 12.2% when compared with the same period in 2021. According to a press release issued Thursday highlighting the company’s first quarter 2022 earnings, SGL noted that carbon fiber sales rose 6.6 million euros ($6.9 million) during the first quarter of the year when compared with 2021, with overall sales rising by 29.4 million euros ($30.9 million)...

Homes on wheels

The basics of RV maintenance

MOSES LAKE — Some people travel in them. Some people keep them parked. Either way, a home on wheels is still a home, and needs to be kept up.

Unincorporated Grant County building permits for May 6, 2022

April 9-29

MLHS's Redford finishes top 10 at golf match

SUNNYSIDE - The Moses Lake High School girls golf team traveled to Sunnyside on Wednesday in a Big 9 Athletic Conference matchup. Moses Lake went up against Davis, Eisenhower, Wenatchee, Sunnyside l and Eastmont high schools at the Black Rock Creek Golf Course in Sunnyside, a par 72 course.

A labor of Love's

New travel center cuts ribbon in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — It took a lot of work by a lot of people to get the new Love’s Travel Center in Moses Lake ready and open for business. “There’s a million people working behind the scenes,” said Kellen Hays, general manager of Love’s in Moses Lake. “It’s amazing the number of people that go into one of these. You’re getting a checklist that says hey, on this week, you should have this, and this, and this done and if you don’t, call us. We’ll take care of it.” ...

WSU academic student employees vote to form union

PULLMAN — Graduate and undergraduate teaching and research assistants at Washington State University are seeking to form a union. In a petition filed with the Public Employment Relations Commission, graduate teaching assistants are also seeking to includes students who work as tutors and graders, collectively known as academic student employees, according to a press release from the United Auto Workers. The group is seeking to be recognized as a new bargaining unit. Washington State University is the only major public research institution on the continental West Coast that doesn’t have a union for student employees, the press release said. The new union would represent about 1,600 members, according to the press release.

Horse confiscated in animal cruelty case dies

LIND — A horse confiscated from an Adams County man who was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty had to be euthanized Wednesday. The horse, a donkey, two dogs and a cat were taken Saturday from a residence in the 700 block of South Longmeier Road, according to information from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. Jared Potts, 33, was arrested May 1 and booked into the Adams County Jail on suspicion of three counts of first-degree animal cruelty...

Getting gnarly...

Moses Lake skate park ramps up with Rotarian assistance

MOSES LAKE — The terrain has gotten a little more interesting for skateboarders in Grant County with the formal opening of a concrete bowl at the Moses Lake Skate Park. “This was a labor of love,” said Steven Ausere, past president of the Rotary Club of Moses Lake. “When I was a kid, I loved it. Skateboarding is what I found meaning in.” ...

Grant Co. PUD plans potential facility moves

EPHRATA — Grant County Public Utility District officials are hoping to identify tentative locations for new equipment shops in Moses Lake and Ephrata by the end of 2022. Utility district officials also plan to replace the PUD headquarters building, with the work on all three projects scheduled to take about a decade. “We looked at what we would need in the future, 30 years out, and what it would take (to remodel) at each of the facilities we’re in now. They’ve reached the point where new facilities are the best value, both from a cost standpoint and the function of what we need,” Tim Fleisher, PUD facilities manager said...

Odessa celebrates 120 years

ODESSA - The small town of Odessa celebrated the town’s 120th anniversary on Saturday, April 30.

Moses Lake fastpitch nabs two more wins

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School fastpitch team took three more wins this week, advancing their goal toward league champions. On Friday, the Moses Lake Chiefs swept visiting West Valley to stay in contention for the Big 9 League title with a come-from-behind win in game one and mercy rule finish in game two. Moses Lake and West Valley entered Senior Night at Moses Lake High School tied with Eastmont for the league lead. The Chiefs celebrated their two seniors, Rylie Sanchez and Jenna Rowland, with a ceremony before the action got started in their last home games as Chiefs...

Sounders win title

The Basin Sounders 2009 girls, coached by Madeline Wallace Roellich, won the 2022 state championship in the bronze division of the Washington Premier League over the weekend in Lacey. The Basin Sounders earned a 1-0 victory over a tough opponent from the West Side. Madisson Dominguez scored a PK that solidified the win. Back row (left to right): Brad Morrison (assistant coach), Kenna Morrison, Lauren Wardenaar, Emma Wallace, Paige Murray, Marlie Jones, Khloe Valdez, Cynthia Velasquez and Katrina Betes (assistant). Front row (left to right): Madeline Wallace Roellich (Head Coach), Erin Ribellia, Kamaile Bruce, Madisson Dominguez, Grace Soliz, Abcde Garza, Gracie Oronia and Stella Betes.

More battery manufacturing likely in Moses Lake

WOODINVILLE — Group14 Technologies, which makes components for rechargeable batteries, announced Wednesday it has raised $400 million to help build a major production facility in Moses Lake. “We’re now ready to go large scale in Moses Lake,” said company co-founder and CEO Rick Luebbe. “That’s based on the commercial facility that we stood up and got running here last year.”

Washington State Department of Agriculture to begin trapping pests

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Agriculture is beginning its annual hunt for pests that threaten the state’s environment and agricultural industry, the WSDA said in a press release Wednesday.

Keith Eugene Noah

Keith Eugene Noah, 88, of Soap Lake went home to be with our Lord on Feb. 2, 2022.

Grant County Commissioners honor Public Works personnel

EPHRATA — On May 3, the Grant County Commissioners signed a proclamation recognizing public works staff and National Public Works Week.

Police reports for May 5, 2022

MLPD

Susan Jean (Langston) Conley

Susan passed away on April 25, 2022, from complications of pancreatic cancer.

Electric Co-op donates to local organizations

RITZVILLE — Big Bend Electric Co-op’s non-profit, Caring Neighbors, has announced the 12 recipients of more than $9,000 in grants, the organization said in a press release Wednesday.

Legals for May, 5 2022

Soap Lake mayor resigns

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Mayor Alex Kovach announced his resignation at the Soap Lake City Council meeting on May 4. In a press release dated April 22, but not made available to the public until the meeting, Kovach addressed his letter of resignation to the Soap Lake community. The letter states his resignation was effective at midnight Wednesday...

Putting the best plate forward important at culinary event

MOSES LAKE — The Samaritan Healthcare Foundation didn’t call their fundraiser Bourbon & Bowties on a whim - it was all in on black tie, sparkly dresses, all that. As for the food, well, there was a contest. . .

Othello council moves forward with annexations

OTHELLO — Othello city officials will research the steps required to annex city-owned properties that are currently outside of the town’s city limits. Community Development Director Anne Henning listed the properties and talked about the annexation process during the May 2 Othello City Council meeting. “It’s an easy process for a city to annex city-owned properties when they are for a municipal purpose,” Henning said. “So there are some very easy ones, and there are some more difficult ones.” ...

Moses Lake clergy, community leaders gather for Mayor's Prayer Breakfast

MOSES LAKE — It’s been three years since the city’s clergy and its public officials have been able to gather for the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. This year though, they gathered at the Best Western Hotel at 3000 W. Marina Dr. on Tuesday, to share breakfast, sing, pray and hear some inspiring words. “Thank God we’re able to do this again,” said P.J. DeBenedetti, a former senior administrator with the Moses Lake School District who was the M.C. for the Tuesday morning breakfast...

Columbia Basin sports schedule May 4-11

May 4-11

Caution encouraged as motorcycles return to roadways

It’s spring, and among other things, that means that many motorcycle owners are returning to the road. The American Motorcycle Association is asking car and truck drivers to remember that motorcycles are out there in greater numbers than they are in winter. “As the weather warms in large parts of the country, riders take to the road in increasing numbers to enjoy the thrill of riding,” wrote AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman in a press release. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. “Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic we have seen the roads become more dangerous for all users. That is why it is incredibly important for drivers to remain attentive and alert to the presence of motorcycles,” Dingman wrote. “Distracted driving and overreliance on driver-assistance technology are worrisome.” Driver assistance technologies are still relatively new, the press release said, and drivers shouldn’t rely on them. Rising fatality statistics are also concerining and indicate the need for extra vigilance regardless of the vehicle being operated, he wrote.

Ephrata track and field comes out on top at Connell

The Ephrata and Quincy High School track and field teams competed at the Connell Invitational on Friday.

Louise Fleming

Louise Opal Fleming, 90, of Silverton, Idaho, passed away surrounded by her beloved family, on April 26, 2022 at the Good Samaritan Society- Silver Wood Village of Silverton.

Area farmers eligible for drought disaster loans

MOSES LAKE — Farmers and producers in 20 Washington counties will have until Dec. 22 to file for emergency loans following a drought disaster declaration from the U.S. Department of Agriculture...

Douglas Gorden Sr.

Douglas Gorden Sr., 82, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on April 27, 2022, at McKay Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Soap Lake, Washington.

Legals for May, 4 2022

MLPD officers prevent carjacking, rescue children

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Police officers foiled an attempted carjacking Tuesday, saving two children who were in the vehicle according to an MLPD statement. Around noon, an off-duty police officer spotted Salvador Harguideguy, whom he knew to have felony warrants, near Ivy Avenue in Moses Lake. The officer contacted the department and officers set up a perimeter around the area, according to Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin Fuhr...

Roundabout construction at SR 17 and Grape Dr. to start next week

MOSES LAKE — Construction is scheduled to start Monday on a new roughly $2.3 million roundabout at the intersection of State Route 17 and Grape Drive in Moses Lake. Construction is expected to take about four months, with completion scheduled for August, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Transportation...

Air Force 2 visits Moses Lake

A C-32A — the military version of the Boeing 757 — with the tail number 80001 taking off from the Grant County International Airport during a series of touch-and-go take-off and landings Monday afternoon. The plane is one of four C-32As used as Air Force Two to transport the Vice President, First Lady and Secretary of State. Officials with the Port of Moses Lake would not comment on the plane’s presence in Moses Lake.

Battery manufacturer listed as new owner of Xyleco building

MOSES LAKE — Battery maker Sila Nanotechnologies appears to be the new owner of the long-empty Xyleco Building at 3741 Road N NE, right across the road from REC Silicon. In a filing with the Washington Secretary of State’s office and available on the office’s website, Alameda, Californium-based Sila has listed the address as a principal office — the only one the company has under its name in Washington state...

JustServe looks to help Basin community support Ukrainian refugees

GRANT COUNTY - In a justserve.org project, a group of local community members are organizing help for Ukrainian refugees who relocate to Grant County. “Many Ukrainian families have been forced to leave their home and find refuge in other countries. We are aware of nine families that have arrived in Grant County with very few personal belongings. These families are in need of housing and jobs but also personal and household items,” according to an announcement from justserve.org...

Basin standings as state athletic competitions near

As districts and state competitions near, local teams are fighting to boost their rank and prepare for the tough battles ahead. Ten local teams are leading the pack according to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association. The WIAA Rating Percentage Index has 10 local teams ranked in the top 10 for their respective sports and classifications in the state...

Bourbon & Bowties brings in more than $200K

Residents step up to support building new hospital

MOSES LAKE - The second annual Bourbon & Bowties Gala was held April 29 at the Grant County Fairgrounds where members of the community came together to financially support the building of a new Samaritan medical center. Gretchen Youngren, Chief Development and Communications Officer for Samaritan Healthcare said their goal for the night was to raise $100,000. That night they raised about $216.000. This amount however, is prior to any costs and expenses. All proceeds from this year’s event will go toward the building of a new hospital...

SBA offering disaster loans to businesses that support farmers

SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — Nonfarm businesses in Grant and Adams counties are now eligible to apply for low interest loans from the Small Business Administration to help cover drought-related losses in 2022. According to an SBA press release, the loans are available to farmers in 20 counties in Oregon, Washington and Northern Idaho, and follow a disaster declaration from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on April 22, 2022...

Patrick McGrotha

Patrick McGrotha passed away on Thursday, April 28 at Sacred Heart Hospital.

‘A Matter of Perspective’

Women Painters of Washington exhibit coming to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The focus will be on female artists at the new exhibit coming to the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center next week. “A Matter of Perspective” will feature 12 members of the Eastern Washington division of Women Painters of Washington, according to museum director Dollie Boyd. The paintings weren’t out yet on Friday, as the museum just wrapped up a traveling exhibit of American relief posters of World War II. “I haven't seen all the work yet,” said Boyd. “I'm excited. It's always like Christmas morning when you unpack a show because it's like ‘Oh I like this, I don't like that.’” ...

Legals for May, 3 2022

Warden fast pitch pushes on toward state goal

WARDEN — The Warden High School Lady Cougars softball team is at it again, paving their way to the state tournament. “I've known these girls for a long time, and so I think we're just grinding and staying on pace to take state. That's our goal,” said Head coach Randy Wright. In the 2B classification, the Lady Cougars are ranked No. 4 in the state on the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Rating Percentage Index. They hold a 13-1-0 overall record and are No. 1 in the league...

B.J. Garbe

Applying lessons from athletics leads to success off the field

MOSES LAKE — B.J. Garbe said the lessons he learned through sports have served him well his entire life. And those lessons, he said, can and are learned through many kinds of extracurricular activities. “There are so many character traits that you learn - that apply, most importantly, to the kind of person that you become,” Garbe said...

'This is so cool'

Children and moms step out for Touch-A-Truck fundraiser

MOSES LAKE — A large collection of trucks and big vehicles gathered in the parking lot behind Moses Lake Presbyterian Church on Saturday for the Touch-A-Truck fundraiser. Ladder engines from the Moses Lake Fired Department and Grant County Fire District 5, a Moses Lake Police Department armored BearCat, a Grant County Sheriff’s Office patrol and rescue boat, a Grant Transit Authority bus, even an 80-foot Genie lift, a big red tractor, and a giant Lakeside Disposal and Recycle garbage truck were all part of the event. Attendees could hear the same words spoken by young ones across the gravel parking lot even as a steady drizzle fell: “Cool! This is so cool,” the children said...

Postal service seeks July rate increase

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Postal Service is asking federal regulators for a rate increase that would see the price of a first-class stamp rise to 60 cents from the current 58 cents, according to Samie Rehman, USPS director of mailing and services pricing. If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the increase would go into effect on July 10, 2022, and would see the cost of mailing letters, packages, postcards and direct mail advertisements rise an average of 6.5%, Rehman said during an hour-long conference call on Tuesday...

Quincy officials examining next steps to build new hospital

QUINCY — Quincy Valley Medical Center officials and commissioners will meet May 11 to discuss design ideas, anticipated costs and funding options for a new Quincy hospital. Tom Richardson, QVMC director of information systems, said hospital officials advertised a request for qualifications from architects and construction firms interested in the project. Thirty responses had been received as of the hospital commission meeting April 26. Joe Kunkel, a consultant working with QVMC on the project, said additional responses were received April 27. “Some pretty major corporations,” Richardson said during the board meeting. “Joe is very happy with what he’s seeing. It’s more than he expected back.” ...

The ins and outs of dairy goat ownership

For the more adventurous pet owner, there are many advantages to owning goats, including companionship, land management by grazing, and milk production. While companionship and grazing come naturally to these critters, potential owners interested in collecting dairy from their goats need to take into consideration additional factors to encourage lactation and ensure that their goat’s milk is safe for consumption. Dr. Evelyn Mackay, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says that the production capacity of a dairy goat depends on their breed, management, and nutrition...

USBR to finish Grand Coulee firehouse

GRAND COULEE — The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announced Thursday it has reached an agreement to finish construction of the Grand Coulee Fire Station following two previous contract terminations with construction companies, according to a USBR press release. The 22,000-square-foot station is expected to cost $14.2 million, and should take about 12-18 months to complete once construction begins, the bureau said, noting that a construction schedule has yet to be set...

Enjoying the journey

MLHS golf teams heading toward districts

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School golf teams are nearing the end of their regular season but are enjoying the journey. The girls are a small group with a variety of experience levels. There are six total girls on the team, four of them competing. Of the four competing, two are freshmen and two are sophomores. Girls head coach Lonny Brown said a nice thing about all four of the girls who play at competition is that they play other sports throughout the year. That athleticism helps, Brown said...

Study: Americans want big tech to compensate small papers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans want Congress to intervene in the conflict between small news publishers and “big tech” companies like Google and Facebook, according to a press release from the News Media Alliance. The release cited a survey of 1,000 adults in the United States that indicated that 70% supported Senate Bill 673, called the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act. The bill is designed to allow small and local publishers to band together to collectively negotiate fairer terms for use of their content by big tech platforms, according to the release...

Wash. AG sues USPS over vehicle purchase

OLYMPIA — Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson is suing the U.S. Postal Service for deciding in February to replace up to 165,000 USPS vehicles with gasoline-powered models rather than with electric vehicles. Ferguson, who has filed suit against the Postal Service in U.S. Court in California, said the decision by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy violates the National Environmental Policy Act by failing to do a proper environmental review of the purchasing decision and examine alternatives, according to a press release from the attorney general’s office...

Legals for May, 2 2022

Grant County proclaims Municipal Clerks Week

EPHRATA — The Grant County Board of Commissioners has declared May 1-7 Municipal Clerks Week, according to a proclamation issued by the commissioners Thursday. The proclamation described the office of the municipal clerk as the oldest among public servants, and cited clerks’ responsibility as the professional link between citizens and government and the “information center” for local governments. The proclamation also expressed appreciation for clerks’ neutrality and impartiality. There are 14 incorporated cities and towns in Grant County, according to the U.S. Census, as well as parts of a 15th, Coulee Dam.