Ellington

Tigers, Huskies split doubleheader

EPHRATA – Monday’s Central Washington Athletic Conference doubleheader matchup between Othello and Ephrata saw each team pick up a win, with the Huskies winning the first game 6-3 before the Tigers claimed a 6-3 win of their own.

Two Basin Sounders teams claim WA Cup titles

PASCO – Two Basin Sounders squads claimed titles at last weekend’s Washington Premier League 14U-11U WA Cup in Pasco.

Newspapers nationwide sue OpenAI for illegally scraping content to train AI

(The Center Square) - Eight newspapers across the United States filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft for using their copyrighted content without payment to train the highly profitable generative artificial intelligence systems. In their suit, the papers demand an end to copyright infringement, damages, and lost profits.

Fire prep event set for May 8 in Desert Aire

DESERT AIRE – Grant County Fire District 8 and its community partners will host a kickoff meeting for Desert Aire’s Wildfire Ready Neighbors program.

Owners of Mattawa Fitness Club have big plans

MATTAWA — Ulises Sanchez and Hector Guerrero said their business started as one of those casual conversations, a couple of friends kicking around possibilities. “It started as an idea,” Guerrero said. “We’re both gym people; we go to the gym all the time. And everybody has that conversation, ‘Oh, we should just do a gym one day.’ And one thing led to another.”

Lind council attempts to vacate mayor’s seat

LIND – Lind Town Council members voted 3-0 to vacate Mayor Paula Bell from her position during the April 23 regular town council meeting, citing numerous complaints and claiming Bell violated her oath of office and refused to perform several of her duties.

DEA warns of increasing xylazine in illicit fentanyl

(The Center Square) – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has issued another warning about the growing prevalence of a veterinary sedative in illicit fentanyl supply.

Little girl, big fight

Moses Lake turns out to support 4-year-old battling cancer

MOSES LAKE — The parking lot at Third Avenue and Alder Street took on a life of its own Saturday, as businesses and volunteers turned out in support of a very sick little girl. Eleanor Marcum, who is almost 4, was diagnosed on Feb. 28 with stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma, said her mother, Nicollette Marcum. Cancer treatment doesn’t come cheap, so Christine Lus, owner of Sage Academy of Massage and Bodyworks, Enchanting Events owner Sandy Harrison and Brandi Haug, who owns Cobie’s Dry Cleaning, all got together and organized a fundraiser to help the family offset costs. “Chris is kind of like an aunt to me,” Nicollette said.

Tommy Dye

Oct. 28, 1937 – April 19, 2024

Tommy J. Dye, 86, of Othello, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, after battling a long illness. Tommy was born on October 28, 1937, to George Washington Dye and Marinda Athalina Roberts in Busch, Arkansas. Tmmy enlisted in the United States Navy in 1956.

FRESH NEWS: All Seep Lakes open, smallmouth bass spawning

The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,046.2 feet, coming up 0.5 feet this past week. We are currently 0.3 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 50 degrees. The sand dunes are staying in the mid- to upper 50s. The weather has remained close to the same each day for the past several weeks. Not much has changed this week. The cooler nights that we have been experiencing is prolonging the spawn. The largemouth bass fishing continues to be very good. Fish back in the sand dunes. Throw 1/2-ounce black-and- blue jigs, swim jigs, jerkbaits, chatter baits, Senkos, spinnerbaits and Texas-rigged plastics. Fish are in 1-12 feet of water. The smallmouth are spawning. Fish 5-20 feet using Ned rigs, Senkos, drop shot rigs, blade baits, crankbaits and tubes. Fish the rock piles around Goose Island and along the face of the dam.

Bourbon & Bowties organizers express gratitude

MOSES LAKE — With framing going up for the new Samaritan Hospital, Chief Executive Officer Theresa Sullivan told the packed house at the Bourbon & Bowties fundraiser that it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of hospital district residents.

Last Stand Rodeo back for 72nd year

COULEE CITY — The PRCA Last Stand Rodeo returns for its 72nd outing this May, hosted at the Coulee City Rodeo Grounds. The three-day rodeo is hosted over Memorial Day weekend, beginning the night of May 24. “The only year we didn’t have the rodeo was the year Mount St. Helens blew and the COVID year,” said Pete Thiry, president of the Coulee City Rodeo Association.

Legals for April, 30 2024

WA Cares private insurance exemptions cause confusion

(The Center Square) – There seems to be some confusion among certain state agencies about workers who received exemptions from WA Cares, Washington’s mandatory long-term care benefit program.

Options on display at Outdoor Career Day

MATTAWA — No question, life as a firefighter can be demanding, as the abbreviated version of the physical agility test set up by Grant County Fire District 8 demonstrated. Participants dragged a length of fire hose, used a sledgehammer, dragged a dummy a specified distance, then dragged it back. That, said Wahluke High School student Ricardo Sandoval, was the real challenge.

Debate attempts to address dam breaching questions

PASCO — People gathered at Columbia Basin College in Pasco last Thursday to witness a debate regarding whether it was a good idea to remove dams on the Lower Snake River to improve salmon populations. The debate comes after months of discussion at the local, state and federal levels about whether or not to keep the dams there. Policy set on that issue may impact the future of dams on the Columbia River and other streams in Washington and elsewhere.

Box score roundup for April 27

MOSES LAKE– Box scores for baseball and softball games from April 27

Viking offense shines in series sweep

MOSES LAKE – In a weekend filled with high-stakes baseball action, the Big Bend Community College Vikings displayed the true essence of resilience and determination as they looked to sweep the Yakima Valley Yaks in a thrilling four-game series, looking for a playoff berth.

ACH baseball, softball sweep Republic

Dual doubleheaders bring four wins for Warriors

COULEE CITY – Both the Almira/Coulee-Hartline baseball and softball teams picked up big wins over Republic over the weekend, as both Warrior squads prepare to conclude their regular seasons this week.

William Allan Thrasher

It is with great sadness that the family of William A. Thrasher Sr., announces his passing away after a brief illness, on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 in Moses Lake, WA at the age of 88 years old.

Eleanore 'Elli' Nelson

June 19, 1950 — April 25, 2024

Eleanore Louise Boerjan was born June 19, 1950, to Germaine Madeline (DeMaegt) and Alphonse Boerjan in Marshall, Lion County, Minnesota.

LETTER: MLSD levy failure will hurt schools and community

As we all are well aware by now, the local school levy in Moses Lake failed. Voting down a school levy usually results in reduced funding for essential programs and services:

Grant Co. rail expansions to aid economic growth

MOSES LAKE — Four Grant County port districts are working on projects to expand rail transport options available to existing and future businesses. The ports of Moses Lake, Quincy, Warden and Ephrata are researching, designing, planning, and getting ready for construction to expand or add rail service. Some received federal or state funding this spring. Representatives of each of the ports said the expansion of rail service in and around the county would help draw additional tenants to the port and likely the county as a whole. The expansion would provide options for manufacturers and others to bring in needed supplies. It will broaden the area’s cargo transport options to add rail to easy access to air, over-the-road and river-based industrial transport.

NEWS BITES: April 29, 2024

RITZVILLE — Adams County Sheriff’s Deputies are seeking a man who left the courtroom during his trial and did not return, according to a statement from the ACSO. MOSES LAKE — Two 15-year-old boys were arrested Thursday after one of them allegedly pistol-whipped a person in the Larson Community earlier last week, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. OTHELLO — Two male subjects were arrested Wednesday in Othello for gang-related graffiti at Kiwanis Park, according to a statement from the Othello Police Department.

Weather for the week of April 29, 2024

Weather for the week of April 29, 2024

Legals for April, 29 2024

Grant Co. Community Court celebrates first graduate

EPHRATA – Grant County’s Community Court celebrated its first graduate after a year of serving the county with a program designed to divert defendants away from a cycle of jail time, substance use, arrests and more jail time Wednesday afternoon. State Rep. Alex Ybarra, R–Quincy, attended the event and said it was an emotional experience and equated changing the court environment to choosing a school that works for a student. While a criminal court may help some, Community Court might be a better fit for others.

Gesa Credit Union raises funds to plant trees

RICHLAND — Gesa Credit Union, in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, raised more than $66,000, which will help plant more than 31,000 trees across the Pacific Northwest, according to an announcement from GESA.

Box score roundup for April 25-26

MOSES LAKE – Box scores for baseball and softball games from April 25-26

Supreme Court Commissioner: WA’s high-capacity magazine ban staying in place

(The Center Square) – State Supreme Court Commissioner Michael Johnston ruled Thursday morning that the buying or selling of high-capacity magazines – those capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition – will remain illegal in Washington while legal challenges against the ban are being decided.

STUDIO BASIN: Well 20, MLSD levy and Basin track and field

MOSES LAKE – On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer and Staff Writer Joel Martin break down last week's headlines in the Columbia Basin Herald, Well 20 in Moses Lake, leadership in the Grant County Republican Party, the MLSD's levy being voted down and the Othello Community Pool being closed over safety concerns.

Moses Lake defeats Eastmont, West Valley and Davis in track meet

MOSES LAKE – The Mavericks picked up wins against West Valley (Yakima), Davis and Eastmont on both the boys and girls side of Thursday’s Columbia Basin Big 9 meet. Moses Lake’s girls team defeated West Valley 106-43, Davis 120-29 and Eastmont 101-49. The Maverick boys won 98-47 over West Valley, 114-30 over Davis and 75-70 against Eastmont.

Walk-off sends Mavs over Wenatchee

MOSES LAKE – After tying the ballgame in the bottom of the ninth, Moses Lake earned a walk-off win over Wenatchee to sweep the Panthers in Friday’s doubleheader, winning 3-2 after defeating Wenatchee 10-1 earlier in the day. “It’s been the same all year – whether we come off wins, come off losses, these guys are ready to go,” Moses Lake Head Coach Donnie Lindgren said. “Sometimes it works out for us and sometimes it doesn’t; we’ve had some struggles swinging it, but they worked hard in practice all week and were ready to go today.”

Chamber golf tourney set for May 10

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 24th Annual Golf Scramble Friday, May 10 at the Links at Moses Pointe with a shotgun start at 10:00 a.m. This year’s theme is “luau” with the hope that attendees dress Hawaiian spirit to add to the fun, said Lori Robbins, marketing director for the chamber.

Mavs’ Richardson says circle is where she belongs

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School softball pitcher Paige Richardson said one of the most appealing things about the game is the chance it gives her to test herself. “I think a lot of it is the adrenaline that comes from it,” she said. “I love getting that rush, to just have that sense of urgency. I just want to be out there.” She wants to do well for her team, she said, and while softball requires practice, there’s a payoff at the end.

Quincy Animal Shelter works to address community’s large need

QUINCY – The Quincy Animal Shelter is one of only a handful of shelters with larger facilities in Grant and Adams County, alongside Adams County Pet Rescue and Grant County Animal Outreach, and faces the same issues other shelters in the area do. The shelter’s manager, Jessica Kiehn, spoke about the facility’s operations and dealing with increasing numbers of stray animals across the Columbia Basin.

Law enforcement logs for April 26, 2024

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sharing the wealth

Moses Lake gardeners gather to swap plants and ideas

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Garden Club held its annual plant swap Monday evening. “We bring all kinds of plants … and we gift our plants to each other,” said club President Valerie Parrott, who hosted the event at her business, Pieces by Parrott. “We have a bunch of brand-new gardeners that are here this year, so we planted all kinds of seeds to do starter pack gardens for them.” This was the third year the club has held the plant swap, Parrott said. About 100 people turned out Monday to exchange plants, share tips and enjoy a potluck dinner.

‘Ireland’s Greatest Showman’

David Shannon to perform in Moses Lake Sunday

MOSES LAKE — The Wallenstien Theater will ring this weekend with the voice of Irish tenor David Shannon. The concert will start at 7 p.m. Sunday evening. Sometimes billed as “Ireland’s Greatest Showman,” Shannon has a long and varied list of credits under his belt. He’s performed leading roles in productions of “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables” and “Sweeney Todd” in London’s prestigious West End theaters, according to his biography, and he was an original cast member of the London Company production of “Come From Away.” Shannon is equally at home with traditional folk music, and laces his performance with songs accompanied by the fiddle and the bodhran, a handheld drum that’s a staple of Irish tradition.

Legals for April, 26 2024

Powering affordability

OneD Battery Sciences plant almost online

MOSES LAKE — More affordable electric vehicles are on the way. That was the takeaway from a tour that OneD Battery Sciences offered to a small contingent of Moses Lake community members Thursday afternoon at the company’s SINANODE plant on Road N Northeast.

Crack sealing may result in traffic delays throughout Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE — Drivers traveling through the Columbia Basin and North Central Washington have another reason to build in a little extra time to the trip between now and mid-June. Washington State Department of Transportation crews will be sealing cracks on roads throughout the region. Crack-sealing starts Monday, wrote Sebastian Moraga, WSDOT communications, in a press release. Crews will start near Othello and be working from Othello to Brewster, Wenatchee to Coulee Dam.

Quincy pharmacy searched by federal agencies

QUINCY — Officers from a number of federal agencies conducted a search at a Quincy pharmacy, and at a second location owned by the same people in East Wenatchee, Wednesday afternoon.

Othello Community Hospital now hosting Ritzville mobile clinic

OTHELLO – Othello Community Hospital has begun partnering with the Ritzville-based East Adams Rural Healthcare to provide mobile primary care clinic services once a week in Othello, outside the hospital. The clinic, a 40-foot motorcoach, is fully equipped to provide clinic services on the go. OCH Chief Executive Officer Connie Agenbroad explained the need behind the partnership.

Vikings defeat Yakima Valley in doubleheader

MOSES LAKE – Big Bend picked up its first sweep of an opponent in over a month on Wednesday, defeating Yakima Valley 15-4 and 5-4 in a home doubleheader.

Huskies defeat Ephrata, take second in CWAC

OTHELLO – Even with one game remaining on the schedule, the Othello boys soccer team locked up a second-place finish in the Central Washington Athletic Conference, giving the Huskies a first-round bye in next week’s district tournament. Othello finished second to East Valley (Yakima) for the second straight season.

Legals for April, 25 2024

Moses Lake’s Well 20 to begin producing water

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake’s water difficulties came a little closer to being alleviated this week, according to an announcement from the city.

Ephrata Schools seeks feedback on summer food program

EPHRATA -- The Ephrata School District is looking for community input on expanding its free summer meal program. Results of a recently launched, online survey will guide whether the district will provide grab-and-go meals for children seven days a week during the summer.

Quincy hospital bonds to be paid off sooner than projected

QUINCY — The collection rate for the bonds sold to build the new Quincy Valley Medical Center may be lower than originally anticipated. The sale of the second set of bonds, which will generate about $9 million in revenue, is set for late June.

Property annexed into City of Ephrata

EPHRATA -- The Ephrata City Council passed two ordinances at the April 17 meeting relating to annexing a small parcel of land into the city and changing its zoning designation. The property involved is a 0.7 acre parcel owned by Sandoval Rentals LLC. The owner submitted the application in September 2023, the City Council reviewed the Annexation Petition in October and set a public hearing date to consider the request in November.

WA taxpayers to pay more for school meals as program expands

(The Center Square) – More school districts across Washington are providing free school meals for students, both breakfast and lunch, at no cost to families. Other districts will be providing meals in the next year or so as universal school meal programs are phased in.

If voters decide to allow WA Cares op-out, will the state refund tax collections?

(The Center Square) – More than nine months since Washington state workers started paying into the state-mandated long-term care insurance program known as WA Cares, most working Washingtonians have contributed at least a few hundred dollars to the program.

MLSD levy voted down for second time

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District educational programs and operations levy was voted down a second time in Tuesday’s special election. District voters rejected the levy by a vote of 3,947 against to 3,094, or 56.06% to 43.94%, according to the Grant County Auditor’s Office. That margin was even greater than the 3,758-3,611 vote that defeated the levy in the Feb. 13 election.

Jacks soccer team falls to Cascade

QUINCY — About halfway through the second half, with the Quincy High School soccer team on the attack, an opportunity opened up in front of the Cascade High School goal. The shot went over the crossbar. Quincy Coach Hector Vaca said plays like that summed up the Jackrabbits’ 3-0 loss Tuesday in Quincy

Wahluke defeats Royal 1-0

MATTAWA – An early goal by Wahluke senior Diego Olivares was enough to determine the winner of Tuesday’s South Central Athletic Conference (East) match between the Warriors and Royal, with Wahluke winning 1-0.

Ephrata softball takes doubleheader over Quincy

QUINCY — The Ephrata Tigers softball team used strong hitting and strong pitching to gain wins over the Quincy Jackrabbits, 23-0 and 21-2, in a doubleheader Tuesday at Quincy High School. Ephrata Head Coach Heather Wood said the Tigers have been hitting well all season.

Box score roundup for April 22-23

MOSES LAKE – Box scores for baseball and softball games from April 22-23.

Truscott set to fill Ephrata School Board seat

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board last night selected Matthew Truscott to fill the board’s vacant position. Truscott replaces long-time board member Alan Key, who resigned from the board in February.

Diane Dunbar

Oct. 11, 1932 — April 20, 2024

Diane Patricia Donhoff Dunbar passed peacefully to be met by the loving arms of our Lord surrounded by family at her home April 20, 2024. Born in Los Angeles, Calif., on Oct. 11, 1932, and raised by loving parents Wayne and June Donhoff, Mom enjoyed a truly happy childhood with her younger brother Ron and grandparents Fred and Grace Wells. Slated to be a concert pianist, Mom dashed her parents' dreams by marrying her first love, John Beatty, in December 1949 before the Air Force transferred him out of the area. Their first son, John Richard (Rik), was born in September 1950 and the three were sent to Alaska. Mom loved to recount stories of life in Shemya, the second-to-the-last of the chain of Aleutian Islands. Gary followed in May 1953, born at Donaldson Air Force Base in South Carolina. Retiring from the Air Force, John and Diane returned to Los Angeles where Steven Jay joined the family in August 1956. A daughter, Michelle Diane (Shelley), was born in February 1960 and Lori Patricia completed the family in January 1965.

Grant GOP resolves leadership crisis

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Republican Party has had an identity crisis for the past several months after some Precinct Committee Officers opted to remove David Hunt as Grant County Party Chair during an Oct. 5, 2023 meeting, citing legal issues Hunt is facing and electing Andrew Koeppen as chair. Hunt said the October meeting’s chair election is invalid. Washington GOP Chair Jim Walsh expressed frustration in a letter to both sides of the issue.

Play ball!

Moses Lake Youth Parade ushers in season

MOSES LAKE — Forget the flowers, the showers and the red, red robin. The true sign of spring in Moses Lake is when the youth baseball and softball season kicks into gear with the annual Moses Lake Youth Parade.

Legals for April, 24 2024

Gas leak shuts down stores, streets in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — A gas leak closed streets and caused some businesses to be evacuated Tuesday morning in Moses Lake. At just before 8 a.m., a construction crew was excavating at Penn Plaza, at North Stratford and Mart roads, when workers struck a natural gas line, according to Moses Lake Police Chief David Sands. “(It) caused a significant enough leak to spread pretty far and wide, so out of an abundance of caution we closed down the area as best we could,” Sands said.

New officer

Othello native Dereck Garza, right, was sworn in as an officer of the Othello Police Department by Othello Mayor Shawn Logan, left, during Monday’s regular Othello City Council meeting. According to Othello Police Chief Dave Rehaume, Garza’s hiring brings the Othello PD up to full staff.

Photographer to speak on shooting the stars

MOSES LAKE — Shooting photos of outer space will be the topic of a presentation in Moses Lake Thursday. Astrophotographer Mike Brady will discuss the techniques of capturing the night sky, the equipment needed and the processing that’s needed to make the photos clear at the Moses Lake Civic Center auditorium, starting at 6 p.m. Admission is free, but seating is limited to the first 200 attendees. Brady, who graduated from Big Bend Community College, went on to earn a degree in biology from Central Washington University, followed by a career in the army. When he retired, he taught biology at a community college in North Carolina before coming back to Columbia Basin College in Pasco, where he became the director of the observatory. That’s where he fell in love with photographing the heavens, he said.

Candidate Filing Week 2024 begins May 6

OLYMPIA — Citizens who want to run for public office in Washington will have their chance in early May, according to an announcement from the Washington Secretary of State’s office. The opportunity to declare candidacy formally for the 2024 elections opens May 6 at 8 a.m. online and at elections offices across the state, according to the announcement. Mailed declarations are being accepted now and must be received with payment no later than 5 p.m. on May 10, when filing week ends. During the May 6-10 filing period, candidacies can be declared for more than 400 federal, state, judicial, legislative, county and other offices scheduled for 2024 elections, according to the announcement. All statewide executive offices, all congressional seats, a U.S. Senate position, and the majority of state Legislature seats will be on the ballot. This year for the first time, candidates for Superior Court and all legislative districts must file with the Office of the Secretary of State, which can be done via the office’s website, by mail, or in person.

WA GOP chair defends handling of state convention in Spokane

The Center Square – Hurt feelings may be lingering for some Republicans following the GOP party convention in Spokane last weekend, but the state party chair tells The Center Square that the media coverage of the event was unfair. Multiple news organizations reported the three-day gathering of candidates and delegates as “chaotic” with “rules being broken” to support certain candidates. But Jim Walsh, chair of the Washington State Republican Party, says that was not at all the case. “I was telling people in the media for months, it’s going to be a real convention, it’s going to be unscripted and not a coronation,” said Walsh, who also serves as a state representative from Aberdeen.

Othello to close community pool over safety concerns

OTHELLO — Mayor Shawn Logan announced during Monday’s Othello City Council meeting that the Othello Community Pool will have to be closed indefinitely and eventually replaced due to safety concerns. The announcement came after a presentation from Othello Public Works Director Curt Carpenter on his recent investigation into improper pipe installation and poor construction when the pool was built in 2007.

Othello Public Library Children’s Day celebration a success

OTHELLO — The Othello Public Library, one of the branches of Tri-Cities-based Mid-Columbia Libraries, hosted a special celebration Saturday for El día de los niños/El día de los libros, otherwise known as Day of the Children and Day of the Books, celebrating children and children’s literacy. Branch Manager Georgia Reitmire said the event, which took place at the branch’s location on East Main Street during the branch’s normal storytime, was very popular. “It went really well,” Reitmire said. “We all kind of feel like we just don't have enough space. It got pretty crowded, but all the kids seemed really happy and the parents were happy … We probably had about 120 or more people here in those two hours.”

Music, visual arts, drama talents on display at Quincy Arts Night

QUINCY — Music, drama, visual arts, even culinary arts were all on display Monday at Quincy High School at the district’s annual Arts Night. Quincy High School choir director Kylie Youngren said the program was designed to show what arts students have been doing – but also what arts do for the students, and why art is an important part of education. “The arts are important because it’s what makes us human. It helps teach collaborative problem-solving that students can use in a variety of areas, in and outside the arts,” Youngren said.

BASIN SOCCER ROUNDUP: The final stretch

COLUMBIA BASIN – Boys soccer regular seasons come to a close next week, as local squads battle for seeding in their upcoming district tournaments.

Basin sports schedule April 24-30

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis and track and field events.

Jackrabbits host CLA Quincy Invitational

QUINCY — Twenty-two track and field teams gathered at Quincy High School for Saturday’s CliftonLarsonAllen Quincy Invitational for a full day of sprints, runs and throws. The Jackrabbits had the highest finish among local teams in both the boys and girls meet. “Overall, the meet ran really smooth,” Quincy boys track and field Head Coach Andrew Schmitt said. “We were worried a little bit that we might get some wind because we got a lot of wind earlier in the week, but it thankfully died down and made it for a really nice day for competition.” The Quincy boys took fifth with a score of 61 points. Rounding out the top five were Cashmere in first (123.5 points), Brewster (103), Toppenish (94) and Goldendale (66). Wahluke (38) took sixth and Othello (7) took 14th.

WSU Extension tackles climate awareness

Groups of gardening enthusiasts were huddled around lab tables examining preserved insect specimens, learning the tell-tales signs of invasive pests that a warming climate could bring to the Pacific Northwest.

Passion for performance sends CWU Music standout to Italy and beyond

Ever since she was 12, Mac Sherman has been singing her heart out. Starting in middle school, the senior vocal performance major at Central Washington University discovered a life-long passion for the stage. Sherman studied music all the way through high school, developing into a gifted vocalist and setting the stage for a highly successful college career filled with hands-on experiences and the promise of a bright future as a performing artist.

Spring cleanups planned for Moses Lake Saturday

MOSES LAKE — The Downtown Moses Lake Association is looking for volunteers to help with its annual spring cleanup Saturday, according to Executive Director Mallory Miller.

MLSD levy election today

MOSES LAKE — Ballots are due today in a special election for a two year levy proposal for the Moses Lake School District. If the levy is approved, property owners would pay $2 per $1,000 of assessed property value. If it’s approved it would generate $15.78 million in the first year and $18.94 million in the second year.

News Bites for April 23, 2024

News Bites for April 23, 2024

Quincy, GCFD 3 finalize fire contract

QUINCY — The city of Quincy and Grant County Fire District 3 have reached an agreement on a new four-year contract for fire services. Quincy City Council members ratified the agreement last week.

Legals for April, 23 2024

Washington to fund more non-armed vehicle pursuit technology for law enforcement

(The Center Square) - As restrictions on law enforcement pursuing criminals are set to take effect on June 6 after passing in the Legislature, the state is offering police agencies a second funding opportunity to buy equipment capable of pursuing suspects without the use of firearms.

Care Moses Lake honored

OLYMPIA — Serve Washington has selected Care Moses Lake as the recipient of a 2024 Washington State Volunteer Service Award for the state’s north central region, according to an announcement from Serve Washington.

Warden man killed on SR 170

WARDEN – A Warden man was killed and a Moses Lake man was injured in a traffic incident Sunday morning in Grant County, just west of Warden on State Route 170, according to a statement from the Washington State Patrol.

Greenpoint announces new jet interior completion at Moses Lake facility

MOSES LAKE – According to a Monday statement, business jet interior completion center Greenpoint Technologies has announced the induction of a Boeing Business Jet 787-9 for a full VVIP interior completion at its Moses Lake hangar facility.

OneD to hold thank-you event Thursday

MOSES LAKE — OneD Battery Sciences will show off its Moses Lake facility in a pilot manufacturing event Thursday, according to an announcement from the company.

Warden High to host Vitalant open blood drive April 30

WARDEN – Warden High School will be hosting a blood drive April 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., run by nationwide blood center Vitalant. The drive is open to both students and the public.

Plethora of I-90 projects coming this summer

VANTAGE — Travelers going over Snoqualmie Pass this summer should add pencil in a little extra time for delays due to road work, and not just at the Vantage Bridge. Most of the work is concentrated between North Bend and Ellensburg and will involve lane closures, sometimes all eastbound or westbound lanes for short times.

Wildcats, Zags, Cougars week in review

MOSES LAKE – Area college baseball teams continue to battle for positioning with postseason baseball quickly approaching.

Box score roundup for April 20, 2024

MOSES LAKE – Basin baseball and softball box scores for April 20.

Basin Sounders team wins title at WA Cup

MOSES LAKE – Competing at the Washington Premier League’s WA Cup over the weekend, the Basin Sounders B2014 team left the tournament as the Bronze 2 champions.

Vikings split, yet again

MOSES LAKE – Seeming to play one quality, well-rounded ball game and one where a major aspect whether it be defense, offense or pitching struggles seems to be the norm for the Vikes. After three consecutive splits, the Vikings needed to take two on Saturday to make up ground in the Eastern Region playoff race.

DIAMOND RECAP: Baseball, softball enter the final stretch of the regular season

COLUMBIA BASIN – District tournaments across the Columbia Basin begin as soon as next week, as local squads aim to finish the regular season on a high note. Read along to see where Basin squads stand late in the regular season.

Pet rescue asks for community help to support veterinary care

SOAP LAKE — Shawna Kluge, operator of The Rock Bottom Rocker Pet Pantry, said the vet bill the organization has at Pioneer Veterinary Clinic illustrates the challenges associated with helping animals in need. Kluge put out an appeal for donations to help pay the vet bill early last week.

McFarland students make Technology Student Assn. nationals, need funding

OTHELLO – Othello students in McFarland Middle School’s Technology Student Association, an ASB club focused on technology skills, qualified for the TSA national competition in Orlando, Florida after the state conference in March. Now they just need the funds to get there.

Weather report for the week of April 22, 2024

Weather report for the week of April 22, 2024

Legals for April, 22 2024

A look at teff

Tiny grain could be headed for big things

MOSES LAKE — Teff may only be grown on a few farms in the Pacific Northwest, but it’s a grain a lot of people aren’t aware of yet, though it is beginning to find a market and is expected to rise in popularity as a crop and product.

WA drivers asked to slow down as construction ramps up

(The Center Square) – With warmer weather and summer months ahead, construction season is ramping up. That means work zones all over the place, which can be frustrating for drivers and dangerous for construction workers.

Vikings split doulbeheader with Walla Walla

MOSES LAKE – Big Bend split Wednesday’s doubleheader on the road against Walla Walla, winning the first game 11-5 before suffering a 10-6 loss to the Warriors.

Tigers defeat Othello in league meet

EPHRATA – Boys and girls track and field teams from Othello and Ephrata met for their first league meet of the season on Thursday, with the Tigers defeating the Huskies on both the boys and girls side of the meet. The Ephrata boys picked up a 107-38 win, while the Tiger girls won 113-28.

Huskies sweep Prosser, head into final stretch of regular season

OTHELLO – With a sweep of Prosser on Friday, the Othello Huskies improved to 10-1 this spring with convincing 10-0 and 15-0 wins over the Mustangs. Friday’s doubleheader came two weeks after Othello’s previous outing, a home doubleheader against Ellensburg on April 5.

Box score roundup for April 18-19

Box score roundup for April 18-19

GCSO K-9 officers discuss dog selection, entering law enforcement

EPHRATA – Grant County Sheriff’s Office K9 officers Malli and Uno are settling in with their new handlers after being acquired by the department in early March. The two Belgian Malinois, Malie and Uno, are working through training with handlers Deputy Zane Bundy and Luis Jimenez, respectively. Both officers have had experience with canine officers in the past, Jimenez as K9 Zedd’s handler and Bundy has done some informal understudy work with Jimenez.

Mavs boys tennis wins against Wenatchee

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake High School boys tennis team handily won its dual match against Wenatchee Thursday, while the MLHS girls swept the doubles matches but lost to the Panthers 4-3.

MLSD levy voting closes April 23

MOSES LAKE — Ballots should be returned by Tuesday in a special election that will decide the fate of a two-year educational programs and maintenance levy proposal from the Moses Lake School District.

STUDIO BASIN: Opioids in Grant County, teff and Basin sports action

Recap of news and sports for the week of April 15.

State GOP conference gets heated

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Republican Party 2024 Convention saw delegates getting rowdy Friday inside the Spokane Convention Center as the morning session stretched into the scheduled lunch break.

LETTER: Support MLSD levy for the future

I have lived in Moses Lake most of my life. I grew up attending schools in Moses Lake from Kindergarten through Big Bend. I received a great education and was able to raise my family to become successful, productive adults.

Grant Co. Community Court reaches first year

EPHRATA – Grant County has its share of repeat offenders who can be considered proverbial frequent fliers through the court system, but a program that began about a year ago works to help them land on firmer runways as they move through the system.

Moses Lake Grid Kids enters 25th year

MOSES LAKE – Heading into its 25th year, Moses Lake Grid Kids continues to provide opportunities to youth athletes on the gridiron. Grid Kids offers both flag and tackle football teams to youth football players in Moses Lake and beyond.

N. Cascades Hwy. opens for the summer, regional road construction projects continue

WINTHROP — In one of those signs that spring really is coming, the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) will open for travel today. The gates at either end of the 33-mile section will swing open at 10 a.m., according to a press release from the Washington Department of Transportation.

Law enforcement logs for April 19, 2024

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Literary youth: Othello and Mattawa to host Day of the Children celebrations

MOSES LAKE — Both Othello Public Library and the city of Mattawa are holding free events this year for El día de los ninos/El día de los libros, otherwise known as Day of the Children and Day of the Book, which recognizes children and children’s literacy.

Code changes add to housing costs, industry spokesman says

MOSES LAKE — There have been some changes to the Washington State Building Code that stand to add to the cost of building homes, a spokesman for the Building Industry Association of Washington said.

Legals for April, 19 2024

GCFD 13 promotes three to command positions

EPHRATA – Grant County Fire District 13’s command staff looks a bit different than it did a week ago after a badge-pinning ceremony that promoted two firefighters to captains and one to battalion chief last week.

WA high-capacity magazine ban ruling expected next week

(The Center Square) – There was no decision from the bench Wednesday afternoon in the Gators Custom Guns case regarding the state ban on high-capacity magazines for firearms.

WIAA Athlete of the Week: Beth Okamoto

COULEE CITY – Almira/Coulee-Hartline senior Beth Okamoto received Athlete of the Week honors from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association on Thursday.

Lind-Ritzville hosts track and field meet

Boys place second, girls seventh in home meet

RITZVILLE – The Lind-Ritzville Broncos hosted a home track and field meet with nine other regional teams Wednesday afternoon at Lind-Ritzville High School. The Broncos placed second in boys varsity and seventh in girls varsity

John Darrell Pock

July 10, 1951 – April 15, 2024

John Darrell Pock, "Darrell", of Soap Lake, Washington passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024 at the age of 72.

Applications sought for Grant Tourism Commission

EPHRATA — The Grant County Tourism Commission is looking for a volunteer to serve a three-year term representing the northern part of the county.

‘Love Letters’ slated for two weekends at Masquers Theater

SOAP LAKE — The story of a man and woman who never quite know what they want from each other comes to the Masquers stage for two weekends. “Love Letters” runs for four performances.

Legals for April, 18 2024

Inslee administration: Using taxpayer funds to promote CCA spending is appropriate

(The Center Square) – State agencies and other recipients of programs that are funded by the Climate Commitment Act are being directed to use a recently approved new logo and messaging. The directive comes as the CCA is facing a potential repeal by voters in November with Initiative 2113. Some are questioning the use of taxpayer dollars for the new campaign, saying its politically inspired, but Gov. Jay Inslee's office tells The Center Square there is nothing political about the messaging.

Ephrata schools security officers foster connections

EPHRATA – Mike Crowder and Greg Hutchison are familiar faces at Ephrata High School. The two security officers, both of whom have law enforcement experience, have their office inside the Ephrata High Commons. Crowder said the location of their office is by design.

Gwen Jenson of Othello makes the honor roll at SFCC

SPOKANE – Gwen Jenson, of Othello, Washington, has earned a place on the Spokane Falls Community College honor roll for Winter quarter 2024, according to an announcement from SFCC. According to the statement, students must earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be on the honor roll. Community Colleges of Spokane is a 12,300-square-mile state community college district that includes Spokane Community College, Spokane Falls Community College and six rural education sites, serving residents in Pend Oreille, Stevens, Whitman, Ferry and parts of Lincoln counties, the statement said. According to the announcement, CCS offers academic transfer, career-technical and eLearning degree and certificate programs, business and community training and adult literacy programs throughout northeastern Washington, enrolling approximately 34,000 students a year.

Big Bend instructors win state awards

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College math/science division chair Tyler Wallace and Basic Education for Adults Director Jody Bortz will be recognized for their work by Washington Association of College Trustees.

WSU professor warns of fire blight antibiotic resistance

MOSES LAKE – Frank Zhao, a professor of plant pathology at Washington State University, spoke at the April 4 Fire Blight Webinar hosted by Michigan State University, providing an update on current research and results of fire blight antibiotics and resistances at WSU.

Remodeled Ephrata Middle School shown to district patrons at ribbon cutting

EPHRATA — Ephrata Middle School Principal Tina Mullings got help from her predecessors and current students to cut the ribbon - actually a paper chain - on the renovated and enlarged EMS Monday evening. District patrons got the chance to tour the building to see the changes. Mullings said the renovations expanded the options for EMS students.

More tools on the way to combat catalytic converter theft in Washington

(The Center Square) – Lawmakers are hoping recently passed legislation will stem the tide of stolen catalytic converters in Washington state.

Box score roundup for April 16

MOSES LAKE – Basin baseball and softball box scores for April 16.

Mavs capitalize on errors, defeat Davis 7-2

MOSES LAKE – Despite being held to just two hits, the Moses Lake Mavericks capitalized off of five Davis errors to defeat the Pirates 7-1 in Tuesday’s Columbia Basin Big 9 matchup.

Call It Closed International Realty expands to PNW

NAPLES, Fla. — According to a Tuesday announcement, cloud-based brokerage Call It Closed International Realty is now operating in Oregon and Washington, expanding it national footprint to 18 states with the addition of Principal Broker Eric Young in Portland.

Tom Thomas

July 3, 1947 – April 3, 2024

Tommy Thomas, 76, of Moses Lake, Wash., lost his battle with cancer and passed away April 3, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.

Wayne Marsh Tower

April 22, 1932 – March 2, 2024

Wayne Marsh Tower was born April 22, 1932, to Guy A. and Leah L. (Marsh) Tower in Helena, Mont., joining a sister, Lois.

CWU partners with NMPC for medical physics program

ELLENSBURG — Not all physics majors want to pursue a career in research or teaching. Some prefer to use the skills they learn in college to study living systems or enter the medical field.

Next stage of Grant Co. Jail construction to begin in May

EPHRATA — People driving by the site of the new Grant County Jail will start seeing progress soon.

Cohort of leaders: RDI program gives grants to Othello institutions

OTHELLO – Rural Development Initiatives wrapped up its six-month-long Rural Community Leadership Program in Othello Thursday evening with a final session for the leadership cohort at the Othello Senior Center and the presentation of $5,000 in grants from the cohort to various community institutions.

Basin sports schedule April 17-23

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis and track and field events.

Legals for April, 17 2024

WDFW releases new hunting season and regulation information

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Monday the latest big game hunting season and regulation information, 2024-2026 hunting season rule changes and the opening of special hunt applications for the 2024 seasons.

BBCC clean energy conference highlights workforce needs

MOSES LAKE — Preparing a workforce for today’s clean energy industries was the focus of the Building the Future Energy Workforce Conference held at Big Bend Community College April 11.

ACDC and Port of Othello consider indoor farming in the Basin

OTHELLO – Representatives of both the Port of Othello and the Adams County Development Council reflected on the viability of indoor or vertical farming greenhouses in Grant and Adams Counties after they attended the 11th Annual Indoor Ag-Con March 11-12 in Las Vegas.

Othello development faces roadblock: No roundabout coming to SR 26 and 14th Avenue

OTHELLO — After an in-person meeting with a representative of the Washington State Department of Transportation, Port of Othello Executive Director Chris Faix said the intersection at state Route 26 and South 14th Avenue is not slated for the installation of a roundabout.

WA law enforcement org weights in on pursuit law changes

(The Center Square) – In less than two months, law enforcement agencies across Washington state will have a less restrictive set of rules when it comes to vehicle pursuits of fleeing suspects.

Vikings split with Wenatchee Valley

MOSES LAKE – It took extra innings to determine the winner of Saturday’s nightcap between Big Bend and Wenatchee Valley, with the Vikings earning a 3-2 win after a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the 11th inning.

Storm add two, Zags have two selected in WNBA Draft

BROOKLYN, NY – The WNBA Draft was held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music Monday night, with the Seattle Storm adding two new players and two former Zags seeing their professional dreams come true.

Local T&F teams compete at Pasco Invite

Maverick boys, girls have highest team placings among local squads

PASCO – Track and field squads from across the Pacific Northwest gathered at Edgar Brown Stadium in Pasco for the Pasco Invite on Saturday, including local teams from Ephrata, Moses Lake, Othello and Royal. “I thought the kids did really well,” Moses Lake track and field Head Coach Nicki Weiland said. “We had kids that placed, which is hard to do at a meet of that size. The kids were excited and overwhelmed because that’s a big meet – a lot of them had never been to a meet that big.”

FRESH NEWS: Smallmouth beginning to show at Potholes

MARDON — The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,045.1 feet, coming up 1.05 feet this past week. We are currently 1.4 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 50 degrees. The sand dunes are staying in the mid- to upper 50s.

Afton Reynolds Richards

Nov. 26, 1985 – April 11, 2024

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Afton Reynolds Richards, 38, on Thursday, April 11, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Born November 26, 1985, to Layne and Elaine Reynolds in St. Anthony, Idaho, Afton grew up on the family farm in Echo, Oregon.

WSU researchers have identified several "vampiric" bacteria

PULLMAN – Some of the world’s deadliest bacteria seek out and feed on human blood, a newly-discovered phenomenon researchers are calling “bacterial vampirism.”

State Veterans Cemetery to hold Forgotten Heroes interment

MEDICAL LAKE – The State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake has announced that it will hold a Forgotten Heroes interment ceremony April 29 at 2 p.m. to put to rest the remains of veterans not claimed by family members.

Author, war veteran Roy Scranton to speak in Ellensburg

ELLENSBURG — The Lion Rock Visiting Writers Series at Central Washington University will continue April 25-26 with a visit from Roy Scranton, an Iraq War veteran, acclaimed author, and associate professor of English at the University of Notre Dame.

BBCC to host job fair Thursday

MOSES LAKE — Job seekers will find a lot to choose from at the 31st annual Big Bend Community College Job and Career Fair Thursday.

Legals for April, 16 2024

Fed pandemic dollars fuel WA spending increase

(The Center Square) – Washington state government spending increased 169% from 1991 to 2023. The state’s total spending was $12.21 billion in 1991 and increased to $73.59 billion in 2023. When adjusted for inflation, that accounts for the 169% increase.

Soap Lake water, sewer rates to increase

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake residents will see increases in their water and sewer rates, beginning in May. The increases follow a six-month study of water and sewer rates, and a 6-1 vote to approve the increases by the Soap Lake City Council April 9. Council Member Peter Sharp voted against the increase.

Japanese consul-general visits Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The ties between Moses Lake and Japan were highlighted Monday as Japan’s consul-general for the region paid a visit to Moses Lake.

Port of Othello reflects on its ongoing business incubator space

OTHELLO – The Port of Othello Executive Director Chris Faix said that the port’s ongoing business incubator has so far been a success, but has not yet provided the level of economic support to Othello the port would like to see.

Statewide fishing season opens April 27, redesigned fishing app launched

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will recognize the opening of fishing season with a statewide trout fishing derby. Lakes throughout the state open April 27.

Crop Report: Warmer weather for WA

OLYMPIA - There were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork in Washington from April 8 to April 14, up from 5.1 days suitable the previous week.

Huskies sweep Prosser in doubleheader

OTHELLO – A doubleheader sweep of Prosser improved the Othello Huskies to 13-2 this season, defeating the Mustangs by scores of 9-1 and 8-3 on Saturday afternoon. “Coming into the day we felt pretty confident (that) if we all play together and we’re all connected and we’re clicking, I think we’re pretty unstoppable,” Othello junior Jordan Montemayor said.

Box score roundup for April 13

MOSES LAKE – The results noted below are for games that occurred Saturday. Box scores are available where provided by local school district coaching staff.

Ephrata man arrested in apparent road rage incident

EPHRATA — A man was arrested Friday evening for pulling a gun on a motorist in Ephrata, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Ida Gimenez

Dec. 29, 1928 — Jan. 2, 2024

A celebration of life service for Ida Gimenez will be held at Lakecity Foursquare Church, 333 N. Central Drive, Moses Lake WA, 98837 on April 23 at 1 p.m.

Mary Helen Laughlin

Jan. 28, 1955 — March 18, 2024

Mary Helen Laughlin was born January 28, 1955, and passed away March 18, 2024, at age 69. She was a long-time breast cancer fighter, originally being diagnosed in 2008.

Scotty Slenker

Aug. 26, 1986 — April 4, 2024

Our wonderful Scotty Slenker, 37, passed away suddenly with his family by his side, on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Samaritan Hospital. His loss was unexpected, and his family and friends are devastated.

Area leaders assemble to address opioid epidemic

DESERT AIRE – Leaders from around the Columbia Basin gathered at the Wanapum Heritage Center Thursday to discuss the ongoing battle against Fentanyl – a synthetic opioid that caused nearly two dozen deaths in Grant County last year – and other opioids in the Columbia Basin. “(In Grant County in 2022), for opioids in general there were 486 patients and 23 deaths to an opioid overdose,” said Grant County Health District Harm Reduction Program Coordinator Mariah Delon Munoz.

Chilly and dusty weather returns to the Basin

MOSES LAKE — The good news is the likelihood of snow in Tuesday’s forecast isn’t all that likely in the Columbia Basin. The bad news is that the warm, tantalizing, sunny, summerlike weather is gone and the dust and chilly temperatures will be sticking around for a few days.

Weather for the week of April 15, 2024

Weather for the week of April 15, 2024

Apple Blossom Festival 104-year-old Wenatchee tradition

WENATCHEE — Apples, apple blossoms, parades, a car show, carnival rides, live music, crafts for children, food booths and plenty of activities will fill the streets of Wenatchee during the 104th Apple Blossom Festival. Activities begin this week, with the grand finale, the Stemilt Grand Parade, May 4. There have been some interruptions – little events like World War II and a coronavirus pandemic – but for the most part, Apple Blossom has been part of Wenatchee since 1920. Director Darci Christoferson said the festival’s purpose, then and now, is to highlight the Wenatchee Valley and the industry that gave it a big part of its identity - and still plays a crucial role in the valley’s economy. “It celebrates our comm

Respiratory virus season ends for ‘23-24

MOSES LAKE — Grant County had three COVID-19-related deaths and three flu-related deaths in the 2023-24 in the epidemic phase of the respiratory virus season, according to a press release from the Grant County Health District.

A place of her own

Royal City clinic welcomes new provider

ROYAL CITY — Tara Zamarron has found her home. “We grew up, my husband and I both, in Michigan, born and raised,” Zamarron said. “We had some friends who moved out here in 2005, or 2006, and they asked us to come visit them. And we're like, ‘Sure, we’ll come visit you, we’ve never been out west.’ And we fell in love with it.” Zamarron recently became the primary – in fact, pretty much the only – provider at Confluence Health’s Royal City clinic. Zamarron isn’t a physician; she’s an advanced registered nurse practitioner, which means she does most of the things a doctor does without the title “doctor” before her name. She’s joined at one of the smallest clinics in the Confluence system – a little over 1,700 square feet in downtown Royal City – by a registered nurse and a receptionist.

CWU photography student wins national innovation award

ELLENSBURG — Charlie Tadlock’s fascination with the open road came to him in his search for his artistic voice in photography on the highways of Montana. Now, that fascination has earned him the Society for Photographic Education’s Award for Innovative Imaging, an annual prize given to six photography students from across the U.S. whose work exhibits a forward-thinking approach to the field. Tadlock’s mid-term exhibition, “Vast and Solitary Lands,” caught the judges’ attention with its focus on exploring the familiar highway landscape through the lens of non-traditional photographic techniques. “I fell in love with the road in the final semester of my undergrad,” Tadlock said. “At that point, I was thinking about nostalgic landscapes, and the feeling of being nostalgic for a past that never really existed. I traveled all over Montana for that body of work, and in the process, found that nostalgia on the road itself.”

Legals for April, 15 2024

Grant PUD sets community meetings on rate policy

Board seeking input on how residents feel rates should be set

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners and staff will be soliciting the opinion of PUD customers on the future of its rate structure in a series of public meetings beginning next week.

STUDIO BASIN: Grant County Jail, PUD rates and Basin soccer

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer and Sports Reporter Ian Bivona break down the estimated cost of the Grant County Jail, the new director of the Port of Moses Lake and upcoming public meetings regarding the rates of the Grant County PUD.

WA Supreme Court to hear arguments in magazine capacity case

(The Center Square) - The owner of the Kelso gun shop behind the legal challenge to the state’s ban on "high-capacity" magazines says business was brisk for a short time Monday. They’re usually closed on Mondays, but Wally Wentz, owner of Gator’s Customs Guns opened shortly after 3 p.m. when a judge in Cowlitz County ruled the magazine ban unconstitutional.

Jacks defeat Chelan in OT

QUINCY – Tied at two entering overtime, Quincy junior Danny Mendoza delivered a goal to give his Jackrabbit squad a 3-2 lead over Chelan, eventually holding on for their fourth league win of the season. “I just saw an opening – I asked Erick (Zepeda) for the ball, and luckily he gave me a good ball,” Mendoza said. “I slotted it right past the keeper’s hands, went right below his hands, and it was a beautiful goal.”

Solid win: Mavs take down Walla Walla 13-2

MOSES LAKE – A seven-run bottom of the fourth inning gave Moses Lake a double-digit run lead over visiting Walla Walla on Friday afternoon, ending the game in the fifth inning with a 13-2 Maverick victory. Moses Lake improved to 11-0 with the win over the Blue Devils.

Box score roundup for April 11-12

Box score roundup for April 11-12

Juan Victor Rocha

March 5, 1958 – April 8, 2024

Juan Victor Rocha, 66, of Moses Lake, Washington, succumbed to his battle with cancer. Victor passed on April 8, 2024, at Samaritan Hospital. He was surrounded by his loved ones. Victor was born on March 5, 1958, in Dilley, Texas. He was the son of the late Victor Sr. and Manuela Rocha. Victor.s family moved to Moses Lake in 1970. From the very beginning, Victor was a true fan of the Seattle Seahawks. He had a passion for all types of music, especially Tejano music. He was a fan, and very proud of, his primo’s (cousin’s) local band, Tejano Skyz. His all-time favorite singer was Selena (we can still hear him singing). He was famous for asking us trivia questions and playing April Fools jokes on us. Every year we would anticipate and prepare for that call on April 1, but no matter what, he got us. In his younger years, Victor had a profound love for playing pool and was so proud of his championship wins.

Homes to start going up soon in Quincy’s Jackrabbit Estates

QUINCY — Construction crews are already moving dirt at the site of the new Jackrabbit Estates, and houses should start going up by the end of April. Developer Angel Garza and family members both cut the ribbon and pulled out the golden shovels for a ceremonial groundbreaking April 8. “The first 55 lots are being built as we speak,” Garza said. “We should be building our first home in six to eight weeks.”

Star-crossed

Young love, old secrets at the heart of Basin Community Theatre’s ‘Bright Star’

MOSES LAKE — “Bright Star” is not your grandparents’ musical.

Building permits for April 12, 2024

Building permits for March and April of 2024 issued by Grant County and the city of Moses Lake. Items already reported on April 5 are not included in this listing.

Legals for April, 12 2024

Grant supports helping the power grid prepare for the future

PULLMAN — A Washington State University-led research team has been selected to receive a $2.4 million U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant to better prepare the power grid for the changing world of electricity production, including the increasing use of renewable power and the increase in extreme weather events related to climate change. As part of the project, the researchers are developing open-source planning tools for modeling the complexities and uncertainties that come about from the use of renewables and from extreme weather events. The project, funded through the DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office, is led by Mani Venkatasubramanian, Boeing Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering in the WSU School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and director of the Energy Systems Innovation Center.

Grant PUD sets public meeting to gather rate policy opinions, ideas

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners and staff will be soliciting the opinion of PUD customers on the future of its rate structure in a series of public meetings beginning next week. Commissioners will be talking to different classes of customers at different times throughout April and May. A meeting with ag customers is up first, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 16 in the commission hearing room at PUD headquarters, 30 C St. SW in Ephrata. The meeting with small and medium-size business customers also is April 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Moses Lake Civic Center auditorium, 401 S. Balsam St. Residential customers are invited to a discussion from 6 to 8 p.m. May 21 at the Civic Center Auditorium in Moses Lake.

Dent reflects on 2024 legislative session

MOSES LAKE — After 2024’s short 60-day legislative session, which wrapped up in March, Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, discussed what went well for him during the session and some of his disappointments this year. “It feels like there is always a different feeling or different mood of the sessions,” Dent said. “I would say that overall, most of these sessions for me are a little bit consistent; I can never say I've had a bad session for the things that I work on.” Dent said his status in the legislature has shifted during his 10 years as a legislator.

Law enforcement reports for April 12, 2024

Ephrata Police Department, Moses Lake Police Department, Grant County Jail

Construction underway on new pedestrian crossing in Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Work has already started on a project to build sidewalks on one side of South Daisy Street and add flashing lights at the crosswalk of Daisy Street and Third Avenue Southeast. Soap Lake Mayor Allen DuPuy said a project to overlay a number of city streets should go to bid soon. Daisy Street is state Route 17 where the highway passes through the city limits. The upgraded pedestrian crossing is designed to improve safety for people walking across the street, said city consulting engineer Michael Woodkey in a presentation to the Soap Lake City Council in February. Sidewalks are being replaced on the east side of Daisy Street between First and Third avenues as part of the project, DuPuy said. Total project cost is about $282,000.

Basin soccer roundup: Three top-10 teams in 1A

The regular season for local soccer teams is over halfway done, as Basin squads prepare for their final stretch of league games. Teams in Quincy, Royal City and Mattawa have all found themselves in the top 10 of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association’s Rating Percentage Index. 4A

Moses Lake BMX heads into 2024 season

MOSES LAKE — With the weather beginning to warm up, riders are returning to the Larson BMX Track for the 2024 season with Moses Lake BMX. “It’s awesome. We’ve got a ton of momentum this year, and a lot of new riders so far this year,” Moses Lake BMX Track Operator Jeff Niehenke said. “A really good board, and a ton of energy to really grow the program and put on good events.” Moses Lake BMX hosts weekly races on Saturday mornings until mid-May when the races shift to Friday nights at 7 p.m. There are also weekly practices held on Wednesdays, where riders can get a feel for the starting gate.

Job Corps opens advanced firefighting center in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE — The Columbia Basin Job Corps Center officially cut the ribbon on its Advance Training Wildland Fire Fighting facility at 8331 Forbes Street in Moses Lake Wednesday. “I’ve always talked about Columbia Basin (Job Corps Center) being the hidden gem,” said Center Director Mike Rios. “As we know, you can always get your foot in the door with the education, but it’s that specialized training that’s going to set you aside to take part in those opportunities out there. This is what our (students) are doing right now.”

Gesa, Red Cross join forces against home fires

MOSES LAKE — There are few things more frightening than a house fire. One of them is having a house fire and not knowing it. “Oftentimes home fires happen because it's an older building or an older neighborhood where they just never installed smoke alarms, so they don't even know when there's a fire most of the time,” said Amber Merrill, community relations manager for Richland-based Gesa Credit Union. “It's really difficult in those situations because when you actually start to notice that there is a home fire, it's when you're seeing flames, and typically, at that point, the fire department is responding.”

Juried student art and design exhibit opens at Sarah Spurgeon Gallery

ELLENSBURG — The CWU Sarah Spurgeon Gallery will be hosting the Department of Art + Design’s 2024 Juried Undergraduate Student Art + Design Exhibition over the next month in Randall Hall.

Legals for April, 11 2024

Ephrata Middle School ribbon cutting set for Monday

EPHRATA – A ribbon cutting ceremony is set for this coming Monday at 6 p.m. at Ephrata Middle School to celebrate the school’s recent remodel. Changes made at the school include a new security vestibule, upgraded gym and cafeteria. Those attending the ribbon cutting will have an opportunity to hear from school leadership and tour the campus to see what changes have been made to public areas. Additional improvements include changes to the school’s HVAC system which make it easier and more affordable to maintain over time. The campus is located at 384 A Street SE in Ephrata.

WA’s economic outlook continues to worsen, report says

(The Center Square) – Washington remained in the lower half of U.S. states in terms of economic outlook, according to a new report that faults the Evergreen State’s high tax burden and rising labor costs for the state’s No. 37 ranking. That’s a drop of three spots from last year’s No. 34 ranking.

Benton Sheriff asks for help identifying victims in sex assault case

KENNEWICK – In a Tuesday announcement, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying additional victims of Jose Marcelo Bustos, 37, who was arrested March 18 for second-degree rape and first-degree kidnapping with aggravating circumstance, with an allegation of sexual motivation.

WDFW to monitor sandhill cranes with drones

RIDGEFIELD – Researchers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will conduct drone surveys over known locations of sandhill cranes in Klickitat County to assess the technology’s effectiveness in population monitoring, according to an April 4 announcement.

Othello library exploring potential remodel or new location

OTHELLO — Mid-Columbia Libraries and Adams County Rural Library District 1, which contracts with MCL for library services and management in Othello, are in the process of evaluating either a potential remodel or new building for the Othello Public Library. MCL Associate Director of Communications Carlos Orozco said discussions have already started about a remodel or finding another location to move to.

Grant PUD buys land for new Ephrata service center

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners have approved the purchase of 34 acres near Ephrata for the eventual site of the new equipment storage and maintenance facility, known as the Ephrata service center. Utility district officials paid $525,000 for the property, located next to the site of the new Grant County Jail, at one time the Ephrata Raceway.

Box score roundup for April 11

COLUMBIA BASIN – Basin baseball and softball box scores for April 11, 2024

Wahluke scores four second-half goals, defeats College Place

MATTAWA – Two early goals were enough for the Wahluke boys soccer team to take down College Place on Tuesday, defeating the Eagles 6-1 to improve to 9-1 this spring. “We’ve been craving that,” Wahluke Head Coach Cele Lopez said of the team’s start to the match. “We need to start that way every single game. The boys, I think they’re getting the hang of it. They’re realizing that if we start strong, we don’t struggle as much. We run less, we keep possession of the ball and we can manage the timing of the game.” Senior Diego Olivares netted two goals early in the match, both of which came in the fifth minute. The senior noted the team’s chemistry as a significant factor in Tuesday’s win.

BIAW sees a mixed bag of industry successes, frustrations from WA Legislative Session

TUMWATER – While Washington’s housing crisis continues to linger, the Washington Legislative Session for 2024 session brought mixed results for housing costs in Washington, according to a press release from the Building Industry Association of Washington.

Basin sports schedule April 10-16

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis and track and field events.

Wahluke gearing up for annual Outdoor Career Fair

MATTAWA — The Wahluke School District will be hosting its annual Outdoor Career Fair April 26 for Wahluke High School and Junior High students at the high school to connect with and learn from professionals in various outdoor careers.

Classic Grill’n

Othello’s newest sit-down barbecue café opens for business

OTHELLO – Othello-based catering business and food truck Classic Grill’n has been operating in the area for about 20 years, helmed by barbecue lovers Tim and Birdie Fought. Now they’ve opened the very first sit-down Classic Grill’n café.

Othello nears completion of Iron Horse Playground, accepts award

OTHELLO – Monday’s Othello City Council meeting featured recognition from playground manufacturer and researcher PlayCore for the city’s nearly completed Iron Horse Playground in Lions Park, as well as an update on grant applications for several future park projects. Othello Mayor Shawn Logan introduced the PlayCore award, which adds the playground to PlayCore’s registry of National Demonstration Sites.

A little boost: Mid-Columbia Economic Development District nurtures businesses in the Columbia Gorge

THE DALLES, Ore. — The Columbia Gorge may be one of the most beautiful regions of the Pacific Northwest, but as rural people know, scenery doesn’t always translate into prosperity. Forty years ago, logging and aluminum plants were major drivers of the economy in Klickitat and Skamania counties in Washington and Hood River, Wasco and Sherman counties in Oregon. But those days are long gone and the business community has diversified, partly with the assistance of the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District. The MCEDD (pronounced like “McKedd”) puts its efforts into three buckets, said MCEDD director Jessica Metta: regional coordination, technical assistance and business assistance.

Legals for April, 10 2024

Western WA Republican lawmaker running for secretary of state

(The Center Square) – State Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn, announced on Monday that he is running to be Washington’s next secretary of state.

Grant Co. accepts $155.5 million price for new jail

EPHRATA — Grant County Commissioners have decided to accept a “guaranteed maximum price” of about $155.55 million for the new Grant County Jail. Marc Seeberger, project manager for general contractors Lydig Construction, gave commissioners an estimate of the total project cost, one option including administrative offices for the Grant County Sheriff, the other without the offices.

Blue Heron sign to be highlighted with kiosk

MOSES LAKE — A sign at Blue Heron Park will become a little more visible soon. The Moses Lake Trails Planning Team has purchased lumber for a kiosk to go over a sign showing the native plants on the Joseph K. Gavinski Trail that runs between Blue Heron Park and the Cove West neighborhood, team member Louis Logan wrote in an email to the Columbia Basin Herald. Erik Nielson’s wood shop class at Vanguard Academy will build the kiosk, he added.

Zamora scores four goals, Mavs defeat Cheney

MOSES LAKE – The Mavericks snapped a six-game losing skid with Monday night’s 4-2 win over Cheney, with senior Joshua Zamora leading his squad by scoring all four of Moses Lake’s goals in the win. “We’ve been dealing with injuries with players throughout the season, so (Monday) we had a gameplan of making sure we touched and moved – that way we can avoid injuries and be ready for the second half of the season,” Moses Lake Head Coach Miguel Segura said. “That was working for us really well, and all the communication that we were doing was helping a lot.”

Big Bend co-op's Caring Neighbors donates $10K to local organizations

RITZVILLE – According to an April 3 announcement, nonprofit organization Caring Neighbors, a five-member volunteer board established by Big Bend Electric Co-op, recently donated more than $10,000 to eight local non-profit organizations.

Vikings swept by Blue Mountain

MOSES LAKE – Coming off dropping two games to Blue Mountain CC earlier in the week, the Big Bend Vikings traveled to face the Timberwolves in a doubleheader on Saturday, losing both games by scores of 7-2 and 6-5.

The uncertain future of natural gas in Washington

(The Center Square) – There is ongoing debate over a newly-enacted law and its effect on natural gas in Washington state. The state's largest utility provider says it does not affect natural gas for new or future customers, but others argue that the new provisions set the stage for turning the shut-off valve for good.

News Bites for April 9, 2024

EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a reminder Sunday for residents not to swim or play in irrigation canals, which have begun to fill up for the year.

Moses Lake library to offer English classes for beginners

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Library will offer a free beginning English for Speakers of Other Languages class starting this month. “We're going to be starting with the alphabet and with simple conversations,” said Brandee Miller, who’s teaching the class. “I will be also providing materials for them to study to take home to work with if they like.” The class begins Thursday and will meet from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. once each week. The 11-week course will cover the basics of speaking, reading and writing in English. It’s particularly geared toward Spanish speakers.

Box Score roundup for April 9

COLUMBIA BASIN – Basin baseball and softball box scores for April 5-6

Legals for April, 9 2024

WA's ban on high-capacity magazines ruled unconstitutional

(The Center Square)/OLYMPIA – A judge in Cowlitz County briefly handed a victory to gun rights supporters in Washington before the state's highest court said not so fast.

Behavioral health, drug use among biggest Grant health concerns

MOSES LAKE — About 88% of participants said mental and behavioral health services as one of the biggest health challenges in Grant County. Another was drug use and alcohol abuse. Those were among the results reported in the 2023-24 Community Health Assessment conducted by the Grant County Health District and released April 5.

Newhouse announces start of annual art competition

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., announced Thursday the start of the annual Central Washington Congressional Art Competition. The statement said all Central Washington high school students are eligible to participate and the winning entry will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

Port of Moses Lake names new director

MOSES LAKE — The Port of Moses Lake has selected Dan Roach as its new executive director, port commissioners said at their meeting Monday.

Washington schools names Purple Star districts

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Washington Association of School Administrators have selected the Purple Star Award winners for 2024, according to an announcement from OSPI. Washington state is home to thousands of military-connected families, including active-duty service members, reserves members, and veterans, the announcement said. To recognize school districts that have incorporated military-friendly practices and demonstrate a commitment to military-connected students and families, the 2023 Legislature created the Purple Star Award Program.

Ybarra sees wins, disappointments in 2024 legislative session

OLYMPIA — Washington state Rep. Alex Ybarra, R-Quincy, who represents the 13th legislative district, said there are a lot of things that went well during the short 60-day 2024 legislative session in Olympia. Ybarra said this was his sixth and best session, as he was able to put a lot more bills into the legislature. “I think it went better than the first five sessions I was at. This was the best session yet, because we're always playing catch-up,” he said. “There's nothing that we can pass because we lack votes, and that’s just a given, so because of that we always just basically try to stop bad bills.”

DIAMOND RECAP: Local squads stay busy over spring break

COLUMBIA BASIN – Even with many teams off last week for spring break, there was still plenty of action across the Basin baseball and softball fields.

Double jump: Jacks take doubleheader from Royal

QUINCY — The Quincy Jackrabbits baseball team used good pitching, some timely hits and aggressive baserunning to take both games of a non-league doubleheader from the Royal Knights Saturday.

LETTER: Appreciation and a bit of hindsight

Dear editor, Over the 53 years of living in Moses Lake, we have had kids and grandchildren attend the schools. If I’ve calculated right – from September 1970 through June of 2024 – they have attended 153 years of school in total. Make that nine months a year, which equals 1,377 months. This includes my four children and ten grandchildren.

STUDIO BASIN: Fentanyl challenges and sports successes

MOSES LAKE – In this episode of the STUDIO BASIN Podcast, Managing Editor R. Hans “Rob” Miller sits down with Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete to discuss the issues the county is facing with Fentanyl. The pair discuss what the challenges are for law enforcement as officers work to stem the tide of the dangerous drug in the county and review statistics for Washington and the county in relation to fentanyl overdoses.

LETTER: Be mad about the past, but don’t make our kids pay for it.

As someone who worked really hard to keep the second high school that was approved by voters in the 2017 bond election, I’m very troubled when I hear people citing that situation as a justification for voting no on the current levy election. Levies directly benefit students. If this levy was put up for a vote in 2018, I’d still vote in favor of it. My focus is on doing what is best for the kids, and that’s what the community should focus on as well.

Tom Thomas

Tom Thomas, 76, of Moses Lake passed away April 3, 2024. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

First Cinco de Mayo celebration coming to Othello

OTHELLO – Othello’s recently formed Hispanic Committee will be partnering with the Othello Rotary Club to put on the city’s first Cinco de Mayo celebration May 4 at Lions Park. The free festivities will go from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Weather for the week of April 8, 2024

Weather for the week of April 8, 2024

MLHS alum Maximus Zamora earns All-American honors at NAIA tournament

MOSES LAKE – The success of Moses Lake's storied wrestling program stretches beyond the high school ranks. Maximus Zamora, a 2021 graduate of Moses Lake High School, recently proved that at last month’s National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Championships after battling through injuries throughout the season.

Legals for April, 8 2024

Bills combating fentanyl, opioid addiction in Washington state made law

OLYMPIA/(The Center Square) – Washington state now has more tools to deal with fentanyl addiction in the form of a pair of bills sponsored by Rep. Gina Mosbrucker, R-Goldendale, that were signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee.

Lake Bowl chops the ribbon

Bruce Russell, one of the owners of Lake Bowl, cuts the ceremonial ribbon at Lake Bowl’s mini-golf course Wednesday, surrounded by staff and members of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce. From left: Sherry Russell (in green coat), Cale Russell (behind Sherry), Bob Russell, Horacio Vela (in back), Bruce Russell, Deacon Garza (in back with black cap), Bev Duzon and Danny Stevenson.

Local doubleheader

Quincy's Evander Stephen's hits an inside the park home run to give the Jacks an 8-0 lead in the top of the sixth inning of the first game of a doubleheader with Royal Saturday. The full story will be available in the Tuesday Columbia Basin Herald.

Quincy regional parks district board in process of formation

QUINCY — Selecting board members will be the next step in the formation of the Quincy Valley Regional Parks District. Quincy City Council members approved an interlocal agreement for the city’s participation in the district’s governing board April 2. The agreement must be approved by all three governing entities that make up the district, which includes the cities of Quincy and George and Grant County. The proposed district was approved by voters in November 2023.

Agencies team up to head off fire season

OLYMPIA — A collection of state and federal agencies will join forces this year to combat wildfires, according to an announcement from the Washington Department of Ecology.

Single-vehicle collision closes SR 262

MARDON — A fiery collision left a man in the hospital and closed state Route 262 Friday morning, according to a statement from the Washington State Patrol.

Grant Co. health report highlights disease and mortality rates

MOSES LAKE — LIfe expectancy in Grant County went down in 2020, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and life expectancy in Grant County was lower than the statewide average in 2020. Statistics on life expectancy were among the information included in the “Community Health Assessment” released by the Grant County Health District Friday.

Various factors driving up car insurance premiums in Washington

THE CENTER SQUARE – On the heels of a double-digit increase last year, Washington state drivers can expect to pay even more for auto insurance this year. A report by personal finance website Value Penguin estimates Evergreen State motorists will see the second biggest increase in premiums in the nation this year, at 18%.

Single-vehicle collision closes SR 262

MARDON — A fiery collision left a man in the hospital and closed state Route 262 Friday morning, according to a statement from the Washington State Patrol. At a little after 8:30 a.m., Gabriel Vargas, 39, of Quincy was driving a semi truck east on SR 262 when he drove off the eastbound shoulder and through the guardrail, according to the statement. The truck rolled down the embankment onto its passenger side and caught fire. Vargas, who was wearing a seat belt, was transported to Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake, according to the statement. Neither drugs nor alcohol was a factor in the collision. The incident is under investigation. SR 262 reopened at 4:40 Friday afternoon, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.

Martha ‘Mardi’ Carroll

Nov. 20, 1947 – Feb. 14, 2024

On Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, loving mother and grandmother, Martha “Mardi” Ann Carroll (Trask) passed away at the age of 76 in Ephrata, Wash. Born in Hanau, Germany on Nov. 20, 1947, Mardi was born by the name Brigitte Maria to Elise Liselotte Ruffer. In search of a better life for her daughter, Mardi’s birth mother placed her for adoption at a very young age where she finally found her forever home with her parents, Raymond Harrison and Lucia Elizabeth Trask, in Moses Lake, Washington. Growing up in Mae Valley, she enjoyed country life especially riding her horse. In 1966, Mardi graduated Moses Lake High School and spent the majority of her life living in Moses Lake until she finally retired to Ephrata, Washington. She spent the span of her working years in the service industry and spent her retired years in the service of others. During her life, she served in many roles and positions to honor our American veterans and the Ephrata community. Most recently she was a 20-plus-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the 9th District Women’s Auxiliary president, the president of the Ephrata Historical Society, the secretary of the Columbia Basin Carriage Club, secretary and founding member of her chip toss league and a previous longtime member of the Soap Lake Rod and Gun Club.

Sprint to success: Mavs 4x100 relay team breaks school record set in 1978

MOSES LAKE — As everybody who’s ever been involved in track and field knows, relays are tough. Sprint relays are even tougher. Not only does the leadoff have to get out of the blocks - a clean start is crucial in sprints - but the handoffs have to be precise, especially when runners are coming in fast and going out fast. It’s so easy to mess up the pass. Or worse, drop the baton...

Othello Easter Egg Hunt draws large crowd, plans for bigger event next year

OTHELLO – The Othello Holiday Committee put on Othello’s first Easter Egg Hunt event in Lions Park Saturday afternoon, drawing in a large attendance according to Committee Manager Tania Morelos.

Basin box score roundup for April 5, 2024

MOSES LAKE – Most of the student athletes in the Basin are on Spring Break this week, but there have been a few games for Moses Lake and Othello teams, both of which performed well in their respective sports.

Flooring experts

Basin Select Surfaces opens doors in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — Basin Select Surfaces is brand-new, but they’re moving quickly to offer flooring options to area homeowners. “We got the keys to the actual building in November,” said Ruvim Nakonechny, who owns the business in partnership with his brother-in-law Dennis Andriychuk. “Then we started doing a bunch of remodeling, and then … on the 23rd of March, we opened the doors for business.” Basin Select Surfaces is a three-man family operation, Nakonechny said. Andriychuk came over from the west side, where he did contracting work, when he married Nakonechny’s sister, he said, and Ruvim Nakonechny’s brother Mark works for them as well. Both Andriychuk and the Nakonechny brothers come from large families, and opening day included lots of younger siblings waving signs on the corner by the Alder Street Fill and up the sidewalk along Broadway.

Police logs for April 5, 2024

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Legals for April, 5 2024

WSDA local food chain grant application opens

OLYMPIA – According to a recent announcement, the Washington State Department of Agriculture is offering $2 million in grants to support local food supply chains and market access for farms, ranches, food processors and food distributors.

Disclosure commission welcomes new leader

OLYMPIA — Jim Oswald was named to the Public Disclosure Commission by Gov. Jay Inslee April 1, according to an announcement from the PDC.

Soap Lake enrollment drop affects revenue, places staffing at risk

SOAP LAKE — Enrollment in the Soap Lake School District dropped substantially from the 2021-22 school year to the current school year, and that brought with it a drop in revenue. The Soap Lake School Board declared a financial emergency at its March 25 board meeting, citing a drop in enrollment as one of the factors in their decision.

Othello-Richland match rained out, Huskies lead 4-3

OTHELLO – The Othello Huskies home softball game Thursday afternoon against the Richland Bombers ended early due to poor field conditions from rain. The game ended with the Huskies leading 4-3 at the top of the fourth inning.

Inconvenient accommodation

Short-term rentals have Moses Lake residents upset, but city may be able to help

MOSES LAKE — The prevalence of short-term or vacation rentals has upset some people in Moses Lake. “(There’s been) increased activity, a lot of vehicles and trailers,” said Moses Lake resident Rebecca Hutsell, who said her neighborhood has at least four homes available for short-term rental that she knows of. Traffic through the one entrance into her neighborhood can get hectic, she said. “Everybody wants to bring their trailers ... A lot of strangers in the neighborhood we don't know,” Hutsell said.

BBCC’s conference season off to sluggish start

MOSES LAKE — The Big Bend Community College Vikings got the conference season off to a slow start Wednesday, losing two games to the Blue Mountain Timberwolves at Viking Field, according to an announcement from BBCC.

Eldon J. Clark

Nov. 21, 1934 – April 2, 2024

This obituary was written by Eldon before he died. Eldon J. Clark, 89, went the way of all living and died, April 2, 2024, at his country home in Moses Lake, Wash.

Jason Aaron Connor Finke

Jason Aaron Connor Finke, 31, of Ephrata Washington, passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Jason was born on Sept. 13, 1992, in Wenatchee, Washington to Jake and Jeanne Finke. He was a man of faith, a vibrant spirit, a beloved son, a father who adored his son Waylon, a friend and a cowboy. He attended primary school in Ephrata, Washington and went to Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, Washington. Jason loved the rural small-town life, growing up on the family farm, and following in his grandfather’s footsteps as a volunteer fireman with the Grant County Fire District 3. He transitioned from 4-H, Future Farmers of America and the Smokiam Washington State High School Equestrian Team to the hard life of a professional rodeo cowboy in the Western States Ranch Rodeo Association.

First-year Othello goalkeeper learns to fit in with team, local area

OTHELLO – Guarding the net for the Othello boys soccer team this season has been senior Aksel Jebsen, who’s been using his six-foot-eight frame to break up opposing shots in the early weeks of the season. Even though he’s a senior, this is Jebsen’s first year playing with the Huskies. In fact, this is his first year in the country.

Columbia Basin Foundation works to help establish legacies

EPHRATA – The Columbia Basin Foundation has been working for years now to help ensure community members throughout the Basin can leave a lasting legacy in their hometowns, counties and communities they’re a part of, said Corrine Isaak, CBF executive director. That was the goal set by founders Rick Honsowetz and Randy Dickinson, she said.

Sail On to bring sounds of Beach Boys to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The sounds of endless summer come to the stage at the Wallenstien Theater April 9. Sail On, a quintet paying tribute to the Beach Boys, performs at 7 p.m. The concert is sponsored by the Central Basin Community Concert Association.

Legals for April, 4 2024

Ephrata Chamber events scheduled

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Chamber of Commerce has dates set for its annual events for 2024. More information regarding these events may be found at EphrataChamber.org.

Distracted driving emphasis patrols continuing through April 8

OLYMPIA — Law enforcement agencies across the state will be conducting emphasis patrols focusing on distracted driving through April 8, according to a press release from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

Commerce invests nearly $20M into affordable housing

OLYMPIA — The Department of Commerce this week announced $19.8 million in awards to 31 applicants to preserve 873 affordable housing units through the Housing Preservation Program. These projects provide critically needed housing to some of Washington’s most vulnerable populations, according to the announcement.

Wreaths Across America partners with Military Order of the World Wars

COLUMBIA FALLS, Me., and ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Wreaths Across America announced Tuesday the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Military Order of the World Wars, solidifying a partnership aimed at bolstering support for veterans and their families across the nation.

Road upgrades near Gorge Amphitheater on schedule

GEORGE — The asphalt is going down on sections of Silica Road Northwest and Southwest and West Baseline Road near the Gorge Amphitheater. Grant County Engineer David Bren said the project is on schedule. “They’re paving already,” Bren said.

Late-inning slip forces BBCC split with CBC

MOSES LAKE — Coming off of a rough conference home opener, the Big Bend Community College Vikings traveled to Pasco Saturday to finish out the four-game set, according to an announcement from BBCC.

Grant County building permits Feb. 24 – April 1

Grant County building permits Feb. 24 – April 1

Annis "Ann" Smith

Feb. 19, 1937 — March 21, 2024

Annis (Ann) Smith, 87, passed away peacefully March 21, 2024, in Ephrata, Wash. She was born Feb. 19, 1937, in Los Angeles, Calif., to Harold and Thelma Hutton.

Jane Dione Pierpoint

Dec. 22, 1937 – Dec. 4, 2023

Jane Dione Pierpoint, 85, an amazing, caring, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister was called Home on December 4, 2023. Jane was born to Frank and Viola Pierpoint on December 22, 1937, Jane grew up in Coulee City, Wash., the seventh of twelve children. Jane's greatest love was her family. She cherished time spent with family. Especially important were holiday get-togethers and the annual Pierpoint-Nutt reunion.

Social media contributes to bullying in Quincy schools

QUINCY — A survey of Quincy Middle School and Quincy High School students indicates that most students believe they can get help from an adult if they think they are being bullied. Data from the 2023-24 school year to date indicates relatively few referrals to administrators for bullying cases. But Superintendent Nik Bergman said it’s still a concern in Quincy schools, and that district officials need the help of parents to combat it.

Senior exercise programs pay long-term dividends in health

COLUMBIA BASIN — Classics require a little more maintenance. That applies to cars, houses and bodies, according to the National Council on Aging. “Regular exercise can help older adults stay independent and prevent many health problems that come with age,” the NCOA wrote on its website.

Earned honor: Civil Air Patrol celebrates prestigious cadet promotion

EPHRATA — Daisy Carpenter, a member of the Columbia Basin Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, was promoted from cadet first lieutenant to cadet captain during a ceremony at Camp Boucher in Ephrata Thursday evening.

Legals for April, 3 2024

Gonzaga partners with Ziplines Education to advance E. WA workforce

SPOKANE — Gonzaga University announced a partnership with Ziplines Education in late March designed to help Zags and other Eastern Washington students fortify their skills in the workforce through certification programs. “Our goal has been to expand our professional offerings in the community so that people have more ways to learn through Gonzaga,” said Rachelle Strawther, director of Gonzaga’s Center for Lifelong Learning. “Gonzaga has been very well known for undergrad and graduate education, and, of course, basketball. But, noncredit learning is somewhat new to Gonzaga’s overall portfolio.”

Applicants sought for Solid Waste Advisory Commission

EPHRATA — The Grant County Commission is looking for a volunteer to fill an open position on the county’s Solid Waste Advisory Committee. The position is open to applicants from southern Grant County, District 3, which includes Mattawa.

Othello museum requests funds from Adams County

OTHELLO – The March 27 Adams County Commissioners’ meeting in Othello featured an update from the Othello Community Museum on its operations, as well as a request for financial assistance for the museum to start its own website. Secretary for the museum LuAnn Morgan introduced the request.

Hands 'N Paws says temp shelter doing well one month in

OTHELLO — Hands ‘N Paws Animal Assistance officially began its contractual services for sheltering animals in the city of Othello March 1. After a month of operations, Hands ‘N Paws founder Carmon Derting said things are going well.

State begins annual beetle treatments

OLYMPIA – Annual treatments against invasive Japanese beetles began Monday in South Central Washington, according to an announcement from the Washington State Department of Agriculture. WSDA is conducting treatments in Grandview, Sunnyside, Mabton, Prosser, Wapato and Pasco as part of a multi-year eradication effort.

ACH’s Molitor looks to build off fourth-place state finish

COULEE CITY — A year after taking fourth at the 1B/2B Girls State Golf Championships as a freshman, Almira/Coulee-Hartline sophomore Naomi Molitor returns to the course this season aiming for yet another high placing. “It felt really good that it was my first year, and that I could accomplish something that big – it just made me think that in years to come, I can do that again and I can do a lot better,” Molitor said. Molitor won a district championship to qualify for the state tournament, coming back from a significant first-day deficit.

Basin sports schedule April 3-9

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis and track and field events.

Loren F. Richard

Nov. 14, 1935 – Feb. 23, 2024

Loren F. Richard, longtime Washington State resident passed away Friday, Feb. 23, 2023. He was 88 years old. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. April 17, 2024, at the American Legion Post in Ephrata, Wash.

Kathleen Morley

Feb. 25, 1945 – March 28, 2024

Kathleen ‘Katy’ Ann (Baier) Morley, 79, passed away at home March 28, 2024 in Centralia, Wash.

Dean Mallory Owen

Aug. 24, 1937 – March 4, 2024

Colonel Dean Mallory Owen, 86, was born August 24, 1937, in Pullman, Washington to Frank Dean Owen and Stella Amanda (Farley) Owen in the family home located on South State Street across from the old Pullman High School.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: It takes a village…

EPHRATA – We’ve all heard the old saying telling us that it “takes a village to raise a child” or some similar paraphrase. After my experience last Thursday with the We Are Ephrata Town Hall, I’d have to say that it’s also important to note that it takes a village to raise a town.

CWU musician shines at National Trumpet Competition

ELLENSBURG — A Central Washington University music student etched her name in the history books last month when she won the undergraduate solo division at the National Trumpet Competition (NTC).

FRESH NEWS: Potholes promising for bass, trout and walleye while perch, crappie and bluegill need a bit more time

MARDON – The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1043.70 feet – coming up a half a foot this past week.

FRESH NEWS: Largemouth fishing good, smallmouth picking up at Potholes

MARDON — The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,043.70 feet, coming up 0.5 feet this past week. We are currently 2.8 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 50 degrees. The sand dunes are reaching the mid- to upper 50s. The largemouth bass fishing continues to been very good. Fish back in the sand dunes. Throw 1/2-ounce black-and-blue jigs, swim jigs, jerkbaits, chatter baits, spinnerbaits and Texas-rigged plastics. There have been reports of bass on beds. Smallmouth bass are being caught. Fish 18-30 feet using drop shot rigs, blade baits and tubes. Fish the rock piles around Goose Island and along the face of the dam.

Grant County property tax statements mailed

EPHRATA — While some property owners will see new taxes and levies on their 2024 property tax statements, for most areas the total levy rate is lower than 2023. Grant County Treasurer Darryl Pheasant wrote in a press release that property tax statements were mailed late last week.

Grant PUD to start sending text alerts

EPHRATA — The Grant County PUD has started a system to alert customers to electrical or fiber outages in their areas via text message.

On the flip side

Moses Lake youth qualify for gymnastics finals

MOSES LAKE — Sometimes working really, really hard at something pays off. As the athletes at AIM Gymnastics are finding out. The club, which has about 70 gymnasts ranging in age from 11 to almost 18, has four going to regional competitions this year. One competition will be held in Boise, according to coach Natassia Garcia, and the other in Anchorage. Many of them have been doing gymnastics most of their lives, they said. Clara Knapp is 15, a freshman at Moses Lake High School, and she’s spent 12 1/2 years learning and practicing. “I'm glad I started young because I have so much flexibility and stuff I can do, like flips that a lot of people my age can't do,” she said. “It gives me something to show off.”

Legals for April, 2 2024

Legals for April, 2 2024

Planning tools aim to help prepare the power grid for future climate extremes

PULLMAN — New planning tools developed by Washington State University researchers could someday help power grid planners and operators better prepare for extreme weather events that are expected from climate change.

Mammoth exhibit comes to Moses Lake museum

MOSES LAKE — Mammoths are kind of hard to find these days, but local folks will get to see the next best thing Saturday at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center.

Presentation looks at Big Bend railroads

MOSES LAKE — Before there were freeways and airlines, the life of the Columbia Basin centered on the rail lines, a heritage that can still be seen today in the small towns that dot the Basin’s landscape. Those trains will be the subject of the season opener Thursday in the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center’s Spring Speaker Series, according to an announcement from the museum. Railroad historian and author – and former Columbia Basin Herald columnist – Dan Bolyard will present “Fires, Wrecks and Floods: Highlights of Railroading in the Columbia Basin,” according to the announcement. The event will be at 6 p.m. at the Moses Lake Civic Center, 401 S. Balsam St. Admission is free but seating is limited to the first 200 attendees.

MLSD levy ballots mailed this week

MOSES LAKE — Ballots will be mailed to Moses Lake School District voters later this week for a special election to decide the fate of a two-year educational programs and operations levy request. Ballots must be returned by or postmarked April 23. The levy proposal is identical to one rejected by voters in February. If it’s approved property owners will pay $2 per $1,000 of assessed property value. That’s an increase of 50 cents per $1,000 from the levy approved by voters in 2021.

UPS to become primary carrier for USPS

UPS will become the primary air cargo provider for the United States Postal Service. The Atlanta shipping company said Monday that it had received an air cargo contract from the U.S. Postal Service that significantly expands an existing partnership between the two. UPS will move the majority of air cargo in the U.S. for the postal service following a transition period, according to UPS. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Google to purge billions of files containing personal data in settlement of Chrome privacy case

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Google has agreed to purge billions of records containing personal information collected from more than 136 million people in the U.S. surfing the internet through its Chrome web browser. The move comes as part of a settlement in a lawsuit accusing the search giant of illegal surveillance. Although Google isn't paying consumers any money in the case, estimates made in court records pegged the value of the privacy controls at $4.75 billion to $7.8 billion. The details of the settlement emerged in a court filing Monday, more than three months after Google and the attorneys handling the class-action case disclosed they had resolved June 2020 lawsuit targeting Chrome’s privacy controls.

Roellich recognized as Banner Bank’s Best

MOSES LAKE — Kellan Roellich, a credit analyst for Banner Bank’s Moses Lake branch, has been selected for the Banner’s Best award, according to an announcement from Banner Bank.

WA addresses AI in public schools

OLYMPIA — The widespread use of artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the classroom experience for students and teachers across Washington state. As educators find themselves at the forefront of this technological revolution, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction has released guidance and resources intended to adopt responsible use of AI, according to an OSPI press release..

Gonzalez’s late goal propels Othello over Selah

OTHELLO – A late goal broke a 1-1 tie between Othello and Selah in Saturday’s Central Washington Athletic Conference match, giving the Huskies a 2-1 win to improve to 4-1 in league games this spring.

Town hall gathers Ephrata officials together in one room

EPHRATA — Eight public officials and figures from Ephrata gathered onstage at the Ephrata High School Performing Arts Center Thursday evening for the We Are Ephrata Town Hall, providing updates on the various agencies and organizations in the city. The event was organized and moderated by the Columbia Basin Herald with assistance from students in Ephrata High School’s TigerVision group and community leaders.

26th Annual Sandhill Crane Festival one of the largest in years

OTHELLO — The 2024 Sandhill Crane Festival flew into town the weekend of March 22, bringing with it a flock of visitors and bird enthusiasts heading into Othello. Festival Co-chair Kurt Braunwart said this year’s event had one of the largest attendances yet. “As we lead up to it, we always worry about how it's going to go, and then we get here for the day, and the attendees are so appreciative of being able to learn about the area, learn about the wildlife, learn about the connection of people, farming, and wildlife,” Braunwart said. “It's going wonderful.” The event featured numerous lectures, tours, informational booths and activities for event attendees, covering birds, nature and wildlife in the Othello area. “(There were) a lot of topics about geology, the Ice Age flood, other birds, mammals, the interaction of that wildlife with human life, like the heritage garden talk,” Braunwart said, “and then that springs into how can you do a type of local landscape garden that helps promote the native (vegetation and wildlife) as well, which helps to tie everything together.”

Sleep Center sheds to be replaced with Pallet shelters

MOSES LAKE — The Open Doors Sleep Center will get an upgrade soon. The Moses Lake City Council gave final approval March 26 for the purchase of 40 Pallet Shelter structures to replace the sheds currently in use. The move has been in the works for some time, City Manager Kevin Fuhr said, but the city wanted to move quickly in order to get a good deal on the shelters. “The Pallet shelters that we're purchasing, they don't make anymore,” Fuhr said. “They've got 100 available to purchase, and we're trying to secure 40 of them. That's why we wanted to get this done ASAP ... because the new Pallet shelters that they're building are costing more money and we didn't want to pay more if we didn't have to.”

Weather for the week of April 1, 2024

Weather for the week of April 1, 2024

STUDIO BASIN: Soap Lake School District, traffic updates and Maverick baseball

MOSES LAKE — A developing story in Soap Lake, awards for local law enforcement officers for their heroism and summer traffic season in the Columbia Basin were the subjects of the STUDIO BASIN podcast for March 29. The Soap Lake School Board asked for the resignation of Superintendent Aaron Chavez during the board meeting March 25, and board members also declared a financial emergency. According to the resolution, the financial emergency could lead to reductions in school district staff. Law enforcement officers from the Moses Lake Police Department, Grant County Sheriff’s Office and Quincy Police Department received recognition for acts of heroism. Quincy officer Stephen Harder received the Carnegie Medal for Heroism for his part in rescuing an unconscious woman from a burning house in January 2023. Moses Lake officers Edgar Salazar, Kyle McCain, Omar Ramirez and Curt Ledeboer, along with Korey Judkins from the GCSO received the Washington State Medal of Honor for their actions in saving a woman during a shooting at the Gorge Amphitheater in June 2023.

Legals for April, 1 2024