Ellington

Report: WA has the second-highest paying STEM jobs in U.S.

(The Center Square) – A new study shows that Washington state ranks second in the nation for salaries for jobs related to science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Evergreen State STEM jobs pay an average salary of $123,954, topped only by California’s $124,937.

Washington could be next state to restrict cell phone usage in schools

(The Center Square) – As more school districts across the country move to ban cell phones during class time, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction has issued a call for Washington schools to overhaul their cell phone policies.

Possible blue-green algae in south Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Health District received a report of a suspected blue-green algae bloom in the South Moses Lake area, near the Sand Dunes. Samples will be taken next week, according to the GCHD press release.

John Campbell

1935 — 2024

John R. Campbell was born August 17, 1935, in Mesa, Arizona to Dave and Genevia (Stansberry) Campbell.

Cheryl Lampe

Jan. 15, 1953 — Aug. 21, 2024

Our sweet mom, Cheryl Lampe, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. We imagine our dad, being the gentleman that he was and how much he loved her, was there waiting at the gates of heaven to open the door for her and hold her hand. What a celebration they must be having!

Wahluke opens season with young but eager squad

MATTAWA — The Wahluke Warriors are going to have to overcome a lot of inexperience this year. “We’re pretty sophomore-heavy,” Head Coach Anfernee Cortez said. “And then we’ve got a lot of seniors who are joining us for the first year.”

Young but experienced Warden team prepares for '24

WARDEN -- After seeing 11 seniors graduate from last year’s roster the Warden Cougars bring a team of 28 players into the 2024 season, including several young players who received playing time a season ago.head coach

Vantage Bridge construction to shift to seven days per week

VANTAGE — The unofficial end of summer also means the winding down of most road construction projects, but some are still ongoing and drivers should plan for some delays through the end of October.

Columbia Basin events calendar for September 2024

COLUMBIA BASIN — Fairs, festivals, live music and art mark the end of summer in the Basin. Here are some things to do this month:

Mavs aim to return high-scoring offense in 2024

MOSES LAKE -- Coming off an 8-2 season where the Mavericks finished one game shy of reaching the 4A State Football Tournament, Moses Lake is looking to field yet another high-flying offense on the field in 2024.

Soap Lake aims to build on last year’s wins

SOAP LAKE -- The Soap Lake Eagles will be fun to watch this season, head coach Garrett Devine said. Devine says that they have a lot of the same players returning this year and he plans on building on what they learned last year.

Man arrested for damaging, stealing canal liners

MOSES LAKE – A 57-year-old Moses Lake resident, Ivan Puyu, was arrested Aug. 17 after allegedly damaging and stealing two canal liners near the recent irrigation canal breach site according to a press release from Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Irrigation canal liners are typically large tarps.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it is.”

Police urge people to hang up, prior to becoming the next victim of a scam

MOSES LAKE – Police departments across the country, including those in Grant County, have reported a rising incidence of scam calls targeting vulnerable individuals, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

GALLERY: Football flashback 2023

COLUMBIA BASIN – As the new school year starts, so does football season. Here is a look back at last year’s season as we begin our coverage of the 2024 season on the gridiron. Speaking of Gridiron... Take a look at our bonus section today to view this year’s Gridiron Guide. We spoke with coaches, players and visited practices to see local athletes in action and put together a story for each school. The Columbia Basin Herald team wish each of the local footballers a fun season. We know you’ll make us all proud. Keep tackling, passing, running and driving for excellence.

Broncos place emphasis on health in 2024

RITZVILLE -- One of the challenges the Lind-Ritzville/Sprague Broncos encountered in the 2023 season was staying healthy, with several key players missing time in what eventually led to a 5-5 campaign. This year, there’s an emphasis on the health aspect of the game, and it starts in practice.

‘Making state isn’t enough’

Warriors look to improve off playoff finish

COULEE CITY -- Two years removed from hoisting a state championship trophy, the Almira/Coulee-Hartline Warriors return an experienced roster hoping to make another run in the 1B State Football Tournament.

Quincy football coach thinks players can meet challenges of new league

QUINCY — It’s not only a new season but a whole new league for the Quincy football team. Coach Russ Elliott said the Jackrabbits’ success or failure might be more about themselves than their opponents.

Huskie football team looking to return to state playoffs

OTHELLO — The Othello Huskies started the 2023 football season with a team dominated by sophomores and a lot of unknowns; they finished with a 7-3 record and a state playoff appearance. So, in 2024, Othello starts with high expectations and – well, some unknowns.

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 30, 2024

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

Liulamaga selected by Seattle in first round of MLR Collegiate Draft

ELLENSBURG - The Central Washington University men's rugby team earned a first-round selection in the 2024 MLR Collegiate Draft when the Seattle Seawolves selected Calvin Liulamaga with the 11th pick.

Playing some good old Ephrata football

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Tigers will start the season with strong senior leadership and up and coming players according to head coach Patrick Mitchell. Last year the team had a 6-4 season and Ephrata were the first in its district.

‘They’re definitely capable of doing some really good things this year’

Knights seek fifth straight title, eighth in last nine years

ROYAL CITY -- Deep playoff runs are nothing new for the Royal Knights, who have finished atop the 1A classification in seven of the previous eight state tournaments, including each of the previous four seasons.

MLCA/CCS looks to build off success in inaugural season

MOSES LAKE -- Fresh off a 7-2 season in its inaugural year, the Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School football team is looking to recapture the success found in the 2023 season.

Quincy housing market evening out but still tough on first-time buyers

QUINCY — The real estate market is evening out in Quincy, according to real estate agent Tom Parrish, but it’s still an uphill battle to get into a first home.

FIRE REPORT: 1,600 acres burned in Adams Co.

RITZVILLE – The Schrag Road Fire began at around 12:19 p.m. on Tuesday. The fire burned 1,600 acres according to NIFC. It also leveled two older unopposed buildings, according to the Adam’s County Sheriff’s Office. ASCO believes the fire was started by a farmer mowing.

Building permits for Aug. 30, 2024

City of Othello

Gesa teams with charities for Hunger Action Month

RICHLAND ‒ Gesa Credit Union is teaming up with longtime partners Second Harvest and Food Lifeline to address food insecurity in the Northwest this Hunger Action Month, according to an announcement from Gesa. Throughout September, the three organizations will work together to mobilize the community to take action against the devastating impact hunger has locally. As the presenting sponsor for this year’s Hunger Action Month, Gesa will match up to $25,000 each in total donations to both Second Harvest and Food Lifeline, according to the announcement. The credit union will also collect monetary donations and host food drives for non-perishable food items at its branches throughout the month. All three organizations encourage the community to donate if they are able or volunteer their time at several opportunities across Washington on Hunger Action Day, which falls on Sept. 10.

Legals for August, 30 2024

2 arrested for suspected car theft, assault in Quincy

QUINCY — A Moses Lake man and Moses Lake teen were arrested on suspicion of robbery and assault after they allegedly stole a car, crashed it and ran away, with one suspect knocking on doors in a Quincy neighborhood asking for a ride.

Law enforcement on alert for Labor Day

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Patrol put out a notice for Labor Day weekend, reminding people to be cautious on roads and make it to their destination safely. Troopers and olaw enforcement will conducte

Sergio Cervantes

May 17, 1957 – Aug. 26, 2024

Sergio Jose Cervantes, a longtime resident of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away on Monday, Aug. 26, due to complications from heart disease. He was 67 years old.

Donn Richard Harris

Feb. 14, 1953 – Aug. 18, 2024

Donn Richard Harris passed away peacefully on Aug. 18, 2024. Donn was born on Feb. 14, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois to Richard and Donna (Kater) Schweitzer and was reared by Donna and Burton Harris. Having an aptitude for learning, Donn graduated from Admiral Farragut Academy after only three years, when he was 17 years old. He had various jobs in his young adult life, including working in hydraulics, where he helped create the Universal Studios Shark Exhibit. Donn spent his youth in Puerto Rico and Spain with his parents Donna and Burton and became fluent in Spanish. He later made his career as a certified Spanish court interpreter, one of the first in Grant County, Washington.

GCSO in search of next of kin

DESERT AIRE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help finding the family of Ventura Estrada Angulo who died Aug. 21 due to a traffic collision, according to GCSO press release.

Ephrata church continues to clothe those in need

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Seventh Day Adventist Church continues to offer gently-used clothing to those in need every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., said parishioner Richard Withers, who runs the program with his wife Joan Withers and help from volunteers.

Quincy to study possible water project partnership

QUINCY — The city of Quincy could be working with two local businesses to build a facility to treat water used in food processing. The city will sign an application for a $20 million grant as part of a project with Ag-Iris, a consortium representing Quincy Foods and Lamb-Weston.

Cougars prep for season-opener against Portland State

PULLMAN – A long off-season ends for Washington State on Saturday, as the Cougars prepare to host Portland State in the 2024 season's opening game. “To finally be here, there’s just so much excitement for our team, our coaching staff, hopefully our university, our fan base – it’s all come, and the sights and sound of football are here,” WSU Head Coach Jake Dickert said at a press conference Monday. “What an opportunity that’s afforded to us.”

Samaritan construction remains on schedule, on budget

MOSES LAKE — If construction of Samaritan Hospital stays on schedule, the first patients will be treated in the new facility in early March 2026. Joe Kunkel, a consultant on the project since its inception, told Samaritan commissioners Tuesday that planning for the move will start soon.

New school year, new playground for Tiger Club Preschool

EPHRATA – This last summer, crews moved play equipment from city property onto school district property at the Tiger Club Preschool, according to a press release from Ephrata School District.

Masquers announce ‘Annie” cast, 2024-25 lineup

SOAP LAKE — Masquers Theater in Soap Lake has cast its production of “Annie,” according to an announcement from the troupe, and also revealed its 2024-2025 schedule.

MLSD begins school year

Interim superintendent addresses public concerns

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake interim superintendent, Carol Lewis released a statement on Aug. 23 for the celebration of back to school. The statement begins by saying that the financial situation the MLSD is in is not the fault of students, staff, school administrators or the community and measures are being taken to regain financial traction, according to Lewis.

Diamond Shruumz continue to present health risks

MOSES LAKE – Diamond Shruumz products have been officially recalled by the FDA; however, people are still obtaining them resulting in illness, hospitalization, and two potential deaths, according to Grant County Health District. The GCHD put out a statement saying that there have been 145 illnesses, two of which have been in Washington and one in Grant County.

Nat Washington Way to be repaired in spring

EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata has received a $200,000 grant from the Grant County Strategic Infrastructure Program Advisory Committee at the Grant County Board of Commissioners to repair Nat Washington Way.

WDFW seeks input on fishing rule changes in Chelan, Grant counties

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife invites the public to participate in an upcoming public meeting regarding two proposed changes to fishing regulations in Chelan and Grant counties, according to an announcement from WDFW.

FIRE REPORT: Schrag Road fire in Adams Co. contained

RITZVILLE – As of 7 a.m. Wednesday morning, state-mobilization resources took command of the Schrag road fire and will remain on the scene for the rest of the day for mop-up as needed, according to Adams County Fire District 2.

CAA pulls weeds, cleans up at North Elementary

MOSES LAKE — The campus of North Elementary School in Moses Lake looks a little nicer through the efforts of a group of students and community volunteers.

New badge

EPHRATA – Officer Rebecca Amos, the Ephrata Police Department’s newest officer, was sworn in last week during the regular Ephrata City Council meeting. Her father pinned her badge on during the swearing in ceremony. Above, Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim swears Amos in.

Legals for August, 29 2024

Silver alert released for 78-year-old Richland man

Silver alert released for 78-year-old Richland man

Richard DeBeaumont

July 8, 1929 – Aug. 12, 2024

Richard DeBeaumont, 95, passed to life eternal at his home Aug. 12, 2024. He was born July 8, 1929, to Ralph & Macel Mangia DeBeaumont at Clarkston, Washington.

Angel Betes

March 1, 1939 – August 18, 2024

Angel Betes Buesa, 85, of Moses Lake, Washington, went to his rest in Jesus on Aug. 18, 2024. He was born on March 1, 1939 at home to Edwardo and Auncia Betes in Undues Pintano, Zaragoza, Spain and was one of nine children. In October 1962, Angel and his brother Joe followed his brothers Sebastian and Alfred to America. Their destination was Bakersfield, California, where they worked as shepherds for the next four years. He shepherded flocks of up to 2,000 sheep during the fall and winter. Angel traveled with his flock from Bakersfield to the Mojave Desert to Mono Lake. He and Joe were able to spend summers together in the Mono Lake area with their flocks, fishing and gathering earthworms, which they sold for spending money.

GCHD to hold Community Resource Fair Saturday

MOSES LAKE — Drug addictions – and drug overdoses – affect almost everybody at some point, whether through their own experiences or those of someone they love. The Grant County Health District will highlight Saturday at its Community Resource Fair in McCosh Park.

Desert Aire shooting leaves two minors injured

DESERT AIRE -- A shooting shortly after 8 p.m. at Desert Aire Park ended with two juveniles being shot, one with a minor injury to the leg and another being taken by helicopter to an area trauma center for life-threatening injuries, Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said in a Tuesday morning interview.

CBBRC to host Patriot Fall Classic Race

MOSES LAKE – The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club will host its third classic race of the year early next month, with the Patriot Fall Classic Race coming to the Ardell Pavilion at the Grant County Fairgrounds.

First RitzFest overcomes hitches to showcase local talent

RITZVILLE — The first annual RitzFest – a new festival showcasing local musical talent – went off well, all things considered.

Longtime Ritzville Police Chief to retire Sept. 30

RITZVILLE — A first review of applications for the job of Ritzville Police Chief is scheduled for Sept. 3. Ritzville Mayor Scott Yaeger said there are three applicants. The new chief will replace longtime Chief David McCormick, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

House of hope

Oxford House opens new home for women and children in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The house on Ashley Way looks like most other houses in the neighborhood. It’s got an upstairs and a downstairs, bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen and a deck. But it’s an Oxford House, which means it also holds hope.

Royal SD adapting to declines in enrollment

Administration adjusts budget to address decline in student body

ROYAL CITY — Royal School District officials are projecting lower enrollment for the 2024-25 school year. The budget approved by the Royal School Board projects enrollment at the equivalent of 1,611 students, about 14 students below the 2023-24 budget and 22 students below actual average enrollment for the last school year. District superintendent Roger Trail said smaller enrollments may be the wave of the future.

FIRE REPORT: Two fires sparked in Grant Co., one in Adams

MOSES LAKE – A fire blazed up in Adams County shortly after noon Tuesday. The fire burned around a five mile stretch of land, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and closed at least one lane of I-90. Two older unoccupied buildings were lost to the fire, according to ACSO.

Legals for August, 28 2024

MACC dispatch supervisor retires after 34 years

MOSES LAKE – Becky Stokoe, Multi Agency Communications Center 911 supervisor and former longtime dispatcher retired Monday. Stokoe worked as a dispatcher for 34 years, starting in 1988. She was one of the original MACC dispatchers, beginning that role in 1998. “I liked, you know, helping people and making sure all the responders made it home at night and keeping them safe,” Stokoe said. “I'm going to miss it very much.”

Cindy Lee Phillips

Cindy Lee Phillips passed away at the age of 65 on May 13, 2024, at her home in Seattle, Wash. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Roberto De Leon

1949 – 2024

Roberto De Leon, 75, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 24, 2024, in the comfort of his home in Moses Lake, Wash. The youngest of 11 siblings, Roberto was born in 1949, in Raymonville, Texas to the late Cleotilde and Amelia De Leon. The De Leon family were migrant farm workers and they would spend their summers working in Virginia, then traveled to Florida to work for the winter.

Deutschesfest 2024 coming

Lots of food, beer and music at Odessa’s fall festival

ODESSA — It’s time to break out the lederhosen and fill the steins, as the 53rd annual Deutschesfest takes over Odessa Sept. 19-22. “Last year we had probably 7,500, 10,000 (attendees), somewhere in there,” said Odessa Chamber of Commerce President Matt Roberson. “It gets busy for three days.”

Boys & Girls Clubs will continue at MLSD

Memorandum worked out between organizations to support after-school programming.

MOSES LAKE — Officials from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin and the Moses Lake School District are scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding later this week allowing operation of the Boys and Girls Clubs locations at four MLSD elementary schools.

Warden School District unveils updated strategic plan

WARDEN — The Back-to-School open house for Warden School District students included a look at the district’s updated strategic plan. Warden Superintendent Scott West said the plan’s goal is to ensure Warden students can do what they want when they leave school.

FIRE REPORT: Cold front to elevate fire conditions in Grant and Adams Co.

MOSES LAKE – According to the National Weather Service’s Spokane office, there will be a cold front blowing through the region with high winds that will elevate fire conditions.

Shulenberger earns win No. 100 as Cougs beat Vandals

PULLMAN – The Washington State Cougar soccer team (2-1) defeated the Idaho Vandals, 2-1, Sunday night at Lower Soccer Field to give Head Coach Todd Shulenberger his 100th career win. Seniors Jenna Studer and Julianna Duckett each scored their first goal of the season to secure the win.

Eagles blank Coyotes and move to 2-1

VERMILLION, S.D. — Another morning match, another victory. Eastern in their third road match to start off the season left victorious in their 2-0 victory over South Dakota.

News Bites for Aug. 27, 2024

News Bites for Aug. 27, 2024

Emergency rules implemented to combat Chronic Wasting Disease in WA

OLYMPIA – In response to a confirmed case of chronic wasting disease in Spokane County this past July, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has enacted several emergency regulations aimed at curbing the disease's spread according to a WDFW Aug. 23 press release

Stolen forklift found; two suspects booked

OTHELLO – The Adam’s County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a stolen Genie Telehandler Forklift Aug. 19 in the 1900 block of West Hatton Road, according to an ACSO press release.

Legals for August, 27 2024

Scam caller impersonates Quincy PD sergeant

QUINCY – According to the Quincy Police Department, a citizen received a phone call from a QPD phone number Thursday morning claiming to be a QPD Sergeant.

Community backpack giveaway set for Tuesday

MOSES LAKE — The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin and its community partners will be giving away backpacks in the Larson community Tuesday. The event is a group effort, said Boys & Girls Clubs director Kim Pope, among the club, Big Bend Community College, the Moses Lake Lioness Club and several local businesses.

Warden Community Days this weekend

Local festival celebrates the last few days of summer at Volunteer Park

WARDEN — The town of Warden will gather this weekend at Volunteer Park for its annual Warden Community Days celebration. The event used to be held on Labor Day itself, but the last few years it’s been a three-day event, said Renay Jorgensen, one of seven or eight volunteers who organize Community Days.

Football coming soon

Annual Gridiron Guide coming this Friday

MOSES LAKE -- High school football practices across the state began on Wednesday, as teams prepare for the upcoming 2024 season.

Bipartisan WA effort to combat fentanyl continues

MOSES LAKE – Washington’s Congressional delegation is working to combat the fentanyl crisis in the state and nation on a variety of fronts in our nation's capital. Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., Sens. Patty Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell, both Washington Democrats, all have efforts in place to mitigate the deadly drug’s impacts.

LETTER: Facing addiction's impacts

Hello, my name is Jakkob McCallin. I’m 28 years old and I’m from Ephrata, Washington. I’m currently incarcerated at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla, Washington for multiple burglaries and thefts I committed in 2022 throughout the county to fuel my addiction to fentanyl.

Weather for the week of Aug. 26, 2024

Weather for the week of Aug. 26, 2024

Are northern giant hornets bugging out of Washington state?

(The Center Square) – There is cautious optimism that the invasive and predatory northern giant hornet has been eradicated from Washington state. But that’s not official yet. According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the Evergreen State must go three years without detection to meet the regulatory definition of eradication.

WA General Election certified results

OLYMPIA – Results of the elections were certified by the Washington Secretary of State’s Office Thursday with the exception of the race for the Commissioner of Public Lands which has statewide results close enough between the second and third-place candidates is close enough to require a recount of ballots under state law. The top two candidates that will appear on ballots in November are shown below.

NEWS BITES: Aug. 26, 2024

NEWS BITES: Aug. 26, 2024

FIRE REPORT: Fires calm statewide with rain, cooler weather

MOSES LAKE – Air quality in the Columbia Basin was rated good Saturday after rainfall helped reduce fire activity throughout Washington state, according to AirNow.gov. Smoke from fires west and north of Grant County did have some impact on air quality.

Tigers head back to class

EPHRATA – Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray welcomed staff back to campuses last Tuesday as they went back into classrooms to finish preparations for the upcoming school year.

Legals for August, 26 2024

STUDIO BASIN: Ephrata library, MLSD budget and the Moses Lake Roundup

MOSES LAKE -- On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Managing Editor Rob Miller is joined by Regan Shannon, a sophomore at Ephrata High School and freelance writer who wrote a story on summer programs at the Ephrata Public Library. Miller also recaps the Moses Lake School Board passing its budget for the upcoming school year.

MLSD passes budget, appoints new board member

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake School District passed its budget Thursday night meeting in which all four school board members voted yes on the budget proposal. A double maintenance and operations levy failure and accounting discrepancies caused significant difficulty in establishing a budget for the 2024-25 school year.

Hayden Homes shows off model home at Polo Ridge

MOSES LAKE — The homes at Polo Ridge are going up and selling fast.

More than $20K in drugs confiscated at Bass Canyon concert

GEORGE – Over the weekend, a concert event held at the Gorge Amphitheater saw an extensive narcotics investigation led by multiple law enforcement agencies, according to a press release from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

MLSD facility fees could shut down, cripple after-school programs

MOSES LAKE -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin may not be able to offer services at multiple Moses Lake School District campuses if proposed facility usage fees are implemented, the organization’s executive director, Kim Pope said in a Thursday interview.

Wheat Land Communities’ Fair set to start September with fun

RITZVILLE — The Wheat Land Communities’ Fair begins next week, running from Aug. 28 through Sept. 1. This year’s theme is “Moooving Forward Together,” in keeping with the fair’s agricultural focus and small hometown scale.

Musician’s granddaughter honors his memory with display

MOSES LAKE — That old mandolin has been a lot of places, from Depression-racked Arkansas to the Grand Ole Opry. And now it has a home. “My grandfather inherited this when he was 4 years old, (in) 1928,” said Nickey Groff of Moses Lake, as she hung the mandolin up on the wall of Moore Brewing Company Tuesday.

Golf tournament benefitting Run the Dam comes to Electric City

ELECTRIC CITY – Those looking for a charity golf tournament next month can make the trip up to Electric City for the Swing for the Good charity golf scramble, hosted by Jess Ford and benefitting Run the Dam.

GALLERY: Moses Lake Roundup 2024

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Roundup has come and gone, but the rodeo left plenty of memorable performances for spectators to remember.

Masquers plan pirate-themed Saturday membership gala

SOAP LAKE — The Masquers Theater will hold its annual membership gala Saturday.

Cox appointed interim Soap Lake City Administrator

SOAP LAKE – Peter Sharp ran his first regular Soap Lake City Council meeting as the Mayor Pro Tempore after former Mayor Allen DuPuy resigned earlier this month. There were 23 people in attendance outside of the council, police, fire department and public officials.

Moses Lake seed breeder honored

SEATTLE — Jerry Benson of Moses Lake was recently honored by the Washington Native Plant Society, according to an announcement from the society.

FIRE REPORT: No new Washington fires Thursday

MOSES LAKE – Washington saw no new wildfires emerge prior to press time Thursday, though several fires continue to burn in the state.

Building permits for Aug. 23, 2024

Building permits for Aug. 23, 2024

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 23, 2024

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 23, 2024

Basin events calendar for Aug. 23, 2024

COLUMBIA BASIN — Live music is in abundance in the Basin this week, with winery performances, Gorge shows, a free concert and a full-blown music festival. Here’s what you can expect to see happening.

Legals for August, 23 2024

K-9 program presentation at Ephrata gathering

EPHRATA – An event requiring three K-9 handlers, and two K-9 officers took place at Sun Basin Plaza Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Fortunately, it was for a meet and greet with the public, hosted by the Ephrata Public Library.

Sustained success

Ephrata’s Mietenkorte wins 10th silhouette national championship

EPHRATA – Gearing up for a competition is all about being in the right mentality, no matter the sport. Ephrata resident and Royal High School band and choir director Erich Mietenkorte draws influence from being a musician – taking away the experience of performing on a stage and translating it to performing in competition shooting.

FIRE REPORT: GCFD 3 receives $553,000 in grant funds

QUINCY – Grant County Fire District 3, which serves the Quincy area, has received $553,000 through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, according to an announcement from the district. GCFD 3 wrote in the statement that it plans on using the funds to get a new water tender to replace their aging one.

Whooping cough infections rise in Grant Co.

GRANT COUNTY – The Grant County Health District is responding to a concerning spike in whooping cough, also known as pertussis, cases, with 28 infections confirmed since June, according to an Aug. 21 press release. This outbreak, largely linked to several Slavic churches in Moses Lake and Soap Lake, raises alarm as 22 of the identified cases were traced to these communities.

Ephrata Library offers summer activities

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Public Library, part of the NCW Libraries system, has spent this summer celebrating a theme of “Read, Renew, Repeat” to keep children engaged in reading. The goal is to keep children reading and learning, library staff said.

NEWS BITES: Aug. 22, 2024

NEWS BITES: Aug. 22, 2024

November ballot will include 'warning labels' for initiatives

(The Center Square) - The battle over what will be printed on ballots for four statewide initiatives has ended, at least for this election season. The final blow came late Thursday, when Tim Eyman was informed there would be no Friday morning hearing for his attempt to block what initiative supporters call "warning labels" on the ballot measures.

Taylor resigns from Soap Lake Council

SOAP LAKE – In the closing comments of the Aug. 21 Soap Lake City Council Meeting, Council Member Leslie Taylor resigned from the council. Taylor’s term was set to expire in 2027.

RitzFest

Music festival to debut in Ritzville Saturday

RITZVILLE — Music will return to Ritzville, as RitzFest makes its debut Saturday.

Almira grain elevator catches fire

ALMIRA – Grant County fire District 6 and Lincoln County Fire District 8 responded to a fire at the grain elevator in Almira shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday, according to a news brief released by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Recount required in Commissioner of Public Lands race

OLYMPIA – The Office of the Secretary of State has mandated a manual recount for the Commissioner of Public Lands election across all Washington State counties, according to a statement from the Benton County Auditor’s Office. Each county will conduct the recount independently, according to the statement. According to state administrative rules, all counties will certify their recount results on Sept. 3. The Secretary of State's office will then certify the statewide results on Sept. 4.

The Side Project to round out summer concert season

MOSES LAKE — The Side Project will finish out Moses Lake’s Summer Concert Series with a free show Friday, according to an announcement from the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. The Side Project consists of the wife-and-husband team Suzie and Ben Bradford. The duo, originally from Spokane, have recorded six albums and have performed up and down the West Coast for 20 years, according to the announcement. Their music has been broadcast in Starbucks and featured on television shows “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance,” as well as scoring a rave review in Music Connection Magazine.

Nine minor party or independent candidates qualify for WA presidential ballot

OLYMPIA — Nine minor party and independent presidential nominations have qualified for inclusion on Washington’s General Election ballot scheduled for Nov. 5, according to a statement from the Office of the Secretary of State.

Legals for August, 22 2024

Alan Richard Hattrup

Feb. 1, 1932 – Aug. 18, 2024

Alan Richard Hattrup, 92, of Soap Lake, Washington, died in Walla Walla, Washington, on August 18, 2024.

Pirate regatta returns to Camas Cove Sept. 1

MOSES LAKE — Raiding and pillaging will be the order of the day Sept. 1 at the Camas Cove Pirate Regatta, according to organizer and Camas Cove Cellars co-owner Kathleen Parr. “And massive squirt gun battles,” Parr added.

GALLERY: A week at the fair

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fair left vivid images for all of us. Here are a few our reporters picked up over the five days of the annual community celebration.

Aug. 21 News Bites

GRAND COULEE – The Grand Coulee Volunteer Fire Department trained on Friday night with attack hose lines and different types of nozzles according to a department press release. “Great time training and learning hoses and nozzles,” the statement reads.

Adams County Pet Rescue to sponsor spay, neuter clinic

OTHELLO – The Adams County Pet Rescue will sponsor a low-cost Fall Fix Fest on Sept. 20 and 21 at Othello Fairgrounds.

MLSB interviews potential members

MOSES LAKE — On Tuesday night the Moses Lake School Board had a special meeting to hire a new school board director to fill the seat left vacant by Kevin Fuhr’s resignation in June. The MLSB interviewed five candidates, each giving an opening statement and answering six questions.

Adams County Commissioner incumbents lead in final primary results

RITZVILLE — The Adams County Auditor certified the election results for the Aug. 6 primary election on Aug. 20. There are 8,117 registered voters in the county. There were 2,560 ballots counted which was 31.54% of voter turnout.

BMX tracks raise more than $16,000 at Race for Life

MOSES LAKE — More than 100 riders hit the Larson BMX Track on Sunday for Moses Lake BMX’s Race for Life, part of a series of races across Eastern Washington raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. “It was an awesome weekend,” Moses Lake BMX Track Operator Jeff Niehenke said. “Four-race series, everyone’s having a ton of fun out here. It’s just a good, fun atmosphere that’s bringing everyone together for a different cause other than just racing.”

Burgess, Jones leading in Grant County primary

EPHRATA — The Grant County Auditor certified the election results for the Aug. 6, primary election on Aug. 20. There were 48,753 registered voters and 17,308 ballots counted, which was 35.5% of voter turnout. Commissioner District 1 had three candidates and 6,128 votes. Kevin R. Burgess, Republican, had the most votes at 3,036. Followed was Amador J. Castro, Republican, with 1,823 votes. Dave Bren, Republican, withdrew from the race before the primary but after the ballot was printed. He received 1.239 votes. There were 80 write-in votes. Commissioner District 2 had two candidates and 4,680 votes. Rob Jones, Republican, received the most votes at 2,857. David Henderson, Republican received 1,717 votes. There were 106 write-in votes.

Enrollment decline projected in Othello School District budget

OTHELLO — Othello School District officials are projecting lower enrollment for the 2024-25 school year and expect enrollment to keep decreasing in the future. District officials will sponsor a question-and-answer session on the 2024-25 budget for Othello School Board members and district patrons 1 p.m. Thursday in the district office, 1025 South First Ave. Amy Suarez, OSD executive director of business services, said it’s time to start looking at the future and getting ready for it. “I want to take you back to last year when we said, ‘We’re going to kick the rock down the road a little bit.’ This year we’re going to pretend that rock is a soda can. What happens when you kick it down the road? It explodes and goes everywhere. That’s what we’re trying to prevent,” Suarez said during a budget presentation Aug. 12.

Moses Lake Education Association approves agreement with MLSD

MOSES LAKE — Members of the union representing Moses Lake School District teaching (certificated) staff approved a one-year agreement Tuesday with the Moses Lake School District for the 2024-25 school year. With the union approval, the memorandum of understanding is submitted to the Moses Lake School Board; a vote to approve or reject is on the MLSB Aug. 22 agenda. Moses Lake Education Association President Heather Whittall said 388 teachers, about 90% of MLEA members, cast a vote.

FIRE REPORT: Royal Slope EMS trains on Vantage Bridge

ROYAL CITY — Royal Slope Fire Rescue EMS participated in rope rescue training on the I-90 Vantage Bridge on Tuesday. The training was hosted by Garco Construction with the Washington State Department of Transportation and Grant County Fire District 8 also attending. “It was good to practice using the resources on the bridge before something happens,” Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said. According to a statement from the GCSO, the training simulated how firefighters will access and remove a bridge maintenance employee who falls from the bridge deck onto lower portions of the bridge.

FRESH NEWS: Fish moving out of the weeds at Potholes

The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,028.9 feet, dropping 1.4 feet this past week. We are currently 2.4 feet above low pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 75 degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes are in the upper 70s to low 80s. As the water drops the bait fish and bigger fish begin to move out of the weeds into the main channels and to the face of the sand dunes. Starting now, fish both the face of the sand dunes and back in the dunes. The largemouth bass fishing has been excellent this week! Fish frogs or Spooks early and late and always have a Senko rigged to follow up on missed fish. Fish the face of the sand dunes. Throw 1/2-ounce jigs, swim jigs, jerkbaits, chatter baits, Senkos, spinnerbaits, frogs and Texas-rigged plastics. Fish are in 1-12 feet of water. Lots of 1- to 3-pound fish are being caught with a few in the 4- to 5-pound range. The largemouth and most species are moving out to the face of the dunes, but many bass will stay in the dunes year-round.

Legals for August, 21 2024

Eugene Ronald Grothe

Eugene Ronald Grothe, 86, passed away Aug. 17, 2024, in Ephrata, Wash.

New high in entries at Moses Lake Roundup

MOSES LAKE — Nearly 600 entries were made into the 81st Moses Lake Roundup, marking a new high in both contestants throughout the weekend of competition.

Washington Lands Commissioner primary race heads toward a recount

(The Center Square) – With fewer than 270 votes separating candidates in the second spot for Washington Commissioner of Public Lands, it appears a recount will be required.

Chip-seal work near Brewster on Wednesday

BREWSTER — Drivers traveling between Wenatchee and Okanogan should expect delays on US 97 at the Brewster city limits Wednesday.

Applications open for tourism promotion grants

EPHRATA — Applications will be open through Sept. 27 for 2025 tourism promotion campaign grants from the Grant County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee.

Quincy SD implements AI policy, other districts exploring similar action

QUINCY — The Quincy School District will add the use of artificial intelligence to the list of online uses subject to district policy, beginning with the 2024-25 school year. The rise of AI presents challenges for schools that QSD officials said needed addressing, and school districts across the Columbia Basin are reviewing policies and determining how they want to address it.

FIRE REPORT: Two fires blaze up in Grant County over the weekend

QUINCY — At 2 p.m. Sunday a 35-acre blaze started on Overen Road outside of Quincy. The fire was quickly contained two hours after it started with Fire District 3, Fire District 13, Ephrata Fire Department and Bureau of Land Management Fire responding to the fire according to David Durfee, Interim Fire Chief of Fired District 3. “We got it under control pretty fast, air resources showed up, but we didn’t have to use them because our teams had it under control,” Durfee said. The fire only burned wildlands, no structures or injuries occurred according to Durfee. The teams continued to mop up the fire into Sunday night to ensure it wouldn't spread.

Dragon show

Reptile Isle takes the scary out of snakes, lizards and more

MOSES LAKE — It’s not every day a dragon visits the fair. “That’s exactly what they’re called, a black dragon,” said Don “the Reptile King” Riggs, Thursday. “One of only 250 in the world. We’re trying to increase those numbers; there were only four 11 years ago when we started working with them.” The dragon in question is a rare variety of Asian water monitor, and his name is Toothless, after a children’s book and subsequent movie titled “How to Train Your Dragon.” He was one of the animals that Reptile Isle, Riggs’ traveling show, brought to the Grant County Fair last week.

Serious silliness

Magician brings casual energy to fair

MOSES LAKE — Sometimes you just know early on that you want to spend your life doing card tricks. “I saw a show when I was 5, and I thought it was the coolest thing in the world,” magician Louie Foxx said. “I decided that was going to be my job.” Foxx was at the Grant County Fair last week doing three shows a day. He’s been to our fair a few times in the past, alternating years with the North Idaho State Fair in Coeur d’Alene, he said.

NEWS BITES: Aug. 20, 2024

MATTAWA — The Mattawa Police Department would like to remind citizens that there is a noise ordinance, according to a statement released Saturday. Mattawa Municipal Code Chapter 9.08 Noise Control provides a breakdown on what is and is not allowed within city limits. The statement breaks down some of the rules.  “It is unlawful for any person to cause, or for any person in possession of property to allow to originate from the property, sound that is a public disturbance noise,” the MPD wrote. Examples given of this are motor vehicle audio systems that can be heard from at least 50 feet from the source. Any sound from audio equipment, instruments, or similar devices that can be audible from 50 feet away. Violation of the noise ordinance can result in a civil infraction with mandatory minimum penalty.

Quincy School District to restrict use of cell phones

QUINCY — Student use of cell phones in the Quincy School District will be restricted during the school day under the provisions of a new policy to be implemented Nov. 12. “We would kick it off right after parent conferences,” said Quincy Middle School Principal Scott Ramsey during a presentation at the Aug. 13 Quincy School Board meeting. Quincy Superintendent Nik Bergman said different restrictions will be implemented at different grade levels.

Coulee-Hartline School District receives clean audit

COULEE CITY — In the most recent assessment audit conducted by the Office of the Washington State Auditor, Coulee-Hartline School District No. 151 was found to be in substantial compliance with applicable state laws, regulations, and its own policies. The audit, which covered the period from Sept. 1, 2022, to Aug. 31, 2023, did not uncover any issues that would indicate a lack of controls over the safeguarding of public resources. For the 2022-2023 school year, the district operated on a general fund revenue budget of about $4.4 million.

Grant County officials address fair shooting

MOSES LAKE — On Aug. 19, the Grant County Commissioners and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office held a meeting to discuss the shooting Friday night at the fair. This was the first shooting to occur in the history of the Grant County Fair, according to Kyle Foreman, the GCSO public information officer. According to a statement issued Saturday by the GSCO, the incident began as a gang-related verbal argument between the suspect and members of a rival gang. The suspect, a 15-year-old from Wenatchee, drew a handgun and fired one round, striking a 16-year-old girl in the back and a 14-year-old girl in the leg. Jim McKiernan, Grant County Fair Director, said that the 14-year-old underwent surgery for a three-point repair of her femur. The 16-year-old girl's condition is stable, with no further updates.

Legals for August, 20 2024

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: Dateline wherever ...

If you’re reading this, you’ve seen a few datelines in your time. That city name at the beginning of a news article. Do you know what it means and why it’s put there, though?

Robert 'Ty' Ballinger

Oct. 24, 1932 — July 21, 2024

Robert “Ty” Ballinger was born in Ransom County, North Dakota on October 24, 1932. Ty passed from this world on July 21, 2024, at the age of 91 in Moses Lake, Washington where he had lived for 62 years.

Elena Freeman

1941 — 2024

Elena Freeman, 83, was born on February 15,1941, in Argentina to Nikita and Anastacia Koval. Elena accepted the Lord as her personal savior at a young age while listening to HCJB Christian radio. She loved and served the Lord from that day forward.

Merrill Spence

Nov. 19, 1924 — Aug. 18, 2024

Merrill Harold Spence, 99, passed at his home on August 18, 2024. A few years ago, Merrill composed the following obituary: Merrill was born on November 19, 1924, to Harold and Mary Spence in Seattle, Washington.

‘We just really want to keep kids in the arena’

Grant County Youth Equine Program returns for third year at the Grant Co. Fair

MOSES LAKE – For the Grant County Youth Equine Program, the Grant County Fair is just about the busiest time of the year. “Most of my kids do all the events,” said Becky Shay, founder and president of the GCYEP. “There’s some that don’t, it just depends on how their horse is feeling and how they are feeling.”

Paws and applause: 4-H youth compete in obedience contest

MOSES LAKE — The Happy Tails 4-H Club held its annual dog competition show at the Grant County Fair for children and their dogs. Wednesday’s events included obedience and dog judging.

Workshop on Grant PUD rate policy Tuesday

EPHRATA — Grant County Public Utility District customers are being invited to attend a workshop on future electrical rates and rate-setting policy at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the PUD main office in Ephrata, 30 C St. SW.

NEWS BITES: Aug. 19, 2024

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Police Department put out a statement that the crime rate in the city is down 27.3% for 2023.

Grant Health says no blue-green algae advisories at this time

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Health District released a statement saying that there are no current blue-green algae advisories in Grant County late last week in response to rumors on social media.

FIRE REPORT: GCFD 7 receives grant funding for fire equipment

SOAP LAKE – Grant County Fire District 7 received two U.S. Department of Homeland Security firefighter grants totaling almost $773,000. The department’s press release says that these grants are very competitive.

Weather for the week of Aug. 19, 2024

Weather for the week of Aug. 19, 2024

GALLERY: 2024 Moses Lake Roundup

MOSES LAKE — Contestants from around the country and beyond traveled to Moses Lake for the 2024 Moses Lake Roundup, a three-day rodeo held at the Grant County Fairgrounds. Check out Tuesday’s edition of the Columbia Basin Herald for full coverage of the rodeo.

Little change in enrollment forecast in Quincy School District 2024-25 budget

QUINCY — Quincy School District officials are estimating enrollment will not change much between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years. The 2024-25 QSD budget estimates enrollment at the equivalent of about 3,100 students.

Crazy Train plays homage to rock legend at the Grant Co. Fair

MOSES LAKE – Colorful lights blared in all directions as the sun set behind the stage. People were dancing, falling over and screaming lyrics back to the band on the stage. The sound of drums, strings and Vinny Cormier’s voice could be heard from the gates of the fair.

Legals for August, 19 2024

STUDIO BASIN: Grant County Fair and WIAA classification changes

MOSES LAKE -- On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Managing Editor Rob Miller and Seniors Reporter Cheryl Schweizer discuss the various ongoings at the Grant County Fair and the change of command at the Ephrata Armory.

Grant Co. Fairgrounds evacuated after shooting

MOSES LAKE – The carnival portion of the Grant County Fairgrounds was closed down and evacuated Friday evening after a shooting occurred shortly after 9 p.m., according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

'We just want to be the best team possible at the end of the year'

Former assistant Groth takes over as Mavs boys basketball coach

MOSES LAKE – The Mavericks will have a new head coach leading the way from the bench this boys basketball season, with Craig Groth set to take over the program after years as an assistant coach.

‘It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year’

Effort by nonprofit food vendors at Grant County Fair yields good return

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Lions lion ears were a hit. “I’ve been waiting for these,” a customer said, as she sat down at the picnic table.

Roaring good time

Agri-Service Demo Derby and motorcycle barrel racing draws enthusiastic crowd

MOSES LAKE — There’s something very American about a demolition derby: only a country as obsessed with cars as ours would make a sport out of destroying them. It’s a game of high-speed bumper cars played with tons of metal, roaring engines and flying dirt making the air – and sometimes the audience – as gritty as a spaghetti western.

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 16, 2024

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

Desert Artists featured at the Grant County Fair

MOSES LAKE — At the Grant County Fair, there’s a Commercial Building where fairgoers can find things for sale, and there’s an Arts and Crafts building where people can find paintings, drawings and other visual art. Up at the north end of Yarbro Avenue there’s also a building that’s kind of a hybrid, where the Desert Artists have their works out for display and – hopefully, anyway – sale.

Nominations open for NCW Tech Alliance Innovator Awards

WENATCHEE — Nominations are being accepted for the North Central Washington Tech Alliance’s Innovator Awards, according to an announcement from NCW Tech Alliance, which has offices around the Columbia Basin, including Moses Lake.

ROAD REPORT: Repaving work underway on Road H SE

POTHOLES RESERVOIR — Drivers thinking of using Road H Southeast between Potholes Reservoir and Othello should be prepared for delays as the road gets rebuilt.

Trying their hand

MOSES LAKE – From left: Henry DeBeaumont and Silas DeBeaumont, both 8, and Rylee DeBeaumont, 6, try their hand at milking a cow at the milking simulator in the Agriculture Building at the Grant County Fair Tuesday.

TASTINESS: WE ARE GO FOR LAUNCH!

MOSES LAKE – The line for Space Burgers at the Grant Count Fair reached pretty continuously around the back of the booth Wednesday. Space Burgers have been a popular tradition at the fair since the Moses Lake Lioness Club acquired the machine to make them following the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair.

Basin events calendar for Aug. 16, 2024

COLUMBIA BASIN — The Grant County Fair is wrapping up and life is getting back to normal. Here are a few things happening around the Basin next week.

Creative artists show their talents at Grant County Fair

MOSES LAKE — At the Grant County Fair, almost anything can be art.

FIRE REPORT: International firefighters in PNW to fight fires

MOSES LAKE – A team of 65 senior firefighters from Australia and New Zealand has arrived in the Pacific Northwest to help combat the region's severe wildfires. Upon arrival, the firefighters received briefings at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, before being dispatched to major wildfire incidents, including the Willamette Complex South on the Willamette National Forest and the Pioneer Fire in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Master Gardener plant clinic gives home gardeners a little inside knowledge

MOSES LAKE — The WSU Grant-Adams County Master Gardeners have been at the Grant County Fair this week, answering questions from the public and offering tips for more eco-friendly gardening. They weren’t quite as busy this year as last, said Mary Love, who was staffing the booth with Bobbie Bodenman, because the weather wasn’t as hot. “Last year, people came in and they went ‘whew!’ and they were looking for excuses to stay,” Love said. “They would come over here and they’d think of something to ask us so they could stay (in the air conditioning) longer.” The master gardeners were ready to answer questions of all kinds and had displays about worm composting, sheet composting and something called Hugelkultur, a method of growing a garden without irrigation or fertilization that’s popular in Germany and Eastern Europe. They also had lots of information about bees and how to encourage bee-friendly plants.

Listings are up, interest rates may come down

COLUMBIA BASIN — More homes are on the market this month than a year ago, according to data recently released by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service, which tracks real estate trends in 26 of Washington’s 39 counties. Active listings increased 37.7 percent in July 2024 compared to July 2023, according to the NMLS. The increase in Grant County was less of a swing; there were 346 active listings in Grant County in July 2024, a 25.8% increase from July 2023. Adams County had 46 active listings in 2024 versus 35 in 2023. The biggest jump in active listings was in Douglas County, where listings rose 80.8% between the Julys.

Legals for August, 16 2024

Ephrata school budget approved at about $51 million

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District passed its budget in late July with anticipated expenditures from its general fund totaling slightly more than $51 million for the 2024-25 school year, according to documentation provided by the district.

Battle Buddies fundraiser brings in $10,000

Ephrata Legionnaires pull together to support nonprofit fighting PTSD with all four paws.

EPHRATA - The American Legion Art Semro Post and Unit 28 held a fundraiser Saturday to raise money for Northwest Battle Buddies, a nonprofit that gifts professionally trained service dogs to veterans battling Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, also known as PTSD.

MLSD, Teachers Association reach tentative agreement

MOSES LAKE — Members of the union representing Moses Lake School District teachers will vote Aug. 20 on a tentative agreement with the district. Depending on the outcome of the teachers’ vote, the agreement could be considered by the Moses Lake School Board at its Aug. 22 meeting.

Quincy Special Olympics sees strong first year

QUINCY – When a Special Olympics team was announced as coming to Quincy, co-Coordinator Yesenia James said there was a positive reaction among residents hearing the news. “They were saying, ‘Finally, something’s happening!’” she said.

2024 Royalty

MOSES LAKE - The 2024 Grant County Hay King is Stevens Hay Growers, the Mid-Columbia Basin Hay Growers announced Tuesday. Owners Kye and Brynna Stevens, shown here with their boys Hudson, 1, and Callahan, eight months, are second-generation growers who farm near Soap Lake.

Wilson Creek School District to implement four-day week

WILSON CREEK — The Wilson Creek School District will hold classes four days per week for the 2024-25 school year. Students will attend classes Monday through Thursday, with the school day beginning a few minutes earlier and ending a few minutes later.

Home Ec building at the fair a reminder of a bygone age

MOSES LAKE — A traveler from a century ago would recognize the craftsmanship of the displays in the Home Economics Building at the Grant County Fair, possibly more readily than a modern observer.

FIRE REPORT: Kachess Complex continues burning

CLE ELUM — The Kachess Complex consists of three lightning-sparked fires that began in the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest on August 9 and 10, 2024, according to InciWeb, an interagency wildfire-tracking website.

COLUMN: You are unmuted: A guide to conduct in the virtual courtroom

I am a third-generation lawyer who has been practicing in the beautiful Columbia Basin for five years. I have had the privilege of litigating cases across the state of Washington defending organizations in civil court. I will come right out and say practicing law is nothing like “Suits.” This column is for the law enthusiast: those who are interested in the law.

Fair crime-free so far

MOSES LAKE — There had been no charges or crimes this year at the Grant County Fair as of Wednesday afternoon, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

Legals for August, 15 2024

Wrangling goats and winning ribbons

MOSES LAKE — The young people line up outside of the pen, wrangling the goats they have been raising all season and waiting for the judge to call them into the ring. Goat heads buck, feet fly into the air and one by one they trot into the enclosure, often pulling the goat by its leash and sometimes its tail to get them inside. The young agriculture enthusiasts wait for the judge to walk by and examine their goats.

William McKinney, Jr.

1930 — 2024

William M. McKinney Jr., age 94, passed away peacefully in Moses Lake, Washington on June 24, 2024. Born in April 1930 in Marvin, North Carolina, William was a dedicated son, brother, father, grandfather, veteran and Christian.

Charles Gary Aubertin

Feb. 25, 1936 – July 28, 2024

Charles Gary Aubertin, age 88 of Keller, Wash., passed away July 28, 2024, surrounded by family. Charlie was born Feb. 25, 1936, at the Tribal Agency in Nespelem, Wash., to Charles and Clarabelle "Peggy" (Hubbard) Aubertin.

Matthew Kenneth Hallberg

June 22, 1969 – Aug. 1, 2024

Matthew “Matt” Kenneth Hallberg left this world suddenly on August 1, 2024, at age 55. He was born on June 22, 1969, to Marvin and Marilyn Hallberg in Moses Lake, Washington, where he grew up alongside three siblings: Mishal (Scott), Mark (Robbin), and Marshall (Adriana).

Soap Lake mayor, mayor pro-tem step down

City council appoints new mayor pro tempore, considers careful mayoral selection

SOAP LAKE – Allen DuPuy stepped down as the Soap Lake Mayor at the city council meeting on Aug. 7. DuPuy was elected as the mayor on Nov. 29, 2023, after he beat incumbent Michelle Agliano. DuPuy served eight months of his four-year term.

Experienced eye, cool head needed in lamb competition

MOSES LAKE — That lamb just would not behave. It didn’t want to enter the arena for market lamb competition. It didn’t want to follow the other lambs as the judge sent them around in a circle. Its owner, Liam Segura Jones, tugged and pushed, and the lamb pushed back and escaped.

Othello to start municipal fire department

OTHELLO — The city of Othello will be starting its own fire department before May 2026, when its current contract with Adams County Fire District 5 expires. A proposed increase in the contract price for 2024 and beyond and resulting negotiations went to mediation.

Recreational youth soccer league begins soon

MOSES LAKE – Youth soccer players will have another opportunity to take the field this fall, with the Moses Lake-based Universe Soccer Academy preparing for its fall soccer league.

Grant County Fair officially begins

MOSES LAKE - The Grant County Fair had its opening ceremony yesterday at 10 a.m. around AN empty flagpole with an audience of more than 100 people. The smell of fried goods and livestock filled the air.

FIRE REPORT: Retreat Fire remains steady as containment improves

NACHES – The Retreat Fire is the largest fire in Washington as of Tuesday. The fire has scorched 45,600 acres of land but is 70% contained as of Tuesday – a 10% improvement from the prior day. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Fun night out

Mattawa National Night Out features police, firefighters and monster burritos

MATTAWA — All across America, communities turned out for National Night Out the first week of August, when police, firefighters and other community agencies throw a party and invite the whole town to see what they do. But in Mattawa, they took it a little further and combined National Night Out with a back-to-school event.

‘Everybody can paint’

Old Hotel Artist of the Month makes creating art less scary

OTHELLO — Nellie Hoot, the Old Hotel Art Gallery’s Artist of the Month, has been several kinds of artist in her time. “It’s been years of painting and going through different stages in my life,” she said. “For a while I was doing pet portraits, because it makes me feel good and it was making me money as well. And then it started shifting into other things.” Some of the “other things” on display at the Old Hotel include watercolors, charcoal and oil paints on canvas, wood and even a handsaw. One of Hoot’s favorite surfaces is cymbals, because her husband, a drummer, keeps breaking them, she said.

MLSD benefits from Gesa Credit Union donation

RICHLAND — The Moses Lake School District received a $24,747 donation Friday from Gesa Credit Union, according to an announcement from Gesa. The donation was part of $380,000 raised through Gesa’s Affinity Debit Card program, according to the announcement, and 26 school districts besides Moses Lake were also beneficiaries. The donations were announced at a celebration at the Tagaris Tasting Room and Taverna in Richland Friday evening.

FRESH NEWS: Excellent bass fishing this week

MARDON -- The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1,030.3 feet – dropping 2 feet this past week. We are currently 3.80 feet above low pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 75 degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes are in the upper 70s to low 80s.

Votes show likely Herrera Beutler vs Upthegrove in race for lands commissioner

(The Center Square) - In a race that remains too close to call for the second-place finisher, Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler has secured her top spot for Washington state’s next public lands commissioner.

Legals for August, 14 2024

Federal bill calls for open primaries nationwide

(The Center Square) – A new bill pending in Congress would mandate open primaries across the country, giving roughly 23.5 million registered independents a chance to nominate candidates for federal office.

Race for Life Series kicks off Friday

MOSES LAKE – BMX tracks on Washington’s east side will be busy this weekend for the Race for Life Series, a collaboration between Spokane BMX, Walla Walla BMX, Columbia Basin BMX and Moses Lake BMX to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Angie’s Apparel opens in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — There’s a new source for clothing in town. Angie’s Apparel opened three months ago, according to owner Angie Delgado, and had its Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting Thursday.

EWU men’s hoops add three to staff

CHENEY – Eastern Washington men’s basketball announced three new hires on Friday, with Will Turgeon and MicGuire Monson named as Eagle assistant coaches and Alex Hobbs hired as the director of Player Development.

Fairchild AFB wing honored

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE — The 92nd Air Refueling Wing received the 2023 Omaha Trophy in the Global Operations category Aug. 7 from U.S. Air Force Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander of U.S. Strategic Command during a ceremony at Fairchild Air Force Base, according to an announcement from the Air Force.

Moses Lake Roundup begins Thursday

MOSES LAKE — The 81st Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo begins Thursday and there’s no shortage of riders. “We had a record number of contestant entries this year, 583, which is probably close to 60, 70 more than we had last year,” said Tyler Brown, treasurer of the Moses Lake Roundup Board. The rodeo follows the Agri-Service Demo Derby, which is happening today and tomorrow in the rodeo grounds at the Grant County Fairgrounds. Information on the Demo Derby and the Grant County Fair is in the Monday edition of the Columbia Basin Herald.

More questions than answers in quiet attempt to invalidate WA initiatives

(The Center Square) - Plenty of questions remain about last Friday’s Washington Supreme Court rulings on two lawsuits related to voter initiatives set for placement on the general election ballot in November.

Grant County Fair opens today for five-day run

MOSES LAKE — Measuring the ingredients for the first batch of elephant ears – no, no, Lion ears – was not an exact science. The proportions of spices added to the mix might’ve been off a little bit. But Susan Hickok, who was leading a refresher for the volunteers in the Moses Lake Lions Club booth at the Grant County Fairgrounds Monday morning, was philosophical. “It’s day one. That’s how it is,” Hickok said. The Lions were installing their cash register, vendors were working to set up their booths in the Commercial Building, entries were being dropped off in the Agriculture and Arts and Crafts buildings. The Grant County Fair starts its 2024 run today.

Canal breach fixed in record-breaking time

MOSES LAKE — A breach in the East Low Canal was fixed within five days and back to delivering water by Saturday. Last Monday, there was a canal breach on the East Low Canal near Roads N and 4 Northeast. The East Columbia Basin Irrigation District began the dewatering process, removing water from the canal, immediately, said Jennifer Korfiatis, the public relations specialist at the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District, which maintains the canal.

FIRE REPORT: 1,500 acres scorched in Douglas County

COULEE CITY — On Saturday evening a fire broke out near state Route 17 and Road 9 Northeast in Douglas County. The fire burned approximately 1,500 acres, according to Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Crews got to the fire, and most of the initial attack was contained by 11:30 p.m. on Saturday night. The responding agencies included Grand Coulee Volunteer Fire Department, Electric City Fire Department, Coulee City Fire Department, Douglas County Fire District 3, Douglas County Fire District 5 and others.

Grant County Sheriff’s Office recommends safety measures for GC Fair

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office will be giving out free wristbands to parents and guardians who stop by the GCSO booth at the Grant County Fair. Family members will be asked to write the phone number of the child’s caregiver on the wristband to make it easier to reunite children and their families if somebody goes astray. It’s one of the safety tips released Monday by Kyle Foreman, GCSO public information officer. Foreman also suggested parents and caregivers take pictures of their children when entering the fairgrounds, another way to identify any children that get lost.

Wenatchee Valley Medical Group makes $25,000 CAA donation

MOSES LAKE — A $25,000 donation from the Wenatchee Valley Medical Group helped push a fundraising effort for Moses Lake School District's extracurricular activities to the $450,000 mark. The group leading the fundraising drive, Community Athletics and Activities, began raising money in late June, following the rejection of an educational programs and activities levy proposal. Typically all extracurricular activities are funded through the levy. Luther Thompson, a family practice physician at the Confluence Health clinic in Moses Lake, said WVMG is the largest physician group in the Confluence Health system. Thompson is a member of the board, and said the initiative came from the physicians in Moses Lake.

SLSD adopts alternative learning experiences program

Soap Lake School District has launched its Soap Lake Pathways Learning alternative learning experiences program and online learning option, according to an announcement from the district. The program, available for students in grades K-12, offers flexible learning opportunities for families seeking an alternative educational option within the district. The ALE program, designed for grades K-8, provides educational support in compliance with Washington state requirements through a partnership between families, students, and certificated mentor teachers, according to the announcement. Students in grades 9-12 can also participate in a more independent and self-directed learning program, with written student learning plans and regular progress reviews.

Combining fashion and video games merges passions of new WSU graduate

PULLMAN — Clothing is a mandatory part of life, whether for real people or video game characters. And if digital players must be covered, why not make them fashionable? That was the general idea behind Colby Van Dyk’s master’s thesis project at Washington State University. “My inspiration came from thinking about what I like besides fashion,” said the Enumclaw, Washington, native, who defended her thesis in July. “I love playing video games and thought, ‘Why not combine these interests?’” Van Dyk took the expertise gained while earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees from WSU’s Department of Apparel, Merchandising, Design, and Textiles and created virtual designs only to be worn by pixels.

NEWS BITES for Aug. 13, 2024

GEORGE — A man allegedly pointed a handgun at three people in the town of George on Saturday, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff's Office. The suspect left with another man in a blue Ford Explorer on Road 1 Southwest. A vehicle matching the suspect’s vehicle description was found near South Frontage Road West and Road 1 Southwest. When the deputies arrived, the suspect was inside the vehicle but refusing to exit or obey commands. After ignoring commands from deputies, two flash grenades were discharged outside the vehicle and several pepper ball projectiles were introduced inside the vehicle. Fredesvindo Alvarado Martinez, 25, George, was in custody at 6:55 p.m. on Sunday and lodged at Grant County Jail. He is being treated for exposure to a deployed pepper ball. The other man was released after questioning.

Ephrata School Board makes cell phone rules, trademarks logos

At the Ephrata School Board meeting on July 29, several important decisions were made that will impact the upcoming school year according to a release. One of the highlights from the meeting was the purchase of secure cell phone boxes for Ephrata High School and Ephrata Middle School. These boxes will be used to store students' cell phones during class to minimize distractions and improve focus on learning. The district is committed to studying the impact of this new policy in collaboration with students, families, and staff members. According to recent reports from Pew Research Center and Common Sense Media, a significant number of teens are constantly online, with many receiving numerous notifications on their phones each day. By implementing the use of secure cell phone boxes, Ephrata Schools aims to create a more conducive learning environment for students. The district has allocated approximately $5,500 to purchase these boxes for all classrooms at EHS and EMS.

Legals for August, 13 2024

Francese Hall

Family and friends of Wayne Hall are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service in loving memory of Francese Kay Hall, which will be held at 11 a.m. on Sug. 20, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1020 S. A St., Moses Lake, Washington. A reception will be held immediately after at Pillar Rock, 1373 Road F.2 NE, Moses Lake, Washington.

Ruben Quezada Jr.

July 27, 1993 — Aug. 8, 2024

Ruben Quezada Jr., born July 27, 1993, passed away Aug. 8, 2024. He leaves behind his parents Rueben and Michelle Quezada; his sisters Sherale and Deanna Quezada; his brothers-in-law Michael Adame and Alfredo Covarrubias; his half-brother Chris Keller; his children Aaliyah, Sophia, Reuben III, AnnaZayah and Amberleya; five nieces; five nephews; maternal grandfather Ward Cammack; paternal grandmother Guadalupe Quezada; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Sixto Quezada Sr. and his maternal grandmother Ardith Cammack, who we know was waiting for him as he entered back into our Father in Heaven’s arms. Ruben's younger years were ecstatic and spontaneous. He was always involved in fun random things, from football to baseball, and wrestling to Boy Scouts.

Lynn Bair

July 26, 1935 — Aug. 9, 2024

Lynn Ann Turley Bair, beloved mother, devoted grandmother, faithful friend and longtime resident of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away peacefully in her home with her daughter in attendance on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024. Lynn was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and devoted to serving the Lord with all her heart, might, mind and strength. She consistently provided Christian fellowship to her family, her friends and her many community associations and congregation members. Lynn continually emanated the Light of the Lord in the way she humbly served those around her.

Good weather, great fun at Grant County Fair this week

MOSES LAKE — This year’s Grant County Fair isn’t looking so hot. And that’s a good thing. “This is my sixth year, fifth fair because we didn't have (one in) 2020, and it's the best weather forecast we've had since I've been here,” said Fairgrounds Manager Jim McKiernan. “(The heat) really changed the dynamics of the way it worked last year. Our peak crowds have always been around eight o'clock, but it even pushed a little bit later last year, because it was 105 for five days last year, and then smokey on Saturday and 95. So hopefully some of the people that are somewhat sensitive to heat will come out and enjoy the daytime temperatures.”

'Quincy has always bounced back and forth'

Jacks move up to 2A classification

QUINCY – Sixty-three high schools across the state will compete in the 2A classification of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association once the school year begins this fall. One of those schools will be the Quincy Jackrabbits, who spent the last four years in the 1A classification.

Ceremony at Ephrata Armory signals change of command

EPHRATA — Golf Company, the Ephrata unit of the Washington Army National Guard, received a new commander in a ceremony Saturday morning that included a literal handing over of the unit emblem

Agri-Service Demo Derby begins Tuesday

MOSES LAKE — The engines will roar, the dirt will fly and a whole lot of metal will go crunch Tuesday and Wednesday at the Agri-Service Demo Derby, held at the Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo grounds at the Grant County Fairgrounds.

WA aviation projects receive $36 million for sustainability

BLAINE, Wash. – The U.S. government has awarded significant federal funding to two major sustainable aviation projects in Washington. This was announced by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, D-Washington, in her press release on August 16.

FIRE REPORT: Kittitas County has a multi-fire outbreak

KITTITAS COUNTY — On Friday and Saturday, Kittitas County saw an outbreak of eight fires, six of them being 10 acres. The fires include from largest to smallest: Thomas Mountain Fire, 10 acres; Stave Creek Fire, 10 acres; Davis Peak Fire, 1 acre; Anna Bell Drive Fire,1 acre; Waptus Fire, 0.5 acre; Bear Creek Fire, 0.5 acres and Skeeter Creek Fire, 0.1 acre.

NEWS BITES for August 12, 2024

EPHRATA – A 40-year-old Ephrata man was injured due to a one-vehicle collision in the late morning on Friday according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. There was a semi-rollover collision at North Frontage Road just East of Adams Road. Jesus Villa Ambriz was driving a 2003 tractor-trailer westbound on North Frontage Road when his vehicle failed to make a northbound curve. Villa Ambriz sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to an area hospital.

STUDIO BASIN: Grant County Sheriff Joe Kriete and an All-American athlete

MOSES LAKE -- On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Managing Editor Rob Miller sits down with Grant County Sheriff Joe Kriete to discuss a recent marijuana bust in the Ephrata area, National Night Out and safety for the upcoming Grant County Fair.

Back to school

Quincy students get ready for school at health fair, school opening dates announced

QUINCY — There’s still some summer left, but it won’t be long. Quincy Community Health Center helped children and families get ready for school with backpacks and pencils, health and resource information, fire hats and the chicken dance at the Back-to-School Health Fair Tuesday. Mary Jo Ybarra-Vega, outreach and behavioral health coordinator for QCHC, said it’s of of the organization’s recognition of National Health Center Week, and a longtime tradition in Quincy. “Every year we do a back-to-school health fair, and we’ve been doing it, I think, 20 years now,” she said.

Moses Lake Industries donation helps ML fundraising effort reach first goal

MOSES LAKE — A $55,000 donation from Moses Lake Industries helped an organization raising money to support extracurricular activities in the Moses Lake School District to reach its first – but not its last – milestone. Ryan Carpenter, president of the Community Athletics and Activities organization, said the donation guarantees that extracurricular groups will have enough money for their activities in the 2024-25 school year. “We have our base budget goals met,” said CAA secretary Eva Olson. While announcing the donation Friday, MLI President Hiroyuki Era said his family moved to Moses Lake when his children were in elementary school.

Cowgirl up!

Five-year-old Harper Cary rides an inflatable bull in the Pee Wee Stampede at the Cowboy Breakfast Friday morning. Harper was later named Little Miss Moses Lake Roundup by the judges.

Sister city students ready for fair week

Students with the Moses Lake- Yonezawa Sister City Exchange shared a taste of America at the Cowboy Breakfast Friday morning at Sinkiuse Square. From left: Emmanuel Lopez-Zepeda, Shiori Ishizawa, Sayo Hiraga, Keziah Roman-Panlaqui, Yonezawa chaperon Treat Schubert, Moses Lake chaperon Amador Castro, Noa Goto and Ethan Ramsey.

Historic federal awards are accelerating the I-5 bridge replacement effort

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The century-old bridge connecting Washington and Oregon over the Columbia is due for replacement, according to an announcement from Gov. Jay Inslee’s office. Washington and Oregon have committed $1 billion apiece to the $6 billion project, and the federal government is helping bridge the gap. On Thursday, leaders and lawmakers gathered to celebrate a $1.5 billion award from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Bridge Investment Program. Over 76,000 bridges across the country require replacement, but the I-5 bridge is not most bridges, according to the announcement. More than 143,000 vehicles and $132 million in goods cross daily. It’s a vital connection for the regional economy, but it’s rated as one of the worst truck bottlenecks on the West Coast. The bridge’s importance and condition earned it the largest award from the BIL Bridge Investment Program, one of the most ambitious federal infrastructure projects in history.

Legals for August, 12 2024

Esther (Bunni) Swain

Jan. 18, 1942 – July 22, 2024

Longtime Grant County resident Esther Marie Swain, 82, of Mattawa, Washington, born Esther Marie Pearson on Jan. 18, 1942, peacefully passed away on July 22, 2024, after a fast-paced battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family. Mom was born in Sandpoint, Idaho and was raised with seven siblings. Losing her mother to cancer when she was 14 and her father when she was 16 to a logging accident, our mom left home at 14 to brave the world on her own. This was the start to an amazing, adventurous life of a very, very strong woman. She had several interesting jobs throughout her life including working at Boeing, Auburn, Washington aiding in the building of the 747s, waitressing at a steak house and bookkeeping at a gas station in Bridgeport, Washington, working at a wood mill in Stevenson, Washington and cooking at Wayward Winds in Mattawa, Washington. She retired in 2006 from working for Grant County PUD as an HMA at Wanapum Dam. Although she had several opportunities to move ahead in her work at Wanapum, she thoroughly enjoyed the job that she did, and she was very proud of her accomplishments and the relationships she had with her co-workers and superiors.

Most primary races unchanged as more votes counted

Voter turnout remains low in Grant, Adams counties

EPHRATA — Most primary election races in Grant and Adams counties remain unchanged after additional votes were counted during the week.

National Night Out comes to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The bells, lights, sirens and hoses were all on display Tuesday at Moses Lake’s National Night Out at McCosh Park, and about 2,500 people were there to see them, according to Moses Lake Police Sgt. Jeff Sursely.

All-American

Moses Lake athlete takes seventh in decathlon at Junior Olympics

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS – Moses Lake’s Hunter Blackman left last month’s National Junior Olympics at Texas A&M with All-American honors, placing seventh in the ages 17-18 decathlon with 5,867 points.

FIRE REPORT: Swawilla fire contained

MOSES LAKE – The Swawilla Fire, ignited by lightning at 11:30 p.m. on July 17, was Washington's largest active blaze, having consumed approximately 53,500 acres. The fire is now 98% contained, as of Thursday according to InciWeb.

Crystal clear

Fairygenix offers unique treasures for the home

MOSES LAKE — Sometimes, a business starts just because a hobbyist has too much of a good thing.

A quiet space

Boys & Girls Club opens Mental Health Quiet Room

MOSES LAKE — The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin cut the ribbon Tuesday on the new Mental Health Quiet Room at the McGraw Clubhouse, and it’s much needed, said Executive Director Kim Pope.

BMX Track adding lights

MOSES LAKE – Soon the Larson BMX Track will be able to extend its racing season, as the track is installing light poles to illuminate the track after the sun begins to set.

Building permits for Aug. 9, 2024

The permits listed below were applied for and approved by the indicated municipality.

Chip-sealing scheduled for SR 26 next week

OTHELLO — Drivers on State Route 26 between Othello and Vantage should be ready for occasional delays starting Monday through Aug. 22 as construction crews work on pavement repair. “Travelers will encounter pilot cars and flagger-controlled traffic while contractors perform chip sealing work during daylight hours,” wrote Sebastian Moraga, communications officer for the Washington Department of Transportation.

Mt. Rainier Nat. Park burn restrictions begin Saturday

ASHFORD — Mount Rainier National Park will implement a parkwide fire ban starting Saturday due to increased regional fire risks, according to a press release from the park.

Ephrata National Guard unit to see command change

EPHRATA -- A change of command for G Company, 181st Brigade Support Battalion will be held Saturday in Ephrata at 10 a.m. with outgoing commander, Cpt. Charles V. Barnett passing command to Cpt. Georgia F. Lamb.

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 9, 2024

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

Legals for August, 9 2024

Sandra “Sandy” Hill

1948 - 2024

Sandra “Sandy” Hill, 75, met her heavenly family on August 7th, 2024. Sandy was born on October 26th, 1948, in Walla Walla, Washington. She was the daughter of the late Angelo and Carolyn Grassi and sister of the late Judy Wahl.

Gary Buttram

Gary Michael Buttram “Mike” passed away at his home in Moses Lake at the age of 78 on August 7, 2024.

Watershed festival lets fans celebrate country music

GEORGE — Watershed Festival had another successful show Aug. 2-4, bringing some of the biggest, and some soon-to-be-famous, country music artists to the Gorge.

Grant PUD seeks public input on rate policy changes

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD customers are being invited to give their opinions about proposed changes to rate-setting policy during August and early September. Public comments can be submitted now through the PUD website, and at the PUD commission meeting Aug. 13 for starters.

‘We’re human too’

Quincy National Night Out connects law enforcement with the community

QUINCY — The kids who came to Lauzier Park Monday evening for National Night Out knew what they wanted. “Mostly candy. They come up, they take the shots and run over for stuff,” said Tom Richardson, who was manning the Quincy Valley Medical Center booth. QVMC had set up a beanbag toss painted like a giant game of “Operation,” and youngsters who made a shot could take a treat. “They enjoy it. One year we had a kid who just kept looping through over and over just to keep playing.”

Busy weekend on the mats

Moses Lake wrestling hosts camp, duals

MOSES LAKE – It was a busy weekend for the Moses Lake wrestling program, having hosted both the Chasing Gold wrestling camp and the Duals in the Desert, which brought in wrestlers from across the Basin and beyond. The Chasing Gold camp featured instruction from two Moses Lake High School alumni in Jonathan Tanguma and Maximus Zamora.

Missoula Children’s Theater to stage ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Friday and Saturday

OTHELLO — Missoula Children’s Theatre will present “The Wizard of Oz” Friday and Saturday at Bailie Memorial Youth Ranch, starring 64 local children from Adams and Franklin counties.

FIRE REPORT: Williams Mine Fire expands rapidly

WHITE SALMON -- The Williams Mine Fire started Monday at about noon and was only burning five acres; however, the fire quickly expanded to more than 2,700 acres Tuesday and expanded again to about 4,500 acres Wednesday with no containment according to NIFC. According to InciWeb, a national fire tracking site, the fire is currently wind-driven and moving primarily south. Smoke will be heavily visible for Trout Lake, Washington and surrounding communities until the fire is contained.

Soap Lake School District approves '24-25 budget

SOAP LAKE — While Soap Lake School District officials expect to have the equivalent of 455 students from kindergarten through high school during the 2024-25 school year. The Soap Lake School Board approved the budget at a special meeting July 29.

NEWS BITES for August 8, 2024

MOSES LAKE — An irrigation canal break northeast of Moses Lake caused flooding and triggered evacuation notices Monday night, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

BRAND new thing

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake Roundup Committee Member Buck Naff, left, burns a brand into a barrel of the rodeo’s new signature whiskey, Spurstride Wheated Bourbon, at the Loading Chute at the rodeo grounds Tuesday, accompanied by fellow Committee member Joe Ketterer and state Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake. Spurstride, distilled especially for the Moses Lake Roundup by Moses Lake Distillery, was served to the public for the first time at the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours following the branding.

Legals for August, 8 2024

Primary voters choose gubernatorial, congressional candidates

Both major parties frustrated with lack of voter turnout for Tuesday election.

MOSES LAKE — Washington voters chose candidates for governor, U.S. Senator and House of Representative seats, along with other state offices, in the primary election Tuesday. Grant and Adams County voters each cast ballots for two county commission races.

Miniature therapy horse visits Brookdale Hearthstone

MOSES LAKE — Of all the things residents at Brookdale Hearthstone Moses Lake expected to find in the halls of the assisted living facility, a horse wasn’t one of them.

Changes planned for Wahluke elementary schools

MATTAWA — Elementary school will look a little different in the Wahluke School District this fall. District officials will divide elementary students by grade levels with each of the three elementary schools housing different grades.

14U Rage take fourth at NAFA Summer Nationals

NEWBERG, Ore. -- The 14U Washington Rage took fourth at last weekend’s North American Fastpitch Association Summer Nationals tournament in Newberg, Oregon, closing out the summer season with some hardware.

Hourathon fundraiser brings in $100K to support MLSD students

MOSES LAKE —The total kept climbing – about $44,000 after half an hour. Ten minutes later Moses Lake High School and Vanguard Academy students had broken the $50,000 barrier and then some. “Fifty-five thousand, one hundred (dollars),” said Manny Melo, who was keeping track of the running tally during the “Hourathon” Monday night in the MLHS gym. “Nice work.”

FIRE REPORT: Combine tractor ignites, burns wheat near Coulee City

GRAND COULEE – A vegetation fire started shortly after 8 a.m. Tuesday near G Road in Douglas County, near Coulee City. The fire was caused by a combine tractor igniting. The combine fire spread to the crop of wheat and burned about 350 acres.

The Watershed King

Leaving a legacy of free hugs and kindness

GEORGE - While Watershed Festival may be known for the big-name artists that hit the stage every year, one person you may not have heard about yet is the Watershed King.

Moses Lake man arrested in connection with November murder

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man has been apprehended in California by the U.S. Marshal’s Service in connection with a November 2023 murder in Montlake Park.

Koeppen wins in Grant GOP court case

EPHRATA – Grant County Superior Court Judge Tyson Hill ruled in favor of Andrew Koeppen in Grant County Superior Court, indicating that Koeppen, not David Hunt, is the rightful chairperson of the Grant County Republican Party. “This situation is an unfortunate one,” Hill wrote in his decision. “The Grant County Republican Central Committee has a long history of electing its own leaders through respectful civil interaction. However, beginning in October of 2023, a power struggle fractured the GCRP into two camps.”

Cougar men's basketball announces WCC slate

PULLMAN – The Washington State men's basketball team announced its 2024-25 West Coast Conference schedule. The Cougars, who joined the WCC for the season as affiliate members alongside Oregon State, will renew a historic regional series with Gonzaga as part of the 18-game schedule, culminating in the 2025 WCC Tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Eagles fall to Huskies in first exhibition

CHENEY — Eastern Washington women's soccer hosted new Big Ten opponent the Washington Huskies to open preseason play. The Eagles fell to the Huskies 2-0, but head coach Missy Strasburg was pleased to host a quality Big Ten opponent at home.

Senior events calendar for Aug. 2024

COLUMBIA BASIN – The weather may be warm, but that’s no reason to stay home. Here are some things seniors might enjoy going to this month.

Bulls, broncs and biscuits

Cowboy Breakfast kicks off fair week Friday

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fair is a big deal in Grant County, and it’s only fitting that it should have a proper introduction. That happens the Friday before the fair, which this year is Aug. 9. The breakfast, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Moses Lake, will be from 7 to 10 a.m. at Sinkiuse Square next to the post office. “A lot of people who work in Moses Lake come and eat before they go to work,” said Dayna Dent, who’s coordinated the breakfast for the Kiwanis for the last three years.

AI on display in Wenatchee on Aug. 21

WENATCHEE — The fourth annual Artificial Intelligence Expo will take place in Wenatchee Aug. 21, according to an announcement from the North Central Washington Tech Alliance.

Legals for August, 7 2024

Primary ballots due today

Commissioners, other offices on Grant, Adams election rosters

EPHRATA/RITZVILLE — Voters will narrow the field for a number of state offices in the primary election, but most local offices only have one or two candidates. Ballots must be returned today by 8 p.m. or postmarked with today’s date.

Photo enforcement tech in full effect in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — There has been a significant increase in tickets being issued via photo enforcement technology for running red lights or speeding in school zones. The implementation of the tickets began on June 6. In June there were only 43 tickets. However, in July the court saw 1,159 tickets from the photo enforcement devices.

Five Columbia Basin hikes for August adventures

MOSES LAKE – As August ushers in perfect outdoor weather, there's no better time to lace up your hiking boots and discover some of Washington’s trails. Here are five destinations worth visiting. Additional hiking opportunities in the area can be found at www.alltrails.com. Trails may require a Discover Pass which can be picked up at most local outdoors stores.

ACH Legion’s season closes at AA state tournament

HARTLINE – Almira/Coulee-Hartline’s summer baseball season came to close in the American Legion Washington AA State Tournament last week, falling 4-2 to the Yakima Valley Peppers in the semifinals of the Division B bracket.

Ephrata schools focus on summer repairs, obtains new special needs bus

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District’s Board of Directors approved more than $200,000 of maintenance projects for completion over the summer, as well as the purchase of a new special education bus for about $181,000, according to an ESD press release.

FIRE REPORT: Washington’s largest fire 90% contained

MOSES LAKE – The Swawilla Fire, ignited by lightning at 11:30 p.m. on July 17, is Washington's largest active blaze, consuming approximately 53,400 acres. However, the fire went from 70% containment on Saturday to 90% on Monday.

Officers close down two Ephrata area marijuana operations

EPHRATA – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday that it had shut down two large illegal marijuana growing operations on Thursday. “Detectives say the sites were part of a large and organized illegal drug enterprise,” The announcement read.

New Soap Lake superintendent happy to be back, focused on wise budgeting

SOAP LAKE — New Soap Lake School District Superintendent Angela Rolfe said she and her administration are focused on responsible budgeting and that she's glad to be back in the district. “The Soap Lake School District has really always felt like home to me, so I was really excited to be able to come back,” Rolfe said.

Legals for August, 6 2024

Ballot returns lagging day before Washington state's primary election

(The Center Square) – The Washington Secretary of State’s Office is expecting a flood of last-minute primary ballots to be turned in this week, as early returns have been far below this same time in the 2020 primary election.

Elin Christina Mianecki

1942 — 2024

Elin Christina Mianecki, 82, was a remarkable woman! Even her entrance into this world was remarkable, as there were fourteen years between her, and what her parents thought would be their youngest. She was a later-in-life surprise baby.

James Stanley Friend

March 5, 2002 — July 26, 2024

James Stanley Friend, aged 22, passed away tragically in a car accident on July 26, 2024.

RISING JUNIORS: Quincy’s Pierce Bierlink

QUINCY – After taking over the starting point guard position as a freshman in the 2022-23 season, Quincy rising junior Pierce Bierlink helped lead the way to both regular season and district titles for the Jackrabbit boys basketball team during his sophomore season, taking home the Caribou Trail League most valuable player award in the process.

Spirit of the rodeo

Moses Lake Roundup to unveil signature whiskey

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo and Moses Lake Distillery will debut Spurstride, the rodeo’s official signature whiskey, tomorrow at Business After Hours at the Grant County Fairgrounds.

Energy production focus of Newhouse visit

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners met with US Congressman Dan Newhouse Thursday to discuss the permitting process for a small modular nuclear reactor and some of the challenges and concerns that come along with the project. Newhouse also toured the Port of Moses Lake to discuss the need for energy and how to produce it.

OMSI Science Festival coming to Othello

OTHELLO — The Othello Public Library will get a visit from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Aug. 19.

Wahluke balances budget

Declining enrollment leads to reduced income, fewer staff and options

MATTAWA — The Wahluke School District will not have to use any of its reserves for operations in the 2024-25 school year, but declining enrollment required staff reductions to meet that target. For 2024-25, the district general fund is budgeted at about $50.92 million. The general fund pays for most school operations, from staff salaries to buying supplies.

Ephrata schools opt to lock up phones

EPHRATA – Students at the Ephrata High and Ephrata Middle schools will be securing their phones in locked boxes during classes starting this fall. Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray said the move is to help students focus in class.

FIRE REPORT: Triple-digit temperatures blaze through Washington

MOSES LAKE – On Friday, record-breaking triple-digit temperatures swept across Washington, ushering in extreme heat and a heightened risk for wildfires according to a National Weather Service press release.

Weather for the week of Aug. 5, 2024

Weather for the week of Aug. 5, 2024

Legals for August, 5 2024

OFM corrects overstated revenue loss if capital gains tax repeal passes

(The Center Square) – Opponents of Initiative 2109 to repeal Washington state's capital gains tax are adjusting their marketing materials after a recent correction from the Office of Financial Management.

STUDIO BASIN: Digital literacy, AI incoming and summer baseball wrap-up

STUDIO BASIN: Digital literacy, AI incoming and summer baseball wrap-up

‘Extremely blessed’

Twin home-based businesses expand quickly

OTHELLO — Thirteen months ago, Kip and Ilene Burns cut the ribbon on a trailer containing their two home improvement businesses, Blinds for Any Budget and B&B Overhead Door Specialists. Today, they’re all over the map.

Making connections

National Night Out brings cops and community together

COLUMBIA BASIN — For some people, the only time they interact with the local police is when they’re asked for their license and registration. Several law enforcement agencies are out to change that next week at National Night Out, when law enforcement and other first responders take the opportunity to mingle with the public they serve at an outdoor celebration.

ROAD REPORT: Soap Lake streets projects underway

Other transportation projects continue statewide

SOAP LAKE — Curbs and gutters are going in along a section of Soap Lake streets that provide access to East Beach Park. The curbs and sidewalks are part of an upgrade to the streets next to the park, which includes paving sections of First Avenue Northeast and North Canna Street.

Cantwell says FAA oversight of Boeing lacking

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, has requested the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct a root cause analysis of its oversight of aviation manufacturers, according to an announcement from Cantwell’s office.

Big Sky commissioner on FCS playoffs, NCAA antitrust settlement

SPOKANE -- The NCAA antitrust settlement, FCS playoffs and conference realignment were among the topics covered at the July 22 State of the Conference address by Big Sky Commissioner Tom Wistrcill. Oh, and the conference’s new deal with ESPN, which begins in 2025.

Othello pool issue requires transparency, committee chair says

OTHELLO — Chris Dorow said he wants the process followed by the community group looking at options for a possible new Othello swimming pool to be as transparent as possible. Dorow is the chair of the “Aquatic Task Force,” which was formed after city officials announced the pool would not open in 2024 due to damage that may have been caused by faulty construction. The damage was discovered in April.

116th Air Refueling Squadron to celebrate centennial Sunday

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE – One of the oldest Air National Guard units is turning 100 this year.

Wildfire Safety Day at Moses Lake Museum Saturday

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center will host Wildfire Safety Day Saturday as part of its ongoing Free Family Saturday series. The event is in conjunction with Washington State University’s Wildfire Perspectives Team.

Columbia Basin events calendar for August 2024

COLUMBIA BASIN – The weather is hot. The fun is too. There’s plenty to do in Grant and Adams counties this month and people are set to have a good time. The events below are a wide variety of what the Basin has in store

FIRE REPORT: Two more fires contained before WA heat wave

MOSES LAKE -- Two fires were contained in Washington on Thursday including the South Columbia Basin Fire and the Black Canyon Fire.

New Richland PNW Hydrogen Hub begins initial phase

RICHLAND -- The Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub project in Richland, Washington has received a Phase 1 award from the U.S. Department of Energy, with Washington State University Tri-Cities playing a key role according to an announcement from WSU. The project aims to establish the Pacific Northwest as a national leader in green hydrogen production.

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 2, 2024

Law enforcement logs for Aug. 2, 2024

MCL to celebrate 75 years of service

KENNEWICK — Mid‐Columbia Libraries will celebrate 75 years of service in Kennewick on Aug. 3, according to an announcement from MCL. The event will take place 1-3 p.m. at the Kennewick library, located at 1620 S. Union St.

Legals for August, 2 2024

Battle buddies

American Legion to hold auction to help vets find service dogs

EPHRATA — Sometimes, when Johnny comes marching home again, the war marches along with him. Thousands of American veterans commit suicide every year, according to the Veterans Administration, and countless more go on living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. American Legion Post 28 in Ephrata wants to decrease that count one dog at a time.

Mentoring on the gridiron

MLHS football players lead instruction at youth camp

MOSES LAKE – A large collection of youth football players gathered on the Moses Lake High School practice fields this week for the Mav Youth Football Camp, bringing out children from kindergarten through eighth grade to learn from current Moses Lake football players.

New QVMC about halfway to opening day

QUINCY — After 11 months, the new Quincy Valley Medical Center is about halfway to its opening day. Groundbreaking on the project was September 2023, and Project Manager Joe Kunkel said the new QVMC will be open for business early next summer.

Port of Ephrata moves forward with jet fuel installation

EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata has awarded a roughly $1.2 million contract to H&H Construction Solutions out of Ellensburg to install a jet fuel tank, pump and related infrastructure at the Ephrata Municipal Airport, said the port’s Executive Director David Lanman.

‘Hourathon’ fundraiser Monday to support MLSD athletics, activities

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School students will be on the phones Monday evening raising as much money as they can to help pay for extracurricular activities in the 2024-25 school year. Students will be setting up in the MLHS gym and hitting the phones from 7 to 8 p.m.

NEWS BITES for Aug. 1, 2024

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Police Department posted about a lost puppy. “Cuteness Overload! We are melting over this little lost puppy.” The department asks that if anyone recognizes the dog to contact the department at 509-754-2491.

Fire near Soap Lake destroys property, hospitalizes one

SOAP LAKE – The Road 20 Fire, which began at about 10 p.m. Tuesday near Soap Lake, has been determined to be caused by 25-year-old David Teslyuk, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Washingtonians can help stop greenwashing under new law

OLYMPIA — Today, buzzwords fly around us like mosquitoes on a sultry summer night – “sustainable,” “plant-based,” “eco-friendly.” More and more businesses are describing themselves, their products, and their practices using one “green” term or another. Climate change and the environmental impacts of our purchasing decisions have many of us thinking about making the most responsible choices possible. But good intentions can cause more harm than good when people are being misled, which is why it’s important to recognize greenwashing.

FIRE REPORT: Washington’s largest fire now fully contained

MOSES LAKE – As of 6 p.m. on Tuesday, the Big Horn Fire, once the largest active blaze in Washington, has been fully contained. The fire, which scorched approximately 51,600 acres, began at 1:07 p.m. on July 22. As of Tuesday, at 6 p.m. the fire has been turned back over to local jurisdiction according to InciWeb.

State fire marshal urges safety in motels, hotels

OLYMPIA -- As vacation season continues, the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding travelers to prioritize fire safety during their stays in temporary lodging.

Legals for August, 1 2024