Ellington

Washington eyes changes to jaywalking regulations

OLYMPIA – There's a push to lighten up on jaywalking fines — a move that hits the headlines for its impact on both the homeless community and Black pedestrians.

No recounts for Grant Co. in Nov. general election

EPHRATA — While there were two races that might’ve qualified for an automatic recount after the November 2023 general election, in the end neither of them did.

Soap Lake girls, boys defeat Wolverines on senior night

Stoyan scores 1,500th career point

SOAP LAKE — Both the Soap Lake boys and girls basketball teams picked up wins on their senior nights on Tuesday, with the girls winning 62-22 and the boys winning 81-30 over the visiting Cascade Christian Wolverines. Soap Lake Girls After opening the game with a 16-5 lead through the first quarter, the Eagles slowed down on the offensive end, putting up just six points in the second quarter with baskets by sophomores Brooke Dana and Liana Sushik, as well as free throws by sophomore Tanya Zubritskiy and Sushik. Soap Lake led 22-11 at the break.

Curtain to rise on Masquers production of ‘Harvey’ next week

SOAP LAKE — The tale of a nice but eccentric fellow, his boon companion – a six-foot, three-inch invisible pink rabbit – and his scheming relatives comes to Masquers Theater this February with the troupe’s production of “Harvey.” Director Pat Rosman said the 2023-24 season is one of classic plays, and “Harvey,” which premiered in 1944 and ran more than four years on Broadway, is a theater staple. Elwood P. Dowd (Dave Stearns in the Masquers production) is a very nice fellow who likes a drink or two – or more. And then there’s his friend Harvey, the invisible one, the tall pink rabbit. They go everywhere together.

NEWS BITES: Jan. 31, 2024

News Bites for January 31, 2024.

Othello Matters: Adams County Integrated Health Care Services, others, band together to help locals

OTHELLO – Adams County Integrated Health Care Services and several other health care and outreach agencies based in the Columbia Basin came together Thursday to support Othello community members’ needs for the Othello Matters outreach event at the Othello Church of the Nazarene.

Huskies win second straight CWAC title

OTHELLO — The Othello Huskies clinched their second straight Central Washington Athletic Conference title with last week’s win over Ephrata, defeating the Tigers 70-6 in the final dual meet of the season.

Legals for January, 31 2024

Senate bill proposes allowing doctors to keep names off prescription bottles

OLYMPIA – When she treated an out-of-state patient from Idaho with pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Jennifer Chin of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists knew her pregnant patient was at risk if she carried the pregnancy to term. She believes her patient could have died without the care she received in Washington.

Adams Co. road projects moving forward

RITZVILLE – The Adams County Commissioner’s regular Jan. 23 meeting featured an update on several ongoing and future road projects in the county, as well as a discussion of potential state route jurisdiction changes.

Capital levy goes before Wahluke voters

MATTAWA — Wahluke School District voters will decide the fate of a four-year capital levy request in a special election Feb. 13. Ballots for the election were mailed late last week.

First Othello SkillSource hiring fair a success

OTHELLO — SkillSource put on its first job fair in Othello Friday at the organization’s Thieme Career Development Center. The event’s coordinator, SkillSource Adult Training Manager Emily Anderson, said the event went very well. “It was incredibly successful. It far surpassed our expectations. The community just responded really well,” she said. “We had 159 job seekers show up, and while a lot of them had never attended an event like that before, they still responded really well to our employers. They were interested, they were eager to be there, and most of them left with job leads in hand. They were just genuinely happy as they left, and those are really satisfying things for our staff.” The businesses involved gave positive feedback, Anderson said.

Events for February 2024

In February, love is in the air and spring is lurking somewhere around the corner. Here are a few things that are happening around the Basin this month.

Vikings take down Timberwolves

MOSES LAKE – Coming off of a tough loss, the Big Bend women's basketball team took the time to look themselves in the mirror and bring to light areas that needed to change moving forward.

Basin sports schedule Jan. 31-Feb. 6

COLUMBIA BASIN — Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local basketball, swim and dive and wrestling events. With district tournaments beginning later this week, check columbiabasinherald.com for schedule updates as teams progress through their brackets.

Knights win ninth straight game, improve to 15-5

ROYAL CITY — After starting the year with a 2-3 record and coming off an appearance at the Pro Image Sports Holiday Classic in Boise, Idaho, the Royal Knights have strung together wins in 12 of their last 14 games, including nine straight wins. “We were feeling really good, even though we started off 2-3,” Royal coach Greg Jenks said. “We played some pretty good teams, including a team that has the leading scorer in the nation, down in that Boise tournament. It was good to see something different and take a trip with basketball behind it. I think that helped the boys make that transition from fall sport to winter sport.” Royal’s last loss was a 79-55 home game against Zillah on Jan. 5, the state’s No. 1 team in 1A boys basketball according to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association’s Rating Percentage Index. Since that loss, there’s been a strong emphasis on rebounding, according to Jenks.

Constance Arlene (Nelson) Lindell

Oct. 2, 1926 – Jan. 27, 2024

Constance Arlene Lindell, 97, was born in Rathdrum, Idaho, on Oct. 2, 1926. She passed quietly on Jan. 27, 2024.

Norma Pittman

Sept. 14, 1949 — Jan. 22, 2024

Norma Pittman passed away at the age of 74 in Yakima, Washington after battling dementia for several years.

FRESH NEWS: Potholes Reservoir beginning to thaw

The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,042.75 feet, coming up 0.7 feet this past week. We are 3.75 feet below full pool. While Potholes Reservoir is still frozen over, it is beginning to thaw around the edges and there may be a few open spots in the middle. This week’s forecast is looking good to continue the thaw. Highs will be in the mid- to upper 40s and lows around freezing. A good wind will help tremendously. No boat launches have open water and there are no reports of safe ice. Call the MarDon Resort tackle store for current conditions and fishing information at 509-346-2651.

James W. Johnson

Sept. 3, 1933 — Jan. 25, 2024

James W. Johnson, 90, was born Sept. 3, 1933, in Pollard, Ark. He passed Jan. 25, 2024. James was married to Phyllis Anne Johnson for 60 years and they had six children together. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He was employed at Modern Agriculture Products for 36 years. He will be greatly missed by all.

Irvin Kent Howe

Jan. 11, 1945 — Jan. 25, 2024

Irvin Kent Howe was born to Ellen Alberdina Galloway Howe and Lawrence James Howe in Ontario, Oregon. He spent his first years in Ontario with his parents and older sister, Vivian Nadene Howe. Later on, his younger sister, Rita Howe, joined the family. When Irvin was four years old, he contracted polio, so he was taken to Boise, Idaho, and put into an iron lung. He also spent time at Shriner’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon, undergoing surgery to repair his leg. As a child, he mainly lived in Ontario and Madras, Oregon, as well as Eltopia and Blythe, Washington.

MLPD responding proactively to violent crime, chief says

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake has its share of issues with violent crime, but it’s dealing with those issues surprisingly well, Moses Lake Police Chief Dave Sands told the Moses Lake City Council last week in a special study session before the council’s regular meeting.

News Bites for Jan. 30, 2024

EPHRATA — An Ephrata man died Sunday night after a one-vehicle collision near Ephrata, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Funding research, educating public among jobs of potato commissions

KENNEWICK — Look at the pictures, and farming seems timeless: tractors and dramatic sunsets and all that. But like all other industries, farming is subject to change – and in the last half-century those changes have been big ones. Potato farmers, like farmers and growers in every other agriculture sector, have had to adapt and change with the times. There are visible signs of changing times. Rob Wagstaff’s family has operated a farm near Nyssa, Oregon for generations. Wagstaff, a member of the Oregon Potato Commission, keeps track of his acreage, and the map is dotted with the names of the people who used to farm that land. “We go to our acreage map, and we have about 53 that we have got from different people,” he said. “You’ve got 50 families that used to be there that aren’t there anymore.”

Staying sharp for four generations

Buck Knives continues to grow, evolve while honoring tradition

The first Buck knife was forged in 1902 and the rest of the Buck Knives legacy is history.

Legals for January, 30 2024

Warden School Board discusses ‘22-23 finances, end of federal relief funding

WARDEN — Thursday’s Warden School Board meeting at Warden High School featured a review and discussion of the 2022-23 school year’s finances and the upcoming end to Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funding.

Grant PUD rates to go up 3%

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD customers will see an increase in their electrical rates beginning April 1. Utility district commissioners approved an overall 3% rate increase, averaged across all rate classes, on a 3-1-1 vote Jan. 23.

Moses Lake bests Eisenhower 59-23

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Mavericks defeated Eisenhower on Saturday 59-23, improving their overall record to 9-10. Head Coach Matt Strophy said he was very pleased with their performance throughout the game. The Mavericks held complete control of the first half, ending the second quarter with a score of 33-3. “We talked about setting the tone early and we did that,” Strophy said. “I think defensively we really were dialed in.”

Jacks host final regular season tournament

QUINCY — Nearly 30 eastern Washington teams gathered at Saturday’s Bring Home Da Beef girls wrestling tournament in Quincy, closing out the regular season as district tournaments rapidly approach. “Getting into January with all the tournaments, it’s just a grind,” Quincy Head Coach Mark Kondo said. “I think everybody was pretty relieved to get it done, and now we’re focusing on the postseason, which was our goal from the beginning of the year; to get better each day and be peaking at postseason time.” The Jacks placed sixth at their home tournament, scoring 116.5 team points and having seven wrestlers reach the podium; of the fellow local teams, Othello placed third (158 points), Ephrata took fifth (127 points), Royal placed seventh (107 points), Moses Lake finished eighth (98 points), Warden took ninth (85 points) and Wahluke placed 17th (48 points).

Framing starts new Samaritan Hospital

MOSES LAKE — The walls are rising at the site of the new Samaritan Hospital. The steel framing started going up about Jan. 19.

Local Cougs recognized for academic achievement

PULLMAN — Washington State University has named 101 Basin students to the President’s List for fall quarter 2023, according to an announcement from the university.

Pamela Marie McDonald

July 13, 1952 — Jan. 17, 2024

On January 17, 2024, Pamela Marie McDonald went home to her Lord and Savior. Pam was born on July 13, 1952, in Colville, Washington to Robert and Eunice Ball, joining her brothers, Michael and Robbin. Pam attended K-12 school in Soap Lake, WA where Robert and Eunice both taught, graduating in 1970. Pam was very involved in school activities, such as band, sports, pep club and cheerleading.

Nathan L. Jones

Nathan "Papa John" L. Jones has passed. Service will be held Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. at the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, 1905 W. Basin Street with a viewing Feb. 2 from 5-7 p.m. at Pioneer Funeral Home Chapel, 14403 Road 2 NE, Moses Lake and on the morning of service at Galilee Church from 10-10:45 a.m.. Flowers may be sent to the church.

GCFD 7 sees improvements in equipment, volunteerism

SOAP LAKE — Grant County Fire District 7 responded to more incidents in less time in 2023 compared to the year before, according to the district’s annual report. GCFD 7 also made strides in equipment and volunteer staffing, according to the district’s annual report, released this month. GCFD 7 covers Soap Lake, Coulee City, the area along SR 17 between between the two towns and the High Hill area east of the coulee, according to county records.

Weather for the week of Jan. 29, 2024

Weather for the week of Jan. 29, 2024

Potato Chip Challenge tests chip knowledge

Attendees have a bit of crispy fun at the Washington-Oregon Potato Conference.

KENNEWICK — Gustavo Garcia and Eric Toews took their time over the Potato Chip Challenge, thinking it over, going back for seconds just to be sure of their answers. Alas, it didn’t really help all that much.

Cougars defeat Columbia 64-42, Madsen breaks scoring record

WARDEN – The Cougars improved to 16-3 overall and 6-0 in Eastern Washington Athletic Conference (East) games with Friday’s 64-42 win over Columbia (Burbank) on senior night.

Diaper changing stations for dads proposed

OLYMPIA - Diaper changing stations traditionally were placed only in women's bathrooms, and Alexandra Johnson, a mother of two from Snoqualmie, thinks that should change.

Mandatory voting proposed by WA Dems

OLYMPIA – A proposal to make voting mandatory drew criticisms from two thousand people in a Legislative hearing Jan. 25. “We are already in a moment of extreme distrust in elections, so you should not be doing anything to further that perception,” said Sharon Damoff.

Jacks defeat Cashmere 70-49, win third straight CTL title

Ibarra scores 1,000th career point as Bierlink gets athlete of the week nod

QUINCY – The accomplishments just kept coming for the Quincy Jackrabbits during Thursday’s senior night 70-49 win over Cashmere. While the win improved the Jacks to 9-2 in the Caribou Trail League, Quincy clinched its third-straight CTL title with the win over the Bulldogs. In the third quarter, senior Julian Ibarra became the second Jackrabbit to cross the 1,000 career point threshold this season.

STUDIO BASIN: QVMC starts framing, water meters and Basin wrestling

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer and Staff Writer Joel Martin go over last week's headlines, including the city of Moses Lake budgeting a $1 million match to a grant towards water meters, a Wahluke school bus being involved in a collision and the Quincy Valley Medical Center reaching an important milestone in its construction.

Intermittent closures scheduled for Soap Lake road project

SOAP LAKE — State Route 17 will be closed to traffic intermittently during the first phase of a project to remove rocks and stabilize the cliff face from Soap Lake to Lake Lenore Caves. The first phase is scheduled to begin in mid-February.

Samaritan payroll faces ‘technical issue’

MOSES LAKE – Samaritan Healthcare staff reported not being paid as they’d expected Friday morning, and the hospital’s administration indicated that a technical issue with one of the companies involved in processing the health care provider’s payroll had been the culprit that caused the issue.

Lanore Elaine (Root) Bud

Lanore Elaine (Root) Bud was born Sept. 2, 1930, and died Aug. 19, 2023, at her home. She is survived by her four children. Memorial services will be held March 23, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Moses Lake.

Diana Kay Rose

Nov. 9, 1957 – Jan. 22, 2024

Diana Kay Rose, 66, passed away peacefully in her home on Jan. 22, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family and pets. Diana was born to Ruth Ann Rose and Earl Rose in Spokane, Washington, on Nov. 9, 1957. She had a deep passion for horses, which began when her father gifted her Katchina, a brown and white pinto horse. She would often race with her friends in the Peninsula neighborhood in Moses Lake. Diana was a brilliant student and member of the Honor Society, where she was voted vice president. She set records for the longest time holding a GPA of 4.0 at Frontier Middle School. Diana had a scholarship for advertising art in Spokane but finished at Big Bend Community College, earning her associate's degree while being a single mother to her daughter, Falisha. Diana had various jobs, from working at the Moses Lake Fire Department and Columbia Basin Herald to social work with disabled adults. Like her mother, Diana was unafraid to change professions to support herself and her family.

Ted Vance Christensen

Aug. 28, 1934 — Jan. 23, 2024

Ted Vance Christensen, 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 23, at his home in Royal City, surrounded by his family. Ted was a humble, generous, industrious man of faith who dedicated his life to making the world a better place through the many acts of service he provided to his family, neighbors, friends and community. Ted was born in Ellensburg, Washington on Aug. 28, 1934, to LeRoy and Lucy Fay Christensen. He was the fourth of what would eventually be five children in the family. He had an adventurous childhood on their family farm in Kittitas where he learned the value of hard work and good rambunctious fun. When he was just 14 years old his father died, leaving the young Christensen brothers in charge of their family farm. Ted attended Kittitas High School where he excelled at many sports, but especially loved basketball. He graduated in 1952 and soon after married his childhood friend, turned sweetheart, Norma Jean Jensen on Sept. 16, 1953. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple.

Letter: Shoebox gifts bring joy in Washington and around the world

Generosity throughout Moses Lake contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child. Across the U.S., the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending over 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. Through shoeboxes – packed with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items – Moses Lake-area volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

A home in Hatton

Former mayor's century-old house for sale in Hatton looking for the right buyer

HATTON – A two-story house located at 50 Front St. in Hatton that was owned by two former Hatton mayors is still on the market. According to Real Estate Broker Brian Gentry, the house is more than 100 years old.

Basin students make EWU Dean's List

CHENEY – According to a Tuesday announcement from Eastern Washington University, the college’s 2023 Fall Dean’s list has been released. An undergraduate student who earns 12 quality hours and receives a grade-point average of 3.5 or better is placed on the Dean's List, according to EWU’s website.

McFarland staff present on new teaching programs

OTHELLO – Faculty and Staff at Othello’s McFarland Middle School attended Monday’s regular Othello School Board meeting to present on ongoing programs and changes at the school following the board’s annual McFarland site visit that morning.

Tribal members confront fentanyl crisis

OLYMPIA – Tribal members in Washington State are four times more likely to overdose and die on opioids than the state average, and advocates are pushing for state programs to address the crisis.

Locals make Gonzaga Dean’s List

SPOKANE – Five Grant County students made it onto Gonzaga University’s Fall 2023 Dean’s List, according to a Thursday announcement from the college. Students must earn a 3.5 to 3.84 grade-point average to be listed. The following names are listed by city and in alphabetical order.

Tickets for Cellarbration! for Education on sale

MOSES LAKE — Tickets are now on sale for Cellarbration for Education, the annual fundraiser for the Big Bend Community College Foundation. Cellarbration is scheduled for 5 p.m. March 16 in the ATEC building in the BBCC campus.

Eight locals arrested: Joint investigations with city, federal, state agencies land Moses Lake residents in jail

MOSES LAKE – According to the office of U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref, based in Spokane, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, Moses Lake Police Department, Border Patrol and the Washington Department of Corrections have arrested eight people in the Moses Lake area. Those arrested are facing charges related to narcotics and illegal firearms.

New QVMC framing starting soon

QUINCY — Construction of the new Quincy Valley Medical Center should reach an important milestone early next week. “Steel starts going up a week from today,” said Joe Kunkel, the project manager, during the QVMC commission meeting Jan. 22.

Wrestling Huskie

Othello sophomore Serenity Ayala, left, finished tied for fourth place in Saturday’s Lady Huskie Invite in Othello.

Pinning Jack

Quincy junior Saidt Alvarez, left, placed fourth at the Mat Animal Invitational at Quincy on Saturday.

Animal champion

Othello junior Mason Perez, left, was the champion in the 285-pound bracket at Saturday’s Mat Animal Invitational in Quincy.

Quincy’s Bierlink, Royal’s Villa recognized by WIAA

COLUMBIA BASIN – Two Basin athletes received Athlete of the Week awards from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association on Thursday; Quincy sophomore Pierce Bierlink and Royal senior Emma Villa.

Maverick boys win, girls fall to Davis

MOSES LAKE – Both the Moses Lake boys and girls wrestling teams wrapped up their dual meets for the 2023-24 season Wednesday night against Davis, with the girls falling 54-24 and the boys winning 32-30.

Warden holds second parks and rec workshop

WARDEN – SCJ Alliance and Washington State University’s Rural Communities Design Initiative hosted a second Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan Community Engagement Workshop Tuesday evening at Warden Police Station. The plan is funded by the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office.

Potatoes front and center

KENNEWICK - Oregon and Washington potato commissioners dish up a baked potato lunch at the 2024 Washington-Oregon Potato Conference on Wednesday. The potato bar is a longstanding tradition at the annual conference, traditionally served by the commissioners. The menu used to feature new varieties in development, giving farmers a chance to test them out before they went on the market. But Ann Van Dyke of the Washington Potato Commission said the conference got so big that researchers couldn’t supply that many potatoes.

Terrance “Terry” Hulbert

Sept. 20, 1943 – Jan. 20, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Terrance Hulbert, 80, of Moses Lake, on January 20, 2024. Born to Theodore and Verna, Terrance led a life characterized by adventure, generosity and kindness.

Stifling defense fuels road win for Lady Vikes

MOSES LAKE – After dropping their first three conference games, the Lady Vikes needed to get in the win column to avoid digging themselves a hole that they could not get out of.

‘Bright Star’

Quincy Valley Allied Arts to present tale of redemption

QUINCY — Quincy Valley Allied Arts will tell a story of love, bad choices, their consequences and ultimate redemption starting Friday night. “Bright Star” will run for three weekends, with a matinee Feb. 10, at the Quincy High School Performing Arts Center, 403 Jackrabbit St. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2 and 3, and Feb. 9. A matinee is scheduled for 2 p.m. Feb. 10. Director Brian Higgins said he was attracted to the story by the journey taken by the characters.

Legals for January, 25 2024

Chess tournament incoming

EPHRATA – The Waypoint Foundation Scholastic Chess Tournament is set for Saturday Feb. 3 at Parkway Intermediate School. The tournament is open to all students from kindergarten through high school seniors but participation is limited to 100 players. There is no fee for registration and cash prizes are awarded to all participants. The winner of the tourney will receive $500. A registration form may be found at: https://bit.ly/EPHCHESS

Ephrata appoints officers, talks water rights and billing

EPHRATA – The Ephrata City Council appointed new officers including a new mayor pro tempore during the board’s regular Jan. 17 meeting. They also received an update on the city’s new water utility billing processes and approved stopping service cancellations while residents and city staff adjust to the new system.

Johnson & Johnson ordered to pay nearly $150M to Washington for role in opioid epidemic

SEATTLE – Johnson & Johnson will pay nearly $150 million to Washington for its role in the opioid epidemic, the Washington State Office of Attorney General announced Tuesday.

Othello approves temporary dog housing, CRNA week and new legal counsel.

OTHELLO – The Othello City Council’s regular meeting Monday featured the approval of improvements to a Public Works building for temporary dog housing, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week and new legal counsel, as well as discussion of a donation to the city and cargo container ordinances.

Moses Lake to budget $1M match toward water meter grant.

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake City Council Tuesday voted unanimously to approve a resolution supporting the application requesting $1,000,000 in federal funding assistance under the Water SMART: Water and Energy Efficiency Grant for the installation and implementation of advanced metering infrastructure throughout the city.

Ephrata School Board accepts grant, reviews finances

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board had a busy evening during their regular meeting Monday night with multiple financial topics, security and the acceptance of the resignation of Superintendent Tim Payne.

Loera earns Big Sky Player of the Week

FARMINGTON, Utah — For the first time since arriving in Cheney, Jamie Loera was named Big Sky Co-Player of the Week, announced by conference today. Loera earned the award after a week where she carried Eastern Washington to a pair of wins and extended the team's record-breaking win streak to nine games.

Turnovers lead Mavs’ loss to Lewiston

MOSES LAKE – A flurry of first-half turnovers allowed the visiting Lewiston Bengals to build a 20-plus point lead over Moses Lake during the first half, later riding out to an 81-36 win over the Mavericks Tuesday night.

Big Bend wrestling makes move to NJCAA

MOSES LAKE – Big Bend wrestling for both men and women is making the jump to the National Junior College Athletic Association the college announced Tuesday, joining the ranks of a Division I wrestling program.

Neil Christopher Montgomery

Feb. 8, 1972 — Jan. 10, 2024

Neil (Chris) Montgomery, 51, passed away unexpectedly at home January 10, 2024. Chris was born on February 8, 1972, in Moses Lake, Washington to Donald and Sharon (Goehring) Montgomery.

Rooted in community

Ephrata Grocery Outlet owners enjoy being a part of a small town and connecting with people.

EPHRATA – Steve and Heather Brown bought the Ephrata Grocery Outlet location in late 2022, and now, just over a year later, they appear to be happy with the decision to buy in a smaller community.

Stars on stage

Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars brings a touch of local glamor

MOSES LAKE — The light fantastic was well and truly tripped Friday night at the Wallenstien Theater, as local residents showed their best dance moves at Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars.

Basin sports schedule Jan. 24-30

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local basketball, swim and dive and wrestling events.

BASIN WRESTLING REPORT: Broncos, Huskies and Jacks host weekend tournaments

COLUMBIA BASIN — It was a busy weekend of wrestling tournaments across the Columbia Basin, with Lind-Ritzville/Sprague, Othello and Quincy all hosting tournaments on Saturday.

Legals for January, 24 2024

MLSD levy proposal put to voters in February

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School District voters will be asked to accept or reject a two-year educational program and operations levy request in a special election Feb. 13. Ballots are being mailed this week.

Mattawa approves City Hall improvement funding application

MATTAWA – The Mattawa City Council approved the city’s most recent comprehensive plan and periodic update and a legislative appropriations application for improvements to Mattawa City Hall during Monday’s regular meeting.

Four-vehicle pileup blocks S.R. 26

ROYAL CITY — Two people were injured in a four-vehicle collision Monday afternoon near Royal City, according to a statement from the Washington State Patrol.

Dent proposes bill to promote local, regional firefighting cooperation

OLYMPIA — Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, proposed a new legislation to establish a pilot project aimed at reducing the high number of wildfire incidents in Washington state. The project involves fostering collaborations between public-private partnerships, local agencies and farmers.

Wahluke school bus involved in collision near Mattawa

MATTAWA — Thirteen students and one Mattawa resident were injured Monday around 3:30 p.m. in a collision between a Wahluke school bus and a pickup truck on Road O Southwest near Mattawa, according to a Grant County Sheriff’s Office statement. None of the injuries were life-threatening. GCSO Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said the driver of the 2001 Dodge Dakota pickup, 48-year-old Jose Ramirez of Mattawa, was taken to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, but the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. “The students that were transported were divided up between two hospitals, Foreman said. “Their injuries were bumps, bruises, cuts, nothing life-threatening and nothing terribly serious.”

Francisco "Frank" Chavez

Oct. 4, 1944 — Jan. 19, 2024

Francisco “Pancho” or “Frank” Jose Chavez, born October 4, 1944, a longtime Moses Lake resident passed away Friday, January 19, 2024, at home after a courageous battle with prostate cancer.

David Watkins Cooper Sr.

July 21, 1940 — Jan. 9, 2024

Our beloved David Watkins Cooper Sr., 83, of Kennewick, Washington, went to be with the Lord on January 9, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 21, 1940, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Dorothy and Dorsey Cooper.

Gary Duckworth

Gary Duckworth, 80 of Moses Lake formerly of Quincy passed away on January 20, 2024. Scharbach's Columbia Funeral Chapel, Quincy, is in charge of arrangements. Services to be held January 27 at Quincy Free Methodist Church at 1 p.m.

Legals for January, 23 2024

Washington bill could open up licenses for noncitizens

OLYMPIA - Rep. Amy Walen, D-Kirkland, introduced House Bill 1889, aiming to grant professional licenses to workers regardless of citizenship status. The bill proposes that immigrants lacking permanent legal status may be eligible for professional licenses if they meet specific occupational requirements.

Legislature considering bill to eliminate time changes in Wash.

OLYMPIA - Washingtonians may lose their cherished ultra-late-night sunsets in the summer if Washington state opts for permanent Pacific Standard Time. "If Congress had acted, we would not be here with this bill," remarked Sen. Mike Padden, R-Spokane Valley.

Open for therapy

MOSES LAKE - Physical Therapist Steve Roylance cuts the ribbon at Columbia Physical Therapy’s new location, surrounded by staff and Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce members. Staff, from left: Lead Aide Emily Pruneda, Office Assistant Yaslyn Gonzales (partially obscured behind Pruneda), Office Manager Lindsey Anderson, Physical Therapist Assistant Christena Reed, Roylance, Physical Therapist David Jensen, Office Aide Crystal Egia and Clinic Aide Jazlyn Wortham (behind Egia). Columbia Physical Therapy will hold its grand opening and open house Friday from 3 to 7 p.m.

Donations still important for Moses Lake Food Bank

MOSES LAKE — The need for the services provided by the Moses Lake Food Bank is year-round. From that it follows that the food bank needs donations year-round.

Quincy Jacks to move to Class 2A

QUINCY — The Quincy Jacks should be moving back to the Class 2A Central Washington Athletic Conference with the start of the 2024-25 school year. The Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association announced reclassifications Sunday.

Wagner requests better pay for staff

RITZVILLE – The Adams County Commissioners meetings Jan. 16 and 17 featured significant discussion regarding a need in certain corrections and administrative positions for new pay structures to retain employees and keep wages competitive. The meeting also featured an update on Adams County Jail staffing.

ACH boys, girls pick up wins over Mary Walker

COULEE CITY – Both the Almira/Coulee-Hartline boys and girls basketball teams picked up wins over Mary Walker Friday night, with the girls surrendering a season-low eight points in a 60-8 win and the boys using a fast start to defeat the Chargers 61-45.

Three BBCC wrestlers place at Boxer Open

FOREST GROVE, Ore. – After a lengthy stretch of no competition, Big Bend Community College Women's Wrestling traveled to Pacific University to Compete in the Boxer Open on Sunday. The break was long and frustrating for the athletes but allowed the Vikings to gain much-needed rest to get to 100% health.

Joseph Harvey Russell

Joseph Harvey Russell, 96, of Moses Lake passed away on January 19, 2024. A memorial service will be held at the Ephrata American Legion at 276 8th Avenue NW at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

Pets of the Basin: Furry friends up for adoption in Moses Lake and Othello

OTHELLO/MOSES LAKE — Adams County Pet Rescue and Grant County Animal Outreach both have dozens of dogs available for adoption, as well as a plethora of cats.

Weather for the week of Jan. 22, 2024

Weather for the week of Jan. 22, 2024

Sanctus Real to perform at Moses Lake church

MOSES LAKE — The Christian rock band Sanctus Real will perform at Moses Lake Presbyterian Basin Community Church Feb. 8. Sanctus Real was a staple of the Christian music scene in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Moses Lake Presbyterian Church Worship Pastor Jon White said.

Weather for the week of Jan. 22, 2024

Weather for the week of Jan. 22, 2024

News Bites for Jan. 22, 2024

News Bites for Jan. 22, 2024

Legals for January, 22 2024

STUDIO BASIN: Honoring Mattawa PD Chief Robert Salinas, MACC upgrades and Basin basketball

MOSES LAKE — The Jan. 19 Studio Basin podcast opens on a somber note, reporting the death of Mattawa Police Department Chief Robert Salinas. Salinas passed away unexpectedly Jan. 16; he was remembered as “Chief Bob” by Mattawa residents.

Huskies defeat Prosser, West Valley in double dual

OTHELLO – The Huskies picked up wins against Prosser and West Valley (Spokane) to improve to 6-1 in duals this winter, defeating the Mustangs 66-6 before taking down the Eagles 45-21 to close the night.

Grant PUD satisfaction survey shows positive results overall

EPHRATA – Grant County Public Utility District commissioners heard an overall satisfactory report on customer satisfaction from Alex Dunn, vice president of research with Strategies 360 which conducts the PUD’s annual customer satisfaction survey.

Ballots coming for levy proposals in local districts

EPHRATA — Ballots will be mailed to voters Jan. 24 for the Feb. 13 special election that features educational program and operations levy requests in a number of school districts.

Pro-life rally coming to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — A Pro-Life Rally has been organized to take place in Moses Lake Feb. 4, according to an announcement from the Knights of Columbus, which sponsors the event.

Matthew Jones Spurbeck

Matthew Jones Spurbeck, aged 66, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, December 24, 2024. The service will be held on February 3, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Soap Lake Washington."

Overcoming barriers

Regulation is slowing home construction, raising costs, expert says

MOSES LAKE — Overregulation is standing in the way of building more housing nationwide, a speaker told local housing professionals last week, but it’s not necessarily coming from state governments.

SkillSource to host first-ever Othello hiring fair Jan. 26

OTHELLO — SkillSource’s Othello location will be hosting the first Othello hiring event to connect job seekers with employers Jan. 26. The event, located at 165 N. First Ave., will be an open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Mattawa PD Chief Robert Salinas led by example

MATTAWA — Officers with the Mattawa Police Department posted a message to MPD Chief Robert Salinas on the department’s social media Wednesday. “Thank you for your service, dedication and friendship,” it said. “Time will pass, but your memory will live forever. Rest easy, Chief Robert Salinas. “Your shift is over. We have the watch.”

Legals for January, 19 2024

News bites for Jan. 19

OTHELLO — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a burglary suspect, according to a statement from the ACSO.

Law enforcement logs for Jan. 19, 2024

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

Columbia Basin cautioned to prepare for possible freezing rain

MOSES LAKE — Getting out and about on Friday might be a challenge throughout the Columbia Basin, with the arrival of yet more precipitation, but this time with the chance of it falling as freezing rain.

Woman shot, Ephrata man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder

EPHRATA — A 31-year-old Ephrata man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after he allegedly shot and wounded a woman, then refused to come out of the house Thursday morning. Tomas Miguel Lopez allegedly shot the 21-year-old victim during a domestic dispute, according to a press release from the Ephrata Police Department. The incident occurred at 17 F St. SW and was reported about 8:15 a.m. “The victim had received at least two gunshot wounds, one to her abdomen and one to her upper thigh,” the press release said. “(She) was found taking shelter at a neighbor’s residence.” The woman was transported to Columbia Basin Hospital, then airlifted to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. Lopez remained in the house and refused requests from the EPD to come outside, the press release said.

GC Fire District 8 residents to vote on EMS levy Feb. 13

MATTAWA — Voters in Grant County Fire District 8 will be asked to accept or reject a six-year emergency medical services levy request in a special election Feb. 13. If it’s approved, the levy would replace the district’s existing levy, approved in 2018. The levy rate would continue at 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. Fire District 8 is about 248 square miles, encompassing the city of Mattawa, Desert Aire and surrounding orchards, farms and wildlands. Chief Matt Hyndman said in an earlier interview that more than half the district is owned by the federal or state governments.

WDFW releases 2022 participation and spending data

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has released participation and spending data about fishing, hunting, and associated wildlife recreation in Washington in 2022, according to a Jan. 17 WDFW announcement. The data, collected during a national survey by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, documented the number of hunters, anglers, wildlife watchers and related outdoor recreationists in Washington and collected demographic information about participants, the statement said. “Activities made possible through WDFW’s stewardship of fish, wildlife, and ecosystems have a significant impact on Washington's economy,” wrote WDFW Director Kelly Susewind in the announcement. “Conserving fish, wildlife, and habitat and providing sustainable opportunities contribute to our way of life and identity while providing jobs and economic opportunities to our residents and generating tax revenue for the state."

Payroll employment increased in December, unemployment rate rose to 4.2%

OLYMPIA — Washington’s economy gained an estimated 7,700 jobs (seasonally adjusted) and the monthly unemployment rate rose from 4.0% to 4.2% in December, according to an announcement from the Washington State Employment Security Department. “December’s job growth was the strongest since June 2023 and marked five consecutive months of job growth, after revisions to November data. Despite strong job gains, the unemployment rate inched up from 4.0% to 4.2%,” ESD Chief Labor Economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman said. “The overall trend in 2023 has been the slowing of a still-strong labor market after the tumultuous ups and downs of COVID-19 economic recovery.” ESD paid unemployment insurance benefits to 68,170 people in December, an increase of 6,344 paid claims over the previous month, according to the statement. Seasonal increases in paid claims within agriculture, construction and manufacturing contributed to the overall increase in claims.

Othello Matters open house to help community members in need

OTHELLO — Adams County Integrated Healthcare Services is partnering with several other local and regional agencies to hold an open house event called Othello Matters from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Othello Church of the Nazarene, meant to help community members in need. The event’s coordinator, Integrated Healthcare Services Mental Health Counselor Charlotte Hillman, said the event is open to the public. “We are reaching out to the homeless community in our area and we're going to provide a warm meal to them. Classic Grill’n is going to be donating the meal,” she said. “Then we're holding it at the Othello Nazarene Church, and they are a Narcan distributor, so they will be distributing Narcan to anybody who wants it or needs it. I'll also have (Opportunities Industrialization Center) there and they are a resource for people for funding and that sort of thing and other supports in the Adams and Grant County area.”

Mavs win fourth straight dual, defeat Richland

MOSES LAKE — Seven Maverick wrestlers picked up wins on the mat in Tuesday’s home dual against Richland, defeating the Bombers 35-30 to win their fourth-straight dual. “We knew Richland was tough when we were preparing for the dual,” Moses Lake Head Coach Jose Tanguma said. “We knew that they had a strong heavyweight lineup, and I’m glad that we pulled out some wins in the upper weight classes.” After a Richland forfeit in the 106-pound match and a double-forfeit in the 113-pound bout, Maverick juniors Cruz Hernandez and Drayden Gaither picked up major decisions in the 120- and 126-pound matches, with junior Trenton Vasquez following with a decision in the 132-pound match.

BASIN HOOPS REPORT: Entering the final stretch

COLUMBIA BASIN — District tournaments across the Basin are less than two weeks away, with teams in the area fighting for higher seeding in their respective conferences. See below for a look at where Basin squads stand during the final weeks of the regular season. All scores and records are according to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association.

‘A joyful noise’

MLCA polishes up its first band

MOSES LAKE — When the psalmist wrote “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,” he may not have been referring to a school band. But he would probably approve of the sounds coming from the Moses Lake Christian Academy band. Beginning, but joyful. “We've had choir before, but this is our first year with an actual band,” said MLCA Marketing Director Janeil Koethke. “We’re just building the foundation,” said band director and music teacher Ruth Weger. “I think we've done a lot more this year so far than was even expected.”

Clyde Eric Tervo

July 5, 1943 – Jan. 12, 2024

Unexpectedly, Clyde Eric Tervo, 80, from Moses Lake, Washington, passed away at his residence on January 12, 2024. His sudden departure has left his family deeply saddened. Clyde entered the world on July 5, 1943, born to Eric and Evelyn Tervo in Superior, Wisconsin, and subsequently grew up in Moses Lake, Washington. Among his siblings were James Tervo and the late Lorraine Burgess. Survived by his brother James (Jimmy) Tervo, nephew Shawn Burgess, and niece Carla Burgess, Clyde was cherished by great-nieces and -nephews Lauren Burgess, Braeden Burgess, Coltin Fifield, Colby Fifield, and Shelbie Rheo as well as his niece-in-law Tommie Burgess. His absence will be felt not only by family but also by many in the community, including, but not limited to, Ed and Claudia Parron and Lonny Fair.

Pursuit of the dream continues

Program commemorates work, impact of Martin Luther King

MOSES LAKE — The life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was commemorated with music, poetry and a reading of King’s 1963 speech at the Lincoln Memorial – commonly referred to as the “I have a dream” speech – in a ceremony Monday.

Legals for January, 18 2024

Cold work

EPHRATA - Trucks were stationed at the old track in Ephrata near Walmart on Tuesday as crews were set to begin demolition to prepare the site to become the new Grant County Jail. County officials have stated that a lot of tires had to be removed from the site prior to construction prep beginning.

Frontier gym serves as temporary warming center during frigid weekend

MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake and the Moses Lake School District joined forces over the weekend to protect unhoused people from the bitter cold, by opening the Frontier Middle School gym as a temporary warming center, according to a statement from the city.

New City Hall needed, but only being discussed informally thus far

EPHRATA — A new city hall for Ephrata has been talked about for at least 15 years, but isn’t on the immediate horizon, according to Ephrata City Manager Ray Towry. However, that doesn’t mean one will not be needed as city staffing continues to grow to meet the needs of residents. “We’ve certainly outgrown this space, so it’s out there on the horizon at some point,” Towry said.

Ephrata schools offering Child Find screenings

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District announced on January 9 that screenings for developmental disabilities for youth up to the age of 21 are available through the Child Find program. Children can be screened to determine if an evaluation is necessary to identify any disabilities or developmental delays and if the child is eligible for special education services. Referrals may be made by sources within or outside of the school district and the service is free of cost. Anyone wanting a child to be screened should call the Child Find program at 509-754-3538 to make an appointment.

Eleven Ephrata High staff recognized for life-saving actions

EPHRATA – Eleven Ephrata High School staff were recognized in early January for their response to a life-threatening medical event suffered by a fellow staff member who was not named by the district. Officials credited EHS nurse Pam Cleveringa with training staff with the skills that saved the staff member’s life.

Adams Co. Health Officer discusses 2024 legislation

RITZVILLE – Adams County Health Officer Alex Brzezny attended the Jan. 10 Adams County Commissioners and Board of Health meeting to update the commissioners on certain initiatives in the ongoing Washington legislative session that may impact the county. “There's probably 40 bills that have to do something with public health, but public health is everywhere,” Brzezny said. “These are the key ones that would affect our work the most.” One of the subjects Brzezny discussed at length was an initiative to require that all sizes of Washington high schools stock the opioid overdose reversal medicine naloxone, after increasing numbers of opioid overdoses.

Eleven Basin football players earn all-state nods

SILVERDALE – The Washington State Football Coaches Association released its all-state list earlier this week, with 11 Columbia Basin football players earning all-state honors.

Lions win a thriller in Soap Lake, defeat Eagles 64-62

SOAP LAKE – Tied at 59 with just over three minutes to go, the Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School Lions forced key defensive stops and connected on clutch baskets to leave Soap Lake with a 64-62 win Tuesday night.

New hospital will impact Samaritan bottom line in 2024

MOSES LAKE — While revenues for Samaritan Healthcare are projected to increase in 2024, Samaritan’s budget will reflect the current project of a new hospital, and will be in the red as a result.

Community resources to stay warm in Ritzville, Othello

OTHELLO — With the severe weather of the last week and the next few days, those in need of shelter throughout the Columbia Basin can turn to public libraries during the day, but churches and community members generally step in where cities don’t have the resources.

COLUMN: CWU taking steps to help students create their futures

Despite all of the available information showing how higher education leads to better jobs and salaries, many people continue to remain skeptical of the benefits of college. This is evidenced by a 10-percentage point decline in college attendance in the state of Washington since 2018. In fact, Washington now has the nation’s third-lowest rate of students who attend college after graduating from high school.

FRESH NEWS: Potholes freeze puts the kibosh on fishing for a while

MARDON — The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1,042.05 feet, coming up 0.20 feet this past week. We are 4.45 feet below full pool. The reservoir completely froze over Monday night. There are no reports of any ice fishing and no reports of safe ice, either. Last week was good for walleye, largemouth and crappie. Fish were in 12-28 feet of water. Jig for the walleye and bass, slip bobber for the crappies. Call the MarDon Resort tackle store for current conditions and fishing information at 509-346-2651.

Shannon Lee Kemper

Shannon Lee Kemper, 82, died January 13, 2024, in Moses Lake, Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories.

Othello second grader recognized for food drive efforts

OTHELLO — A Wahitis Elementary second grader received an Othello School District challenge coin for his efforts to collect food for the annual Othello Christmas Basket project.

Tech tune-up: MACC upgrades designed to make emergency response easier all around

MOSES LAKE — Emergencies are no respecters of time, place, or circumstances. With that in mind, operators of the Multi-Agency Communications Center are working on upgrading technology to make it easier for people to report an emergency, and for dispatchers to get the information emergency responders need to know.

Legals for January, 17 2024

Kittitas Co. funding will help CWU reopen mental health clinic

ELLENSBURG – The Kittitas County Board of Commissioners and Central Washington University have entered into a partnership that will reinstate critical mental health services for local youths over the next two years.

WA lawmakers eye expanding foster care to 18 to 21-year olds

OLYMPIA- A legislative proposal has the potential to create a smoother transition into adulthood for teenagers and adults aging out of the foster care system.

Ketterer sworn in as MLIRD board member

EPHRATA – The Grant County Commission was joined by guests during their Tuesday meeting as Joe Ketterer was sworn in as a member of the Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District by Judge John Knodell.

Severe winter weather incoming

Columbia Basin to see more cold with added factors of snow, wind and possible freezing rain

SPOKANE — It being January and being winter, there’s some good weather news and some bad weather news. The good news is that temperatures are forecast to rise above freezing, at least a little. The bad news is the forecast is for nasty, messy, slippery weather.

WSU to co-host SoilCon24 in February

PULLMAN – Washington State University will be assisting in hosting SoilCon this year, a free resource for agricultural professionals to learn science-based soil health information.

Basin sports schedule for Jan. 17-23

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local basketball, swim and dive and wrestling events.

BASIN WRESTLING REPORT: Huskies, Mavs, Cougars earn high placings

COLUMBIA BASIN – With the Mat Classic just about a month away, Basin squads continue to battle down the stretch of the 2023-24 wrestling season. Read along to see how local teams fared at last weekend’s tournaments across the Pacific Northwest.

Aurora M. Moncada

Dec. 18, 1931 — Jan. 10, 2024

Aurora “Gloria” M. Moncada, 92, long-time Moses Lake resident, passed away on January 10, 2024. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 19 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, with Fr. Edwin Lozadaofficiating. Rosary at 10 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Pioneer Memorial Gardens in Moses Lake. After the burial, a luncheon and gathering will follow at the Fatima Center (formerly the CCD Center).

Rene "Tito" Domingo Gonzalez

Dec. 28, 1980 — Jan. 14, 2024

Rene “Tito” Doming Gonzalez, 43, a lifelong resident of Moses Lake, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by family and friends on January 14, 2024. Tito was born on December 28, 1980, in Moses Lake, Washington, to Lalo and Blanca Gonzalez. He was one of four children. Tito graduated from Moses Lake High School in 2000.

NEWS BITES for January 16, 2024

NEWS BITES for January 16, 2024

Legals for January, 16 2024

Honoring MLK

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake residents stepped out to celebrate the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday Monday.

Residents asked to use online option for non-emergency situations

MOSES LAKE — Officials at the Multi-Agency Communications Center are asking people calling the non-emergency line to use the website’s reporting app instead.

Trump ballot challenge goes to WA court

OLYMPIA — A Washington court will hear arguments today regarding whether former President Donald Trump will be on the primary ballot, according to an announcement from the Washington Secretary of State.

Ferguson sues to block grocery merger

SEATTLE — Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson has filed a lawsuit to block the merger of the two largest supermarket corporations in the state, according to an announcement from Ferguson’s office.

Late free throws seal 49-47 win for Royal over Quincy

ROYAL CITY — After being fouled while attempting a three-pointer with just seconds left on the clock in the fourth quarter, Royal senior Caden Allred stepped up to the free throw line with the Knights tied at 47 to Quincy.

David Cooper, Sr.

David Cooper, Sr., an electrician in the military and in manufacturing, as well as a 38-year resident of Moses Lake has passed away. A committal service will be held at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery at 1 p.m. on January 24.

Darlene Hannon

Darlene Susan Hannon, 57, died January 12, 2024, in Ephrata Washington. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.

News Bites for Jan. 15, 2024

News Bites for Jan. 15, 2024

Weather for the week of Jan. 15, 2024

Weather for the week of Jan. 15, 2024

Quincy school program takes students into community

QUINCY — A program that focuses on using a student’s interests to help them connect with school is having some success at Quincy Innovation Academy. How the “Big Picture Learning” program will work next year is still to be determined, since funding for some parts of the program come from a state grant that’s expiring.

Legals for January, 15 2024

CUTTING THE RIBBON: Podium Physical Therapy

MOSES LAKE — Podium Physical Therapy co-owner Ryan Carpenter, center, cuts the ribbon on his business Thursday, surrounded by family, staff and Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce members.

Warden girls, boys earn double-digit wins over River View

WARDEN – Both the Cougar boys and girls picked up big wins over River View Friday night, with the girls first winning 76-16 and the boys winning 74-56.

STUDIO BASIN: Soap Lake School District with Superintendent Chavez and Basin wrestling

MOSES LAKE – On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer is joined by Aaron Chavez, the superintendent of the Soap Lake School District, who has been on the job since July 2023. He discusses his impressions of the school district, challenges and opportunities in Soap Lake, and the Soap Lake educational programs and operations levy that will be on the Feb. 13 ballot.

Spud-focused: Research results among subjects at 2024 Washington-Oregon Potato Conference

KENNEWICK — Research into potato pests and disease, new labor rules in Washington and innovations in the potato industry will be among the topics covered at the Washington-Oregon Potato Conference Jan. 23 through 25 at the Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick.

Service honored: South Grant Co. Chamber hosts law enforcement appreciation luncheon

MATTAWA – The South Grant County Chamber of Commerce hosted its fourth annual National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Luncheon Tuesday at the Wanapum Heritage Center south of Desert Aire, with a keynote address from Wahluke School District Superintendent Andrew Harlow.

Basin events for Jan. 13-19

It’s cold, but that doesn’t mean there’s no options for a bit of fun in the Columbia Basin.

Law enforcement logs for Jan. 12, 2024

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

Lavender Ranch

Quincy-area business works for sustainable, quality products that smell like relaxation.

QUINCY — Quincy farmer Joseph Downs first started planting lavender at his properties at the Upper Crescent Bar near Quincy and in East Wenatchee in 2015. He now grows more than 20,000 plants on 20 acres.

BASIN HOOPS REPORT: league play carries on

COLUMBIA BASIN – Local squads around the Basin have all entered the teeth of league play by now, with district tournament beginning in less than a month.

Legals for January, 12 2024

Othello drug dealer sentenced to more than six years

SPOKANE – Jaime Alberta Garza, 52, of Othello has been sentenced after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distributed fentanyl. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 78 months – about six and a half years – in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, according to a press release from the office of Vanessa Waldref, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.

Othello drug dealer sentenced

SPOKANE – Jaime Alberta Garza, 52, of Othello has been sentenced after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distributed fentanyl. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 78 months – about six and a half years – in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, according to a press release from the office of Vanessa Waldref, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.

Officers, deceased identified in Quincy officer-involved shooting

QUINCY – The names of those involved in a Monday incident that lead to one Quincy Police Department officer being stabbed twice and the death of a man have been released by investigators with the Central Basin Investigative Team.

WSU offers $15.7 million in wage increases for academic student employees

PULLMAN – Academic student employees on assistantships would see an average wage increase of at least 20% under the latest proposal offered by Washington State University as labor negotiations continued ahead of a reported January 17 union strike deadline.

Adams Co. Development Council director discusses growth

OTHELLO – Adams County Development Council Executive Director Kyle Niehenke attended the Port of Othello’s regular meeting Tuesday morning to share some of ACDC’s plans on how he will partner with the port to help its growth in the future.

Moses Lake considers large development near Lowe’s after swearing-in ceremony

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council swore in one new member and two returning ones at its meeting Tuesday and passed the mayoral baton. Once that formality was taken care of, they addressed multiple issues regarding development.

BIG SKY NOW: Reaction to Montana’s loss, takeaways from 2023

MOSES LAKE – On this week’s episode of the Big Sky Now podcast, Josh Dugan and Fritz Neighbor of the Daily Inter Lake, Mark Nelke of the Coeur d’Alene Press and Ian Bivona of the Columbia Basin Herald recap Sunday’s FCS National Championship game between Montana and South Dakota State, including what went wrong for the Grizzlies in their 23-3 loss.

SR 17 repaving set for Moses Lake area

MOSES LAKE — Work is scheduled to start about April 1 on a project to repave a section of State Route 17 where it runs through Moses Lake.

Runnin' Vikes pick up road win in Spokane

MOSES LAKE – After a tough loss to open up conference play, the Runnin' Vikes remained on the road as they traveled to Spokane Falls Community College to face off versus the Sasquatch on Wednesday.

Vikings fall to Spokane Falls

Layton records double double in loss

MOSES LAKE – Coming off a tough conference opener versus Columbia Basin College, the Lady Vikes had a quick turnaround as they hit the road on Wednesday to take on the Spokane Falls Sasquatch.

Helen Jane Miller

Helen Jane Miller, 100, was born in Ochelate, Oklahoma, on June 14, 1923, to Christopher and Grace Christenson. Helen was the middle child of five.

Leading ladies: Moses Lake Museum exhibit celebrates the Washington women who led the way

MOSES LAKE — Washington, and the women who blazed its trails, will go on display Friday at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center.

Legals for January, 11 2024

Payne to depart Ephrata School District

EPHRATA – Ephrata School District Superintendent Tim Payne has decided to resign from the district, citing personal, family and health issues, according to an ESD press release. His last day with the district will be June 30.

Cloudview Kitchen’s evolving local flavor, community focus

SOAP LAKE — Cloudview Kitchen was founded a little more than a decade ago by Jim Baird and Theresa Sergneri. Since then, the idea for the restaurant-slash-bakery-slash-coffee-house has evolved and matured. “Theresa and Jim started it …,” said co-owner Dusty Bolyard. “Jim wanted to start a nonprofit farm in Ephrata and with that, Theresa wanted to start the kitchen project to go along with it as a cooperative venture. They ran them together collectively – he ran the farm and she ran the kitchen.” The kitchen had closed down about a year before the pandemic started, but after talking with friends and family, the kitchen reopened with Bolyard, Blayne Walsh, Ursula Bolyard, Amanda Higginson and Geraldo Higginson coming together as partners in the business. Each brought their own flair to the shop that makes it unique, not just for Soap Lake and the Columbia Basin, but anywhere you might go.

Royal City considering police dog

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City Police Department could increase its officer ranks by one, and the number of feet on the ground by four.

Othello council deliberates cargo containers, increases splash pad budget

OTHELLO – The Othello City Council’s regular meeting on Monday featured a unanimous vote to spend an additional $35,000 on an improved future installation of a splash pad in Kiwanis Park, as well as discussion regarding the Planning Commission’s recommendation on cargo containers in C-1 commercial zones. City Engineer Shawn O’Brien said city staff had inquired about adding a “mega soaker” to the recreational splash pad design, which dumps 55 gallons of water at once onto the pad. “We took that to the Parks and Rec Committee (to see) if they were still interested at that price,” O’Brien said. “This is the very early stages of this project, which is about a $1.258 million project which $1.1 million of is a grant, and just because the additional cost may go outside of the original budget I wanted to bring it to council and ask for approval to give the mayor authority to make an amendment to the contract that we've entered into with Northwest Playgrounds.”

Soap Lake School District levy on ballot Feb. 13

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake School District voters will be asked to accept or reject a four-year educational programs and operations levy in a special election Feb. 13. Ballots will be mailed later this month. District Superintendent Aaron Chavez said the levy, if it’s approved, will replace the existing levy. Property owners in the district would pay $2.29 per $1,000 of assessed property value if the levy is approved, the same rate as the current levy. “The board decided to keep it at $2.29 because they feel the way the economy is right now, we don’t want to overburden our taxpayers,” Chavez said.

Warriors can’t hold lead, fall 60-49 to Kiona-Benton

MATTAWA – Despite making a significant run in the third quarter, the Wahluke Warriors couldn’t hold on to their lead Tuesday night at home to Kiona-Benton, falling to the Bears 60-49 and suffering their first league loss of the 2023-24 season.

LETTER: Keep family close to your heart

Our family has lived in Moses Lake for over 54 years. During that time we have known many wonderful people and families. Many are no longer with us. Sad, but reality.

Precautions will prevent plumbing headaches caused by winter weather

MOSES LAKE — It’s going to be cold outside for the next few days - like, single-digit cold - and that can mean bad things for water pipes. And bad things for water pipes mean bad things for homeowners and tenants.

Robert ‘Bob’ Roberts

Bob Roberts, 83, died Dec. 31, 2023, in Vancouver, Washington. A graveside service will be held in Kingston, Oklahoma in October 2024 where his parents Fred and Margaret are laid to rest.

Project Guardian: Mattawa police start program to ensure positive interactions with the developmentally disabled

MATTAWA – The Mattawa Police Department has begun implementing a program called Project Guardian intended to help members of the department be better trained and equipped to interact with individuals with special needs, according to a presentation during Thursday’s regular Mattawa City Council meeting.

Five decades of muscle

Moses Lake Classic Car Club kicks off 50th anniversary year

MOSES LAKE — The first car for Dave Robins was a 1947 Frazer. Robins and his twin brother were about 14 years old, he said, and were mowing lawns that summer. One of their clients was an older man, a veteran with limited mobility and limited means. He gave the brothers the old Frazer as payment for their work.

Basin sports schedule Jan. 10-16

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local basketball, swim and dive and wrestling events.

18/19U River Dogs make move to American Legion baseball

MOSES LAKE – The 18/19U Columbia Basin River Dogs will have a new home this year, leaving the Babe Ruth League and playing in the American Legion under Moses Lake Senior Baseball.

Legals for January, 10 2024

Demolition to start next Monday at Grant jail site

EPHRATA — People driving by the site of the new Grant County Jail will start seeing the existing buildings coming down Jan. 15. The jail will be built on the site of the old Ephrata Raceway, and the grandstands, ticket booth, concession stand and track are still in place. Grant County Central Services Director Tom Gaines said demolition of all of that will start next month. The contractor is Sellen Construction, Seattle. While there hasn’t been much visible work at the site, there’s been work underway, Gaines said. Testing found asbestos and lead paint in some of the structures, and petroleum products in the pit area and on the racetrack. Crews have already removed hazardous materials from the buildings and the site, he said, preparatory to demolition. “All the environmental hazards have been remedied,” he said.

QPD officer stabbed, civilian killed in food mart incident

QUINCY – One unidentified man is deceased after two Quincy Police Department officers responded to a call for assistance at the Jackpot Food Mart at 308 F Street Southeast in Quincy a little after 8:30 p.m. Monday.

Mattawa raises fees, upholds cargo container restriction

MATTAWA – The Mattawa City Council voted unanimously during Thursday’s regular meeting to approve increased fees for city review processes. The council also upheld the city’s current code prohibiting cargo containers in commercial and residential zoning outside of temporary construction storage.

Three arrested in Moses Lake drive-by

MOSES LAKE — Three men were arrested Monday night after a drive-by shooting in Moses Lake, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Police Department. Arrested on charges of drive-by shooting were Antonio Pimentel, 39, of Moses Lake; Rylee Rasor, 18, of Othello and Israel Wright, 19, of Othello. All three men were booked into Grant County Jail. At about 11:12 p.m., MLPD received a report of shots fired in the area of Wheeler Road and SR 17, according to the statement. A Dodge Ram pickup had reportedly been seen leaving the area at high speed.

Othello declines $400K grant due to matching requirements

OTHELLO – The Othello City Council unanimously voted to decline a $400,000 Washington Transportation Improvement Board grant during Monday’s regular meeting that would have added sidewalks to several Othello streets.

Port of Moses Lake starts executive director hunt

MOSES LAKE — A new executive director for the Port of Moses Lake should be announced by the end of March. Port commissioners hired Prothman, a business based in Issaquah, to conduct a search for candidates for the position Monday. The contract is $19,500 plus applicable expenses, which were expected to be about $5,000 to $6,500 for placing recruitment ads. Jim Darling, a consultant working with port officials on recruitment, said the port saved money by doing some of the work before looking for a consultant. “Their fee is a little bit less than they normally would charge, because we spent several months on a draft job description and characteristics summary,” Darling said.

Sweetheart deal

Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation auction is Feb. 3

MOSES LAKE — The Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation’s Country Sweethearts dinner and auction has leveled up this year. In years past the benefit was held in the Commercial Building at the Grant County Fairgrounds, but this year it will occupy both that building and the 4-H Building next door, said CBCF Executive Director Angel Ledesma. Last year’s event drew 520 guests, which made things a little tight with all the auction items as well. “I take this as a compliment,” Ledesma said. “(Some guests have said) ‘Could you please make more room for the tables?’ So this year, we added the 4-H Building. All the raffle items will be in the 4-H Building, so that leaves us room for all tables and all guests in the main room.”

BASIN WRESTLING REPORT: ACH, Warden host tournaments

COLUMBIA BASIN – It was another weekend of wrestling competitions across the state, including local tournaments in Coulee City and Warden.

Legals for January, 9 2024

Othello boys, girls basketball teams drop two games

OTHELLO — The Othello Huskies boys basketball team got off to a slow start and never caught back up in an 88-49 loss to Prosser Friday in Othello. The Huskie girls basketball team made a run but ultimately lost to Prosser 73-36.

State sues company for deceptive poster sales

SEATTLE — A Michigan business has been sued for hundreds of thousands of Consumer Protection Act violations, according to a statement from Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson.

Othello swears in officials

Othello Mayor Shawn Logan, far left, and Deputy City Clerk Yvonne Hernandez, left, conduct the oath of office for newly elected and re-elected Othello Council members, from left to right, Angel Garza, Mark Snyder, Darryl Barnes and Denae Valdez, during the Jan. 1 regular meeting.

Four WA schools earn distinguished designation

OLYMPIA — Four schools in Washington have earned the Elementary and Secondary Education Act Distinguished Schools Award, according to an announcement from the Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Ephrata Middle School portable burns, no injuries

EPHRATA – A portable at the Ephrata Middle School suffered a fire in its attic Friday morning, according to Ephrata School District Public Information Officer Sarah Morford.

Winter hits as passes close and snow falls

MOSES LAKE — It took a while, but winter is finally here in earnest in the Columbia Basin. And it looks like it’s not going away soon. The snow started Monday morning and was still coming down at press time.

Port says no: Municipal Airport in Moses Lake will not change management from city to port.

MOSES LAKE — Port of Moses Lake commissioners have declined a proposal from the city of Moses Lake to assume control of the Moses Lake Municipal Airport. Port commissioners suggested forming an airport district as an alternative.

Brian Charles Wilson

March 24, 1953 — Jan. 1, 2024

Brian C. Wilson, 70, of Moses Lake passed away knowing he was loved, with his wife by his side, in the early morning hours of Jan. 1, 2024. Brian was born March 24, 1953, to Ann and Chuck Wilson in Ritzville. He spent his childhood in Moses Lake with his brothers, exploring the fields near their home, playing baseball at Knolls Vista and fishing down by the lake. Summers were always spent with Grandma Rose at the family’s cabin in Loon Lake, which he later enjoyed with his own family. In high school, Brian met Tami, and their love story began with an invitation to the Sweetheart dance. They married in 1973 and had two children, Courtney and Brady. Brian worked at Lakeside Optical as an optician for over 40 years and eventually co-owned the business with friend Kevin Carvo.

Billy Lee Conley

1931 — 2023

Bill was born in Shawnee, Okla. in November 1931. He married the love of his life Millie. Together they raised four children: David, Calvin, Wayne and Belinda. Bill passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve Day in the loving arms of his family. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, two brothers, one son and his beloved wife Millie. He is survived by his brother James Conley; sons Calvin Conley and B. Wayne Conley and his wife Cat; daughter Belinda Conley Toy and her husband Jim Toy; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild coming very soon whom he was very excited to meet. Bill is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

The game's afoot

CBCCC to hold first Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars fundraiser

MOSES LAKE – The Central Basin Community Concert Association will be hosting its first-ever fundraiser, called Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars, Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. at Big Bend Community College’s Wallenstien Theater. Association board member Carla McKean spoke about how the event came about. “We thought, rather than doing a dinner with a silent auction like most groups do, we would try something new, and this was proposed to us – we are in affiliation with other community concerts around the state,” McKean said. “This group has been doing this for the last 10 years in The Dalles area.”

Jacks defeat Omak 60-49, Bews scores 1000th point

QUINCY – Friday night’s Caribou Trail League matchup between Omak and Quincy was a significant game for the Jackrabbits to be able to put some separation between themselves and the remainder of the league, defeating the Pioneers 60-49 and improve to 6-1 in the CTL.

Teen airlifted with life-threatening injuries after crash

MATTAWA — A single-vehicle collision near Mattawa left the driver in the hospital early Friday morning, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

January weather dead ahead; snow, lows near zero on the way

MOSES LAKE — It being January it had to happen sometime, and it looks like it’s happening later this week. Temperatures are expected to drop to near zero by Friday night.

STUDIO BASIN: Grant County crime in 2023 with Kyle Foreman and local hoops

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Grant County Sheriff's Office public information officer Kyle Foreman joins Managing Editor Rob Miller to discuss the county's crime in review for 2023.

Legals for January, 8 2024

Public safety must be a priority, legislators say

OLYMPIA — Public safety should be a top priority for this year's legislative session, Gov. Jay Inslee and bipartisan state legislators said on the eve of the 2024 legislative session. "We need additional officers on the street," Inslee told reporters. “And to help local police forces find their additional officers, I’m proposing a $10 million grant program.” Washington state ranks 50th in the nation for the number of law enforcement officers per capita, Inslee and legislators acknowledged.

Applications open for Ephrata City Council seat

EPHRATA — Ephrata city officials are accepting applications for an open seat on the Ephrata City Council. Mayor Bruce Reim said at the Jan. 3 meeting that he hopes to have the seat filled by the next council meeting Jan. 17. The seat was vacated by Ashley Grout, who ran unopposed for it in November. But Reim said Grout discovered some conflicts of interest and decided against joining the council. Applicants must be registered voters and have been city residents for at least one year. All Ephrata council seats are at-large, meaning applicants can live anywhere in town.

Couple sentenced for years-long abuse

RICHLAND — A Tri-Cities couple will spend decades in prison for sexually abusing a minor, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Washington. Bret Michael Emineth, 41, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for engaging in years-long sexual abuse of a minor victim and recording images depicting the abuse, according to the statement. U.S. District Judge Mary Dimke also sentenced Emineth’s codefendant, Malesa Hale, 37, to 28 years for conspiring with Emineth to abuse the victim and record the abuse. Emineth, who began abusing the minor victim when the minor was only 12 years old, will also plead guilty to related charges in Benton County Superior Court. “I simply cannot convey how horrendous this behavior is,” Dimke said from the bench, saying also that Emineth and Hale had inflicted “harm that will last for a lifetime.” Directly addressing the victim, Judge Dimke said: “You are brave. You are strong. You are courageous. You saved others from the hell that you were subjected to,” by reporting to law enforcement. Dimke added that if the victim had not come forward, there was no doubt that Emineth and Hale would have expanded their abuse to other children.

Road project starts next month north of Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Work will begin in late February on a project to reduce the possibility of rocks falling onto State Route 17 north of Soap Lake. Miguel Castillo, engineer on the project for the Washington State Department of Transportation, said the project is scheduled to start Feb. 20. The project area is the section of SR 17 from Soap Lake to the Lake Lenore Caves, where the road runs between Soap Lake or Lake Lenore and the rock embankment. Due to the intricate nature of the work, he estimated the project will take about seven months to complete. “There’s a lot of work there,” Castillo said. “All that work is very slow – it is time-consuming.”

Weather for the week of Jan. 8, 2024

Monday: Rain or snow likely. Highs in the lower to mid-30s. Lows in the mid-20s to lower 30s. Chance of precipitation 70 percent. Tuesday: Windy. Not as cool. Partly sunny with a 50 percent chance of rain. Highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s. Windy and mostly cloudy overnight with a chance of rain or snow. Lows in the mid- to upper 20s. Chance of precipitation 50 percent. Wednesday: Partly sunny with a chance of rain or snow. Highs in the mid- to upper 30s. Chance of precipitation 50 percent. Mostly cloudy overnight with a 20 percent chance of snow. Lows 19 to 23. Thursday: Partly sunny with a 50 percent chance of snow. Highs in the upper 20s to lower 30s. Breezy and mostly cloudy overnight with a 40 percent chance of snow. Lows 12 to 16. Friday: Breezy. Partly sunny with a chance of rain or snow. Highs in the lower to mid-20s. Chance of precipitation 20 percent.

Susan B. Mulder

March 26, 1950 – Nov. 17, 2023

Susan B. Mulder went home to Jesus on Nov. 17, 2023, at the age of 73. Sue was born to Paul and Burdella Lunn on March 26, 1950, in Seattle, Washington. Sue married her first husband, Robert Hill, in 1969 and went on to have Hildee (Hill) Tinley in 1970. She later divorced Robert in 1975. She married her second husband Jim Rhoades. in 1981 and divorced in 1988. Sue moved to Ephrata in 1982 to build her dream breeding program, SM Appaloosas. She met and married her third husband and soulmate, Hendrick Mulder. in Ephrata in 1990. In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, Sue’s life was her horses. She had a wealth of knowledge in riding and breeding Appaloosas and she enjoyed sharing that love with everyone she met. She also enjoyed making jewelry and crafts. Throughout her entire life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surrounded her.

Michael A. Meseberg

March 13, 1952 – Dec. 26, 2023

Longtime Grant County resident Michael (Mike) Meseberg, 71, passed away due to complications of his four-year battle with multiple myeloma. Mike was born in Miles City, Montana to Rodney and Alice LaVonne (Anderson) Meseberg on March 13, 1952. The family moved to Seattle when Mike was just 1 week old. He used to quip that he didn’t like Miles City so he hopped a train with his Mom and 11-month-old brother, Dave. Mike’s mom carefully put Mike in a basket for the trip. Mike’s first brush with mortality was when the porter, mistaking the basket for a picnic, tossed Mike, basket and all, off the train. Thankfully, another porter caught it, baby Mike intact. They joined their father in Seattle (Des Moines) where Rod had started a job at Boeing.

June Ann Boyd

Sept. 19, 1942 – Dec. 30, 2023

June Ann (Harris) Boyd, 81, was born on Sept. 19, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri to Richard Harris and Thelma (O’Niel) Harris. She entered into eternal rest on Dec. 30, 2023, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. Our beloved June was cherished by all who knew her. She was a bright, brave wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to all. After leaving Missouri when she was 3, June lived the majority of her childhood in California. In 1960 she graduated from Polytechnic High in Long Beach, California.

Adams Building and Planning discusses planning commission

RITZVILLE – Adams County Building and Planning Director Andie Lorenz updated the Adams County Commissioners Wednesday on the Planning Commission’s operations, including looking at zoning to help the Port of Othello grow and potentially switching to a hearing examiner system for the county’s Board of Adjustment.

ACPR to keep with existing Adams County contract, planning for the future

OTHELLO — Adams County Pet Rescue will not be receiving any additional funding from Adams County, and the existing contract between the shelter and the county will remain in effect, according to ACPR Director Kyya Grant, who also spoke about the shelter’s plans moving into 2024.

Ephrata swears in council members, looks at wastewater costs

EPHRATA — The Ephrata City Council swore in three members, two of them new, at its regular meeting Wednesday.

Basin Farmworks and Ironworks land $10,000 composting grant

OTHELLO — Erika Rattray is ringing in the new year with a plan for a brand-new composting process for her two businesses, Basin Farmworks and Ironworks Cafe and Market, with a $10,000 grant from American Farmland Trust to cover the expenses.

Living small

Grant County proposes revised rules for accessory dwelling units

EPHRATA — Revised regulations for building accessory dwelling units in the unincorporated areas of Grant County are available for review and comment through Jan. 20. Jim Anderson-Cook, Development Services deputy director, said the revisions were designed to address some problems residents had experienced when trying to build an ADU, and to clarify the process. The new rules allow up to two ADUs on a property, but how they can be built depends on the location. People living in an ADU must be permanent residents, and they can’t be rented for less than 30 days. A place that’s rented for less than 30 days is called a short-term rental and is handled under a different ordinance.

County seeks tourism commissioner

EPHRATA — The Grant County Board of Commissioners is looking for an interested citizen to serve on the Grant County Tourism Commission, according to an announcement from the commissioners.

BASIN HOOPS REPORT: Local squads enter league play

COLUMBIA BASIN – With the start of the new year, many boys and girls basketball teams around the area have started to enter the teeth of league play across their respective classifications. See below for a look at where Basin squads stand at the beginning of January.

Legals for January, 5 2024

More money for ambulance service, senior center in Quincy 2024 budget

QUINCY — The city of Quincy is projected to spend about $107.13 million in 2024, according to the budget approved by the Quincy City Council in December. The ongoing discussion over a block of B Street Northeast, whether changes are needed and how to pay for them if they are needed, prompted council member Dave Dormier to vote no on the budget resolution. The city’s general fund was budgeted at $16.77 million. The general fund includes the Quincy Police Department, parks and recreation, part of the salaries of some city workers and some city operations. Some contracted services and other agreements with local entities also are in the general fund.

Police logs for Jan. 5, 2024

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department indicated. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Ephrata PD Dec. 29 Report of a backpack and a school laptop stolen from a vehicle in the area of F Street and First Avenue Northwest.

BIG SKY NOW: Previewing the FCS title game

MOSES LAKE – On this week’s episode of the Big Sky Now podcast, Josh Dugan and Fritz Neighbor of the Daily Inter Lake, Marke Nelke of the Coeur d’Alene Press and Ian Bivona of the Columbia Basin Herald break down Sunday’s FCS National Championship game between Montana and South Dakota State, including players to watch and predictions for who will raise the trophy. The panel also looks at coaching experience between the two sidelines, thoughts on the game being played on a Sunday, and Montana and SDSU’s matchups against Montana State this fall. Kickoff between the Grizzlies and Jackrabbits is at 11 a.m. at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

Lady Vikes end preseason on high note

MOSES LAKE – Coming off of a short Christmas break, the Lady Vikes go back right into it playing three games in three day in the Skagit Valley Classic.

Erikstrup sinks seven from deep, scores 32 in win over South Dakota

VERMILLION, S.D. — You don't get much hotter than Dane Erikstrup was on Wednesday night at South Dakota (8-8, 1-1 Summit). The junior forward made seven 3-pointers on his way to a career-high 32 points, leading the Eastern Washington Eagles (7-7, 2-0 Big Sky) to a 93-79 win as they improved to 7-7 overall.

Events for January 2024

The holidays are over, but there are still things to do in the Columbia Basin to have fun, support good causes and learn. Here is just a sample of those events. To submit your event for possible publication, please visit www.columbiabasinherald.com, click on the EVENTS tab and select Create an Event. Free and premium listings are available.

Vikings fall to Everett

MOSES LAKE – Coming off of several game cancelations, the Runnin' Vikes hoped to get one final preseason game in before entering the challenging conference schedule ahead. Playing their first home game of the season, BBCC hosted the Everett Trojans at the Devries Activity Center on Saturday.

Ralph George Boyden

July, 17, 1923 – Dec. 12, 2023

Ralph George Boyden, born July, 17, 1923, in New York City, died of natural causes Dec. 12, 2023, at the Columbia Basin Hospital at the age of 96. His first four years were spent on his grandparents' farm in Illinois. It was a wonderful place to be. He rejoined his mother Francis Boyden and new stepfather Lester in St. Louis, Missouri for the remainder of his childhood. He was soon to become the oldest brother of three sisters Charlotte, Ellen Jean and Leslie. He did most of the child care, preparing him for a future of raising girls.

Eric Ray Gonzalez

July 24, 2000 –October 23, 2023

Eric Ray Gonzalez, 23, passed away Oct. 23, 2023. Eric is the son of Ralph T. Gonzalez and Vicky (DeWeese) Gonzalez of Moses Lake, Washington. He was born on July 24, 2000, in Moses Lake, Washington where he lived his whole life. He is survived by his father Ralph, mother Vicky and sister Julia Gonzalez of Moses Lake; beautiful twin sons Asher Lee Gonzalez and Loki Sierra Gonzalez of Moses Lake; grandparents Jerry and Mary DeWeese of Edmonds, Washington and Nana Judi Costello of Royal City, Washington/Mesa, Arizona. Eric has many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cecil Joseph Howard

Cecil Joseph Howard, 68, died Jan. 2, 2024, in Moses Lake, Washington. Please express your thoughts and memories at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories of Moses Lake, Washington.

Tereza L. Garcia

Tereza L. Garcia, 92, died Oct. 16, 2023, in Wenatchee, Washington at the Central Washington Hospital. She is survived by her brother Charles I. Garcia.

December in the rear-view mirror

COLUMBIA BASIN — Communities in the Columbia Basin closed out the year with sports victories, Christmas giveaways and holiday festivities. Here are a few memories from December 2023.

Legals for January, 4 2024

20 years with the city of Quincy

QUINCY — Quincy deputy finance officer/clerk Laura Camacho receives a certificate commemorating 20 years with the city during the regular Quincy City Council meeting Tuesday. “I want to thank Laura for babysitting all the employees, helping them keep their time cards straight for the last umpteen years,” said Mayor Paul Worley when giving Camacho a 20-year pin and the certificate.

Grant PUD commissioners to vote on 3% overall rate increase

EPHRATA — Grant County PUD commissioners will vote on a proposal for a 3% overall rate increase, effective April 1, at the Jan. 9 commission meeting. While the overall increase is 3%, individual classes may pay more or less than that. Julio Aguirre Carmona, the PUD’s rates and pricing program manager, said that will be the recommendation from PUD staff. If commissioners approve it, it will be the same policy they followed in 2023. If commissioners approve the 3% overall proposal, residential and irrigation rates would increase by 3.5%; so would the rate for general service and large general service, which are typically businesses. The rates for large industrial customers would increase by 1.74%, and for industrial customers by 5.25%. The difference between the industrial classes is based on the amount of electricity they use.

Moses Lake home burns Saturday

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake residence was destroyed by a fire Saturday, according to a statement from the Moses Lake Fire Department. Firefighters responded at about 9 p.m. to a report of a structure fire, according to the statement. Upon arriving at the single-story residence in the 300 block of South Gibby Road, crews found it well involved, with fire venting and heavy black smoke from the front window and the rear of the building. Due to the extent of the fire, crews handled it as a defensive fire attack from outside, the MLFD wrote. The fire was brought under control and crews left the scene after about two hours. The structure was a total loss.

Royal City City Council swears in members, discusses water line replacement

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City City Council swore in three council members at its meeting Tuesday evening, all returning after the November elections. Hector Rodriguez, who holds Position 3, Perla Garcia, who was reelected to Position 2, and Ryan Piercy, who retained the Position 4 seat in the November election by a single vote, all raised their right hands and swore to uphold the Constitution and carry out the duties of their office. Deputy City Clerk Sherrie Rodriguez administered the oaths. The water main replacement project is moving along slowly but surely, Public Works Director John Lasen told the council. The upgrades are underway on the west end of town, Lasen said, starting with Hemlock, Grape and Calla streets and moving on to Calla Loop, Balsam Street and Royal Avenue.

Ephrata girls fall to East Valley

EPHRATA — Down by one with under a minute on the clock, Ephrata senior Alessa Soto drained a three-pointer to give Ephrata a 50-48 lead over East Valley (Yakima); however, the Red Devils answered with a three-pointer of their own on their next possession, defeating the Tigers 51-50 Tuesday night. “We were going possession for possession,” Ephrata Head Coach Alain Black said. “Alessa (Soto) hit that big shot for us to give us a chance to win it; we just struggled defensively with communicating and losing their people and knowing where they were.” The Tigers got the ball back with 30.5 seconds remaining in the game after a Red Devil turnover, where Soto gave Ephrata the lead with her three-pointer. East Valley took the ball up the floor and called back-to-back timeouts with 13.6 seconds left, then hit a three-pointer with 1.6 seconds left in the game.

Ice cream truck provides marketable skills, educates community, owner says

EPHRATA — The Street Sweets Ice Cream and More truck is a good place to get a cold snack on a hot day, but co-owner Tiffany Mullings said it’s about more than that. “I am the autistic mother to two autistic children,” she said. “And my husband and I had a little money left over from a (financial transaction), and we thought, ‘Hey, let’s look for a step van and if we can, we’ll start an ice cream truck, as a way to give them an opportunity for meaningful employment and to build some marketable skills that they can use throughout their life.” For two years Mullings and her daughters Riley and Dorieann Mullings, 22 and 21 respectively, her co-owners in the business, have driven the streets of Ephrata throughout the spring, summer and fall. She drives, she said, and her daughters do the serving.

Dennis W. Britton

Dennis Wayne Britton, 81, of Soap Lake, Washington, died Dec. 25, 2023, at Lourdes Medical Center in Pasco, Washington, of congestive heart failure. He was born in Pasco to Willard “Wayne” and Darlene “Dolly” Britton. He was raised in Kennewick and was a longtime resident of Soap Lake. Dennis honorably served four years in the United States Navy. His careers included TV and electronic repair and working as a long-haul truck driver. The job he was most proud of was as a dam operator/electrician with the Grand Coulee Project Hydroelectric Authority, where he was considered to be very knowledgeable and highly respected in the field. He retired in 2008. Dennis married Shirley Johnson in 1986. During their 37 years together, they enjoyed traveling and would take regular road trips to visit family and friends.

News Bites for Jan. 2

RITZVILLE — Ritzville Police have made an arrest in a two-week-long investigation, according to a statement from the RPD.

Driver shortages main challenge facing Othello trucking companies

OTHELLO – Othello trucking companies AGB Trucking and Flamingo Trucking are both in healthy positions, according to their respective owners, but are nonetheless both facing similar problems finding drivers.

Legals for January, 3 2024

Fresh News: Largemouth unusually active at Potholes

MARDON — The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,041.55 feet, coming up 0.35 feet this week. We are 4.95 feet below full pool. The water temperature is 37-39 degrees on the main reservoir. Walleye fishing is fair. The walleye are in 18-40 feet. Top technique is jigging. Top baits are blade baits, Jigging Raps, Shadow Raps and drop-shotting 4.0 plastics. Trolling a Slow Death Hook-Smile Blade rig with a crawler and bottom bouncer is producing a few fish as well. Make sure you are marking fish before dropping down if you are jigging.

WDFW opens public comment on 2024-2028 North of Falcon policy

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has opened the public comment period for its updated draft of the North of Falcon Policy for the 2024-2028 salmon fishery planning process, according to a Dec. 22 announcement from WDFW. Comments will be accepted through Jan. 15. The announcement stated the draft of the North of Falcon Policy directs the WDFW to manage salmon and steelhead fisheries using a science-based, transparent approach that is consistent with all conservation and legal obligations. “Public feedback on this updated policy is critical,” wrote Kyle Adicks, WDFW Intergovernmental Salmon Manager, in the announcement. “This policy will provide guidance to the Department on how to plan and implement fisheries around the state within the complex legal and conservation frameworks that overlay salmon management.”

Feds charge two in drug case

SPOKANE — Two men have been indicted in eastern Washington in connection with seized drugs, firearms and commercial pill presses, according to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Washington. Timothy Gary Maddox was indicted by a federal grand jury on 10 felony counts, and Nicholas Bruan Adams on seven felony counts, according to the announcement. One of the pill presses seized by investigators is the first known commercial press associated with illegal fentanyl manufacturing in the district, according to the announcement. The presses are believed to be able to produce thousands of pills per hour.

Grant County among areas hardest hit by air pollution, study finds

OLYMPIA — The George and Mattawa areas were identified as most affected by air pollution in Washington in a report released by the Washington Department of Ecology last week. The report also identified 14 other areas of the state, according to an announcement from the DOE. Researchers investigated health data and found people in these communities face a higher death rate from air pollution than the state average, the announcement said. The report – required under the state’s landmark Climate Commitment Act – predicts that older adults in these communities are twice as likely to die from health conditions linked to breathing fine particles from human-caused sources. In analyzing data for 2016 to 2020, the report found that people of all ages in the communities lived an average of 2.4 years less than people in the rest of Washington.

East Wenatchee man dies in ATV accident

EAST WENATCHEE — An East Wenatchee man died when his ATV rolled down a hillside and he was ejected early Monday morning, according to a statement from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Austin Davis, 40, was found dead at the scene of the accident, the DCSO wrote. Davis left his home in the 13000 block of U.S. Highway 2 sometime before midnight New Year’s Eve in the ATV with two adult passengers, the DCSO statement said. The two passengers got out of the ATV at some point during the ride and Davis went on by himself, but didn’t return. The two passengers walked back to the residence and notified the sheriff’s office at about 1:45 a.m. New Year’s Day.

Basin sports schedule Jan. 2-9

COLUMBIA BASIN – Check out this week’s sports schedule, featuring local basketball, swim and dive and wrestling events. Wednesday, Jan. 3 Royal girls, boys wrestling vs Ephrata - 5:30, 7 p.m. Moses Lake girls, boys wrestling at West Valley (Yakima) - 6, 7 p.m. Othello boys wrestling vs Ellensburg - 7 p.m. Warden boys wrestling at Highland - 5 p.m.

Lions defeat ACH 50-46

COULEE CITY — The Moses Lake Christian Academy/Covenant Christian School Lions came out on top of a defensive battle Saturday night, defeating the Almira/Coulee-Hartline Warriors on the road 50-46 to improve their record to 6-1. “This is one of toughest places to play,” MLCA/CCS coach Emerson Ferguson said. “I know they’ve (ACH) got some injuries, but this has always been a tough place. We knew it was going to be tough, plus it’s our first game back after the break. The experience was the biggest factor in being able to win a close game.” The Warriors opened the game on an 8-5 run, with the Lions tying the game on a three-pointer by sophomore Johnny Ferguson and the Warriors quickly retaking the lead with a three by senior Jaxon Baergen. MLCA/CCS closed the first quarter with a layup in transition by senior Jonah Robertson to take a 15-11 lead.

Grant County Animal Outreach gets funds for new shelter

MOSES LAKE — Grant County Commissioners have approved $1 million in funding for a new Grant County Animal Outreach shelter, if GCAO meets some conditions. That matches a similar $1 million commitment from the city of Moses Lake. The $2 million, said GCAO Chair Sara Thompson Tweedy, should pay most, if not all, of the cost of construction of a new facility. “We think we have just about what we need,” she said.

Sherry L. Robinson

October 22, 1968 – December 27, 2023

Sherry Robinson, a beloved resident of Moses Lake, passed away in the early morning hours of Dec. 27, 2023. Sherry was born in Longview, Washington to parents Brenda Bledsoe and Dennis Sprouffske. Sherry was a devoted wife and mother, but most of all, a wonderful grandmother. She found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren, whether it was playing with them in the pool in the heat of the summer or spending time with them in the kitchen making Christmas cookies in the winter. Her grandchildren were her life and she enjoyed every minute with them. Sherry had a passion for crafting. She could take the most ordinary materials and turn them into something creative and beautiful. Sherry also loved going to the beach. It seems that no matter how cold it was outside, she had to dip her toes in the waves.

Darcy Gene Price

Darcy Gene Price, 67, a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities, died Dec. 26, 2023, in Pullman, Wash. Muller’s Tri-Cities Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Weather forecast for Jan. 2-4

Weather forecast for Jan. 2-4

Legals for January, 2 2024

Celebrating FRESH NEWS: MarDon’s Fisher offers support to anglers

OTHELLO – Each week I get an email from Pete Fisher at MarDon Resort with a column letting readers know what fish are biting on, the depth they’re biting at and sharing a success story of someone who tossed a line into the Potholes Reservoir and came back with a fish worthy of a proper fish story.