Ellington

Francisco Meza

May 28, 1957 – July 23, 2024

In loving memory of Francisco Meza, 67. It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Frank Meza, a beloved son, father and grandpa. Frank went to be with his dad and brothers in heaven on July 23, 2024. He passed surrounded by family who loved him dearly.

ACH Legion opens with 3-1 mark at AA state tourney

SPOKANE VALLEY – The American Legion Baseball Washington AA State Championship began on Saturday, with Almira/Coulee-Hartline advancing on through their side of the bracket at University High School in Spokane Valley. “We haven’t proven anything – there's no reason to come into this state tournament being nervous, you just have to prove yourself every day,” Head Coach Mike Correia said.

Othello pool issue remains undecided

OTHELLO — A report detailing the damage to the Othello Community Swimming Pool should be delivered to city officials in a few weeks. Othello Mayor Shawn Logan said the pool was evaluated July 26 by an engineer with the city’s insurance company.

Othello council accepts annexation request

OTHELLO — A request to annex about 750 acres into the city of Othello along Bench Road will be considered by the Othello City Council. Council members voted to allow Skone and Connors Partners LLC to move forward with its request at its July 22 council meeting.

Excessive heat watch in Central WA

SPOKANE – The National Weather Service has put out an excessive heat watch for multiple counties in Washington, including Grant County for this Friday and Saturday. In Moses Lake the high for Friday is 105 degrees and Saturday is 101 degrees. The high for both Sunday and Monday is 100 degrees. The statement says to avoid outdoor activities during the heat of the day and to drink plenty of water. The statement says that the hot and dry weather will likely result in more wildfire smoke.

Chip sealing planned for Royal City streets Friday

ROYAL CITY — Drivers will be asked to avoid parking on sections of six Royal City streets Friday, and traffic will be subject to control, to allow chip-sealing in those street sections. Roadwork will start at 5 a.m. and is scheduled for completion by 5 p.m., according to a city press release.

Repealing capital gains tax would cost jobs and education funding, opponents say

(The Center Square) – Opponents of a statewide initiative to repeal Washington state's capital gains tax are touting a new report from the Washington State Budget & Policy Center that suggests more than 10,000 jobs would be eliminated if Initiative 2109 is passed by voters this November.

Registration for community health meeting now open

MATTAWA – The Grant County Health Department is hosting a listening session on August 6, at Wahluke High School in Mattawa. The session from 4:30 to 6 p.m. will focus on developing the Community Health Improvement Plan for the county.

Powell Brothers to perform in Moses Lake Aug. 9

MOSES LAKE — The Powell Brothers will take the stage at the Centennial Amphitheater at McCosh Park Aug. 9. as part of Moses Lake’s Summer Concert Series. The brothers, Taylor Powell and his younger brother Blake, are usually classified as a country act, but exactly what that means can vary from show to show, said their manager Chad Tolar. “They’re musically ADD, to tell you the truth,” Tolar said. “If you look at their YouTube and go down that rabbit hole, you’ll see outlaw country, you’ll see traditional modern, contemporary country, you’ll see blues, you’ll see Southern rock, you’ll see covers of The Weeknd. It’s an American country vibe that fits somewhere between Tom Petty and Vince Gill.”

FIRE REPORT: Local districts give updates on fire season

SOAP LAKE – Grant County Fire District 7 is doing well on resources for July, even with 98 fires breaking out according to GCFD 7 Fire Chief Chris Baker. Baker said he is concerned about fireworks and uncontrolled burns though.

LETTER: Library a safe place with unique resources

Dear Editor, I was disheartened after hearing the misinformation shared at the Moses Lake City Council Meeting on Tuesday, July 23. As the Supervising Librarian of the Moses Lake Public Library and a lifelong resident of Grant County, I felt compelled to respond publicly.

NEWS BITES for July 31, 2024

NEWS BITES for July 31, 2024

FRESH NEWS: Summer fishing continues to be excellent

MARDON – The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1,034 feet – dropping 1.6 feet this past week. We are currently 12.5 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 75 degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes have jumped this week to the mid-80s.

William Hewitt

1934 – 2024

William Howard Hewitt, 90, was a devoted husband, father, uncle, grandfather, friend, and self-appointed executive chairman of the Bookery coffee group. He was born in 1934 in Fairbury, Nebraska to Howard and Anna Hewitt.

Dust storms: how to protect yourself

OLYMPIA — It’s no secret that Eastern Washington is dusty country, as we were reminded July 17 when a dust storm ripped through the region. While the impact on air quality was marginal, visibility on I-90 became dangerously poor, according to an announcement from the Washington State Department of Ecology. These storms form rapidly and with little to no warning, so it’s important to be prepared. Dust storms occur when strong winds stir up dry soil into dark, dense clouds. While storms typically last only a few minutes, they bring serious health and safety risks. From spring to fall, dust devils and small dust storms are fairly common across central and eastern Washington. The DOE reminds people to follow these steps to stay safe if they’re unexpectedly caught in one:

Legals for July, 31 2024

Climate credit applications available to Washingtonians

OLYMPIA — Up to 675,000 households will receive a $200 credit on utility bills due to $150 million funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. According to Gov. Jay Inslee, this funding aims to reduce health risks from climate change and lower electricity costs for low and medium-income households.

OneD site manager took a roundabout path

MOSES LAKE — Nick Kamerath didn’t set out to run a high-tech chemical plant, but here he is. “If you were a high-performing academic student … (you were expected to be) either a doctor or lawyer and I didn't really necessarily want to be either,” he said. “I got out of high school and started doing general studies, kind of eliminating things like ‘Well, I don't want to do that, don't want to do that.’ And as I wrapped up my associate’s in general studies, it kind of narrowed down to chemical engineering. I was riding the bus to Weber State University, and the bus the other direction went to the University of Utah. So I just switched sides of the street to go the other way.”

16U Sixers close out summer season

Local baseball team ends summer play with 17-10 record

SPOKANE – The 16U Central Washington Sixers wrapped up the summer with an appearance at the Gonzaga Midsummer Classic, going 2-2 on the weekend to finish the season with a 27-10 overall record. “The boys were confident; we knew the tournament we were coming into that we were going to face some tougher teams,” Head Coach Jaret Fulbright said. Central Washington opened the tournament on Thursday, taking on KBC 15U where the Sixers took an early 4-2 lead in the bottom of the second inning. KBC scored three runs in the top of the fifth to tie the game at five, later sealing the win with a three-run top of the seventh inning to win 8-6.

Two Moses Lake gravel streets to be paved

MOSES LAKE — Sections of two gravel roads in Moses Lake will be paved with storm drains, curbs, gutters and sidewalks added next month. A contract for about $798,800 for the work was awarded July 9 to Hurst Construction, Wenatchee. The project also includes site preparation for additional streetlights and other infrastructure improvements.

'Venue' cuts the ribbon

MOSES LAKE – Venue Magazine owner Shawn Cardwell cuts the ceremonial ribbon on the first edition of the revived magazine Thursday. Cardwell recently purchased Venue, which had been on hiatus for five years, from founder Melea Johnson.

Jehovah’s Witnesses to gather in Tri-Cities

KENNEWICK — The 2024 convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses will be held at Toyota Center in Kennewick the weekends of Aug. 23-25 and Aug. 30-Sept. 1, according to an announcement from Jehovah’s Witnesses.

FIRE REPORT: Fires burn over two million acres nationwide

MOSES LAKE – As of Monday morning, there are 102 large active wildfires being managed nationwide, burning an estimated two million acres according to the National Interagency Fire Center. In Washington there are around 182,300 acres burning according to NIFC.

Applications open for Compost Reimbursement Program

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture is launching its second year of the Compost Reimbursement Program to continue to encourage on-farm compost use, according to an announcement from WSDA.

Black pickup owner suspected of local crimes

EPHRATA – On Monday, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a 21-year-old man. The newly-formed crime reduction team apprehended Oscar E. Ruiz Ramos, 21, of Quincy, Saturday while he was driving a pickup suspected of involvement in area fuel thefts and casing local homes, according to the GCSO statement.

2024 Military Family Summit set for Aug. 14

SPOKANE – The 2024 Military Family Summit will be August 14 at Fairchild Air Force Base, according to a press release from Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R--Washington. She is set to co-chair the event.

Legals for July, 30 2024

Gloria Evans

July 26, 1940 — July 23, 2024

Gloria Jean Evans (née Lee, Falls, Loman, Heintz), 84, was born on July 26, 1940, in Spokane, Washington to Earl and Ruth (Muto) Lee. She was later adopted by Harvey Falls in 1947. She passed away in her sleep at Sacred Heart Hospital on July 23 after a years-long illness, just three days short of her 84th birthday. Gloria graduated from Richland High School in Richland, Washington and was a proud Bomber. She went on to attend Kinman Business College. She worked in bookkeeping and as a teacher’s aide.

Exterior, interior construction on schedule at new Samaritan Hospital

MOSES LAKE — Exterior insulation is almost installed, the exterior water barrier is making its way around the building, and windows are being installed in some sections of the new Samaritan Hospital. “There is a lot of work going on right now,” said Abram Jenks of the Klosh Group, the consultants working with Samaritan Healthcare on the construction of the new hospital. “There are over 180 people (working on site).”

CAA to host bowling fundraiser

MOSES LAKE – Community Athletics and Activities will be hosting a fundraiser at Lake Bowl in Moses Lake on August 9, the organization’s second fundraising event in a two-week span.

MLSD continues working toward balanced budget

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors continued to develop a balanced district budget during its regular Thursday meeting. District staff highlighted significant budget cuts, previous spending and highlights from the previous school year during the meeting.

Kickoff times set for Eagles home games

CHENEY — With fall camp starting Tuesday, Eastern Washington football announced the kickoff times for its six home games. The Big Sky conference also announced the game times for all conference games last Saturday during their media kickoff event at Northern Quest Resort and Casino.

Cougars head to Paris Olympics

PULLMAN – A contingent of seven past Washington State athletes are making their way to Paris, France this week for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, July 26 - Aug. 11. The group will represent six different nations while competing in men's and women's track & field, women's rowing, women's soccer, and men's basketball.

FIRE REPORT: Two fires light up in Spokane County Friday

SPOKANE — Two new wildfires began Friday afternoon in Eastern Washington, according to information released by state and federal authorities.

Federal funds set to revive PNW salmon, steelhead populations

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tribes in the Pacific Northwest are set to receive $240 million in funding to enhance hatchery infrastructure projects aimed at boosting Pacific salmon and steelhead populations in the region.

NEWS BITES: July 29, 2024

NEWS BITES: July 29, 2024

Tricia Lubach named WSSDA director

OLYMPIA — Quincy School Board Member Tricia Lubach was offered the position of executive director of the Washington State School Directors’ Association July 23, following a unanimous vote by the WSSDA Board of Directors, according to an announcement from the WSSDA. “We’re thrilled to be hiring one of our own,” WSSDA President Sandy Hayes, of the Northshore School District, wrote in the announcement. “Tricia comes to us with decades of experience as a school board member and a WSSDA staff member. Because of her background, she is well equipped to take the position and hit the ground running.” Over 30 people applied for WSSDA’s executive director position, according to the announcement. The executive search firm KEES assisted the WSSDA Board with arriving at four finalists. Of those, two were offered an in-person interview at the WSSDA office with the board and WSSDA staff. The next day, the board delivered its decision.

Make beautiful art at the Old Hotel this month

OTHELLO — There are lots of chances coming up to try your hand at art at the Old Hotel Art Gallery in Othello. “Our art classes are something that the Old Hotel has done for a very long time,” said gallery Director Samantha Copas. “I took classes here when I was a kid, and it kind of died off for a little bit … Then I got hired as the director last June, and that was something that I really wanted to bring back, turn it back into an Othello tradition.” The classes are planned now through mid-August, Copas said. Most of them are for all ages, and parents have the option to stay with their kids or not. Participants are encouraged to wear clothes they don’t mind getting stained, as good art is prone to be messy.

Weather for the week of July 29, 2024

Weather for the week of July 29, 2024

EWU track and field signs 29 athletes

CHENEY – Eastern Washington Director of Track and Field Erin Tucker announced the signing of 29 student-athletes for the upcoming 2024-25 season on Friday, bringing in a pool of athletes from both high school and other universities.

Gray wolves to remain on state endangered list after 5-4 vote

OLYMPIA – Gray wolves will remain on the endangered species list in Washington after a close 5-4 vote by the Washington State Fish and Wildlife Commission, according to a Washington Policy Center press release. Over the past 15 years, the gray wolf population has grown significantly, with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife counting at least 260 wolves in 42 packs.

Legals for July, 29 2024

Wenatchee River salmon season will not open in 2024

OLYMPIA – According to a press release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the current and projected hatchery production of Chinook Salmon falls below the necessary levels for meeting minimum spawning escapement and broodstock objectives for the Wenatchee River. The affected area spans from the mouth of the Wenatchee River to the Icicle Road Bridge crossing. These measures will be in effect from August 1 through September 30.

STUDIO BASIN: Wildfires, Grant Co. Community Court and Big Sky Media Day

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Managing Editor R. Hans Miller takes a look at ongoing wildfires in the Columbia Basin, including the Swawilla Fire located east of Grand Coulee. Miller also recaps news out of the Grant County Community Court and upcoming events in the Basin. In the sports segment, Sports Reporter Ian Bivona recounts his experience at Big Sky Media Days in Spokane, talking to EWU receiver Nolan Ulm, defensive end Brock Harrison and Head Coach Aaron Best. Later in the sports segment is a breakdown of local teams in the American Legion Baseball playoffs. The STUDIO BASIN podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3WEXfI0.

Innovative fish passage meant to revive Yakima River Basin salmon opens in Cle Elum

(The Center Square) – U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland was in Cle Elum, Wash., Wednesday to highlight federally funded salmon restoration projects.

Home inventory up more than a third in the Evergreen State

MOSES LAKE — There are a lot more homes available in Washington state than there were a year ago, according to data released in July by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service.

Grant Co. Community Court graduates first veteran

EPHRATA – Grant County Community Court celebrated its second graduate, a military veteran who – the first vet in the program – had run into issues with overuse of alcohol and was facing his sixth DUI conviction prior to entering the program.

Futsal courts coming to Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The Harrison K. Dano Park next to the Boys & Girls Club McGraw Clubhouse in Moses Lake is getting an addition, thanks to the city, the Seattle Sounders and a former Moses Lake resident.

Red Raiders wrap up summer 2024 season

OTHELLO – The Red Raiders saw their season end in last weekend’s AA Area 4 district tournament, falling 12–5 to Hanford after the Flames took a 9–1 lead through the first three innings.

Some road projects done, others still in progress

VANTAGE — At midsummer, many road construction projects are winding down, done or almost done, while longer-term projects are in high gear.

Yonezawa roundabout construction could start mid-2025

MOSES LAKE — A new roundabout could be coming to the intersection of Yonezawa Boulevard and State Route 17 sometime in 2025, the preliminary step to development of property on the east side of SR 17. Moses Lake city officials will apply for additional funding to help pay for the project later this year.

Columbia Basin events calendar for July 26- Aug. 1

MOSES LAKE – As the month comes to an end and the temps are up, there are still plenty of cool things to do in the Basin. Here are a few things to consider if you’re needing a break from the house.

CBCCA announces a varied concert season

MOSES LAKE — The Central Basin Community Concert Association is urging people who love music to get their season tickets early, according to an announcement from the association. “The best way to see all the shows is by purchasing a season membership,” the CBCCA wrote in the announcement. “We’ve announced our 2024-25 season and are excited for the music coming to the Basin.” The first performer for the season will be Kate Voss and the Hot Sauce. Voss got her start playing piano in clubs in Seattle with a variety of bands, according to her official biography. She studied jazz, but found her interests were more varied than that genre would allow, so she formed her own band to play a fusion of jazz, blues, pop, country, western swing, oldies, Americana and rockabilly. Besides piano, Voss sings with a voice reminiscent of Nancy Sinatra and Etta James, and also plays the ukulele bass and melodica. Her band, the Hot Sauce, can be anything from a duo to a sextet and backs her up with a danceable, nostalgic sound. On Oct. 17, Molly in the Mineshaft will take the stage with a mixture of traditional folk styles including Celtic, bluegrass and blues. The Utah-based septet wields an array of instruments including mandolin, banjo, guitar, cello, fiddle and bagpipes, backing up three vocalists’ harmonies. They’ve won numerous awards and championships for their instrumental work, according to their promotional materials.

Joint investigation results in four arrests, others detained

MOSES LAKE — Four people were booked into the Grant County Jail on outstanding warrants following a cooperative investigation between the Moses Lake Police Department and Grant County Sheriff’s Office into possible criminal activity in Civic Park in Moses Lake.

Fuzzy friends seek friendly homes

MOSES LAKE — Grant County Animal Outreach is looking for a few awesome humans to adopt a bunch of equally awesome dogs. The shelter is located at 6725 Randolph Road NE in Moses Lake and may be reached at 509-762-9616 or by email at thegcao@gmail.com. The facility is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m. and Friday from noon to 6 p.m. All GCAO animals available for adoption are fully vaccinated and have been spayed or neutered.

Washington state agency defends giving AGO investigation of tort claim against it

(The Center Square) – The Washington state agency tasked with overseeing tort claim investigations and determining whether individuals should be compensated as a result is defending its decision to assign an investigation to the state Attorney General’s Office in which the AGO and its client, Washington State University, are named defendants.

FIRE REPORT: Swawilla Fire uncontained, still growing

GRAND COULEE — The Swawilla Fire, ignited by lightning July 27, is located 11 miles east of Grand Coulee and grew to roughly 17,389 acres by Thursday. The fire remains uncontained according to the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

Woman arrested in death of Moses Lake man

MOSES LAKE — A Selah woman has been booked into the Grant County Jail on suspicion of a controlled substance homicide in connection with the death of a Moses Lake man.

Law enforcement records for July 26, 2024

The reports below were provided by the sheriff’s office or police department. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Moses Lake PD July 18 Report of an unidentified person damaging the reporting party’s boat and stealing items from the boat. Police found the subject cut the boat cover, removed subwoofers and amps, and damaged wiring in the boat. The subject(s) placed the cover back on the boat. Damages and loss are estimated at over $2,000. Report of a lost pitbull or bully mix walking around West Lakeshore Drive. Reporting party is holding onto the dog until the owner is contacted.

Legals for July, 26 2024

Timeline explores the 50-year journey of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU

PULLMAN — As the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary on Sept. 26, members of the Cougar community can explore the institution’s evolution over the last five decades via an interactive timeline. The timeline includes a curated list highlighting some of the 390 exhibitions that have been on display at WSU’s art museum from its inception in 1974 to the present day. The web page also includes information about upcoming celebrations for the museum’s anniversary that are open to the public. Originally occupying a single gallery of 4,000 square feet within the university’s Fine Arts Center, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU has evolved into a dynamic hub for scholarly discourse, artistic exploration, and community engagement.

Jesus Manuel Delgado

August 20, 1975 – July 19, 2024

Jesus Manuel Delgado, 48, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Moses Lake, Washington. Born on Aug. 20, 1975, in Fresno, California to Jesus Robert Delgado and Maria Montejano, Jesus Delgado was a beloved son and brother, father, and friend. Jesus Delgado is survived by parents Jesus Robert Delgado and Maria Montejano and siblings Robert D.G. (Beatrice), James (Esther), Robert (Angela), David (Cynthia), Isabel (Zack), and Mary (James). Jesus Delgado was the former spouse of Angela Quezada with whom he shared two decades of marriage before parting ways. Though no longer together, Jesus and Angela remained connected through their shared children Israel and Ashley and their grandchildren Jayce, Roman, and Estela.

Joyce Marie Kitkowski

Dec. 9, 1950 — May 14, 2024

Joyce Marie (Rashford) Kitkowski, 73, passed away on May 14, 2024, at Sunnyside, Washington after a short illness. Joyce was born on Dec. 9, 1950, in Yakima, Washington to Loreta M. and Robert E. Rashford. She moved with her family to Moses Lake, Washington and attended school in Moses Lake, Washington, graduating from Moses Lake High School in 1969. After high school, Joyce moved to Seattle, Washington and graduated from ITT Peterson School of Business as a data specialist. Joyce was employed by SRO Theaters, US West, Air Touch, and Verizon. In August of 1983, Joyce married Edward Kitkowski and relocated to Pasco, Washington. She enjoyed cooking, bowling, reading novels, caring for her beloved cat named “T” and going for drives in her Cadillac.

Backpack giveaway Sunday in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake TCC store will give away backpacks again this year on Sunday, according to an announcement from Round Room, Inc., the parent company of TCC. The giveaway will begin at 1 p.m. at the Verizon TCC store at 221 S. Pioneer Way, according to the announcement. This is the 12th year Round Room has held the “School Rocks Backpack Giveaway.”

RISING JUNIORS: Moses Lake’s Brady Jay

MOSES LAKE – Maverick quarterback Brady Jay has high aspirations for his junior season with Moses Lake. “I want to win league, go undefeated, go on a state run, throw for 3,500 yards, 45 touchdowns in the regular season and keep my picks to under six,” the rising Moses Lake junior said.

Samaritan Healthcare in black for first half of 2024

MOSES LAKE — Even with the additional expense of construction, increased staff costs and additional bad debt, Samaritan Healthcare is in reasonable financial shape. Samaritan generated a profit of about $1.15 million in June, and for the first six months of 2024, Samaritan was $1.67 million in the black, according to hospital district staff.

Moses Lake council accepts sleep center grant

MOSES LAKE — The city of Moses Lake will continue to operate the Open Doors Sleep Center, but Moses Lake City Council members want more information on the city’s options in the wake of a U.S. Supreme Court decision issued last month. Council members voted 5-2 Tuesday to accept an emergency housing grant which will provide funding through July 2025. Council members Dustin Swartz and Victor Lombardi voted no.

Nothing like a good book

Children read to fuzzy friends at ACPR

OTHELLO — Adams County Pet Rescue’s first Kitty Litterature event July 13 worked out well all around, said ACPR Board Member Tammy Foley.

Keeping Families Together Act reduces dependency cases in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE – Grant County Juvenile Court is seeing a decrease in dependency cases in the last couple of months. Dependency cases involve issues with guardians of minors, which includes minors in the foster care system and minors being relocated to other family members.

A house of history

EPHRATA - While others were enjoying the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce's Car Show & Shine - Anything With Wheels event last Saturday, others chose another place by the courthouse to visit - the Nat Washington House. Visitors enjoyed a chance to learn about the house's history and connection to the nation's first president, George Washington. Interesting tidbits included what happened to George Washington's first coffin and how the Nat Washington house came to be.

NEWS BITES: July 25, 2024

NEWS BITES: July 25, 2024

WA energy choice initiative qualifies for the Nov. ballot

(The Center Square) – Initiative 2066 to protect energy choices like natural gas has officially qualified for the November ballot, according to the Washington Secretary of State's Office.

Legals for July, 25 2024

Ries named to Dean’s List at Linfield

MCMINNVILLE, Ore. — Sydney Ries, a junior at Linfield University's McMinnville campus, was named to the Spring 2024 Dean's List, according to an announcement from the university. Ries, a 2021 graduate of Moses Lake High School, is majoring in philosophy.

Anything with wheels goes at the Ephrata Car Show & Shine

EPHRATA - Saturday was a toasty 100 degrees out, but that didn’t stop people from enjoying the 2024 Anything with Wheels Car Show & Shine in Ephrata. C Street NW was filled with cars and people from various decades and backgrounds. From bicycles to muscle cars to motorcycles to classics and a little bit of everything in between, it was there.

Grant Co. Jail project moving quickly

EPHRATA – The New Grant County Jail is progressing rapidly according to Tom Gaines, the Grant County central services director. He provided updates on the new Grant County Jail during the County Commissioners meeting on Monday.

Run defense a focus for Eagles in 2024

SPOKANE – While Eastern Washington’s offense is looking to build off significant strides made during the 2023 season, the Eagle defense is looking to turn itself around after surrendering the second-most points in the Big Sky last fall.

Blankenship still has projects to see through, he says

RITZVILLE — Dan Blankenship said he decided to run for a second term as Adams County Commissioner because there’s still work he wants to do. “I’ve got some projects that I’ve gotten started that I just want to see through,” he said. “I think my skill set still applies to the job. I think we’re having some successes.”

FIRE REPORT: Multiple new fires break out across WA

SELAH – The North Wenas Fire started on Monday at 7:45 p.m. located in Yakima County near Selah, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The fire is estimated at 1,500 acres and growing with no containment. The fire is threatening homes, the electrical grid, irrigation and cultural areas. Level three evacuations are in effect on Tuesday.

GALLERY: Summer baseball in the Basin

MOSES LAKE – Summer sports action is beginning to wind down across the Columbia Basin. Check out these photos of local baseball teams from games throughout the summer.

Revisions proposed to Othello home-based business ordinance

OTHELLO — The Othello Planning Commission will have a public hearing Aug. 19 to take public comment on a proposal to revise the ordinance governing home businesses.

Weise looks at balancing needs, resources if reelected

RITZVILLE — Jay Weise said he planned to run for a second term as Adams County Commissioner when he was elected in 2020, because it takes a while to learn the job and do it effectively. “There’s a whole bunch of stuff you don’t know,” he said.

FRESH NEWS: Bass continue to bite, walleye and trout too

MARDON – The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1035.60 feet – dropping 1.40 feet this past week. We are currently 10.90 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 75 degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes have jumped this week to the mid-80s.

Legals for July, 24 2024

Less than half of WA families who qualify for new tax credit are applying

(The Center Square) – Washington state officials say they are on track to meet the goal of having 50% of eligible families applying for and receiving a tax credit for moderate- and low-income families by this time next year.

JR Simplot donates $50K to CAA

Students, parents and coaches turn out to show appreciation.

MOSES LAKE — The word went out from coaches and advisors - the JR Simplot company was stepping up to help out the Moses Lake School District extracurricular program with a $50,000 donation. The coaches and advisors suggested the students should turn out to show their appreciation.

Pilot program

Civil Air Patrol trains young fliers in Ephrata

EPHRATA — This week, that plane buzzing overhead could be piloted by a teenager. The Civil Air Patrol in Ephrata is holding its Desert Eagle National Flight Academy, for CAP cadets between the ages of 16 and 19. They’ll get intensive flight instruction for 10 days, both in powered planes and on the ground, learning , said Lt. Col. Sid Wiggs, the public affairs officer for the academy.

‘We are here to fight’

Purple Party gets community ready for Walk to End Alzheimer’s

MOSES LAKE — Alzheimer’s disease is a terrifying thing for many people: the fear that one day they will watch helplessly as they cease to remember their families and even who they are. The 150-200 people who came to the Purple Party at the Porterhouse Steakhouse in Moses Lake Thursday want to make that fear a thing of the past.

Eagles bringing experienced offense into 2024

SPOKANE – There was an excited energy regarding the Eastern Washington offense at Monday’s Big Sky Media Days, with the unit that finished third in both total yards and points scored bringing a veteran group to the field in 2024.

Applications open for Future Innovators Scholarship

MOSES LAKE — Applications are being accepted for the Future Innovators Scholarship Competition, according to an announcement from 509Fiber, which sponsors the scholarship.

WA delegation shows the Evergreen State’s aerospace leadership at UK airshow

OLYMPIA – The largest delegation from Washington state ever, led by Lt. Governor Denny Heck and State Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig, is currently in the United Kingdom attending the 2024 Farnborough International Air Show.

Campaign contributions flow in race to replace retiring McMorris Rodgers

(The Center Square) – Federal Election Commission filings show more than $1.6 million raised at the end of the second quarter by candidates in the 5th Congressional District in Washington state.

‘We had baserunners in traffic all night’

ACH Legion reaches AA state tournament

SPOKANE – The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Senior Legion baseball team locked up a berth in the AA State Tournament with a fourth-place finish in the Area 3 AA district tournament over the weekend, where they went 4-1 in games to reach next week’s state competition.

Major upgrades coming to Westshore Drive next summer

MOSES LAKE — Drivers who use Westshore Drive can get an overview of the work planned for spring 2025 along Westshore Drive, and get their questions answered, at a meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Moses Lake Country Club, 1373 at Road F.2 NE.

Basin Summer Showdown coming Saturday

EPHRATA — The Basin Summer Showdown car show will take to the streets in Ephrata again Saturday.

Grant Co. commissioners receive infrastructure updates

EPHRATA – During the Grant County Board of Commissioners meeting Monday they received updates from the central services and the development service directors to begin their day, followed by a variety of other updates.

Soap Lake sewer leak stopped quickly

SOAP LAKE – On Saturday, a citizen alerted authorities to effluent seeping out of a manhole cover near West Beach in Soap Lake. The City of Soap Lake Public Works team, led by Supervisor Darrin Fronsman, swiftly responded to the emergency, according to an announcement by Soap Lake Mayor Allen DuPuy.

FIRE REPORT: Local fire causes road closure, lightning storm causes 9 WA fires

EPHRATA — Grant County Fire District 13 and Ephrata firefighters dealt with a 25-acre burn near Highway 28 and Road E NW Sunday, closing Highway 28 at Naylor Junction and Neva Lake Road. By 5:14 p.m. the fire was handled, and by 5:35 p.m. the highway was reopened. Fire is inferred to have been sparked by a bird on a power line, and was wind driven. The Miners Complex Fires consist of nine wildfires caused by lightning strikes on July 17 and 18. The storm caused about 1,000 lightning strikes across Oregon and Washington. Fire crews are battling a 500-acre complex of lightning-caused fires in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, which has prompted trail closures and warnings from the U.S. Forest Service. The Miners Complex include: Miners Fire, Vista Ridge Fire, Dolly Creek Fire, Sulphur Three Fire, Sulphur Four Fire, Sulphur Thirty-Four Fire, Upper Sulphur Thirty-Two Fire, Lower Sulphur Thirty-Two Fire, and Plummer Fire.

Legals for July, 23 2024

New Moses Lake nonprofit seeks to preserve student experience, motivation

MOSES LAKE — With financial struggles, the Moses Lake School District cannot afford extracurriculars of all sorts, from football to band to theater, for the 2024-25 school year. However, community members have formed the nonprofit Community Athletics and Activities to make sure children don’t miss out on important experiences. “Just to give some idea of the motivation and the determination of the group (our) board put together, their nonprofit got their tax ID in three weeks when they were told three to six months. That’s a persistent, dedicated group that’s motivated to get things done quickly,” said Brian Skaug, a CAA member.

‘I’ve always loved the ocean’

Seascapes and serenity at The Drip art gallery

MOSES LAKE — There’s a definite theme to Hannah Fountain’s artwork. “I always loved the ocean,” she said. “I love the water, and painting it has always been my favorite subject.”

Red Raiders fall to Walla Walla at districts

YAKIMA – The Othello Red Raiders opened the American Legion AA Area 4 district tournament on Friday night in Yakima against Walla Walla, falling 14-6 to the Bruins after Walla Walla put up an eight-run bottom of the fifth inning.

Upgrades included in Quincy 6-year parks plan

QUINCY — New playground toys, more park benches and picnic areas in most Quincy parks, a new park on Sixth Avenue Northeast and new baseball and softball fields with lights are among the components of the city’s updated comprehensive parks, recreation and open space plan.

Yonezawa roundabout workshop set

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake residents are being invited to an open house from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Moses Lake Civic Center to learn more about a proposed project to build a roundabout at Yonezawa Boulevard and South Pioneer Way.

FIRE REPORT: Wilson Creek fire out as of Friday

WILSON CREEK – The Road R Fire, also listed as the Wilson Creek Fire, in Grant County, was put out on Friday at 7:30 p.m. and crews began to monitor hot spots, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. The road between R-NE and Wilson Creek is open again beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday.

NEWS BITES for July 22, 2024

NEWS BITES for July 22, 2024

Rivard wants changes to Adams Co. government

OTHELLO — Adams County Commission candidate Hank Rivard said he believes county government should be run differently. Rivard is running against incumbent Jay Wiese. “There are a lot of things that need changing,” Rivard said.

Weather for the week of July 22, 2024

Weather for the week of July 22, 2024

Treehouse seeks support for foster youth going back to school

MOSES LAKE — Treehouse, a Washington state nonprofit dedicated to supporting the educational and other essential needs of youth in foster care, is launching its annual back-to-school campaign to collect school supplies and items by the end of summer, according to an announcement from the organization. Treehouse is calling on community members, businesses and organizations to support youth in foster care during the back-to-school season by hosting donation drives and/or organizing fundraisers now. This initiative aims to ensure that every child in foster care has the necessary resources to succeed academically and beyond.

ACH walks off against Palouse

HARTLINE – The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Senior Legion baseball team continued play in the AA Area 3 district tournament on Friday, as catcher Grayson Beal’s RBI in the bottom of the eighth inning gave the Warriors a walk-off win over Palouse. Check out Tuesday’s edition of the Columbia Basin Herald for a full story on the game, as well as results from Saturday and Sunday’s games in the tournament.

Legals for July, 22 2024

Candidates for WA commissioner of public lands make their case to voters

(The Center Square) – Candidates vying to be Washington state’s next commissioner of public lands presented their visions for the office at a Thursday League of Women Voters-sponsored forum at Clark College in Vancouver.

STUDIO BASIN: High temps, primary elections and Legion playoffs

MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer, Sports Reporter Ian Bivona and Senior Reporter Joel Martin discuss recent headlines in the Basin, including high temperatures, ballots being sent in the mail and the new superintendent at the Ephrata School District.

RISING JUNIORS: Royal’s Jill Allred

ROYAL CITY – Royal pitcher Jill Allred carried a significant load for the Knights this spring, pitching every inning of the softball season during their 1A state title run.

Mae Valley housing going up

The Refuge development moves forward with home options

MOSES LAKE — The Mae Valley area is getting some more homes. Pro Made Homes, based in Kennewick, is building 52 homes at The Refuge at Mae Valley between Montana Street and the Moses Lake Golf & Country Club on the west end of Moses Lake.

Police logs for July 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.

FIRE REPORT: Wilson Creek fire crisps 180 acres

WILSON CREEK — A wildfire was reported at about 4 p.m. Thursday north of the town of Wilson Creek and west of Road 3 NE which had burned an estimated 180 acres by about 7 p.m. according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Basin Summer Showdown coming next Saturday

EPHRATA — The Basin Summer Showdown car show will take to the streets in Ephrata again Saturday, July 27.

Ephrata going chrome

Annual Car Show & Shine set for Saturday in downtown

EPHRATA — The cars – and trucks, and motorcycles, and whatever else – will gleam in the sun again Saturday at the Anything with Wheels Show and Shine car show.

Moses Lake man sentenced in vehicle arson case

SPOKANE — David Alexander Maybee, 25, of Moses Lake was sentenced after pleading guilty to Malicious Destruction of Property by Fire. U.S. District Court Judge Thomas O. Rice handed down a sentence of 60 months imprisonment with an additional three years of supervised release.

Road construction scheduled in Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Crews have started work on two major street improvements in Soap Lake, and a third is scheduled to start next month. The installation of a lighted crosswalk at Southeast Third Avenue and South Daisy Street (State Route 17) has been completed.

Basin events calendar for July 19-28

COLUMBIA BASIN – This week, the Basin has plenty of fun ahead with comedy, shiny cars, live music and a chance to support local athletes.

New mats coming to EHS wrestling room

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School wrestlers will be practicing on a new mat when the 2024-25 season rolls around, as the Ephrata School Board approved the purchase of new wrestling mats for the EHS wrestling room last month.

Building permits for July 19, 2024

Building permits for July 19, 2024

Legals for July, 19 2024

Murray plans school updates, announces priorities

EPHRATA – Ken Murray has stepped into the role of Superintendent of Ephrata Schools. In a community message on the Ephrata school’s website he elaborated on three focuses as the superintendent which include fiscal responsibility, facility updates and long-term planning.

City administrator provides Ephrata water update

EPHRATA – The city of Ephrata is working to upgrade its water systems on multiple fronts with a new water tower, redrilling two wells, regained water rights and upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment facility, according to City Administrator Ray Towery. That includes recently-installed freshwater and gray water infrastructure to take water to the new Grant County Jail and to take reclaimed water to the Port of Ephrata.

Red Raiders fall to Walla Walla

WARDEN – With districts beginning at the end of the week, the Othello Red Raiders wrapped up their regular season with a game against Walla Walla on Tuesday, falling to the Bruins 14-6 at Warden High School. The game, originally scheduled as a doubleheader, was played as a nine-inning standalone game due to a lack of umpires.

Small cities in Grant Co. see crime trending down

MOSES LAKE — The communities are smaller, so the incidents are fewer, and the percentage changes look more dramatic. But cities in Grant County are for the most part following the same trend in declining crime as the rest of Washington.

WA job market adds 7,100 jobs in June

OLYMPIA - Washington's job market saw positive growth in June, with an estimated 7,100 new jobs added and the unemployment rate remaining steady at 4.9%. While the unemployment rate had been slowly rising over the past few months, it still remained below 5% since summer 2021 according to the Washington Employment Security Department.

FIRE REPORT: Sunbanks Fire mostly extinguished

ELECTRIC CITY — The Sunbanks Fire that flared up Tuesday afternoon in Electric City was mostly out Wednesday, according to a statement from the Grand Coulee Volunteer Fire Department. No flames were visible, but small flare-ups continued to appear. The fire burned 100 acres before it was extinguished, but no structures were reported lost.

Ephrata School District receives two clean audit reports

EPHRATA – The Washington State Auditor’s Office recently completed two audits of the Ephrata School District, both resulted in no significant deficiencies. The audits included an accountability audit and a financial statement and federal grant compliance audit, covering September 2020 to August 2023 and September 2022 to August 2023, respectively.

Downtown businesses make the best of small spaces

MOSES LAKE — There’s a lot happening in the middle of Moses Lake, and it’s happening in smaller and smaller spaces. “Even with all the business closures that are happening around town, businesses that are still open are doing more initiatives to attract more people to their stores,” said Mallory Miller, director of the Downtown Moses Lake Association, which promotes the business community downtown. “We've got Artgarden, she's doing more classes. We've got Hello Nature which is bringing in things constantly. (Owner Magen Evans) is doing little sidewalk sales. So just bringing more people into downtown.” Moses Lake’s downtown business core has had its share of ups and downs over the years, as businesses come and go. Many of the businesses that were pillars of the downtown core 30 and more years ago – Pinky’s House of Fashion, Berry’s Department Store, Furniture West – are now the stuff of nostalgia. But in their place have come smaller concerns, many of them doubling and tripling up in the available spaces.

Grant PUD fiber buildout scheduled for October completion

EPHRATA — The buildout of the Grant County Public Utility District fiber network should be complete by late October.

Transparency, accountability critical, incumbent commissioner says

EPHRATA — Rob Jones said he’s running for a second term as Grant County Commissioner because there are some important initiatives coming up and projects he wants to see through.

Nominations open for Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards

OLYMPIA — Nominations are being accepted for Washington state’s Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards, according to an announcement from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. The award honors volunteers, service officers, community members, Tribal veterans, National Guard members, or others who day in and day out go above and beyond the call of duty making sure veterans and their family members are cared for, according to the announcement. Whether they submit claims for benefits, arrange funeral honors for grieving families, coordinate events or donate countless hours in veteran’s hospitals or nursing homes, this is an opportunity to nominate them for one of seven Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards. This awards program is sponsored by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, the announcement said. Award winners are invited to participate in the Auburn Veteran's Day Parade, followed by recognition at a special luncheon.

Ephrata School’s budget meeting set

EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board is holding a public meeting to discuss the district’s budget on Monday, July 29. The meeting will be at 6:00 a.m. in the Ephrata School District Boardroom at 111 4th Ave NW.

Kids with disabilities make memories at Merwin Day of Fishing

WOODLAND — More than 200 children with disabilities enjoyed a unique opportunity to experience the joy of fishing in a supportive and inclusive environment Saturday at the 24th annual Merwin Day of Fishing, according to an announcement from Pacific Power, which hosted the event in conjunction with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The event was held at the hatchery near Merwin Dam in southwestern Washington. Throughout the day, children caught fish specially raised for the event, with many experiencing the excitement of fishing for the first time, according to the announcement. When the kids arrived at the hatchery, they were given T-shirts, fishing rods, tackle and other items. Then volunteer coaches helped them catch up to five fish, which were cleaned and put on ice while families enjoyed a barbecue. The event not only provided a fun recreational activity, but also fostered connections among participants and volunteers. Volunteers from Pacific Power, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and several recreational fishing organizations generously contributed their time and expertise to ensure each child had a fulfilling experience, the announcement said. Corporate sponsors also played a crucial role in supporting the event, providing necessary equipment and resources.

WSU releases spring 2024 honor roll

PULLMAN — One hundred nine Basin students were named to the Washington State University honor roll for spring quarter 2024, according to an announcement from the university. A student can be named to the honor roll either by achieving a grade point of 3.75 while enrolled in at least nine graded credits in a single semester provided that the cumulative GPA is 2.0 or better, or by achieving a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 based on at least 15 cumulative credits of graded work at Washington State University, provided that the semester GPA is 3.0 or better. These Columbia Basin students were named to the honor roll:

Legals for July, 18 2024

$42M tort claim accuses Washington AGO, WSU of racketeering

(The Center Square) – A potential subcontractor for a state police use of force database project who has had a long-running feud with the state Attorney General’s Office and Washington State University has now filed a $42 million tort claim that includes accusations of racketeering.

Soap Lake Folk and Food Festival off to a successful start

SOAP LAKE — Three-digit temperatures couldn’t keep folks away from the first annual Soap Lake Food and Folk Festival Saturday. “We had people messaging us on Facebook saying, ‘You know what, it was hot, but I still stayed in the park for 12 hours,’” said Kim Anderson, one of the organizers of the festival. “That's some dedication. They wouldn't have done that if they didn't really enjoy what was going on.”

14U River Dogs win North Washington tournament

EPHRATA – The 14U Columbia Basin River Dogs went 3-0 over the weekend to claim the Babe Ruth 14U North Washington State Tournament at Johnson-O'Brien stadium in Ephrata, defeating the 14U Moses Lake All Stars 12-0 in the title game on Sunday.

Twin artists on exhibit at Old Hotel

OTHELLO — The July Artist of the Month at the Old Hotel Art Gallery in Othello is actually two artists: twin brothers Aldemar and Valdemar Saavedra-Guerrero.

ACH Legion wins division title

HARTLINE – Saturday’s sweep of Ferris allowed the Almira/Coulee-Hartline Senior Legion baseball team to clinch a division title, finishing the regular season 16-0 and winning the Area 3 AA National Division.

Royal City Summerfest delivers

ROYAL CITY — The Royal City Summerfest went off well over the weekend, said Jill Larsen, a member of the festival committee. “The heat was a little much, but it's always hot,” Larsen said. “So always we try to keep it in mind; that's why we tried to put all of our vendors in the shade.” The food vendors were arranged around the perimeter of Lions Park, with the craft vendors toward the front. The sunny part of the park was used for the Headlights and Summer Nights Car Show Friday evening. The vehicles arranged around the park ranged from antiques to low riders. There was even a perfect replica of the General Lee from the TV show “The Dukes of Hazzard,” right down to the horn that played “Dixie.” “We picked up this car about a year ago and it wasn't running,” said Jeff Cobb of Ephrata, who restored the General with his 13-year-old son Clayton. “So we updated the motor and the transmission … It’s a 383 motor with a 727 transmission, and we have a 440 at home in the shop that we’re rebuilding, getting ready to put it in.”

WA Supreme Court leaves high-capacity magazine ban in place

(The Center Square) – Washington's ban on the sale of high-capacity magazines will remain in effect after a Monday decision by the state Supreme Court.

FRESH NEWS: Fishing good all around in reservoir and nearby lakes

MARDON – The current water level on the Potholes Reservoir is 1,037 feet – dropping 2 feet this past week. We are currently 9.50 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 75degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes have jumped this week to the mid to upper-80s.

FIRE REPORT: Evacuation notices issued for Electric City

ELECTRIC CITY — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation warnings Tuesday afternoon in Electric City due to a wildfire that broke out near Sunbanks Resort. Level 2 warnings – be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice – were in place Tuesday afternoon for the area from Sunny Drive to Fifth Street North. Level 1 notices – get ready – were in place between SR 155 and Western Avenue.

Crime trending down in Othello, Ritzville

OTHELLO — With a few exceptions crime in Othello and Ritzville is following the statewide trends - crime rates are going down. The Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs released its 2023 report last week, which included data for most cities statewide, including both Adams County cities.

Legals for July, 17 2024

Fire district proposals, commission races to be decided in Grant Co.

EPHRATA — Grant County voters will receive ballots this week for the primary election Aug. 5. Two county commission seats, two requests for increased fire district levies (called a levy lid lift) and one fire district EMS levy will be on the ballot in addition to federal and state offices.

Rhonda Lee Grubb

Aug. 17, 1947 — June 23, 2024

Our beloved Rhonda Lee Grubb, born Rhonda Lee Wilkinson, 76, was called home and entered the kingdom of heaven on June 23, 2024. After a long and tiring journey with cancer, she passed surrounded by her loved ones in the comfort of her home. Rhonda was born Aug. 17, 1947, in Tacoma, Washington, and raised by her loving parents, Marvin and Virginia Wilkinson. She shared a beautiful childhood and later adult life with her younger brother Mike, who always knew how to make her laugh. Rhonda attended nine years of Catholic school at Sacred Heart and St. Leo’s in Tacoma, where she solidified her love for the Lord. She then attended and graduated from Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington in 1965. She often spoke of her time on her Aqua-Maids synchronized swim team and her time in Alaska growing up. Rhonda met the love of her life, Michael Grubb, in 1963. The two quickly became inseparable. They married on July 13, 1966, in Tacoma, Washington and celebrated just shy of 58 years of marriage. Together the two created a beautiful life full of hard work and love. They welcomed their first child, a daughter, Michele, in 1968, followed by their sons Michael Scott in 1971, Steven in 1972, and Eric in 1977.

Local legislators, bipartisan politicians call for reason in wake of attempted assassination

MOSES LAKE — Seeking ways to reduce the political temperature in a presidential election year, how to apply lessons learned in other political forums, improving security during a presidential campaign are among the topics being discussed by federal and state legislators following the attempted assassination Saturday of former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump.

‘When will it end?’

Hot weather set to hang out across Columbia Basin this week.

MOSES LAKE — Yes, yes, it’s summer and hot weather is to be expected. And yes, hot sunny days are what everyone is thinking about in January when it’s 15 degrees and dark by noon, or so it seems. But still - at this point in the heat wave, there’s one question on everyone’s mind.

River Dogs defeat Penticton for home tourney win

MOSES LAKE – The 18U AAA Columbia Basin River Dogs emerged victorious from their home tournament this weekend, defeating Penticton 9-7 in the championship game of the River Dog Memorial Tournament.

Planting seeds of knowledge

WSU Master Gardeners looking for a few good volunteers

MOSES LAKE — Some people take playing in the dirt very seriously. “(The WSU Master Gardener program) is for gardeners who want to help other people garden,” said Barbara Guilland, “You have a real interest in gardening. It's not just a place to learn it, it's a place to learn how to tell other people about it.”

Washington panel eyes increasing jail-based voter participation

(The Center Square) – Although a proposal allowing convicted felons to vote from jail while serving a sentence failed to gain traction, there may be renewed efforts to expand jail-based voter participation among those who have still retained their voting rights.

FIRE REPORT: Wetland fire burns 60 acres in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE — A 60-acre fire broke out in the wee hours of Monday morning in an undeveloped wetland in Moses Lake, according to a statement released Monday afternoon by the Moses Lake Fire Department.

14U softball tournament hits Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – Seventeen softball teams from across the state – and one from Idaho – competed in the USA Softball of Washington 14U B State Tournament in Moses Lake this weekend, hosted at Larson Playfields and the Paul Lauzier Athletic Complex.

NEWS BITES: DUI collision, a rough landing and an arrest

NEWS BITES: DUI accident, a rough landing and an arrest

Legals for July, 16 2024

Charlie Jones

July 23, 1953 — July 10, 2024

In Loving Memory of Charlie Jones, 70. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charlie Jones, a beloved father, husband and friend. Charlie left us on July 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength.

Basin students make EWU Dean's List

CHENEY — Eastern Washington University has released its Dean’s List for spring quarter 2024. To qualify for the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student must earn 12 quality hours and receive a GPA of 3.5 or better. The following Basin students were named to the Dean’s List:

Legion continues win streak

ACH baseballers improve to 14-0 record with doubleheader sweep

HARTLINE – The Almira/Coulee-Hartline AA Senior Legion baseball team kept the wins coming on Friday night, winning both games against Gonzaga Prep AA at the Hartline Ball Fields. The wins come after another doubleheader sweep on Monday, where ACH Legion defeated Shadle Park.

Crime trending down in Moses Lake, Ephrata

MOSES LAKE — Crime trends in Moses Lake and Ephrata seem to be following the rest of the state - they went down between 2022 and 2023. A report on crime trends throughout the state, including individual cities, was released last week by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.

Masquers camp hits the high – and hilarious – seas

SOAP LAKE — Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of soda pop! The Soap Lake Masquers Summer Youth Theater Camp will put on “Captain Bree and her Lady Pirates” next week.

‘No sad tears today’

Boys & Girls Club funded for the rest of the year

MOSES LAKE — “It’s happy tears,” Boys & Girls Club Director Kim Pope told a little girl who asked why she was crying. “No sad tears today.” Pope had to fight back tears several times at North Elementary School Wednesday morning, as she accepted a donation from Group14 and other local businesses that would keep the club afloat through the year.

PREVIEW: A look at Soap Lake's Folk and Food Festival

SOAP LAKE – Soap Lake’s inaugural Folk and Food Festival had a decent showing despite the triple-digit temperatures on Saturday. While performers did their thing on stage, the audience found a shady spot and enjoyed cold drinks to fight the heat. Full coverage of the event will be in Wednesday’s edition of the Columbia Basin Herald.

Work scheduled for SR 26 this week

OTHELLO — Drivers should plan for delays along State Route 26 between Interstate 90 and Othello for about a week beginning Tuesday.

Flashback and update: Kiana Rios

WARDEN – Warden High School’s Kiana Rios (32) drives past a Colfax player during the state championship game of the WIAA state 2B girls tournament on March 5, 2022. The Cougars went on to win the championship that year and Rios went on to graduate and play for Saint Martin’s University. During her time with the Saints, Rios played in all 26 games for the 2022-23 season, starting 22 of those games and averaging 29.3 minutes per game and averaging 11.8 points, according to Saint Martin’s University Athletics. She also averaged 4.2 rebounds per game and 1.7 assists.

Alumni Association surpasses $260K in scholarships in 2024

MOSES LAKE — In 2024 the Moses Lake Alumni Association, founded in 2007, completed 18 years of activity, during which it awarded college scholarships totaling $265,000 to 240 recipients. The funds came entirely from membership donations, including donations honoring deceased family, friends and classmates.

Moses Lake hosts baseball, fastpitch tourneys

MOSES LAKE - The Columbia Basin River Dogs hosted the River Dog Memorial Tournament over the weekend with a variety of teams coming into town to face off on the diamonds at Big Bend Community College. While the temperatures were high, the athletes pushed through. Check out full coverage coming soon.

Study: WA fuel prices plunge at the third-fastest rate

MOSES LAKE — Washington's gas prices fell at the third-fastest rate in the past year in the United States, according to a recent study announced Thursday.

498 Vikings named to honor rolls

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College has released its President’s and Vice President’s lists for spring quarter 2024.

Weather for the week of July 15, 2024

Weather for the week of July 15, 2024

Most of WA remains in drought conditions

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology has announced that most of the state remains in a drought despite a wetter-than-average June. A drought was declared for most of the state in April.

FIRE REPORT: GCFD 7 knocks down fireworks fire

SOAP LAKE — Fireworks sparked a wildfire late Wednesday night, according to a statement from Grant County Fire District 7. At about 11:10 p.m., firefighters were called to a vegetation fire at Road 19 and Division Road, according to the statement. There they found a fire spreading at a moderate rate through light, flashy fuels. The first arriving brush engine made an aggressive attack and the fire was contained to 3.12 acres. Crews remained on the scene until 3:30 a.m. mopping up.

Legals for July, 15 2024

Shruumz recalled products cause illness in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Health District is urging people to avoid eating, serving or selling Diamond Shruumz products. “(The health district) is responding to a report of serious intoxication and hospitalization of a Grant County resident linked to consumption of these products,” according to a GCHD press release.

STUDIO BASIN: Hot weather, GCSO staffing and Basin sports action

EPHRATA – On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete and Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller sit down for our monthly segment with the Grant County Sheriff's Office. This week the pair discussed water and heat safety and Kriete provided an update on staffing at GCSO and touched on how the new Grant County Jail's construction is going. In Sports, sports reporter Ian Bivona and Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer recap baseball and softball games with the Columbia Basin River Dogs, Othello Red Raiders and Washington Rage, as well as two Moses Lake Wrestling Club wrestlers competing in a national duals tournament in Indiana last month. The STUDIO BASIN podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3VZ0pot.

Crime mostly down in Grant and Adams, report says

EPHRATA — While crime went up in some individual categories in the unincorporated areas of Grant and Adams counties between 2022 and 2023, overall it was on a downward trend, according to information released Tuesday by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.

River Dogs to host River Dog Memorial Tournament this weekend

MOSES LAKE – Local baseball fans can make the trip to Big Bend Community College to watch the River Dog Memorial 19U Tournament this weekend, featuring the AAA 18U Columbia Basin River Dogs and four other teams from across the state and into Canada.

14U Rage take second at Fun in the Sun tournament

KENT – The 14U Washington Rage took home second place from last weekend’s USSSA Fun in the Sun tournament in Kent, winning the first two games of bracket play to reach the championship game. Last weekend’s tournament followed a month-long recess from games for the team, who still practiced during their time off.

Local styling

Restyle Home Staging & Design owner looks at elevating home visions

MOSES LAKE — DeeDee Clune is looking to make sure locals have their homes set up in a way that works for them and wants homebuyers to see what living in the homes they shop for might look like. That’s the point of being an interior designer, and why she operates Restyle Home Staging & Design.

Bridging the digital divide

NCW Tech Alliance works to ensure access to digital opportunities

MOSES LAKE – In today’s digital world where farmers use GPS systems to operate combines, artificial intelligence runs machines to sort apples by grade and banking and health care are both accessed online, digital access matters, said Sue Kane, CEO of NCW Tech Alliance. Bridging the gap between tech and people is vital for quality of life and economic growth, she said.

Ephrata intersection closed Tuesday for bridge work

EPHRATA — Drivers should plan alternate routes to get in and out of downtown Ephrata next Tuesday as Washington Department of Transportation crews work on the bridge over the railroad tracks at the intersection of state Route 282 and state Route 28.

WA to spend $150M in CCA money on energy rebates

(The Center Square) – Washington state plans to spend approximately $150 million of taxpayer dollars generated from the Climate Commitment Act to issue residential energy rebates two months before voters decide whether to repeal the CCA.

Building permits for July 12, 2024

The permits below indicate homes or structures being built, remodeled or other activity requiring a city or county building permit, as indicated. Information is provided by the civic entity indicated and are a matter of public record.

Disappearing America

Exhibit at Moses Lake Museum brings rural relics to life

MOSES LAKE — Artist Deon Matzen will make an appearance at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center Friday to open her new exhibit. “My theme for this show … is “Vanishing Rural America,” Matzen said from her home on Whidbey Island. “I work on old barns that are falling down – the old-style barns, not the contemporary metal loafing shed-style barn – Trucks, barns, any kind of old detritus. Most of what you’ll see is that, although there are a number of wildlife paintings too. I call them ‘varmint paintings.’” The exhibit will kick off with a reception at 4 p.m. Friday where patrons can meet Matzen and nibble on refreshments while checking out the artwork.

BASIN COMMUNITY CALENDAR JULY 12-18

Here are a few things to do to take your mind off the heat this coming week:

Sasquatch expert to speak at library

KENNEWICK — Mid-Columbia Libraries will host a two-day lecture series entitled “Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science” Friday and Saturday at the Kennewick Public Library, according to an announcement from the library. Dr. Jeff Meldrum, a professor of anatomy and anthropology at Idaho State University, will discuss the work of various experts on the evidence for a large, undiscovered North American primate and analyze the scientific arguments for and against its existence, according to the announcement. Meldrum delves into the creature's history and invites individuals interested in human evolution to form their own conclusions. On Friday, July 12 Meldrum will present “The Patterson-Gimlin Film 50+ Years Later” at 7 p.m., looking at the famous 1967 film footage that purported to show Bigfoot walking in northern California. The makers, Roger Patterson and Bob Gimlin, always maintained that the footage was genuine, but many experts have dismissed the film as a hoax. There will be a meet-and-greet starting at 4:30 p.m. before the lecture.

Law enforcement logs for July 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. Ephrata PD July 3 Report of a suspicious bag of clothing left in the early morning hours in the 100 block of Basin Street Northwest. Clothes were removed from the property.

FIRE REPORT: More than 100 human-caused fires in the Northwest so far this summer

PORTLAND, Ore. — Since June, there have been 100 human-caused wildfires on national forests and grasslands in Oregon and Washington, according to a statement from the U.S. Forest Service. While firefighters have been largely successful in putting out these preventable fires, the extremely hot and dry conditions are significantly ramping up fire danger across the region. “We’re entering a very dangerous time period in the Pacific Northwest wildfire season,” Ed Hiatt, Pacific Northwest assistant fire director for operations, wrote in the statement. “Mother Nature turned on the oven for a week in local forests and now we’re preparing for the potential of dry lightning and gusty winds.” Local responders are closely tracking these deteriorating conditions where any new wildfire will have the potential to spread rapidly and burn intensely right from the start. And as firefighters respond to lightning-sparked fires a preventable, human-caused wildfire can limit the availability of needed engines, dozers, helicopters and other resources.

Legals for July, 12 2024

Ephrata-Soap Lake Ag Boosters in need of donations

EPHRATA — Organizers of a fund to support 4-H, Grange and FFA participants from Ephrata and Soap Lake at the annual stock sale during the Grant County Fair said the fund needs donations.

Columbia Basin Hospital Foundation supports hospital mission

EPHRATA – As a public hospital district operates, it needs community support to keep its mission of serving the community’s health needs. That may be purchasing chairs, organizing volunteers or working to fund upgrades to medical equipment said Susan Scheib, the hospital’s director of communication and development.

Burgess says planning for growth part of Grant Co. Commission's job

MOSES LAKE — Grant County Commission candidate Kevin Burgess said county and city governments need to think ahead when planning for growth. Burgess is running for the seat in Commission District 1; Danny Stone, the incumbent, did not file for reelection.

Folk festival to debut in Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake will spread its cultural wings this weekend with the first-ever Soap Lake Food and Folk Festival. The festival, which goes all day Saturday at Smokiam Park, will feature musicians from a variety of traditions, as well as food and craft vendors and periodic raffle drawings throughout the day. It’s put on by the Friends of the Lower Grand Coulee. “We've got Mexican music, we've got country music, we've got contemporary folk music, we've got southern folk music, we've got Delta blues,” said Kim Anderson, a lifelong Soap Lake resident who came up with the idea for the festival. “So we're all over the place.” Musicians include conjunto band Tejano Skyz, singer-songwriters Carl Tosten and Billy Stoops, country singer Myra Pearce, blues musicians The Delta G Band and Leif Totusek, whose compositions blend jazz, blues and soukous, a dance music style from central Africa. Many of the musicians have ties to the area, Anderson said; Pearce and Tejano Skyz are based in Moses Lake, and several members of the Delta G Band graduated from Soap Lake High School. Tosten also grew up in eastern Washington, according to his online biography.

Red Raiders sweep AA River Dogs in Tuesday doubleheader

MOSES LAKE — On a hot Tuesday evening at Larson Playfield, the Othello Red Raiders took down the AA 18U Columbia Basin River Dogs in both games of a doubleheader, winning the first game 12-2 before riding out to a 13-4 win in the nightcap. “We felt pretty good,” Othello Head Coach Sonny Garza said. “Obviously the weather was rough so we had to battle through that, but that’s something we knew coming in. We had to just work through it. The kids have been playing pretty good baseball, so we were excited coming in here and trying to play some good baseball.” Othello struck first in the opening game on Tuesday, as shortstop Sonny Salazar put the Red Raiders up 1-0 in the top of the first with an RBI single that sent home second baseman Quade Gonzalez IV. The Red Raiders added two more runs in the top of the third with RBI doubles by Gonzalez and left fielder Aaden Montes, later scoring four more runs in the top of the fourth with RBI from pitcher Kal-El Ozuna, Gonzalez and Salazar, as well as right fielder Carlos Castillo scoring on an error.

State health agency receives $2.5 million to boost school-based services

OLYMPIA — Washington schools will benefit from a federal health services grant, according to an announcement by the Washington State Health Care Authority. The HCA, in partnership with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, was awarded $2.5 million by the Baltimore-based Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to improve and expand school-based services, according to the announcement. The funds will be used to improve student attendance, increase academic performance and support overall well-being for students. The grant includes $500,000 for the first year and an additional $1 million for both the second and third years, the HCA wrote. Washington is one of 18 states to receive grant funds totaling $50 million to boost school-based services.

FRESH NEWS: Trout, walleye biting well at Potholes

MARDON — The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,039 feet, dropping 1.8 feet this past week. We are currently 7.5 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 72 degrees. The water temperatures in the sand dunes have jumped this week to the mid-80s. The largemouth bass fishing has been excellent this week! Fish frogs early and late and always have a Senko rigged to follow up on missed fish. Fish back in the sand dunes. Throw 1/2-ounce jigs, swim jigs, jerkbaits, chatter baits, Senkos, spinnerbaits, frogs, and Texas-rigged plastics. Fish are in 1-12 feet of water. Lots of 1- to 3-pound fish are being caught with a few in the 4- to 5-pound range. The smallmouth fishing has been good this week. Fish 5-20 feet using Ned rigs, Senkos, spinner baits, drop shot rigs, blade baits, crankbaits and tubes. Fish the rock piles around Goose Island and along the face of the dam and up Lind Coulee.

Red Cross offers movie tickets to blood donors

OTHELLO — The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in Othello on July 23, where donors can have a chance to save a life and get a free movie ticket to boot. According to Red Cross spokesperson Betsy Robertson, anyone who donates blood or platelets to the Red Cross during the month of July will be emailed a free movie ticket from Fandango, usable at the AMC Classic Theater in Kennewick, among others. The ticket giveaway is in partnership with Universal Pictures to promote their new film “Twisters,” but the ticket is valid for any movie if used before the end of the year, Robertson said. Additionally, each donor in July will be automatically entered in a drawing to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Bighorn pickup, Robertson said.

FIRE REPORT: Moses Lake sends crews to Lake Chelan fire

MOSES LAKE — The Pioneer Fire burning along the eastern shore of Lake Chelan is still growing, and was at 12,265 acres Wednesday, according to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Containment remained at 14%. The fire, which has been burning since June 8, is being fought by 818 personnel, including six firefighters from the Moses Lake Fire Department, according to MLFD spokesperson Heather Kok.

Legals for July, 11 2024

Two WA juvenile rehab facilities suspend intakes for first time due to overcrowding

(The Center Square) – Two juvenile rehabilitation centers have suspended the intake of new offenders due to overcrowding, according to the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families. This reverses a two-decade trend of a decreasing juvenile rehabilitation institutional population.

Ephrata school registration open

EPHRATA – Registration is now open for the fall semester with the Ephrata School District for all campuses, according to information released by the district. The new school year is set to begin August 29 with orientation days on August 26 and 27. The information needed and the registration website may be accessed at https://bit.ly/ESDREGISTER24. The site includes school supply lists, information on bus routes and meals and other information to help parents get their children set for the return to school – after a wonderful summer, of course.

Budget approved for first phase of new Othello animal shelter

OTHELLO — A new animal shelter is in the works for the city of Othello. The Othello City Council approved a $340,000 budget for the initial phase of the construction at its regular meeting Monday, after some discussion of options, landscaping, philosophy and cost.

Statewide crime mostly down, still higher than 2019

LACEY — While crime in most categories declined in Washington between 2022 and 2023, crime rates are still higher than they were in 2019. The Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs released crime data for 2023 Tuesday.

Success on the diamond

Royal Head Softball Coach Lisa Lawrence discusses state title win

MOSES LAKE – After leaving the 2023 1A State Softball Tournament with a second-place finish, the Royal Knights had high aspirations for this year’s edition of the tournament.

Nation’s birthday draws big crowd to Othello

OTHELLO — It was a good day for a birthday party. Othello residents and visitors turned out for the parade and filled Lions Park for the annual July 4 celebration - games, a car show, sports tournaments, food, live music, fireworks - sponsored by the Othello Chamber of Commerce.

FIRE REPORT: Pioneer Fire still growing in North Cascades

MOSES LAKE — The Pioneer Fire burning along the eastern shore of Lake Chelan continued to grow Tuesday, reaching 10,677 acres, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Containment remained at 14%. Eleven crews, 13 helicopters, five engines, 14 water tenders and 13 heavy equipment units were devoted to fighting the blaze, which has been burning since June 8.

Auto theft suspect pleads guilty, sentenced to jail time

EPHRATA – Patrick Hoffman, 32, of Moses Lake was sentenced Tuesday after entering guilty pleas for two felonies and one gross misdemeanor before Grant County Superior Court Judge Tyson Hill.

MLSD lets 55 more staff go

MOSES LAKE – Fifty-five more staff have been laid off from the Moses Lake School District, according to a Tuesday afternoon press release. The move is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to balance the budget after multiple accounting issues were discovered and two maintenance and operations levy failures earlier this year.

'Waterville Truck'

MOSES LAKE – “Waterville Truck” by Deon Matzen shows her love for derelict pickups. “They have such great colors,” she said. “Usually they've been painted two or three times and the rust has sort of elaborated on color. You might see two, three, four colors on some of them.”

Soaring Eagles tourney off to good start

Soap Lake inaugural 3-on-03 tourney organizer happy with first event.

SOAP LAKE — The Soaring Eagles 3-V-3 Basketball Tournament was held on the court at Smokiam Park on Saturday, hosted by the Soap Lake Prevention Coalition with assistance from various other groups around the area. “It was the first year that we’ve held it, and it was quite a success,” SLPC Coordinator Ryan Boldman said. In addition to putting on a fun tournament for youth aged 13-19, the goal of the tournament was to bring awareness to the dangers of vaping. Items like basketballs, wristbands, towels, markers and journals were handed out with anti-drug messaging and featured the Choose You campaign, a state-wide vaping and commercial prevention campaign organized by the Washington State Department of Health.

Othello Wrestling Club hosts golf tournament

OTHELLO — The third annual Othello Wrestling Club golf tournament was hosted at the Othello Golf Club on Saturday, helping raise money for the Othello Wrestling Club and its annual scholarships, the Leonard Schutte and Ruben Martinez Memorial Scholarship.

Legals for July, 10 2024

New WA law gives green light to more red light and speed zone cameras

(The Center Square) – Washington drivers may soon see a lot more red light cameras and other automated enforcement cameras across the state, thanks to a law that took effect last month.

Tulla Dilling

April 1, 1934 — July 1, 2024

Tulla Dilling, 90, passed away peacefully in her Moses Lake, Washington home July 1 with her closest family by her side. She was born April 1, 1934, in Rødnes, Norway, and was given a family nickname of “Tulla.” She was the youngest of four children. She moved to Seattle in 1958 looking for opportunity and adventure and soon met her husband Rolf Dilling (also from Norway). They were married in 1959, and began farming in the Block 40 community north of Moses Lake, making the United States their permanent home. Tulla had a vibrant and joyful spirit. The room was brighter and the mood lighter whenever she entered a room. Tulla had the unique gift of making friends with everyone she met, and they in return all loved her fun-loving personality. She especially valued her close circle of friends in the Block 40 community. She had a flair for throwing parties, where she created amazing Norwegian food and pastries, as well as making the event exciting and fun for everyone. She was a life long member of Sons of Norway and enjoyed celebrating the annual Christmas dinner by happily serving the lutefisk. Tulla will be remembered as a selfless and generous wife, mom, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, who had a smile for everyone, even when times were tough. She loved having a good laugh and conversation with friends and family over a good strong cup of coffee.

Moses Lake council postpones EMS presentation

MOSES LAKE — A presentation by owners of Lifeline Ambulance to the Moses Lake City Council scheduled for tonight’s council meeting has been postponed. Mayor Dustin Swartz said Monday he didn’t know when it might be rescheduled. “(Lifeline representatives) have met and had conversations with staff,” Swartz said.

Historic celebration

George’s Patriotic Observance combines solemnity with festivity

GEORGE — The flag raised at George’s Patriotic Observance on Independence Day has only 48 stars. “The flag we’re flying is a World War I vet’s casket flag,” said Mark Owens, who is the quartermaster for Grant County’s Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter.

16U Sixers win CWU Summer Series

ELLENSBURG – The 16U Central Washington Sixers came out on top of last weekend’s 15/16U Central Washington University Summer Series, winning all three of their games in pool play before going 2-0 in bracket play on Sunday. The Sixers played in the 16U Summer Series the weekend prior as well, going 2-2 that weekend.

FIRE REPORT: Wildfire near Coulee City closes highway

COULEE CITY — A fire near Coulee City closed down state Route 17 briefly Sunday. The Haynes Canyon Fire was reported about 6 p.m. alongside SR 17, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. The Grant County Sheriff’s Office initially estimated the fire at 6 acres, but it ended up being 3.2 acres, according to Grant County Fire District 7 Chief Chris Baker.

Soap Lake celebrates summer at Suds ‘N Sun

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake’s Suds ‘N Sun festival began at 9 a.m. Saturday and already it was around 80 degrees. But that didn’t stop locals from finding shady spots to sit, talk and enjoy the goings-on downtown. Main Avenue East was blocked off at the highway for the Soap Box Derby and a car show, which boasted about 15 vehicles, hoods open, gleaming in the morning sun.

Contract awarded to clean up property south of Mattawa

MATTAWA — A piece of derelict property south of Desert Aire is scheduled for cleanup with the work to be completed by Aug. 23. Grant County Commissioners awarded a contract for $81,150 to Groat Brothers, Woodinville, to remove, among other things, tires and abandoned cars from the land, known as the Engle property.

National Weather Service issues fire weather alerts

MOSES LAKE — Hot weather and windy conditions will lead to an increased potential for wildfires at least through Thursday, according to information from the National Weather Service Monday.

NEWS BITES: Drowning update, wire thefts, road work and crime

COULEE CITY – The search for the body of a man believed drowned in Banks Lake near Coulee City continued through the weekend, per the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. The man’s remains had still not been found as of press time Monday.

Legals for July, 9 2024

IRS data: WA lost 18K people, $1.66B in taxable income in 2021

(The Center Square) – Washington state saw a net loss of 18,798 taxpayers and their families between calendar years 2021 and 2022, according to Internal Revenue Service migration data released last week. That represents a loss of nearly $1.66 billion of taxable income, although Washington does not have a state income tax.

Jon Hatt

Aug. 22, 1939 — July 2, 2024

Jon Albert Hatt, 84, passed away on July 2, 2024. He was born on August 22, 1939, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Blanche M Greenly and Albert W Hatt.

River Dogs go 3-1 in pool play at Wood Bat Classic

MEAD – The 18U AAA Columbia Basin River Dogs went 3-1 in pool play at last week’s Spokane Wood Bat Classic, falling one game shy of reaching Saturday’s bracket play. Columbia Basin wrapped up pool play with a 5-3 win over Lakeside Recovery, capitalizing off a four-run top of the fourth inning.

Record-breaking heat this week

MOSES LAKE — The heat wave that was supposed to end by midweek is going to behave like an unwanted guest - stay around longer than first anticipated and leave very slowly.

Firefighters enjoy calm Fourth

COLUMBIA BASIN — This year, the Fourth of July wasn’t too bad for local firefighters. “We had a couple of brush fires, but in comparison with years past, not bad,” said Moses Lake Fire Chief Brett Bastian.

Moses Lake celebrates America with music, fireworks

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake’s Red, White and Boom! Celebration Wednesday drew out a respectable crowd, said Moses Lake Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director Doug Coutts.

Royal City celebrates Summerfest this weekend

ROYAL CITY — Royal City’s annual celebration will take place this week. Summerfest, traditionally held the second weekend in July, will take place this Friday and Saturday, and it promises to be fun.

One arrested for July 4 shooting near Othello, rest of Basin relatively quiet

OTHELLO — An Othello-area man was booked on suspicion of first-degree assault following a shooting July 4 near Othello.

Weather for the week of July 8, 2024

Weather for the week of July 8, 2024

Derby turns Soap Lake street into a raceway

SOAP LAKE — Most of the time, the police take a dim view of young people racing cars through the middle of town. But in Soap Lake Saturday, the cops were helping them do it. “We've had really great turnout, supporters and kids doing it every year,” said Soap Lake Police Chief Ryan Cox, who was supervising the Soap Box Derby from the finish line. “Every year, we try to add a couple of cars and get more kids involved.”

Man missing, presumed drowned on Banks Lake

COULEE CITY – First responders searched for a man who went missing on Banks Lake near Coulee City Park Friday, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

FIRE REPORT: Fires spring up in Wenatchee, Mansfield areas

MANSFIELD — The Road 11 Fire burning about 12 miles southwest of Mansfield was 50% contained Saturday, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. The brush fire, which was ignited Thursday afternoon and grew to 800 acres, was one of the sources of smoke noticeable in the air earlier in the week in Grant and Adams counties, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

3-on-3 tournament highlights the hazards of vaping

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Suds ‘N Sun festival Saturday had a new element this year: a 3-on-3 basketball tournament sponsored by the Soap Lake Prevention Coalition.

LETTER: Being heard matters

Dear Editor, I just read your article in Wednesday’s (June 26) paper about my court and sentencing. I’m really glad you wrote the article because I’ve wanted the message that I tried to express in court to be out to the public. I had your name and address already because I had seriously wanted to reach out to you to see if you would be interested in speaking out to the community from the perspective of someone who has experienced what addiction truly entails – and how the fentanyl crisis is alive and even thriving in the Grant County area.

Legals for July, 8 2024

Crack sealing project on SR 26 Monday, Tuesday

OTHELLO — Road crews will be sealing cracks on a section of State Route 26 extending east from Othello Monday and Tuesday. As a result, drivers should plan for potential delays.

July 4 celebration fills Othello park

July 4 celebration fills Othello park

STUDIO BASIN: Leadership changes, and Royal softball coach Lisa Lawrence

MOSES LAKE - On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN Podcast, Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller reviews leadership changes happening around the Columbia Basin. That includes changes for the Moses Lake, Soap Lake and Royal school districts as well as the city of Moses Lake.

ACH Legion takes down Freeman

ROCKFORD – The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Senior Legion baseball team got its seventh and eighth wins of the summer season in a doubleheader sweep of Freeman on Tuesday, defeating the Dawgs 12-2 and 18-8 on the road. The doubleheader came 10 days after ACH’s previous outing.

Repairs, restoration of Grant Co. Courthouse exterior nearly done

EPHRATA — Repairs to the steps and sections of the exterior of the Grant County Courthouse are almost complete. Construction crews have been working on the terracotta panels on the ground floor exterior, the columns and portico, and the decorative elements around the top floor.

FIRE REPORT: Ephrata area fire shuts down SR 17

EPHRATA — The Marksman Road fire, which blazed up quickly east of Ephrata Tuesday and closed SR 17 for a time, was contained quickly thanks to a lot of interagency cooperation, according to Grant County Fire District 13 Chief Jim Stucky.

‘We try to keep a real diverse collection in here’

Moses Lake’s 3rd Avenue Antiques looks to preserve history and have fun in the process

MOSES LAKE – Opened less than a year ago, 3rd Ave Antiques provides a look into the past through the various items collected by the store's five co-owners, who each have their own items of interest when collecting.

Seller’s market remains in Grant County

MOSES LAKE — Grant County is still leaning in favor of home sellers, according to a report from Rocket Homes reviewing home sales for the month of June. While the market price was lower in Grant County than the state average, the market still favors the seller to some extent.

Weather for July 5-10

Weather for July 5-10

Basin events for July 5-13

COLUMBIA BASIN – If you’re looking to get out and about after enjoying the Independence Day holiday, The Columbia Basin has several things going on over the next week.

LETTER: In appreciation

Dear Editor, I would like to thank all the workers that applied all the paving on our roads. It was hard, smelly night work, but now we have new smooth roads for years. Cal Bergan Moses Lake

Building permits notices for July 5

Building permits notices for July 5

Road construction projects to resume Monday

SOAP LAKE — The slope stabilization project on State Route 17 north of Soap Lake is scheduled to be finished sometime between late August and early September. 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. The idea is to stabilize the rock face.

Legals for July, 5 2024

Tiger leader sworn in

EPHRATA – Incoming Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray was sworn in by his predecessor, Tim Payne, on Monday July 1. Murray has said he will work to continue to build community and focus on student success.

Moses Lake likely eyeing contracted EMS services

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake City Council members may be considering eliminating the city-funded ambulance service and hiring a private contractor, according to a statement released by the Moses Lake Firefighters Local 1258.

Red Raiders claim two wins

WARDEN – Playing at Warden High School while Othello’s field is being renovated, the Othello Red Raiders defeated the Vakima Valley Blues in both games of Tuesday’s doubleheader, winning 8-2 and 15-4 to improve to 4-6 this summer.

WDFW to decide on 'endangered' status of gray wolves

(The Center Square) – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will decide later this month on lowering gray wolves’ status under the state’s endangered species law.

Othello PD looking for leads in missing juvenile case

OTHELLO – The Othello Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance to locate 15-year-old Serenity Ayala who went missing on Sunday, June 30. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts should contact OPD at 509-488-3314 and reference case number 24-O02636.

Triple-digit temps incoming

Summer heat to hit the Columbia Basin hard this weekend

MOSES LAKE — It’s to be expected, of course – it is summer, after all. What the National Weather Service is calling a “long-duration heat wave” is forecast to arrive Friday. Joey Clevenger, meteorologist with the NWS office in Spokane, said the heat will stick around at least through the beginning of next week.

Quincy’s Nancy Schanze retires after 32 years with the city

QUINCY — Nancy Schanze has deep roots in Quincy. “We moved there when I was five,” she said. “I was a 12-year senior. I raised my daughter there, and I have sisters that live there with their families. We’re a Quincy family.”

‘A pre-party before the party’

Purple Party set to fight Alzheimer’s on July 18

MOSES LAKE – Losing your grip on memories is not only frustrating for Alzheimer’s Disease patients and their families, but it’s something that impacts the community in multiple ways. On July 18, the Columbia Basin community will have a chance to come together to support the fight against the condition by participating in the Purple Party, a precursor to the local Walk to End Alzheimer’s set for September 14.

Two Moses Lake wrestlers compete at 14U women’s national duals

WESTFIELD, Ind. – Two wrestlers from the Moses Lake Wrestling Club were on the 14U Washington Girls team that took second in Greco-Roman and fifth in freestyle at last month’s USA Wrestling Women’s National Duals in Indiana.

Law enforcement logs for July 5

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.

Construction cost for new Grant Co. Jail finalized by late July

EPHRATA — The actual cost of the new Grant County Jail should be finalized around the end of July. County officials are forecasting it will come in below the guaranteed maximum price of $131.56 million.

Sidewalks, street rebuilds in Mattawa 6-year plan

MATTAWA — Improvements are planned to Mattawa’s Riverview Avenue in 2025, the first project in the city’s updated six-year street plan.

FIRE REPORT: Wildfire closes SR 17 near Ephrata

EPHRATA — A fire broke out Tuesday in the northern portion of the Y formed by State Route 17 and SR 282, according to first responder alerts. The fire, a few minutes southeast of Ephrata was reported a little before 6 p.m. and had burned an estimated 500 acres. The fire resulted in a closure of SR 17 between SR 282 and SR 28 to ensure public safety. A cause was unknown but initial reports indicated it began at the Ephrata Gun Range. The fire was named the Marksman Street Fire. Further information was not available by press time. The Dearinger fire, which has been burning in the North Cascades about 40 miles northeast of Everett since June 22, is 80% contained at 48 acres, according to the Western Washington Incident Management Team.

Royal Intermediate welcomes new principal

ROYAL CITY — For Royal Intermediate School’s new principal, it’s sort of a homecoming. “I grew up around Royal, my whole life,” said Karl Edie, who officially became the principal at RHS at the beginning of July. “My mother worked for the Royal Review (newspaper), a long time ago. So I’m excited to be back among the great people in Royal City.”

GALLERY: Greens and diamond stay busy

MOSES LAKE – Whether it was on the golf course or the baseball diamond, athletes in the Columbia Basin have stayed busy throughout the past week.

Beyond Wonderland drug suspect arraigned

EPHRATA – Chriss U. Wright, 31, of Puyallup was arraigned Tuesday in Grant County Superior Court on four charges associated with his arrest at the Beyond Wonderland EDM festival at the Gorge Amphitheatre on June 20.

Suspect in hospital indecent liberties case arraigned

EPHRATA — A former Samaritan Hospital employee, Mitchell Dee Jones, was arraigned in Grant County Superior Court Tuesday morning facing two charges of indecent liberties with someone who was unable to consent. Jones entered not-guilty pleas for both charges.

Exchange students to head to Yonezawa, Japan

MOSES LAKE — The exchange is on again. The Moses Lake-Yonezawa Sister City Student Exchange, which has been on hiatus since 2020, will resume this month as three Moses Lake students visit Yonezawa, Japan. Ambassadors Keziah Roman Panlaqui, Emmanuel Zepeda Lopez and Ethan Ramsey will leave on July 25, accompanied by chaperone Amador Castro, to spend 10 days in Moses Lake’s sister city. While in Japan, they’ll stay with three Yonezawa students and their families, and on Aug. 7, those Japanese students will return the visit and spend 10 days in Moses Lake. Moses Lake and Yonezawa have been sister cities since 1981, according to the program’s website, and the student exchange was organized shortly thereafter. The program was originally suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic, said Terry Moore, treasurer for the Moses Lake-Yonezawa Exchange Program, but the publisher of the Yonezawa Shimbun newspaper, which handled the exchange from the Japanese end, passed away soon after, and the exchange was mothballed indefinitely. Until April, when a group called the Yonezawa International Relations Association reached out through a translator who had assisted the newspaper in the past.

Legals for July, 3 2024

State Auditor's Office: Government employee embezzled nearly $900K

(The Center Square) – A former management analyst at the Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings spent nearly $900,000 via fraudulent credit card purchases, according to a report released Monday by the state auditor.

FRESH NEWS: Trout, bass biting at Potholes

The current water level on Potholes Reservoir is 1,040.8 feet, dropping 1.3 feet this past week. We are currently 5.7 feet below full pool. The water temperature on the main lake is right around 65 degrees. The sand dunes are in the upper 60s to low 70s. The largemouth bass fishing continues to be very good. Fish back in the sand dunes. Throw 1/2-ounce jigs, swim jigs, jerkbaits, chatter baits, Senkos, spinnerbaits, frogs, and Texas-rigged plastics. Fish are in 1-12 feet of water. The smallmouth fishing has been good this week. Fish 5-20 feet using Ned rigs, Senkos, spinner baits, drop shot rigs, blade baits, crankbaits and tubes. Fish the rock piles around Goose Island and along the face of the dam and up Lind Coulee.

Pia Timmer signs with Atlanta Vibe

PULLMAN – Former Washington State volleyball outside hitter, Pia Timmer, has signed on to play with the Atlanta Vibe in 2025.

Moses Lake interim city manager appointed

MOSES LAKE — Mike Jackson, a retired city manager, has been selected as the interim city manager for Moses Lake. Jackson’s appointment was announced byt the city Tuesday.

Janet Grace Freed

Sept. 27, 1938 – June 10, 2024

Janet Grace Freed went to be with the Lord on June 10, 2024. Service will be held July 6, 2024, at Lake Valley Baptist Church, 935 W. Valley Road at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

Newhouse focused on momentum in reelection bid

MOSES LAKE – Rep. Dan Newhouse, R–Wash., said he’s running for reelection because he feels like he still has work to do and because his time in office has connected him with the resources he needs in Washington D.C. to take action.

Suds 'N Sun by the lake

Annual Soap Lake festival to kick off this weekend

SOAP LAKE — A three-on-three tournament on the new basketball court, a car show, the Seattle Cossacks motorcycle drill team, a parade, the second annual Soap Box Derby and fireworks are among the attractions at the annual Suds ‘N Sun celebration in Soap Lake Saturday. It’s sponsored by the Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Please Hit Straight golf tournament continues to grow

WARDEN – Golfers around the Columbia Basin gathered at Sage Hills Golf Club for the third annual Please Hit Straight golf tournament Saturday, raising money for the Warden High School wrestling program.

16U Sixers go 2-2 at CWU Summer Series

ELLENSBURG – The 16U Central Washington Sixers went 2-2 at last weekend’s Central Washington University Summer Series, defeating Rock Creek Underclass and the Kitsap County Rebels Blue but suffering losses to RSP Underclass and the Washington A’s 15U Showcase.

Unemployment rate creeps up in Grant, Adams in May

MOSES LAKE — Unemployment in Grant County in May was higher than in some neighboring counties but lower than in others. Adams County's unemployment was lower than most of its neighbors, according to data released by the Washington Employment Security Department last week.

WA gas prices consistently higher most of U.S., CCA causes jump

MOSES LAKE – According to an analysis by Gas Buddy, an organization that monitors fuel prices, Washington has consistently had higher average gas prices for July 1 of each year since 2014, even before increases resulting from the Climate Commitment Act’s carbon fees came into play.

Spring Chinook season to open early on Entiat River

ENTIAT — Fishing season for Chinook salmon on the Entiat River will open a week early and the upstream boundary will be expanded, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

State Women's Commission launches effort to close gender pay gap

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Women’s Commission has launched a campaign aimed at closing the gender pay gap in Washington state.

Breaching Snake River dams could drop reservoirs, groundwater levels by 100 feet

(The Center Square) – As the Biden administration attempts to gain support for breaching hydroelectric dams in Washington, state and federal agencies are preparing for a study on the potential implications.

MLSD receives donation for Garden Heights well repairs

MOSES LAKE — A $10,000 donation from a Moses Lake couple will help pay for repairs to the well at Garden Heights Elementary. The donation made by Derick and Audra Eckenberg was announced by Moses Lake School District officials Monday.

Soap Lake man injured in gunfire exchange

SOAP LAKE — A Soap Lake man was airlifted to Confluence Health-Central Washington Hospital, Wenatchee, early Monday morning after he exchanged gunfire with people he allegedly found on his property.

Legals for July, 2 2024

Trevor Larnach's 2-run homer lifts Twins to 5-3 win over Mariners and extends HR streak to 19 games

SEATTLE (AP) — Trevor Larnach hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the eighth inning to extend Minnesota's home run streak to 19 games and lift the Twins to a 5-3 win over the Seattle Mariners on Sunday.

MLSD seeking to sell two land parcels

Grant County interested in one of the two as it plans new morgue

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School Board will hold a public hearing at its July 25 meeting to take public comment on a resolution to declare two parcels of district property surplus. Board members approved the resolution at their regular meeting Thursday.

Huddleston wins WA Golf Men’s Amateur Championship

MOSES LAKE – Woodland native Dane Huddleston’s score of 66 in the final round was enough for him to capture a title at last week’s WA Golf Men’s Amateur Championship at The Links at Moses Pointe, finishing with a total gross score of 202 and three strokes ahead of the runner-up. “I won the Royal Oaks invitational a couple weeks ago, so that gave me some momentum,” Huddleston said. “Games were feeling good this week, I think the key was my driving; kept it in the fairway, golf’s just easier when you’re in the fairway. Got the putter rolling the end of round two, and carried that over today.”

BOOM: Moses Lake ready to get patriotic for July 4

MOSES LAKE — The nation’s birthday will be celebrated with the sounds of the 133D Army National Guard Band and a fireworks display over Moses Lake July 3. “Red, White and Boom!” also will feature food vendors and the Moses Lake Recreation Department’s mobile recreation van in the park Wednesday evening.

Quincy students to receive summer food aid

QUINCY – The Quincy School District announced that it has been informed that the Department of State Health Services will be providing grocery benefits to help families with school-age children buy groceries during the summer break in July and August.

Vendor fair fun

EPHRATA – Grant’s Lumber held its first-ever vendor fair Saturday at 1085 A Street SE in Ephrata. Organizers said 28 vendors showed up to show off wares including jewelry, welded sculptures and a variety of services. The family-friendly event also included goats and ponies for children – of all ages – to meet and food to enjoy. Grant’s Lumber staff said the event may be repeated with the amount of interest received.

Weather for the week of July 1, 2024

Weather for the week of July 1, 2024

16U Sixers take on RSP

MOSES LAKE – The 16U Central Washington Sixers took on RSP Baseball 16U Friday morning at Big Bend Community College as part of the Central Washington University Summer Series. RSP earned a 4-3 win over the Sixers in extra innings.

With a week to qualify, backers of WA energy choice initiative feeling confident

(The Center Square) – The final push is on for supporters of Initiative 2066 to gather enough signatures and turn in petitions to the Secretary of State’s Office by July 5 to qualify the measure for the November ballot.

Smiley addresses priorities in congressional race

MOSES LAKE – Tiffany Smiley decided to run for Congress again, this time for the U.S. House of Representatives 4th Congressional District, after she said residents of the district expressed concerns about incumbent Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., and encouraged her to run.

FIRE REPORT: Multiple large fires burning in WA, local incidents quickly controlled

CHELAN – The largest wildfire burning in Washington as of Saturday afternoon was the Pioneer fire which had burned about 4,700 acres on the eastern shore of Lake Chelan, near the Cascade Creek Hike-in Campground.

NCW Tech Alliance ribbon cutting

MOSES LAKE – Sue Kane, CEO of the NCW Tech Alliance, a nonprofit that works to help its members and the communities it serves leverage technology for better quality of life, among other things, cuts the ribbon at the organization’s new location on the Big Bend Community College campus located at 1000 Bolling St. NE in Moses Lake. For more information on the organization, visit ncwtech.org. The ribbon cutting was hosted by the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce (moseslake.com).

Fireworks regulations vary around Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE — Fireworks are a big part of celebrating the nation’s birthday. However, different towns, and Grant County, have different rules for setting off fireworks.

Legals for July, 1 2024