Stories
Candidates discuss rural priorities, budget concerns at forum
MOSES LAKE — Candidates in three races representing the 13th Legislative District and Washington’s 4th Congressional District shared their views on agriculture, mental health, government spending, water policy and rural representation during the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce candidate forum Monday evening. This story covers the legislative and congressional contests, while additional stories will examine races for county offices, commissioner positions, sheriff and judge. To watch the full forum visit bit.ly/MosesLakeChamberForum. Ballots must be postmarked or placed in an official ballot drop box by Nov. 3. Voters can verify their registration status and find election information at VoteWa.gov. Grant County voters with questions can also contact their county elections office at 509-754-2011 ext. 2704. Adams County voters with questions can contact their local elections office at 509-659-3249.
‘Dignity, compassion and grace’
New Crossroads director announces expansion plans at banquet
MOSES LAKE — Crossroads Resource Center introduced its new leader at the fundraising banquet Saturday night. “As much as I love this ministry and I love all the people involved in this ministry, I'm just not the person to move it forward,” said outgoing Executive Director Carol Knopp. “The board of directors has hired Cristie Bingham to be the new executive director. I fully support that, and I believe she will do an excellent job.” The event was Crossroads’ annual fundraiser banquet, held at the Grant County Fairgrounds. Chuck Yarbro Jr. served as the MC, and Top Gun catered a prime rib and chicken cordon bleu dinner. This year’s guest speaker was bioethicist and author Scott Klusendorf, who discussed arguments for and against abortion. The amount of money raised Saturday wasn’t available Monday, Bingham said.
Grant County Jail Roster for Oct. 13, 2026
This list shows current inmates who were arrested by Grant County law enforcement agencies on Oct. 12 as of Tuesday afternoon. Grant County inmates are housed at the Grant County Jail. All subjects are innocent until proven guilty by the court of law.
Othello man arrested in Warden domestic violence incident
WARDEN — An Othello man was booked into the Grant County Jail on suspicion of residential burglary and fourth-degree assault Monday after he allegedly broke into the house of a former romantic partner in Warden. Andres Torres Garcia, 39, was booked on suspicion of residential burglary, domestic violence; third-degree malicious mischief, domestic violence and fourth-degree assault, domestic violence, according to a press release from the Warden Police Department. The incident was reported at about 9 p.m., the press release said.
Adams County Sheriff candidates discuss issues, ideas
RITZVILLE — Incumbent Dale Wagner is being challenged by Matthew Carlson, Ritzville, for the office of Adams County Sheriff. The Columbia Basin Herald gave each candidate a set of identical questions about their candidacy. Their answers are below.
Othello council vote clears way for fire district annexation vote next year
OTHELLO — Othello residents will be asked to accept or reject a proposal to annex the city into Adams County Fire District 5 in April 2027. Othello City Council members approved an ordinance Monday affirming the city’s intent to annex into the fire district and committing the city to an April 2027 vote. The subject of annexation has been under discussion since late 2025, but the ordinance commits the city to putting the proposal on the special election ballot. “This is our commitment to go along with the process,” said Othello Mayor Ken Johnson.
Mavs get state experience at Mukilteo meet
FEDERAL WAY — The Moses Lake Mavericks girls swim and dive team took a trip to the King County Aquatic Center over the weekend to compete in the Mukilteo meet. Mavs Head Coach Tony Preston said each of the girls performed well as they showed growth throughout the meet. “It was great, headed over to Federal Way. That’s our state pool,” said Preston. “This is a big test for us, a big experience for the girls, especially if they haven’t been in that facility before.” The Mukilteo meet saw teams from all across the state in attendance for what serves as a midseason prep meet for the incoming state tournament. Out of the 34 teams in attendance, Moses Lake placed 26th overall.
Meet Sunkiss
Why wait for a sunny forecast when Sunkiss is available right now? This five-month-old mixed-breed pup brings warm energy, bright smiles and plenty of reasons to look on the bright side. She's spayed, vaccinated and ready to rise and shine in a home of her own. To adopt Sunkiss or another furry friend, visit GrantCountyAnimalOutreach.org or call 509-762-9616. This spot is sponsored by Hot Springs Spa & Leisure. To sponsor the Pet of the Day, call the Columbia Basin Herald Advertising Manager Jeannie Austin-Cook at 509-765-4561.
Knights win record 54th straight game with shutout of Naches Valley
ROYAL CITY — The Royal Knights (6-0) earned a dominant 75-0 win over the Naches Valley Rangers on Friday. Not only did the win keep the Knights undefeated in 2026, but it also set a school record for the program's longest win streak at 54. Head Coach Wiley Allred spoke to the type of athlete it takes to achieve such a feat. “They've got to be dedicated, especially in the offseason and throughout the year, and play together and be unselfish,” Allred said. “These kids have been really unselfish, and they celebrate everybody's success. It goes a long way; it's been very rewarding to coach.”
Volleyball Roundup, Oct. 6 – 12
MOSES LAKE — The state tournament is a month away and local Basin volleyball teams are starting to separate themselves. See below how your favorite teams fared in the prior week of competition.
Masquers to audition for ‘A Snow White Christmas’
SOAP LAKE — The Masquers Theater will hold auditions next week for its winter play, “A Snow White Christmas,” according to an announcement from Masquers. Auditions will be held at 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 19 and 20, at the theater, according to the announcement. The play will open Dec. 4.