Sen. Warnick outlines legislative priorities for 2025 session

OLYMPIA — In anticipation of the upcoming 2025 legislative session, starting today, Washington State Senator Judy Warnick discussed her key priorities and strategies aimed at improving policies that impact her constituents. As she prepares for the session, Warnick said she is keenly aware of the challenges posed by a shifting political landscape, particularly in light of a newly elected Democratic governor and a budget shortfall that will influence the agenda. Warnick's legislative priorities center around three themes: affordability, public safety and education—specifically the safety and educational advancement of children.

Legals for January, 10 2025

Curiosity keeps centenarian young

MOSES LAKE — It could be that the secret to living a long time is just not to get old.

Moses Lake’s Richardson signs to play for Walla Walla CC

MOSES LAKE – Family, friends, teammates and coaches gathered at the Moses Lake High School commons on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate senior Paige Richardson signing to play softball for Walla Walla Community College. “It’s really exciting; it feels real now, now that all that’s done,” Richardson said. “Overwhelming, but exciting.” Richardson has been a three-year starter for the Maverick fastpitch softball team, earning numerous accolades from the Columbia Basin Big 9. In the 2024 season, Richardson was the Big 9’s Most Valuable Player and a unanimous first-team pitcher.

NEWS BITES: Jan. 15, 2025

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department warned the public Monday regarding fake Facebook posts. EPD said to be wary of profiles with profile pictures that are unrealistic, low friend counts, exaggerated claims, poor grammar and spelling, copied-and-pasted content and the ability to comment is turned off on all posts. The department asks that people not reshare posts that look suspicious and report it to Facebook.

Beverly Barbara Russell

April 15, 1950 - Dec. 15, 2024

Beverly Barbara Russell, 74, was born in Wenatchee Washington, to Terry and Sherry Hayes. In 1968 she graduated from Bridgeport High School. After graduating from Yakima Valley College in Dental Hygiene, she spent the next 42 years working in dentistry. Before retiring she volunteered on the USS Comfort, the Mercy Ship of the United States Navy offering dental services around the world. Bev had a big heart; she was very funny and always knew how to have a good time. Bev was a strong woman who believed in God. Growing up on a wheat and cattle ranch known as Hayes Ranch in Mansfield, Washington held many fond memories for Bev.

Elderberry juice shows benefits for weight management, metabolic health

SPOKANE, Wash.—Elderberry juice may be a potent tool for weight management and enhancing metabolic health, according to a recent Washington State University-led study. A clinical trial published in the journal Nutrients found that drinking 12 ounces of elderberry juice daily for a week causes positive changes in the gut microbiome and improves glucose tolerance and fat oxidation. Elderberry, a small dark purple berry found on elder trees native to Europe, is commonly used as a medicinal plant and supplement to promote immune function. Its other potential health benefits are poorly understood, however.

Basin Events for the week of Jan. 24-Feb. 1

COLUMBIA BASIN — It’s cold outside, but fortunately most of what’s happening this week takes place indoors. Here are a few possibilities:

Grant County Jail scheduled to open in mid-2026

MATTAWA — Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete said the new Grant County Jail is projected to open in about 18 months. “They’re still targeting for the opening of May of 2026,” Kriete said. “It felt like it was going to be so long when we started, but here we are. We’re getting close.” Kriete gave an update on the project’s progress at a Jan. 9 luncheon sponsored by the South Grant County Chamber of Commerce in recognition of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The new jail will hold 512 inmates, more than double the existing jail.

Democrats propose raising tobacco taxes, creating new ones in search of revenue

(The Center Square) – Smoking is a dangerously expensive habit, but it could get even more costly under two bills proposed Monday that would further hike the state’s higher-than-average tobacco taxes. Rep. Kristine Reeves, D-Federal Way, proposed House Bill 1416 and House Bill 1417 with a number of other Democrat cosponsors. Both measures impose additional taxes on those already in place around cigarettes and tobacco products.

Othello teams up with partners to work on improving water storage permitting process

OTHELLO — Othello city officials will be working with a coalition of regional partners to make it easier to work on – and finish – projects to find and build additional water sources.

Legals for January, 28 2025

Hippy’s Kissing Booth looking for permanent location

Hippy, the pup behind Hippy’s Kissing Booth, is looking for a home to take him and his very professional business home. Hippy comes from a difficult past; however, he is still the sweetest boy who loves to meet new people. He adores puppies and small dogs and will take on a protective role over them. Hippy is not the biggest fan of cat friends though. He is neutered and vaccinated. For those feeling the Valentine's Day spirit early and want to take home this smooching boy, visit GrantCountyAnimalOutreach.org or call 509-762-9616. Those not looking to adopt but who would like to help can click the “Donate” link at the top of the shelter’s website.

Adopt a lap warmer, or three, today

OTHELLO – These three pups were surrendered to Adams County Pet Rescue. The rescue doesn’t know anything about the breed besides the assumption they are a combination of small breeds, potentially Chihuahua, terrier or something entirely different. However, these sweet babies are now looking for more comfortable and permanent homes. Far left is Fruit Cake, male; he has a cone on because he was neutered this week. Top left is Sleigh, male, with a black whiskery face and slightly longer hair. Right is Snowglobe, female and she has shorter hair. All of the pups are around 8 weeks old. Those interested in one, two or three of the pups can contact ACPR at AdamsCountyPetRescue.com or call 509-488-5514. To support the shelter’s efforts to save stray pets, click the donate button at the top of the website.

New year, new home for Burt!

Burt spent 758 days, more than two years, in the care of Grant County Animal Outreach. As of Thursday, he has found a home. There are still plenty of dogs and cats in GCAO’s care that would like a warm home for the holidays. Visit GrantCountyAnimalOutreach.com to find your next furry friend.

Ephrata businesses thrived this holiday season

The Athletic Club, Sole Performance, the Nat Washington House and The Bookery received love from locals

EPHRATA – As the holiday season concludes, some local businesses said this year was particularly good. The Bells on Basin celebration attracted a crowd into Ephrata businesses for the celebration but also people buying gifts for their loved ones helped stimulate these small establishments.

Warm Winter looking for a place to purr

Winter is seven months old and full of energy for playtime and love for snuggle time. He is fully vaccinated and neutered and ready to find his furr-ever home with a loving family. From his floofy tail to his toe beans and the tip of his nose, he’s ready to ensure a deserving family is loved. For more information email [email protected] or call 509-762-9616.

Date of Downtown Moses Lake Association annual meeting to be announced

MOSES LAKE — The Downtown Moses Lake Association will review its plans for 2025 and its schedule of events during its annual public meeting, tentatively scheduled for early February. The date will be determined during the annual DMLA board member retreat this weekend.

AC commissioner says county may get monetary help for mandated services, or not

RITZVILLE — Adams County Commissioner Dan Blankenship said one of Adams County’s biggest challenges is finding the money to fund all the services it’s required to provide. Nor is Adams County alone, which is why county officials from throughout the state are looking to the 2025 Washington Legislature for some monetary help meeting mandates the state has placed on them.

LETTER: Dear Community Athletics and Activities supporters,

We are writing to express our firm support for the upcoming levy, which is crucial not only for our children but for the well-being of our entire community. While supporting our students is the primary motivation, there are several compelling reasons why this levy is essential.