JOEL MARTIN
Joel Martin has been with the Columbia Basin Herald for more than 25 years in a variety of roles and is the most-tenured employee in the building. Martin is a married father of eight and enjoys spending time with his children and his wife, Christina. He is passionate about the paper’s mission of informing the people of the Columbia Basin because he knows it is important to record the history of the communities the publication serves.
Recent Stories
‘Four Corners of the Year’
Moses Lake Museum exhibit shows the turning of the seasons
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center’s first exhibit of 2026 encompasses the entire calendar. “The title of the show is ‘The Four Corners of the Year,’” said Gallery Coordinator Veronica Talbot. “It goes through all four seasons. We wanted to start with winter, since that’s where we’re currently at, and then move our way down the year.” Pamela Petry-McKinsey’s exhibit, which opens Friday, is almost entirely done in acrylics. Her work harks back to the Impressionism of the 19th century, which emphasized feelings and spontaneity over realism, Museum Superintendent Dollie Boyd said. “I personally love the color in this show,” she said. “It’s really wonderful to have such exuberant color up on the walls in the middle of winter. … The love of nature really shines through her work.”
BASIN EVENTS: Jan. 9-17, 2026
COLUMBIA BASIN — With the holidays safely in our rear-view mirror, the calendar in the Basin isn’t as crowded as it was a few months ago. Still, there are plenty of things to get out and enjoy for those who want to. Here are a few possibilities.
Home prices up locally, down statewide
KIRKLAND — The real estate market in December continued the pattern set in October and November, according to data released this week by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service, which tracks real estate trends in 27 of Washington’s 39 counties. Active listings were up across Washington compared to December 2024, while prices declined slightly.
Brookdale Hearthstone Christmas Parade delights seniors, children
MOSES LAKE — The spirit of Christmas paid a visit to Brookdale Hearthstone Dec. 23, with a parade, a visit from Santa and lots and lots of candy for children.
Dementia challenges: Handling difficult behaviors with calm and care
MOSES LAKE — Once dementia has set in, it’s time to adjust to a new reality which can include behavioral challenges as the family member experiences frustrations associated with their symptoms.
A look at positive vibes in the Basin in 2025
COLUMBIA BASIN — Too often, people pick up the newspaper and see bad news staring them in the face. It’s true that 2025 had its negative moments, but a lot of good things happened in the Columbia Basin last year as well.
SENIOR EVENTS: January 2026
COLUMBIA BASIN — After the hoopla of the holidays, it’s time to wind down a little and start getting into a routine. Here are a few things to keep your time occupied.
Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars returns Jan. 10
MOSES LAKE — Six homegrown hoofers will take the stage again Jan. 10 at Dancing with the Moses Lake Stars. “It’s part comedy (and) part dancing – of course,” said Carla McKean, a board member of the Central Basin Community Concert Association, which puts on the show as its annual fundraiser. “So many people have their favorite dancer coming in. They know the people, so they’re rooting for them.”
GALLERY: Ribbon cuttings 2025
MOSES LAKE — The Basin’s business community grew in 2025, and many businesses, especially Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce members, celebrated that growth by cutting a ribbon at new or upgraded locations. Here’s a look back at some of those events.
Lorelai’s Toy Drive collects more than 1,500 toys
MOSES LAKE — Most children eagerly await their toys on Christmas. But 17-year-old Lorelai Draper has more fun giving them away. “When she was 12, a light bulb went off,” said Draper’s mom, Heidi Rogers. “She finally understood that some kids don’t get presents for Christmas, and she wanted to do something about it.”