NANCE BESTON

Firearm permit bill moving to governor's desk

OLYMPIA – Washington State House Bill 1163 passed the Senate with a vote of 29 to 19 Monday following its earlier passage in the house. The bill seeks to implement stricter regulations surrounding the purchase, transfer and possession of firearms by requiring a permit to purchase them.

One arrested for suspected kidnapping and assault

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a suspect, Destin Johnson, 27, of Kent on suspicion of kidnapping and assault of a man last week.

FFA Plant sales blooming soon

MOSES LAKE – As the weather warms the plants start to bloom, including plants in local Future Farmers of America greenhouses. Several chapters across Grant County are gearing up to hold their annual plant sales.

Two injured in traffic collision, suspected DUI

GEORGE — Two George men were injured early Sunday due to a one-vehicle collision southwest of George.

Gas prices decline slightly in Washington and nationwide

MOSES LAKE – In a welcome development for motorists, the national average price of gasoline has fallen for the first time in nearly a month, dropping 7 cents from last week to $3.13 per gallon, according to data from GasBuddy. This decline comes after a period of rising prices, with the national average up 7.8 cents from a month ago but 46.9 cents lower than the same time last year.

16-year-old injured by firework

MOSES LAKE — A 16-year-old was injured by a presumed aerial firework on March Avenue and Loring Drive in the Larson community early Sunday morning, according to the Grant County Sheriff's Office. “Fireworks are only permitted to be sold and purchased and ignited for certain periods of time around the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve in Grant County,” GCSO Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman said. “It's illegal to discharge, sell or purchase fireworks right now.”

NextEra Energy plans Dry Falls Solar project in Grant County

COULEE CITY – NextEra Energy Resources has proposed a significant renewable energy project, Dry Falls Solar, which aims to bolster the region’s shift toward clean energy and economic growth.

‘Our shelves are really empty’

Ephrata Food Bank in need of donations

EPHRATA – The Ephrata Food Bank, a resource for families in the Ephrata community, is currently facing significant challenges due to dwindling supplies, but increased demand, Director Phyllis Fuglie said. Since moving to its current location in 2003, the food bank has served as a lifeline for many residents struggling with food insecurities. Prior to the current building the food bank operated out of the Ephrata Recreation Center. According to volunteers, the need for assistance has only intensified in recent months as food sources have diminished.

State treasurer visits Ephrata, discusses WA financial health

EPHRATA – Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti visited the Ephrata Rotary Club Tuesday to discuss his role and the financial health of the state. He said he is trying to visit all of the local Rotary Clubs around the state to educate communities on state finance and answer questions from constituents.

Soap Lake City Council still seeking to fill two seats

SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council is actively seeking candidates to fill two open council positions. "Participating in city council is not just about being in the government; it's about community representation," Council Member Judith Gorman said, noting that she spoke on her own behalf and not the entire council. "The city council plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect every resident in Soap Lake.”