NANCE BESTON

Gasoline prices show spring surge, recent pullback across WA and U.S.

MOSES LAKE — Gasoline prices across Washington state, the nation, Grant County, and Adams County have followed a similar trajectory in the first five months of 2026: a steady climb through late winter and early spring, a peak in mid-May, and a modest decline heading into June, according to data from AAA. According to data compiled weekly since early January, prices began the year at relatively moderate levels before rising sharply through March and April. In Washington, the statewide average climbed from $3.84 per gallon on January 5 to a peak of $5.78 by May 18, marking an increase of nearly $2 per gallon in just over four months. Nationally, prices rose from $2.81 to $4.52 over the same period.

‘Keep those sparks off the landscape’

Burn restrictions take effect in Grant County as fire season arrives early

EPHRATA — An annual burn restriction is now in effect across unincorporated areas of Grant County, as local fire officials warn that an already active and unusually dry start to the season could lead to a challenging summer. Under county ordinance, outdoor burn restrictions automatically begin June 1 and remain in place through September 30 each year, limiting most types of open burning during the height of fire season. The restriction is part of the Grant County Fire Hazard Code and is intended to reduce human-caused wildfires during the driest and most dangerous months.

Connelly Park closed indefinitely after storm caused extensive damage

MOSES LAKE — Connelly Park will remain closed for the foreseeable future after a powerful windstorm swept through the area Thursday night, uprooting dozens of massive trees, damaging infrastructure and leaving park officials focused on safety and recovery. Initial estimates place the damage at approximately $50,000, largely due to cleanup costs and structural repairs, according to Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District General Manager Sam Castro. However, he is working alongside an assessor who may value the damage to be more, he said.

New Wyndham Microtel opens in Ephrata, welcomes guests ahead of schedule

EPHRATA — A new Wyndham Microtel has officially opened its doors in Ephrata, offering travelers a modern place to stay while marking a major milestone for a local family behind the project. The 81-room hotel, located just off State Route 17 near Walmart, began accepting guests late last week – roughly two months ahead of its original schedule. The project, led by local businessman Dave Canfield and his family, represents both a business investment and a personal legacy rooted in the community.

Grant County Board of Health urges local kratom bans amid rising concerns

EPHRATA — The Grant County Board of Health is calling on cities, towns and county commissioners to prohibit the sale and distribution of kratom products, citing increasing public health concerns and a rise in related poisonings.

Reports of downed power lines, lightning-caused blazes in Grant Co.

MOSES LAKE — At around 8:20 p.m. a storm rolled into Moses Lake causing power lines and trees to go down and several small lighting-cause blazes, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kyle Foreman.

New managing editor brings decades of journalism experience to Columbia Basin Herald

MOSES LAKE — When Ken Smith talks about journalism, he doesn’t just describe a career – he describes a lifelong pursuit shaped by risk, reinvention and a deep belief in the value of local news.

Lowell Allred sworn in to Columbia Basin Hospital Board

EPHRATA — Columbia Basin Hospital has appointed Dr. Lowell Allred to fill a vacant seat on its five-member Board of Commissioners, following the February resignation of Commissioner Catherine Snyder. Allred brings decades of medical experience to the role. He worked as a primary care physician in private practice for nearly 30 years before joining Columbia Basin Hospital, where he practiced for another decade prior to retiring about three years ago. Allred said he was encouraged to apply for the position by a former commissioner and saw it as an opportunity to stay involved in the medical community.

Spring Fest closes on high note with Sunday night concerts

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Spring Fest wrapped up Sunday night with a lively finale at McCosh Park, where country artists Hunter Hayes and Chase Matthew brought large crowds together for an evening of music, community and celebration. Blankets covered the grass, fans packed into the pit, and the aroma of carnival food lingered in the warm evening air as the final performances capped off the multi-day event. By the time Matthew took the stage, the park was filled with an energized audience ready to close out the festival. He immediately connected with the crowd, pausing at one point to create a memorable moment for social media. In a TikTok filmed during the show, he asked concertgoers to hide their phone lights before dramatically revealing them all at once as the camera turned – prompting cheers and a dazzling display of lights across the park.

Memorial Day ceremony honors 500 veterans at Ephrata Cemetery

EPHRATA — American flags fluttered in the breeze Monday morning as community members gathered at Ephrata Cemetery to honor fallen service members during a Memorial Day ceremony organized by American Legion Post 28. Rows of white crosses marked the graves of veterans, creating a solemn backdrop as about 100 attendees came together to remember those who served. The ceremony included remarks, a memorial prayer, and a traditional three-volley salute from commanders. Mike Montaney of American Legion Post 28 opened the ceremony by reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members throughout the nation’s history