NANCE BESTON

Othello man jailed after attempting to elude police, faces vehicular homicide charge

PASCO — A woman from Grandview died Friday night after an erratic‑driving incident in Pasco escalated into a pursuit and a fatal collision on Interstate 182, according to Washington State Patrol Trooper Daniel Mosqueda.

WineVit 2026 starts Tuesday in Tri-Cities

KENNEWICK — WineVit, Washington’s largest annual wine and grape industry conference, returns Feb. 10 and 11 with a condensed schedule, new pricing and a program designed to help growers and winemakers navigate one of the most challenging periods the industry has faced in years, Washington Winegrowers Association Executive Director Sara Higgins said.

Medical emergency causes one-vehicle collision

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Police Department responded to a collision in the 1000 block of Skyline Drive for a single-vehicle collision Friday morning. Officers determined the driver, a 17-year-old male, experienced a medical emergency and veered off the roadway, according to a statement from MLPD. The driver hit a parked vehicle, a retaining wall and a residence.

Moses Lake school leaders discuss responsibilities, challenges and goals

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake School Board President Kirryn Jensen and Vice President Paul Hill joined the Studio Basin Podcast this week to discuss their roles, the misconceptions surrounding school board service and the district’s priorities moving forward. They were later joined by Ryan Shannon, the district’s Director of Public Relations.

Soap Lake set to host first Lantern Festival

SOAP LAKE — A new community celebration is coming to Soap Lake later this month, following the city council’s unanimous approval of a special event permit Monday night. The Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce will host its first-ever Lantern Festival on Feb. 21 at the Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort.

Soap Lake council member asks for Sharp’s resignation

SOAP LAKE — During the Wednesday Soap Lake City Council meeting, tensions surfaced as Council Member Andrew Arnold called for Mayor Peter Sharp’s resignation.

Ephrata leaders push for local control, infrastructure protections in Olympia

EPHRATA — Three Ephrata city leaders spent two days in Olympia last week meeting with state lawmakers on a wide range of bills affecting homelessness policy, housing, public safety and funding for local infrastructure. Their message throughout the trip, they said, centered on protecting local authority and ensuring small cities like Ephrata are not left behind in statewide policy debates.

Ephrata Fire Dept. honors service, dedication at banquet

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Fire Department celebrated its volunteers, leadership and support staff during its 2025 annual awards banquet, highlighting standout service, years of dedication and the commitment that keeps the department strong.

Non-injury drive-by shooting in Warden under investigation

WARDEN — On Tuesday night, there was a drive-by shooting around West Ninth Street and Jackson Avenue in Warden, according to a statement from the Warden Police Department. Nobody was injured in the incident. “The chief (Jeff Gann) let me know we won’t have any more information that can be released because this is an ongoing investigation," Warden PD clerk Alexandria Martinez said. Anyone with further information on this case has been asked to contact Warden PD at 509-793-1300 and speak with an officer. The case number is #26WA0119 and the case officer is Joel Torres.

Gregg announces candidacy for Grant County Sheriff

MOSES LAKE — Darrik Gregg, a law enforcement officer with 23 years of experience in various capacities, has announced his candidacy for Grant County Sheriff. He is the third to announce his candidacy, with incumbent Joey Kriete announcing his intention to run for a second term Jan. 12 and Josh Sainsbury announcing he will be running the following day.

Ephrata High lockdown rumors unfounded

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School did not enter a lockdown Wednesday, according to Communications Director Sarah Morford. Rumors of a lockdown had appeared on social media earlier Wednesday morning.

Royal City prepares for road repairs for 2026

ROYAL CITY — Royal City Finance Director Janice Flynn confirmed road repair projects are scheduled for this year, including crack sealing and the reconstruction of a portion of Apple Avenue. The enhancements are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure while managing funding sources effectively, she said.

Ephrata water tower filling complete

Residents to experience improved water pressure

EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata completed the filling process for its new water tower, which is now fully operational. City Engineer Shawn O’Brien confirmed the final programming delays with the booster pump system have been resolved, paving the way for greater water pressure in the Ephrata Heights area. Residents in that area can expect to experience a gradual increase in water pressure by approximately 10-12 pounds over the day Tuesday, as the tower fills. “The water tower itself was ready, but we needed to finalize the programming for the booster pump station, which has now been accomplished,” O’Brien said.

WA House holds hearing on aircraft tax

OLYMPIA — The House Transportation Committee held a public hearing Thursday on House Bill 2347, which would repeal the 10% sales and use tax on non‑commercial aircraft valued above $500,000 before the tax takes effect on April 1. The measure had testimony from aviation businesses, airport officials and industry groups warning of economic repercussions. In contrast, a few stakeholders urged lawmakers not to abandon the tax without identifying alternative funding options. The tax, passed during the 2025 session, directs revenue into the state’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel account. SAF supports research, development, environmental review and infrastructure for sustainable aviation fuel production.

Warden receives clean audit report

WARDEN — The City of Warden has received a clean audit report from the Office of the Washington State Auditor for Jan. 1, 2022, through Dec. 31, 2024.

Ephrata PD seeks public assistance in vandalism case

EPHRATA — Multiple business windows and vehicles in downtown Ephrata have fallen victim to vandalism. Ephrata Police Chief Erik Koch reported that the incidents appear to have occurred over the nights of January 21 and 22, with an estimated six or seven businesses impacted.

Gas prices see relief nationally, but not in WA

MOSES LAKE — After a brief dip last week, gas prices climbed again across Washington, the nation, and locally in Grant and Adams counties, reflecting continued volatility in oil markets as February begins.

'It never goes away’

Three decades after Frontier tragedy, Moses Lake heals the way it always has — quietly, together

MOSES LAKE — Three decades after the tragedy at Frontier Middle School on Feb. 2, 1996, Moses Lake is still healing – quietly, together and steadily. Sunday the community gathered for “We Remember,” a 30‑year commemoration at Frontier Middle School, not to relive the trauma, but to honor the strength, unity and continued care that followed it.

After decades of struggle, local man finds stability through Community Court

EPHRATA — Wednesday afternoon, as supporters filled the Grant County Community Courtroom, 54‑year‑old Johnny Metzker walked to the front of the room to accept something he once thought impossible – graduation. For decades, Metzker’s life was defined by addiction, homelessness and a long list of driving‑related offenses that began when he was 19. His record included multiple DUIs, habitual driving offenses and more than a dozen charges for driving while license suspended, dating back to 1989. For much of his adult life, the only constant was chaos, he said.

Memorial recognizing 30 years after Frontier tragedy to be held Sunday

MOSES LAKE — Thirty years after the tragedy at Frontier Middle School, the Moses Lake School District will hold “We Remember,” a community gathering centered on healing, unity and continued support, according to organizers. The event takes place Sunday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. at the Frontier Middle School cafeteria.

Ephrata SD to host guided bond tour

EPHRATA — Community members will have the chance to see firsthand how the Ephrata School District’s proposed 2026 bond would impact local schools during a guided building tour at 5 p.m. on Feb. 4.

‘Showing their Tiger stripes’

Ephrata’s Ridge Robotics shines at state

EPHRATA — Columbia Ridge Elementary School’s Lego Robotics team, Ridge Robotics, earned the Engineering Excellence award at this year’s state competition, held in Spokane.

Ephrata High tackles ‘Grease’ in aging PAC

EPHRATA — As students at Ephrata High School prepare to debut the musical “Grease,” they’re also grappling with the limits of a Performing Arts Center which they say is increasingly difficult to work in. While excitement builds around the school’s first musical in years, the production is in a facility students say is plagued by flickering lights, sound failures, creaking floorboards and a cramped backstage.

Ephrata High students protest ICE

EPHRATA — Around 25 students from Ephrata High School protested Immigration Customs Enforcement Wednesday morning by skipping their second period. The students began the protest at EHS, walking down Basin Street and looping in front of the courthouse back to the school.

Soap Lake council approves interim agreement for finance director

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake City Council held a special meeting Tuesday to review and approve an interim agreement for a finance director. They also continued discussion around the job posting for a combined city administrator and finance treasurer.

MLSD outlines proposal for new elementary

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District’s Facility Advisory Committee is recommending the district replace North Elementary and Larson Heights Elementary with a single new elementary school in north Moses Lake. This decision, committee members say, is driven by aging infrastructure, long‑term cost savings and the opportunity to leverage millions in state construction funds.

A look at the 2026 Northwest Hay Expo: Industry leaders gather amidst challenges

KENNEWICK — The Northwest Hay Expo, an annual event for stakeholders in the hay industry, attracted a diverse group of attendees this week, despite challenging market conditions. President of the Washington Hay Growers Andrew Eddie said they had expected lower numbers this year because of the difficult hay season.

Sharp utility account receives additional scrutiny

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp has paid his city utility balance in full after previously owing nearly $3,600, according to city staff. Of that amount, roughly $3,200 had been more than 90 days past due, based on public records.

Fuel prices rise in WA, nationally

MOSES LAKE — For the second week in a row, both national and Washington fuel prices increased, and Grant County’s 14‑week streak of falling gas prices came to an end with a four‑cent climb. Adams County did not follow the national trend and instead saw a slight two‑cent decrease.

Subject arrested for trespassing, threats with knife

WARDEN — On Friday, the Warden Police Department arrested Jean Alverez, 21, Warden after receiving a disturbance call in the 300 block of West Fifth Street. According to a statement from Warden PD, reporting parties said a male subject, later identified as Alvarez, came into the residence and made verbal threats while displaying a knife. He also made threats with the knife, according to Warden PD.

Vehicle burns near Moses Lake on Friday

MOSES LAKE — Friday afternoon, Grant County Fire District 5 received a call for a vehicle fire in the 4900 block of Stratford Road. A small old truck had ignited, according to Fire Chief Dan Smith. The fire resulted in a large cloud of smoke, but no injuries or property was damaged. Smith said GCFD 5 contained the fire quickly.

MLSD board votes to support WIAA amendment, two state initiatives

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School board voted on a resolution to support Washington Interscholastic Activities and Athletics Amendment No. 21, Washington State Initiative IL 26-638 and Washington State Initiative IL 26-001, on Thursday night.

Grant County begins work on comprehensive plan

MOSES LAKE — Grant County is working on its 10-year comprehensive plan, which will impact policies in the next twenty years in the county. Last night, the county hosted the first meeting of three in Moses Lake for citizens to ask questions and provide feedback for the update. Future meetings will happen in Royal City and Mattawa; however, dates are not finalized yet.

Moses Lake man arrested for discharging firearm, resisting arrest

MOSES LAKE — On Thursday at around midnight, Moses Lake Police Department responded to a reported gunshot on Grape Drive and Highway 17. When officers arrived, they learned suspect Travis Hanson, 42, of Moses Lake had fired a gun into the air while arguing with his neighbor. There were no reported injuries.

Soap Lake mayor addresses utility debt

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake Mayor Peter Sharp said he's established a repayment plan with the city to pay an outstanding balances on his city utility accounts. Public records show Sharp owes about $3,600, with roughly $3,200 more than 90 days past due.

Dent says early session marked by cooperation, tight budgets and measured expectations

OLYMPIA — As the Washington Legislature moves through the early days of its 60‑day session, Rep. Tom Dent, R‑Moses Lake, says the tone at the Capitol has been calmer than last year, with lawmakers still sorting through priorities and positioning their bills for consideration. “It’s early. There have been a lot of bills dropped, and we’re hearing bills in committees,” Dent said. “But there hasn’t been anything really controversial show up in my world at the moment.” Dent said that while controversial bills do exist, they have not appeared in the committees he serves on. Instead, he sees a cooperative mood taking shape.

Warden School District proposes two replacement levies

WARDEN — The Warden School District has proposed two levies to the community for the Feb. 10 election. The Educational Programs and Operations Levy and the Capital Levy for safety, security and instructional technology improvements are both designed to support the district's ongoing operational needs and infrastructure improvements. Superintendent Marc Brouillet said both levies are important in maintaining educational standards and student safety. "Without this funding, we would be unable to maintain the quality of education that our students deserve," Brouillet said. "We rely heavily on these local funds to supplement what the state provides." The two levies are estimated to cost taxpayers a total of $2.82 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Both levies are set for a two-year term and are replacements of previous levies passed by voters.

Jamaican man arrested for allegedly scamming 87-year-old man

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reduction Team arrested a man from Jamaica accused of scamming an older Grant County man of over $100,000. The suspect, Damion O. McDonald, 36, was booked into Grant County Jail Sunday, after a stakeout.

Richardson named to Grant County Superior Court

OLYMPIA — On Friday, Governor Bob Ferguson announced the appointment of Washington Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Richardson to the Grant County Superior Court. Richardson’s appointment has already taken effect, beginning Jan. 9. “I am honored by this appointment and grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Grant County,” Richardson said in a statement. “I am committed to careful, fair decision-making and to treating every person who comes before the court with dignity and respect.”

Subject arrested for vehicle theft, outstanding warrant

WARDEN — On Saturday night, the Warden Police Department was able to recover a stolen vehicle with one subject arrested, according to a WPD statement. At around 1 p.m., the department was called to a residence in the 900 block of South Washington Street, for an unrelated incident.

Gas prices increase nationally, WA; relief in Grant and Adams Co.

MOSES LAKE — After seventeen straight weeks of falling fuel prices in Washington, the trend came to a halt this week, with statewide averages ticking up by nearly a cent. Nationally, a similar seven‑week streak of declining prices also ended. But despite the upward pressure elsewhere, both Adams and Grant counties continued to see slight relief at the pump.

Ephrata Schools bond – Ephrata High School

EPHRATA — As the Ephrata School District prepares to bring a $75 million bond proposal to voters in Feb. 2026, one of the components is a plan to renovate Ephrata High School. The proposal aims to address aging infrastructure, scattered campus layout and growing instructional needs.

Ephrata School District proposes Grant Elem. replacement

EPHRATA — Grant Elementary – an overcrowded, nearly 70‑year‑old school where more than 40% of students learn in portables – has become a driver behind the Ephrata School District’s $75 million Feb. 2026 bond proposal to replace the aging campus, according to Ephrata School District officials.

Ephrata Schools bond: Parkway Intermediate

EPHRATA — Parkway Intermediate School is one of the campuses the Ephrata School District is looking to replace with a proposed $75 million, 25-year school construction bond. The bond measure is set to appear on the Feb. 10, 2026, ballot, and will fund not only a replacement of Parkway but also Grant Elementary’s replacement and improvements at Ephrata High School.

On ‘Wicked’ in print

Why Gregory Maguire’s Oz isn’t for kids — but is for grown‑up wonder

MOSES LAKE — “Wicked” and the sequel “Wicked: For Good” have taken over my household. After the first watch at Fairchild Cinemas, I was hooked on the extension of the Oz universe. But, when I went back to the source — Gregory Maguire’s novel — I discovered a world far darker, stranger and more adult than the glittering emerald we see on stage and screen.

MLSD saw challenges, achievements in 2025

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District experienced a challenging year in 2025, marked by financial struggles, labor disputes and notable academic accomplishments. The district's resilience was on full display as it navigated a series of challenges while also fostering pockets of success throughout the academic year, Superintendent Carol Lewis said.

Washington average fuel cost under $4 for 4 weeks

MOSES LAKE — Gas prices decreased nationally, in Washington state and Grant County. However, Adams County saw a slight increase of one cent this week.

Protesters express frustrations regarding ICE, Venezuela Saturday

MOSES LAKE — Area residents gathered on Stratford Road in Moses Lake to protest the recent deaths of Renee Nicole Good, 37, of Minneapolis and Kieth Porter, 43, of Los Angeles. Both incidents involved Immigration Customs Enforcement agents. They also expressed frustration regarding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Oliver’s first council meeting, several resolutions passed

EPHRATA — Mayor Steve Oliver led his first Ephrata City Council meeting Wednesday night, with council passing several resolutions regarding tourism funding, vactor truck enclosure project and amending the grant application for A Street.

Soap Lake to establish a tourism committee

SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council unanimously approved the creation of a Tourism Development Committee to handle city tourism funds at Wednesday's council meeting.