NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer
Recent Stories
4th District candidates talk affordability, ag and healthcare
RICHLAND — Rising costs, agricultural challenges and concerns about the future of rural healthcare dominated discussion Tuesday during a candidate forum for 4th Congressional District candidates Amanda McKinney and John Duresky. The candidates presented competing visions for the future of Central Washington in the forum hosted by AARP Washington, Northwest Public Broadcasting and the League of Women Voters. Held at the Washington State University Tri-Cities campus, the hour-long debate focused on issues affecting residents throughout the district, including affordability, Social Security, healthcare access, tariffs and economic development. “The issues discussed today are not partisan issues. They're kitchen-table issues that affect people and families every day,” AARP Washington Advocacy Director Cathy MacCaul said.
Kratom restrictions begin in Moses Lake today
MOSES LAKE — A new Moses Lake ordinance restricting access to kratom products for people under 21 takes effect today, adding age restrictions and new requirements for retailers who sell the products. The ordinance, approved by the Moses Lake City Council on July 28, prohibits the sale, distribution or advertising of kratom products to anyone younger than 21. The law applies to products containing kratom, kratom extracts, mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine and synthetic kratom-derived compounds.
Ephrata to cut ribbon on new pickleball courts
EPHRATA — Ephrata residents will soon have a new place to play, gather and compete as the city celebrates the completion of its new pickleball courts at the Ephrata Sports Complex. City officials will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at the complex, marking the completion of the latest phase of a project funded through the city's Real Estate Excise Tax revenues and a $400,000 commitment from the Paul Lauzier Foundation. Parks and Recreation Director Josh Johnson said the completion of the courts is an exciting milestone for a project that began with requests from local pickleball enthusiasts.
Homesley, Falstad outline priorities for improving Auditor’s Office
EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, voters are considering not only who should lead county government offices, but how those offices can better serve the public through transparency, accessibility and efficient service. For the final installment of the Columbia Basin Herald’s five-part candidate Q&A series, auditor candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley were asked: “Grant County residents expect government offices to be efficient, transparent and accessible. What's one area where the Auditor's Office is falling short today, and how would you address it differently than your opponent?” Falstad: I do not believe the Auditor’s Office is currently falling short in these areas. In fact, there are already several ways the office provides accessible service to the public. For elections, the public can observe the election process. For licensing, residents have access to two subagents-Winzler Licensing in Moses Lake and Petersen Licensing in Quincy-which provides additional convenience and accessibility. For recording, the office accepts electronic recording, and the public can access the index through Eagle Web. That said, there is always room for improvement and welcome feedback from residents and employees. Listening to the people we serve and being willing to make improvements when needed is an important part of keeping county government efficient and accessible.
State burn ban ends; aid sought for E. Washington
OLYMPIA — Washington's statewide outdoor burn ban is scheduled to end Oct. 1, but state fire officials caution the end of the restriction should not be mistaken for the end of fire season. Washington Dept. of Natural Resources Public Information Officer Ryan Rodruck said the state is still waiting for a season-ending rainfall event. “Just because the burn ban is ending does not mean that the fuels out there will not still carry fire,” Rodruck said. “They absolutely will. The chance of large, costly fires has decreased significantly, but we will still continue to see fire on the landscape, potentially, for the next few weeks. We urge community members to use caution and follow local guidelines with any burning they may do following the end of the burn ban.”
Falstad, Homesley outline approaches to election security, public trust
EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, questions about election integrity, ballot security and public trust remain at the forefront of political discussions across the country. For the fourth installment of the Columbia Basin Herald’s five-part candidate Q&A series, auditor candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley were asked: “Election administration has become increasingly scrutinized in recent years. What is the most important thing Grant County voters should know about how local elections are conducted, and what additional steps, if any, would you take to strengthen public confidence in the process?”
Soap Lake seeks input on 20-year growth plan
SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake residents will have multiple opportunities over the coming months to help shape the city's future as officials work to update the community's comprehensive plan, a document that will guide growth, housing, infrastructure and development decisions for the next 20 years. The city is hosting a five-part workshop series beginning Thursday at the Soap Lake Community Center, where residents can learn about proposed changes and provide feedback on topics ranging from housing and economic development to transportation, parks and development regulations. City Planner Alex Kovach said the comprehensive plan serves as the community's roadmap for future growth.
What would auditor candidates change to serve residents better?
EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, voters are weighing not only the policies and priorities of candidates, but also how county offices can better serve the public. While many residents only visit the Grant County Auditor’s Office for specific tasks, the office oversees a range of services that touch daily life in Grant County.
Gas prices slip slightly in Washington, but remain near record highs after turbulent 2026
MOSES LAKE — Washington motorists caught a small break at the pump this week, with the statewide average for regular unleaded gasoline falling 4 cents over the last seven days, according to AAA. The average price for regular fuel stood at $5.53 per gallon Sept. 28, down from $5.57 a week ago, though prices remain well above both month-ago and year-ago levels. The decline follows several weeks of relatively stable prices across Grant and Adams counties. Grant County's average price dipped from $5.46 to $5.42 per gallon over the last week, while Adams County fell from $5.44 to $5.40. Despite the slight decrease, Washington continues to have some of the highest fuel prices in the nation. The state's average regular gasoline price is $1.05 per gallon higher than the national average of $4.48.
Kriete, Gregg weigh continuity vs. change in final Q&A
EPHRATA — After four rounds of questions on leadership, public safety, accountability and the future of the Grant County Sheriff's Office, the Columbia Basin Herald's sheriff candidate Q&A series comes to a close.
Veterans Resource Fair connects veterans with services, support
MOSES LAKE — Veterans from across Grant County gathered at the Grant County Fairgrounds Saturday for the annual Veterans Resource and Job Fair, where dozens of organizations offered services ranging from employment assistance and medical resources to clothing, food, haircuts and housing support.
Grant County auditor candidates discuss transparency, public trust in part 2 of Q&A series
EPHRATA — As Grant County prepares for the Nov. 3 general election, voters will decide who will lead the county auditor's office through the challenges of a growing population and increasing demands for public services. The elected auditor oversees elections, licensing, recording services and public records while managing a staff responsible for serving residents across the county.
Homesley, Falstad share plans for growing county, auditors office
EPHRATA — As Grant County continues to grow, the county auditor's office is tasked with keeping pace with increasing demands on elections, licensing, recording services and other essential functions. The office plays a key role in ensuring residents can access services efficiently while maintaining accurate public records and administering local elections.
Sheriff’s race Q&A part 4: differences in law enforcement philosophies
EPHRATA — Voters choosing Grant County's next sheriff will decide between two candidates who share many of the same goals for public safety but differ on how some challenges facing modern law enforcement should be addressed.
Applicants sought for Moses Lake School Board seat
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District is accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on the school board following the resignation of Director Paul Hill, whose departure became effective at the conclusion of the board's Sept. 23 meeting.
Sheriff’s race Q&A part 3: candidates outline unpopular decisions they may face
EPHRATA — As Grant County voters prepare to choose their next sheriff, they are weighing not only each candidate's vision for the department but also how they would handle difficult decisions that may draw criticism from employees, elected officials or members of the public.
What Ephrata residents should know about the city’s new sign rules
EPHRATA — More than a month after the Ephrata City Council unanimously approved an updated sign ordinance, city officials are encouraging residents, businesses and political campaigns to familiarize themselves with the new rules governing temporary signs. The ordinance, approved Aug. 19, updates the city's sign code and is intended to improve safety, reduce clutter and provide clearer guidance on where temporary signs may be placed. “This just gives a better, a cleaner way of showing what and where you can put the temporary signs,” Community Development Director Ron Sell said. “It's kind of more of a cleanup of where the signs can go because we were starting to get a lot of signs just all over.”
Indigenous teen still missing, may be in Soap Lake or Winchester area
EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the disappearance of 16-year-old Kioni Oman and requested a Missing Indigenous Person Alert through the Washington State Patrol Tuesday.
Statewide burn ban to end Sept. 30, but fire season isn’t over yet
SOAP LAKE — As Washington's statewide burn ban is set to expire Sept. 30, fire officials are urging residents not to mistake the end of restrictions for the end of wildfire season.
Sheriff’s race Q&A part 2: candidates confront criticism
EPHRATA — As the race for Grant County sheriff heads toward the Nov. 3 general election, candidates Joey Kriete and Darrik Gregg are being asked not only about their plans for the agency, but also about their own shortcomings and how they respond to criticism.
Moses Lake HS Homecoming contention traces back to spring ASB vote
MOSES LAKE — A recent controversy surrounding who can attend the upcoming Moses Lake High School Homecoming dance stems from constitutional changes approved by the school's Associated Student Body months before the start of the school year, according to the Moses Lake School District.
Missing Indigenous Person Alert issued for juvenile
EPHRATA — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the disappearance of 16-year-old Kioni Oman and has requested a Missing Indigenous Person Alert through the Washington State Patrol.
Kriete, Gregg offer competing visions for Sheriff's Office leadership
EPHRATA — Leadership has emerged as one of the central themes in the race for Grant County sheriff, with incumbent Joey Kriete and challenger Darrik Gregg offering voters different visions for the future of the agency. As voters are preparing to cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 general election, the Columbia Basin Herald asked both candidates a series of questions on issues facing the sheriff's office and the county. In this first installment of a five-part candidate Q&A series, Kriete and Gregg were asked to identify what they believe is the biggest leadership challenge facing the Grant County Sheriff's Office and how their approach to addressing it differs from their opponent's. Ballots must be postmarked or returned to an official ballot drop box by Nov. 3. Voters can verify their registration status and obtain election information at VoteWa.gov. Grant County voters can also contact their local elections office with questions at 509-754-2011 ext. 2704.
Diesel prices hit record high in Washington as gasoline remains relatively stable
MOSES LAKE — Diesel prices in Washington reached a record high over the weekend, even as gasoline prices remained largely unchanged, according to AAA data released Monday. The average price of diesel in Washington climbed to $7.43 per gallon Sept. 21, up 21 cents a week ago and more than $1.12 higher than a month ago. AAA reported diesel reached an all-time state record of $7.45 per gallon on Sept. 20. By comparison, the average price of regular gasoline in Washington was $5.57 per gallon Monday, just 1 cent higher than a week ago. However, regular gasoline prices remain 32 cents above a month ago and 95 cents higher than a year ago.
Moses Lake School District to host town hall focused on finances
MOSES LAKE — Community members will have an opportunity to ask questions about school funding, enrollment and budgeting when the Moses Lake School District hosts a town hall focused on district finances Tuesday evening.
Soap Lake City Council approves new consultant despite mayor's objections
The position is temporary as hiring committee searches for administrator
SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to approve a contract for municipal consulting services intended to help manage city operations while hiring committee searches for a permanent city administrator, but the decision exposed an ongoing disagreement between the council and Mayor Peter Sharp over the limits of executive authority.
Soap Lake Police Department reaches full staffing with swearing-in of newest officer
SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Police Department reached a staffing milestone Wednesday as its newest officer, Thomas Levi Johnson, was sworn in during the Soap Lake City Council's regular meeting.
Othello Fair brings bigger crowds, more exhibits and plenty of smiles
OTHELLO — From giant bubbles floating above delighted children to packed livestock barns and bustling exhibit halls, the Othello Fair is seeing growth across the board this year.
Child removed from home after fentanyl investigation leads to two arrests
MOSES LAKE — An 8-year-old child was taken into protective custody Wednesday after Moses Lake police served a search warrant at a residence in the 1200 block of West Gary Street as part of a fentanyl trafficking investigation.
Ephrata’s first National Night Out draws crowd despite cool weather
EPHRATA — Despite cool temperatures and off-and-on rain, community members gathered at Lions Park Tuesday evening as the Ephrata Police Department hosted its first National Night Out, an event aimed at building relationships between residents and local first responders.
Grant County Food Council launches effort to address hunger, food insecurity
MOSES LAKE — Hunger advocates, food bank leaders, health care providers and community members gathered for the first meeting of the Grant County Food Council, where organizers outlined plans to address food insecurity and build support for recognizing access to food as a fundamental right.
Ephrata Sports Complex sees progress with new driveway, pickleball courts
EPHRATA — Visitors to the Ephrata Sports Complex will soon notice smoother access to the facility and the arrival of long-awaited pickleball courts as the city continues work on improving the community recreation hub.
Washington wildfire season easing, but DNR says state not out of danger yet
MOSES LAKE — Recent rainfall across Washington has lowered wildfire risk and signaled that the end of fire season may be near, but state officials say residents should not let their guard down just yet.
Othello Fair starts today with livestock, exhibits and family fun
OTHELLO — The Othello Fair opens its gates today as volunteers, exhibitors and vendors put the finishing touches on one of the region's largest community events. Fair officials spent Tuesday preparing for the arrival of about 600 animals and roughly 4,500 still-life entries, including flowers, horticulture exhibits and other projects.
In Grant County Judge debate, Bevier, Chadwick place emphasis on experience and constitutional interpretation
EPHRATA — The two candidates seeking Grant County Superior Court Judge Position 3 highlighted their legal experience, views on constitutional interpretation and approaches to property rights and criminal justice during a debate hosted by the Grant County Republican Party at the Ephrata Recreation Center.
Sheriff candidates clash over leadership, lawsuit and confidence vote at GOP debate
MOSES LAKE — Leadership, accountability and trust within the Grant County Sheriff's Office took center stage Sept. 10 as Sheriff Joey Kriete and challenger Darrik Gregg faced off in a debate hosted by the Grant County Republican Party. The debate at the Ephrata Recreation Center focused on several of the defining issues of the campaign, including a recent vote of no confidence by the deputy sheriffs’ association, Gregg's ongoing lawsuit against Grant County, immigration enforcement and management of the sheriff's office. While both candidates highlighted decades of law enforcement experience and pledged to keep residents safe, they offered different views of the sheriff's office's current direction and whether significant changes are needed.
Grant and Adams counties gas prices dip slightly as state, national averages rise
MOSES LAKE — Gas prices in Grant and Adams counties slipped slightly over the last week, even as Washington and national fuel averages continued climbing amid international supply concerns and rising crude oil prices. According to AAA data for Sept. 14, the average price of regular gasoline was $5.46 per gallon in Grant County and $5.48 per gallon in Adams County. That was down slightly from Sept. 8, when prices averaged $5.47 in Grant County and $5.55 in Adams County. Meanwhile, the statewide average increased from $5.51 to $5.56 per gallon over the week, while the national average jumped from $4.15 to $4.32 per gallon.
Ephrata Patriot Day honors 9/11 Grant County first responders, and military service members
EPHRATA — The names and faces have changed over 25 years, but the message remained the same Thursday evening as veterans, first responders, elected leaders and community members gathered in Ephrata to remember the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and honor those who continue to serve their communities.
Grant County Food Council to launch
Seeks to improve access for healthy and affordable food
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Health District is launching a new community-led effort aimed at improving access to healthy and affordable food across the county, beginning with a public virtual presentation later this month.
Ephrata proclamation honors 9/11 victims, calls for service
EPHRATA — As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the City of Ephrata has proclaimed Sept. 11, 2026, as a Day of Remembrance and Service, encouraging residents to honor victims and first responders through reflection, gratitude and community service.
Ephrata advances A Street project
EPHRATA — The Ephrata City Council unanimously approved a resolution Sept. 2 authorizing a Washington State Department of Transportation agreement supplement, allowing the city to move forward with the right-of-way phase of the A Street SE Overlay Project.
Ritzville Rodeo crowns champions across events
RITZVILLE — From lightning-fast roping runs to crowd-pleasing bronc rides, competitors put on a show Friday and Saturday night at the Ritzville Rodeo as champions were crowned across a full slate of rodeo events.
Ephrata takes first step for preparation plan to mitigate downtown flooding
EPHRATA — The City of Ephrata has completed the first step in a long-term effort to remove hundreds of acres of downtown property from a federal floodplain designation.
Ephrata School District seeks community feedback before considering future bond
EPHRATA — The Ephrata School District is inviting residents to help shape the future of its school facilities through a series of community meetings as officials consider whether to place a bond measure before voters next year.
Moses Lake School District invites community to ‘Common Grounds’ for coffee discussion
MOSES LAKE — Community members will have an opportunity to connect directly with Moses Lake School District leaders during the first “Common Grounds” event of the school year Friday morning.
Grant County Republican Party to stage debate in Ephrata
Candidates for Grant County sheriff and Superior Court races to debate
EPHRATA — Grant County voters will have an opportunity this evening to hear directly from candidates seeking two of the county’s elected offices during a debate hosted by the Grant County Republican Party.
Grant County Fire District 7 open house set for today
SOAP LAKE — Grant County Fire District 7 is inviting residents to attend its community open house today from 6 to 8 p.m. at the district's station, 155 State Route 28 in Soap Lake.
Kennewick man arrested in Connelly Park boat motor theft
MOSES LAKE — A 48-year-old Kennewick man was arrested Aug. 31 in connection with the theft of an outboard boat motor from Connelly Park, according to the Grant County Sheriff's Office.
A day of community in Warden
WARDEN — Horses trotted down Main Street, children scrambled for candy, and neighbors caught up with one another over the weekend as residents gathered for the annual Warden Community Days celebration.
Fuel prices jump sharply in Washington, local counties
MOSES LAKE — Gasoline prices continued their upward climb over the past week, with Washington drivers seeing some of the highest prices in the nation as state, local and national averages all increased, according to AAA data.