NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer
Recent Stories
Soap Lake council appoints Arnold to vacancy
SOAP LAKE – At the April 16 Soap Lake City Council meeting the council appointed Andrew Arnold to fill seat six. One open seat remains on the council. Arnold said he had previously been on the council for two years before he resigned.
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.
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.
Two injured in traffic collision, suspected DUI
GEORGE — Two George men were injured early Sunday due to a one-vehicle collision southwest of George.
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.”
Warden council undecided on port road project
WARDEN – Warden City Council met for a regular meeting Tuesday to continue the discussion on the Port of Warden Industrial Road Project and pass several other resolutions including signing the Grant County Economic Development agreement, accepting a parade for graduating students and allowing for bids to take place on two other projects.
Ferguson signed 23 bills into law this week
OLYMPIA – Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed 24 bills into law in the past week. The bills change laws covering issues from suicide prevention to education funding to vehicle inspections.
MLPD arrests one after firearm shown at coffee stand
MOSES LAKE – A 34-year-old Moses Lake man was arrested Monday afternoon after displaying a handgun in the drive-through of an espresso stand, according to Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
Discover Pass fee increase considered by WA legislature
OLYMPIA —Washington State Senate Bill 5390, which proposes to increase the cost of the Discover Pass and day-use permits, was the subject of discussion during a recent hearing before the House Committee on Appropriations. The bill aims to update fees that have remained unchanged since their implementation in 2011 and address a growing budget deficit in state recreational programs. The bill passed the Senate with a 29-20 vote. Senate Democrats voted in favor, with the exception of Sen. Adrian Cortes, D-Battle Ground. All Republican senators voted no.
Gas prices rise nationally, drop slightly in WA
MOSES LAKE— In the latest report from GasBuddy, the national average price of gasoline has increased for the third consecutive week, rising 10.6 cents to $3.21 per gallon. This marks a 13.2-cent increase from just a month ago but remains 35.6 cents lower than the same time last year. The national average price of diesel has also seen an uptick, climbing 3.6 cents to settle at $3.594 per gallon.
MLSD provides more details on Groff legal action
District closes elementary campus for ‘25-26 school year due to safety concerns
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake School District officials announced during a Friday press conference that Groff Elementary will remain closed for the 2025-26 school year due to the ongoing infrastructure issues tied to the original construction of the building. The district is also pursuing legal action against Fowler General Construction Inc., the contractor that built Groff, for breach of contract and breach of warranty.
Groff litigation, improving finances addressed in MLSD board meeting
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School Board met for a regular meeting April 3 and discussed litigation regarding Groff Elementary, adding public health information to the district website, protection of student information and heard a financial report from MLSD superintendent Carol Lewis.
SLPD swears in newest officer, hiring for police chief
SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake Police Department swore in its newest officer, Yuriy Bezzubenko at the Soap Lake City Council meeting Wednesday.
Soap Lake council debates downsizing itself
SOAP LAKE – The Soap Lake City Council voted for the second time to postpone action on changing the number of city council members at Wednesday’s meeting. The council has seven seats and five members; however, there is a proposed ordinance to drop the council down to five seats. The ordinance would not go into effect until the next election, meaning the city still has to fill the two empty council seats regardless.
Ephrata’s Lopez Argueta excels in classes despite language barrier
EPHRATA – In a celebration of resilience and hard work, Ephrata High School has named Diego Lopez Argueta as one of the Students of the Month for March. His tenacity in the face of challenges, particularly his efforts in overcoming language barriers, has made a significant impact on both his teachers and peers, said his teachers.
Ephrata SD approves purchase of two surplus busses
EPHRATA -- The Ephrata School Board approved the purchase of two surplus 42-passenger buses at its March 24 meeting. The total cost of the purchase was $17,500.
Robot paints lines, saves time
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District has been using a “tiny robot” for around a year to paint the fields at Ephrata Middle School and Ephrata High School.
Groff students settling into new campuses
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District is settling students and teachers into classrooms Groff Elementary will be closed for the remainder of the school year after electrical issues resulted in the injury of an unidentified individual. The school was originally planned to be closed March 3 through March 7 with students attending classes from home. However, at the March 6 school board meeting, it was announced the school would remain closed for the remainder of the school year.
Search warrants lead to arrest, narcotics seized
MOSES LAKE – Several federal search warrants were served March 30 in the greater Moses Lake area by the Moses Lake Police Street Crimes Unit Detectives who also serve as Task Force Officers for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
March 2025 a busy month for Basin law enforcement
MOSES LAKE — March was a busy month for law enforcement with the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Moses Lake Police Department and Adams County Sheriff’s Office all involved in investigations. The month had high speed chases, drive-by shootings and suspects fleeing from law enforcement, along with some other cases. Here is a recap of the cases that occurred in March.
Consumer alert issued for Bridge City Firm over alleged misconduct
VANCOUVER — The Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific has issued a consumer alert concerning Bridge City Firm, a digital marketing and SEO service company based in Vancouver, Washington. Managed by Mark Davis, the firm has faced scrutiny from former clients who have raised serious concerns about its telemarketing tactics, misleading advertising claims and unfulfilled promises, according to a statement from BBB.
Unemployment in WA, nation rises
WorkSource reminds residents resources are available
OLYMPIA — In February 2025 the labor market in Washington state revealed a discouraging trend, as the state experienced a decline in nonfarm employment paired with a slow rise in the unemployment rate, according to a report from the Washington State Employment Security Department.
Basin teams shine at 49th Ray Cross Invitational
EPHRATA — On a sunny Saturday, local high school track and field teams showcased their talent at the 49th annual Ray Cross Invitational, with performances and personal bests across the board. Ephrata, Quincy, Othello, Moses Lake Christian Academy and Royal all sent strong contingents to compete, but it was the Ephrata athletes who dominated many events.
Gas prices rise in Washington
MOSES LAKE — The average price of gasoline in Washington has reached a year-high of $4.38 per gallon, marking a significant increase from recent weeks. As of March 31, the price represents a 34-cent jump from the previous week and reflects a broader trend observed nationwide.
Ephrata's Trachsler retires after nearly three decades of service
EPHRATA – Ephrata City Hall will be a little emptier today after Leslie Trachsler, the beloved city clerk and finance director of Ephrata, completed her last day Friday. This concluded a 28-year career dedicated to the community and its governance. In an emotional farewell gathering held at the Ephrata Recreation Center, city officials, employees and community members came together to honor Trachsler’s extensive contributions to the city.
GCSO warns of assessor impersonation scam
MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn the public of a subject impersonating Grant County deputy assessors.
WA Legislature passes school safety bill
Unanimous vote in both houses moves Nikki Torres's bill to Ferguson's desk
OLYMPIA — The Washington State Legislature has passed Senate Bill 5004, aimed at modernizing emergency response systems in K-12 schools, in a unanimous vote of 98-0 by the House and 49-0 by the Senate. The bill focuses on implementing advanced safety measures, including panic or alert buttons, to improve response times during emergencies. The bill is now making its way to Governor Bob Ferguson for review.
Showing growth and perseverance
Ephrata High's Edgar Lopez recognized as a student of the month
EPHRATA — Edgar Lopez, a student in the Life Skills program at Ephrata High School, has been named one of the February Students of the Month for his significant academic and personal growth. His journey through high school, while marked with challenges, stands as a testament to perseverance, kindness and enthusiasm for learning, said Tanya Piturachsatit, the teacher who nominated him.
Warden considers development agreement with Port of Warden
WARDEN — During a city council meeting Tuesday, the Warden City Council listened to a presentation regarding potential road developments that may facilitate an infrastructure project in partnership with the Port of Warden.
SLPD loses two officers, receiving assistance from GCSO
SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake Police Department currently has two officers, according to Acting Chief Robert Geates, him and one other officer. SLPD will be getting one lateral officer from Alaska after he completes his training. Geates also said he has one other officer “on background” and one officer in academy.
ECBID’s Bischoff promoted to deputy assistant manager of operations and maintenance
OTHELLO — The East Columbia Basin Irrigation District has announced the promotion of Bobby Bischoff to Deputy Assistant Manager of Operations and Maintenance. A veteran of the ECBID with 15 years of service, Bischoff previously held the role of Special Projects Administrator.
Infrastructure improvements continue in Ephrata
EPHRATA – Developments are continuing to take place in Ephrata as the city embarks on infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing community resources and ensuring the reliability of essential services. Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim recently provided insights into ongoing initiatives, including the construction of a new water tower, road maintenance efforts, and a sewer system evaluation, all part of the city's commitment to investing in its future.
Annual narcotics enforcement report released
iNET reports an increase of drug seizures and overdoses in Grant Co. in 2024
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team released its annual report Monday, revealing a rise in drug-related activity in the region for 2024. The report noted increases in drug seizures, overdose deaths and overall criminal activity.
Migratory visitors
Around 35,000 sandhill cranes visit the Basin
OTHELLO — People from throughout the Pacific Northwest gathered in and around Othello to catch a glimpse of an annual phenomenon. Whether they crept down backroads with binoculars and cameras poking out of windows or followed trumpeting and croaking noises to their quarry, visitors to the Othello Sandhill Crane Festival were looking for the majestic bird.
Seeds 'n Stone transitioning to online marketplace
MOSES LAKE — Amy Winter, owner of the wellness and lifestyle boutique Seeds 'n Stone, confirmed that the shop's physical location on Third Avenue will close its doors for the final time on Wednesday. However, despite the closure, Winter assured her customers that this move signifies a new beginning rather than an end to the Seeds 'n Stone journey.
Gas prices on the rise: A look at national and WA trends
MOSES LAKE – As of Monday, the average price of gasoline in the United States has observed a notable increase, rising 6.3 cents from the previous week to settle at $3.08 per gallon, according to data from the website GasBuddy, which tracks prices from more than 12 million reports across 150,000-plus gas stations.
Heat lamp likely culprit in Ephrata area fire
EPHRATA – On Sunday morning at around 8:30 a.m. Grant County Fire District 13 responded to a structure fire in the 129000 block of Road C.5 Northwest. Engine 1311 arrived at an outbuilding that was fully engulfed in flames. The outbuilding normally housed goats and chickens, all goats were accounted for, but a few chickens may have passed.
MLSD suspends protections for trans students
MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake School District school board suspended policy 3211, which protects transgender students from harassment, intimidation and bullying, at the March 20 regular board meeting. The board also sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Education asking for federal intervention for the contradictions between federal and state laws and policies regarding transgender students in athletics, bathrooms and dressing rooms.
MLHS welders heading to state competition
MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake High School welders will be heading to state competitions March 27 and 28. The team this year consists of freshman Connor Nelson, sophomore Roenin Matosich and junior William Bennet. According to welding teacher Jimmy Herrin, the students just received the design for this year’s project, a tripod grill. Students then will work on welds and skills they think they will need to complete the object. The students will receive blueprints for the project 24 hours before the competition.
Ephrata PD joins BlueBridge Alliance to foster community ties
EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department announced its partnership Tuesday with the BlueBridge Alliance, an initiative aimed at enhancing community relations by providing help to the needy. This partnership helps provide immediate help to residents facing challenging circumstances.
St. Rose of Lima, Young Ladies Institute partner for blood drive
EPHRATA — St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church is once again uniting its community for a noble cause. On April 16, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Young Ladies Institute and Knights of Columbus will collaborate to host a blood drive at the Ephrata Recreation Center. This annual event aims to bolster the local blood supply, which is persistently in high demand.
Ephrata High’s Smith named student of the month
EPHRATA — Devin Smith, a sophomore at Ephrata High School, has been recognized as one of the EHS February Students of the Month, a recognition bestowed by his teacher, Scott Sandberg. Sandberg, who teaches cyber security and serves as the Future Business Leaders of America advisor, highlighted Smith’s exemplary performance and dedication both in and out of the classroom as the primary reasons for his nomination.
WA gun bill could have major implications for Grant Co. Fair
OLYMPIA — A Washington State Senate bill to ban firearms in public areas where children may be present had its first hearing in the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee Tuesday. More than 50 people were scheduled to testify regarding the bill during the committee meeting.
Infant attacked by dog, alive and receiving care
MOSES LAKE – Friday at around noon, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a dog attack incident involving a four-week-old baby boy. The minor was brought to Samaritan Hospital prior to police contact.