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Ries named to Dean’s List at Linfield
MCMINNVILLE, Ore. — Sydney Ries, a junior at Linfield University's McMinnville campus, was named to the Spring 2024 Dean's List, according to an announcement from the university. Ries, a 2021 graduate of Moses Lake High School, is majoring in philosophy.
Applications open for Future Innovators Scholarship
MOSES LAKE — Applications are being accepted for the Future Innovators Scholarship Competition, according to an announcement from 509Fiber, which sponsors the scholarship.
NEWS BITES for July 22, 2024
NEWS BITES for July 22, 2024
Treehouse seeks support for foster youth going back to school
MOSES LAKE — Treehouse, a Washington state nonprofit dedicated to supporting the educational and other essential needs of youth in foster care, is launching its annual back-to-school campaign to collect school supplies and items by the end of summer, according to an announcement from the organization. Treehouse is calling on community members, businesses and organizations to support youth in foster care during the back-to-school season by hosting donation drives and/or organizing fundraisers now. This initiative aims to ensure that every child in foster care has the necessary resources to succeed academically and beyond.
STUDIO BASIN: High temps, primary elections and Legion playoffs
MOSES LAKE – On this episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer, Sports Reporter Ian Bivona and Senior Reporter Joel Martin discuss recent headlines in the Basin, including high temperatures, ballots being sent in the mail and the new superintendent at the Ephrata School District.
Moses Lake man sentenced in vehicle arson case
SPOKANE — David Alexander Maybee, 25, of Moses Lake was sentenced after pleading guilty to Malicious Destruction of Property by Fire. U.S. District Court Judge Thomas O. Rice handed down a sentence of 60 months imprisonment with an additional three years of supervised release.
Basin events calendar for July 19-28
COLUMBIA BASIN – This week, the Basin has plenty of fun ahead with comedy, shiny cars, live music and a chance to support local athletes.
Ephrata School’s budget meeting set
EPHRATA – The Ephrata School Board is holding a public meeting to discuss the district’s budget on Monday, July 29. The meeting will be at 6:00 a.m. in the Ephrata School District Boardroom at 111 4th Ave NW.
Kids with disabilities make memories at Merwin Day of Fishing
WOODLAND — More than 200 children with disabilities enjoyed a unique opportunity to experience the joy of fishing in a supportive and inclusive environment Saturday at the 24th annual Merwin Day of Fishing, according to an announcement from Pacific Power, which hosted the event in conjunction with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The event was held at the hatchery near Merwin Dam in southwestern Washington. Throughout the day, children caught fish specially raised for the event, with many experiencing the excitement of fishing for the first time, according to the announcement. When the kids arrived at the hatchery, they were given T-shirts, fishing rods, tackle and other items. Then volunteer coaches helped them catch up to five fish, which were cleaned and put on ice while families enjoyed a barbecue. The event not only provided a fun recreational activity, but also fostered connections among participants and volunteers. Volunteers from Pacific Power, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and several recreational fishing organizations generously contributed their time and expertise to ensure each child had a fulfilling experience, the announcement said. Corporate sponsors also played a crucial role in supporting the event, providing necessary equipment and resources.
Nominations open for Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards
OLYMPIA — Nominations are being accepted for Washington state’s Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards, according to an announcement from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. The award honors volunteers, service officers, community members, Tribal veterans, National Guard members, or others who day in and day out go above and beyond the call of duty making sure veterans and their family members are cared for, according to the announcement. Whether they submit claims for benefits, arrange funeral honors for grieving families, coordinate events or donate countless hours in veteran’s hospitals or nursing homes, this is an opportunity to nominate them for one of seven Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards. This awards program is sponsored by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, the announcement said. Award winners are invited to participate in the Auburn Veteran's Day Parade, followed by recognition at a special luncheon.
WSU releases spring 2024 honor roll
PULLMAN — One hundred nine Basin students were named to the Washington State University honor roll for spring quarter 2024, according to an announcement from the university. A student can be named to the honor roll either by achieving a grade point of 3.75 while enrolled in at least nine graded credits in a single semester provided that the cumulative GPA is 2.0 or better, or by achieving a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 based on at least 15 cumulative credits of graded work at Washington State University, provided that the semester GPA is 3.0 or better. These Columbia Basin students were named to the honor roll:
NEWS BITES: DUI collision, a rough landing and an arrest
NEWS BITES: DUI accident, a rough landing and an arrest
Basin students make EWU Dean's List
CHENEY — Eastern Washington University has released its Dean’s List for spring quarter 2024. To qualify for the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student must earn 12 quality hours and receive a GPA of 3.5 or better. The following Basin students were named to the Dean’s List:
Study: WA fuel prices plunge at the third-fastest rate
MOSES LAKE — Washington's gas prices fell at the third-fastest rate in the past year in the United States, according to a recent study announced Thursday.
498 Vikings named to honor rolls
MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College has released its President’s and Vice President’s lists for spring quarter 2024.
Shruumz recalled products cause illness in Grant Co.
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Health District is urging people to avoid eating, serving or selling Diamond Shruumz products. “(The health district) is responding to a report of serious intoxication and hospitalization of a Grant County resident linked to consumption of these products,” according to a GCHD press release.
STUDIO BASIN: Hot weather, GCSO staffing and Basin sports action
EPHRATA – On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN podcast, Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete and Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller sit down for our monthly segment with the Grant County Sheriff's Office. This week the pair discussed water and heat safety and Kriete provided an update on staffing at GCSO and touched on how the new Grant County Jail's construction is going. In Sports, sports reporter Ian Bivona and Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer recap baseball and softball games with the Columbia Basin River Dogs, Othello Red Raiders and Washington Rage, as well as two Moses Lake Wrestling Club wrestlers competing in a national duals tournament in Indiana last month. The STUDIO BASIN podcast can be found on your favorite podcast apps, or downloaded directly at https://bit.ly/3VZ0pot.
Sasquatch expert to speak at library
KENNEWICK — Mid-Columbia Libraries will host a two-day lecture series entitled “Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science” Friday and Saturday at the Kennewick Public Library, according to an announcement from the library. Dr. Jeff Meldrum, a professor of anatomy and anthropology at Idaho State University, will discuss the work of various experts on the evidence for a large, undiscovered North American primate and analyze the scientific arguments for and against its existence, according to the announcement. Meldrum delves into the creature's history and invites individuals interested in human evolution to form their own conclusions. On Friday, July 12 Meldrum will present “The Patterson-Gimlin Film 50+ Years Later” at 7 p.m., looking at the famous 1967 film footage that purported to show Bigfoot walking in northern California. The makers, Roger Patterson and Bob Gimlin, always maintained that the footage was genuine, but many experts have dismissed the film as a hoax. There will be a meet-and-greet starting at 4:30 p.m. before the lecture.
Ephrata school registration open
EPHRATA – Registration is now open for the fall semester with the Ephrata School District for all campuses, according to information released by the district. The new school year is set to begin August 29 with orientation days on August 26 and 27. The information needed and the registration website may be accessed at https://bit.ly/ESDREGISTER24. The site includes school supply lists, information on bus routes and meals and other information to help parents get their children set for the return to school – after a wonderful summer, of course.
MLSD lets 55 more staff go
MOSES LAKE – Fifty-five more staff have been laid off from the Moses Lake School District, according to a Tuesday afternoon press release. The move is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to balance the budget after multiple accounting issues were discovered and two maintenance and operations levy failures earlier this year.
NEWS BITES: Drowning update, wire thefts, road work and crime
COULEE CITY – The search for the body of a man believed drowned in Banks Lake near Coulee City continued through the weekend, per the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. The man’s remains had still not been found as of press time Monday.
Man missing, presumed drowned on Banks Lake
COULEE CITY – First responders searched for a man who went missing on Banks Lake near Coulee City Park Friday, according to a statement from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
Crack sealing project on SR 26 Monday, Tuesday
OTHELLO — Road crews will be sealing cracks on a section of State Route 26 extending east from Othello Monday and Tuesday. As a result, drivers should plan for potential delays.
STUDIO BASIN: Leadership changes, and Royal softball coach Lisa Lawrence
MOSES LAKE - On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN Podcast, Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller reviews leadership changes happening around the Columbia Basin. That includes changes for the Moses Lake, Soap Lake and Royal school districts as well as the city of Moses Lake.
Seller’s market remains in Grant County
MOSES LAKE — Grant County is still leaning in favor of home sellers, according to a report from Rocket Homes reviewing home sales for the month of June. While the market price was lower in Grant County than the state average, the market still favors the seller to some extent.
Basin events for July 5-13
COLUMBIA BASIN – If you’re looking to get out and about after enjoying the Independence Day holiday, The Columbia Basin has several things going on over the next week.
Tiger leader sworn in
EPHRATA – Incoming Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray was sworn in by his predecessor, Tim Payne, on Monday July 1. Murray has said he will work to continue to build community and focus on student success.
Othello PD looking for leads in missing juvenile case
OTHELLO – The Othello Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance to locate 15-year-old Serenity Ayala who went missing on Sunday, June 30. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts should contact OPD at 509-488-3314 and reference case number 24-O02636.
Moses Lake interim city manager appointed
MOSES LAKE — Mike Jackson, a retired city manager, has been selected as the interim city manager for Moses Lake. Jackson’s appointment was announced byt the city Tuesday.
WA gas prices consistently higher most of U.S., CCA causes jump
MOSES LAKE – According to an analysis by Gas Buddy, an organization that monitors fuel prices, Washington has consistently had higher average gas prices for July 1 of each year since 2014, even before increases resulting from the Climate Commitment Act’s carbon fees came into play.
Spring Chinook season to open early on Entiat River
ENTIAT — Fishing season for Chinook salmon on the Entiat River will open a week early and the upstream boundary will be expanded, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
MLSD receives donation for Garden Heights well repairs
MOSES LAKE — A $10,000 donation from a Moses Lake couple will help pay for repairs to the well at Garden Heights Elementary. The donation made by Derick and Audra Eckenberg was announced by Moses Lake School District officials Monday.
Soap Lake man injured in gunfire exchange
SOAP LAKE — A Soap Lake man was airlifted to Confluence Health-Central Washington Hospital, Wenatchee, early Monday morning after he exchanged gunfire with people he allegedly found on his property.
Quincy students to receive summer food aid
QUINCY – The Quincy School District announced that it has been informed that the Department of State Health Services will be providing grocery benefits to help families with school-age children buy groceries during the summer break in July and August.
Grant Co. Health District concerned about chickenpox incidences
WARDEN – The Grant County Health District has issued a press release indicating that there has been an increase in the instances of chickenpox over the past few months. GCHD is investigating outbreaks in multiple locations, including a childcare center in Warden that has affected several children that were not yet eligible for the chickenpox vaccine.
STUDIO BASIN: MLSD, fire news, Strength of the Basin and summer sports
MOSES LAKE – On this week's episode of the STUDIO BASIN Podcast, Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller and Senior Reporter Cheryl Schweizer discuss the ongoing issues with the Moses Lake School District, including an odd sidebar relating to the Grant County Morgue.
QPD asks for assistance locating missing Quincy woman
QUINCY — The Quincy Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in finding a Quincy woman last seen April 28. The QPD is working with the Latino Civic Alliance in an effort to find Carmen Flores, 27. She is autistic but is able to communicate.
BASIN Events calendar for July 2024
MOSES LAKE – As June rolls into July, the days are getting a bit warmer, the fish are biting and the car enthusiasts, golfers and children of the Columbia Basin are celebrating their season. The events below are a partial listing of what is going on in Grant and Adams counties. July 4 events will be published separately to ensure folks can celebrate our nation’s birthday.
Moses Lake man arrested for assault, robbery
MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man has been booked into the Grant County Jail on suspicion of second-degree assault and first-degree robbery, among other charges, after he was arrested Thursday morning.
Local grocery store to sponsor food drive for 14th year
MOSES LAKE — Owners of the Moses Lake Grocery Outlet will be collecting donations of food and money for the store’s 14th annual “Independence from Hunger” campaign through the end of July.
Water safety patrols increase next week
CRESCENT BAR — Marine Unit deputies with the Grant County Sheriff’s Office will be out on county lakes and the Columbia River Next week as part of a campaign to reduce incidents of boats being operated by impaired drivers.
Registration open for Masquers summer drama camp
SOAP LAKE — Registration is open for a week-long summer drama camp sponsored by the Masquers Theater in Soap Lake. Camp begins July 22 with the finale performance July 26.
WA Connections Academy announces Grant Co. graduates
TUMWATER – The Washington Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school that serves Kindergarten through high school seniors announced the graduation of four Grant County students this month.
Pear Committee manager appointed
MILWAUKIE, Ore. – The Fresh Pear Committee met June 12 and appointed Jeff Correa as Manager of the Fresh Pear Committee of Federal Marketing Order 927, according to an FPC announcement.
GALLERY: Scenes of June
MOSES LAKE – June has been a busy month in and around the Columbia Basin. Community events, retirements and lots of sunshine have had the residents of Grant County out and about. The photos below are just some of the scenes that have made the area a wonderful place to live.
NEWS BITES: June 25, 2024
NEWS BITES: June 25, 2024
Columbia Basin events for June 21-29, 2024
MOSES LAKE – This week offers several opportunities for fun. Step out and enjoy the summer weather at these events.
NEWS BITES: New officers, lassos and driving safe
NEWS BITES: New officers, lassos and driving safe
Skills in action
MATTAWA – Ephrata High School welding students had the opportunity to visit with Grant County Public Utility District staff and see what it looks like to put welding skills to work during a trip to Priest Rapids Dam earlier this week. Throughout the Grant and Adams counties, many high school students learn technical skills like welding through technical skills programs.
Moses Lake concert series starts Friday
MOSES LAKE – The City of Moses Lake Creative District Free Summer Concert Series starts this Friday at 8 p.m. at McCosh Park. The first concert in the series of six live music shows is The Wenatchee Big Band.